Asylum Lawyer: Protection for People Fleeing Persecution

Asylum protects people who fear harm in their home country because of race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group. Asylum law is complex, the rules and procedures have been changing, and the deadlines are strict. We help asylum seekers and the families of asylum grantees in all 50 states.

Two ways to apply

Affirmative asylum: you file with USCIS and attend an interview with an asylum officer, usually when you are not in removal proceedings.
Defensive asylum: you request asylum as a defense in immigration court during removal proceedings.

Related protection

Withholding of removal: a protection with a higher standard of proof than asylum, and no path to a green card.
Convention Against Torture (CAT): protection for people who would more likely than not be tortured by or with the approval of a government official.

Important deadlines and rules

Asylum applications generally must be filed within one year of arrival in the United States, unless an exception applies. Do not wait.
Many applicants who are not in a protected category or are barred by certain rules cannot receive asylum, so a careful review of your history matters.
A pending asylum case can lead to work authorization after a waiting period, under rules that have been changing.
Strong cases rely on a detailed declaration, country condition evidence and credible testimony.

What we do

Review your story and the legal grounds and tell you honestly how strong the case is.
Prepare your declaration, evidence and filing.
Prepare you for the interview or hearing.
Handle related issues, such as a green card for an asylee, or family petitions for a spouse and children.

Frequently asked questions

Can my spouse and children get asylum with me?

Often yes. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can usually be included if they are with you or if you file for them after you are granted asylum.

Can I work while my asylum case is pending?

Sometimes, after the required waiting period and under the current rules. We explain where your case stands.

What if I am afraid to return and I have a deportation order?

Contact us as soon as possible. Some options remain, such as a motion to reopen or withholding or CAT protection, and deadlines are short.

How we work with clients nationwide

We represent clients in all 50 states because immigration law is federal. Every client receives access to our secure client portal, where you can message our firm 24/7, upload documents and follow your case from anywhere. The Law Office of Elena Vlady, PLLC is based in Austin, Texas.

Related immigration services

Talk to us about an asylum case

Request a consultation to review your situation. Legal plan members can mention their plan when booking.

This page is general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration rules and fees change often, so we confirm the current requirements before any filing. Last updated: November 2026.

Last updated:

November 12, 2026