we offer compassionate and thorough legal representation to ensure your voice is heard.
At Milchak & Associates, we recognize the courage it takes to seek safety and a new beginning in the United States. Our team of skilled immigration attorneys is committed to helping individuals navigate the asylum process—whether you're applying affirmatively or using asylum as a defense in deportation or removal proceedings.
How We Support Your Case
Navigating the asylum process requires knowledge, sensitivity, and strategic planning. Here’s how we can help:
- Detailed Case Preparation:
We understand that sharing personal experiences, especially those involving trauma, can be challenging. Our team takes the time to build trust and create a safe space for open communication. For cases involving sensitive information, we can request private hearings to protect your dignity and privacy. - Leveraging Evidence:
U.S. government agencies often report on conditions in countries worldwide. We use these reports strategically to demonstrate the dangers you face and strengthen your claim. - Proving Credible Fear:
While evidence of past persecution is compelling, it is not required. A credible fear of future persecution is sufficient to support an asylum application, and we’ll work with you to present this effectively.
Types of Asylum Applications
Navigating the asylum process requires knowledge, sensitivity, and strategic planning. Here’s how we can help:
- Affirmative Asylum: Filed by individuals lawfully present in the U.S., often as a proactive request for protection.
- Defensive Asylum: Asserted as a defense against deportation or removal proceedings.
Key Deadlines and Exceptions
Under U.S. law, asylum applications must generally be filed within one year of entering the country. Exceptions may apply in cases of significant changes in circumstances that create a credible fear of persecution after the one-year deadline.
Employment and Work Authorization
- After Asylum Is Granted:
Once granted asylum, you are authorized to work in the U.S. immediately as an asylee. To ease employment processes, many asylees apply for a work permit for employer verification purposes. - While Waiting for a Decision:
Asylum applicants can apply for work authorization if no decision has been made within 150 days of filing their application. Unfortunately, due to current backlogs, the wait for a work permit can extend to over 330 days. Milchak & Associates will help you navigate this process and explore available options.
Why Choose Milchak & Associates?
- Unmatched Experience: With over 18 years of experience in asylum cases, we bring expertise and dedication to every client.
- Compassionate Advocacy: We treat every case with the sensitivity it deserves, ensuring your story is told with dignity.
- Comprehensive Support: From filing your application to obtaining work authorization, we are with you every step of the way.