The document provides an overview of the deportation process in the United States. It explains that the Department of Homeland Security is responsible for initiating removal proceedings through agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Individuals facing removal will first receive a Notice to Appear informing them of the allegations and hearing details. It is critical to contact an immigration attorney immediately to begin preparing a defense. The first hearing is used to select future court dates and explore defenses or voluntary removal. At the merits hearing, individuals can present evidence and call witnesses in their defense to try to avoid deportation with legal counsel's assistance.

1. Deportation Proceedings Explained
By: Donald Lindover, Esq., Counsel to NPZ Law Group, P.C.
What are my rights if I am facing removal?
It is estimated that between 11 and 20 million undocumented immigrants currently reside in the
United States. Undocumented immigrants typically enter the United States without legal
permission or inspection, or through the use of false papers. Immigrants that enter legally but
remain on expired paperwork or those involved in deportation proceedings are also considered
illegal immigrants. President Trump has pledged to crackdown on illegal immigrants, raising
concerns among many individuals who are here illegally. The following is an overview of removal
proceedings. For assistance with your individual immigration matter, contact an experienced
immigration attorney.
The Removal Process
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is responsible for the commencement of removal
proceedings, which will often be conducted through its Immigration and Customs Enforcement
Division (ICE). There are several ways in which an investigation may be launched into your
citizenships status, including a work place raid, an arrest, a phoned-in tip, application for a green
card, and the like. Your legal right to due process will vary depending on the nature of your
undocumented status, with lawful resident aliens entitled to the most due process.
Your first indication of DHS involvement will often be the Notice to Appear (NTA). The Notice
to Appear will notify the alien of the nature of the proceedings, the alleged grounds for removal,
the right of the alien to hire an attorney at their expense, and the consequences of failing to appear
at the scheduled hearing. Anyone who receives this notice should contact an immigration attorney
right away so that you, and your immigration law counsel, can begin preparing for the first hearing.
The First Hearing
It is critical that you attend the first hearing, even if you are unsure whether you have a legal ground
to contest your removal. Along with your immigration law attorney, you will select dates for the
subsequent proceedings. You will explore your potential defenses to deportation or consider
negotiating a Voluntary Removal (VR).
The Merits Hearing
At the merits hearing, you will have the chance to defend against your removal. You have the
right to testify, bring in witnesses, evidence, and more. With your lawyer’s help, you can present
your strongest case for your ability to remain in the country or negotiate the best legal outcome.
If you or a friend or a family member may be facing potential deportation/removal, contact the
VISASERVE Team and the NPZ Law Group by e-mail at info@visaserve.com or by calling
(201) 670-0006. Our team of experienced attorneys will provide you with the skilled
representation you need when your life and freedom are on the line.