Does this sound familiar to you?

You may ask yourself why in the world someone from New York City (NYC) would now be held at the Essex County Jail in Newark. That would actually by a very valid question. Unfortunately, most immigration detainees from the New York City area are now held in New Jersey somewhere.

So, what can be done? Well . . . the first thing that needs to be done is to evaluate the case and try to figure out if there is a way to secure his release from custody. Time is of the essence and is certainly not on your side. It almost seems unfair that a person who has gotten past the criminal court process now needs to go through another process with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (I.C.E.) and now face the possibility of deportation and removal out of the U.S.

You will be surprised to find out that unlike the criminal process, the immigration deportation and removal process in front of the Immigration Court will be a lot more stressful. It is by no means a leveled playing field. It will be your loved one vs. the federal government. Obviously, it is unfair and the available defenses and relief are limited.

As with anything else, the more prepared you are, the better your chances of prevailing and securing your loved one’s release. Make no mistake about it . . . the Essex County Jail is not a place that anyone wants to be, especially someone that has gotten through the criminal process already and now is faced with immigration issues as a result. So, be prepared . . . because this may be your loved one’s last chance to stay in the United States.