Facing deportation is one of the most stressful experiences anyone can go through. If you’re in this situation and have U.S. citizen family members—like a spouse, child, or parent—you may have options to stay in the United States legally. At Rahimi Law Firm, we help individuals and families understand what those options look like and how to take action before it’s too late. In this post, we’ll walk you through several potential forms of deportation relief that could apply to your case.
Adjustment of Status Through a U.S. Citizen Relative
One of the most straightforward ways to stop removal is by adjusting your status through a close U.S. citizen relative. This path is usually available to those who entered the U.S. legally and are married to a U.S. citizen, or have a U.S. citizen child who is over 21, or a U.S. citizen parent if the immigrant is under 21.
If you’re in removal proceedings, you may be able to apply for a green card in front of the immigration judge. However, it’s not automatic. You’ll need to show proof of the relationship, that you’re eligible for adjustment, and that you meet other requirements like having no disqualifying criminal history. If you’ve overstayed your visa or have unlawful presence, you may also need a waiver. We help clients prepare their paperwork, gather evidence, and present their case in court with confidence.
Cancellation of Removal for Non-Permanent Residents
Cancellation of removal is another form of relief available in immigration court. To qualify, you must:
- Have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 10 years
- Show good moral character during that time
- Prove that your removal would cause “exceptional and extremely unusual hardship” to your U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, child, or parent
This is a high standard. The court doesn’t look at hardship to you—it looks at the impact on your qualifying relative. For example, if your U.S. citizen child has a serious medical condition or a disability, that could be a strong factor. These cases require detailed documentation and compelling personal testimony. We work closely with families to build a full picture of their lives and what’s at stake.
If approved, cancellation of removal gives you lawful permanent resident status—a green card.
Deferred Action or Prosecutorial Discretion
Sometimes the best path forward is asking the government to pause or stop your deportation case, even if there’s no formal relief available right now. This is known as prosecutorial discretion or deferred action.
We may request this when:
- You’ve lived in the U.S. for many years
- You have strong community or family ties
- You don’t have a serious criminal record
- You care for a U.S. citizen child or spouse
While this won’t give you a green card, it could lead to a work permit and buy you time until other options become available. Immigration officers often consider fairness and humanitarian factors, especially when young children or sick family members are involved.
Other Avenues Worth Exploring
Every immigration case is different, and sometimes relief comes from unexpected places. You may be eligible for other forms of protection, including:
- VAWA: If you’ve been abused by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse or parent, you may be able to self-petition for relief.
- Asylum or withholding of removal: If you fear returning to your home country due to violence, persecution, or threats.
- TPS or DACA: For people from certain countries or those who came to the U.S. as children, these programs may offer temporary protection.
Even if these programs don’t apply directly, having U.S. citizen family members can make a difference when the government decides whether to pursue your removal or close your case.
How We Can Help You Protect Your Future
Family connections matter—a lot. If you’re facing deportation and have U.S. citizen relatives, don’t assume that you’re out of options. We’ll take the time to listen to your story, review your immigration history, and help you figure out the best way forward.
At Rahimi Law Firm, we stand with you and your family every step of the way. We prepare thorough applications, attend hearings, and fight to keep families together. Immigration law is complicated, but you don’t have to deal with it alone. Contact us today—we’re here to help you protect your future.
