Orlando Asylum Lawyer
A Firm that Understands What's at Stake in Your Asylum Case
Seeking asylum is an incredibly difficult thing for anyone to do. We understand this well at The Merilien Law Firm. Though the challenge is great, we’re here to help asylum seekers get the protection and peace of mind they deserve.
Our founding attorney is a Haitian immigrant himself, and that firsthand experience with the immigration system shapes everything we do. We know that behind every asylum case is a story of hardship and a hope for a safer future. If you’re searching for a legal team you can trust with something as critical as your asylum case, contact us.
Request a free consultation at The Merilien Law Firm by calling (561) 786-2289 or connecting with us online. We represent clients in the Orlando metro area, across Florida, and internationally.
How We Can Help Asylum Seekers
Asylum cases involve many challenges, and we're here to guide you through each one, including:
- Assessing your eligibility – Helping you understand whether you may qualify for asylum
- Preparing your application – Assisting with every detail of the filing process
- Building your case – Gathering and organizing the evidence needed to support your claim
- Interview and hearing prep – Getting you ready and confident for what's ahead
- Court representation – Advocating on your behalf, should your case require defensive representation in immigration court
Throughout it all, you can count on honest, transparent communication in the language you're most comfortable in. That way, you can move forward with total confidence.
What to Know About Asylum in the U.S.
There are two primary paths to asylum in the U.S.:
- Affirmative asylum – For individuals who are not currently in removal proceedings and apply proactively with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
- Defensive asylum – For individuals already in removal proceedings, who present their asylum claim as a defense before an immigration judge
To qualify, you generally need to show a well-founded fear of persecution in your home country based on one of five protected grounds:
- Race
- Religion
- Nationality
- Political opinion
- Membership in a particular social group
Typically, applications must be filed within one year of your most recent arrival in the U.S. Exceptions may apply in certain circumstances. Because eligibility depends heavily on the specific facts of each case, working with an experienced attorney, such as ours at The Merilien Law Firm, can make a meaningful difference in how your claim is presented.
What Protection Does Asylum Offer?
Asylum offers far more than temporary safety.
If granted, it can provide:
- The right to remain lawfully in the U.S.
- Protection from removal to a country where you fear persecution
- Work authorization, so you can support yourself and your family
- Family reunification, allowing you to petition for certain qualifying family members to join you
- A path forward, as asylum can ultimately lead to lawful permanent residency and, eventually, U.S. citizenship
Alternatives to Asylum
Asylum isn't the only form of protection available to those fearing return to their home country. Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for withholding of removal or protection under the Convention Against Torture, both of which can prevent removal even when asylum isn't granted. Other humanitarian options, such as visas for victims of crime or trafficking, or protections tied to conditions in your home country, may also be worth exploring. We'll help you understand every avenue that may be available to you.
Let's Discuss Asylum & Your Options
If you or a loved one is considering applying for asylum, you don't have to navigate the process alone. Contact The Merilien Law Firm to discuss your situation, learn about our affordable services, and take the next step toward resolving your case.
Call (561) 786-2289 to partner with an experienced asylum lawyer in Orlando.
Real Reviews From Real Clients
Trusted by Clients Across Florida
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“Best lawyer in town, I would recommend them to anyone who is in need of some legal advice.”- J.C.
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“I had an amazing experience with the Merilien Law Firm! The best personal injury, immigration and real estate attorneys in central Florida.”- J.L.