Put Over 20 Years of Immigration Experience To Work For You:

MESSAGE IN RESPONSE TO RECENT EXECUTIVE ORDERS

Dear friends throughout our immigrant communities,

We care deeply about the well-being of immigrants and refugees in the U.S. and across the world.  We are alarmed by the recent Executive Orders and the impact that these actions will have on many good and brave people in our communities.  We will continue searching for the best and most updated information in order to provide you with the best advice possible. 

Below are some highlights from the recent Executive Orders.  Please understand that it in no way encompasses all that has transpired with the various Executive Orders, but it highlights the actions that we feel are most likely to immediately impact many in our community:

• One of the Executive Orders “suspends entry” to the United States for foreign nationals from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen  

NOTE:  There are multiple legal challenges being mounted against this Executive Order and slowly, we are seeing some successes:  A federal judge in     New York issued a nationwide temporary stay of removal (deportation), which says that individuals from these seven countries who are legally authorized   to enter the US cannot be removed (deported) on the basis of the Executive Order.

At this point in time, we do not know if the list of countries affected will be expanded in the future.

• Another Executive Order re-prioritizes immigration enforcement, emphasizing the president’s desire to seek out immigrants who have been charged, accused or simply suspected of committing with ANY criminal offense.  This presumably includes the misdemeanor criminal offense of crossing the border without inspection, hence, most undocumented immigrants in this country are now considered a priority for detention and removal.
• Additionally, the President has directed the US government to hire 10,000 additional immigration officers to carry out his initiatives. 

As of 1/31/17, the US Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection issued a statement and a series of Questions and Answers regarding the Executive Order suspending entry into the US of individuals from the seven countries.  The link is: https://www.cbp.gov/border-security/protecting-nation-foreign-terrorist-entry-united-states

Below are some tips for protecting your friends and family:

• Until the chaos subsides, avoid international travel and if you must travel, consider seeking legal advice in advance of the travel.
• Always carry with you any valid immigration documents that you have.  For example if you have a work permit or “green card,” be sure to have it with you in case you need it for identification purposes.
• Reminder that even crossing the border into Canada or Mexico and trying to return may jeopardize your status, especially if you are from one of the seven countries listed above.
• Be aware that there are less protections as one gets closer to one of the borders of the U.S (within 100 miles of a border and still less protections within 25 miles).  This is not limited to the border with Mexico and Canada.  It can and does include states like North Carolina that have a coastal border.
• You have the right to remain silent.  You may refuse to speak to immigration officers. To be allowed into your home, ICE officers must have a warrant signed by a judge.  You do not need to open the door to talk to an ICE agent.
• Do not sign anything asking you to relinquish your status as a permanent resident.
• Use caution when posting on social media:  avoid posting photographs if they include foreign nationals.
• Have a safety plan: memorize the phone number of a friend, family member or attorney in case you are arrested.  Keep important documents in a safe place.  Have a childcare plan in case you are detained.  Make sure your family has your alien registration number (A-number) written down so they can find you if you are in custody.
• If you are concerned, contact an immigration attorney with your specific questions. 

We realize that it is a scary and stressful time for many in our community, and we stand in solidarity with all those who are affected, or who have loved ones living in fear.  We will not stop working on your behalf.  We believe in you. 

Who We Are

We understand how overwhelming immigration issues can be, and we are sensitive to the frustrations foreign nationals face when dealing with the government. It is our goal to help clients understand and maneuver the various governmental procedures required in the immigration process.

At Alice Glover Immigration Law in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, we help immigrants attain immigration status in the United States with a focus on individuals who hope to reunite with their families. Our track record is outstanding, and we only take on cases we plan to win.  We pride ourselves on providing clients with the care and respect they deserve in a kind and supportive manner throughout the life of the case.  

Learn More about Alice Glover Immigration Services