If your paperwork wasn’t all in order when you arrived in Kentucky, you’ve likely worried whether that fact might impede your ability to remain in the United States. Perhaps your situation involves some type of clerical glitch or an even more serious issue, such as crossing a U.S. border in fear for your life in your country of origin. Any situation where you’re trying to move forward in life while dealing with a compromised legal status can be quite stressful.
A stressful immigration situation doesn’t necessarily mean all hope is lost and you will face deportation. Removal is, generally, a risk for any immigrant without up-to-date documents; however, it’s always best to research your rights and whatever immigration laws pertain to your particular circumstances so you know what to do and where to seek support if a problem arises.
How big is your risk?
Certain foreign nationals may be at greater risk for deportation than others. If the U.S. government believes you have participated in a criminal act or are a threat to public safety, your chances for facing removal may be high. If, at some point, you possessed a visa and immigration officials accuse you of being in violation of the visa, they make take immediate action to remove you from the United States.
Expedited removal possible in some situations
If the U.S. government claims they have evidence that you forged documents or entered the United States without proper documentation, authorities may forgo granting you a standard immigration hearing and proceed toward immediate deportation.
If immigration officers detain you
Something as minor as a patrol officer pulling you over because your tail light is out may lead to a serious legal problem if you do not have all your immigration paperwork up to date. Should you land in an immigration detention facility, there may be no telling how long you’ll be there. If officials tell you they are holding you there prior to a trial, it could take weeks or months for them to fully process your case.
Where to seek support
Whether immigration officers showed up at your door and took you into custody or some other situation led to your detention, you can seek out support, such as legal support. Doing so may put you in touch with those who could help increase your chances of avoiding removal.
