The Notice to Appear starts your case in immigration court and lists the government’s reasons for seeking your removal. Your first hearing will be a master calendar hearing, where you respond to the charges. It’s smart to speak with an attorney before that date so you understand your rights and options.
Chicago Immigration Attorney
Мы говорим по русски
Chicago Deportation and Removal Defense Attorney
Sverdloff Law Group
Deportation and Removal Defense
You received the notice. Now your mind races with questions you never thought you’d have to ask. Will you have to leave the life you built? What happens to your family, your job, your home?
Take a breath. You still have options, and you do not have to face this alone. Sverdloff Law Group stands with people who are fighting to stay in the country they call home, and there is a real path forward for many of them.
Who We Serve
Deportation cases rarely look the same, and yours deserves a defense built around your story. You may be dealing with one of these situations right now:
- A criminal conviction that put your status at risk, from a minor charge to an aggravated felony
- Marriage fraud allegations or accusations of misrepresentation on a prior application
- A visa violation, such as overstaying your authorized time or working without permission
- A denied or referred asylum claim that landed your case in front of an immigration judge
- Unlawful presence after entering without inspection or losing lawful status
- A green card holder facing removal because of a past mistake
If your circumstances are not on this list, that does not mean you are out of options. Julia Sverdloff has handled tough, high-stakes cases that other attorneys turned away, including those involving serious criminal history and fraud accusations. Reach out, and let’s look at where you stand.
What to Expect in the Removal Process
Immigration court feels confusing when you don’t know the steps. Here’s a plain look at how a typical case unfolds so you know what’s coming.
- Notice to Appear (NTA). Removal cases typically begin when the government issues a document called a Notice to Appear. It lists the reasons the government believes you should be removed and tells you when to show up in immigration court.
- Master calendar hearing. This first hearing is short. The judge confirms your information, and you or your attorney respond to the charges and identify the relief you plan to seek.
- Bond proceedings. If you are detained, you may qualify for release on bond while your case moves forward. A strong bond request can reunite you with your family during the process.
- Individual merits hearing. This is where your defense takes center stage. Your attorney presents evidence, witnesses, and legal arguments for why you should be allowed to stay.
- Relief from removal. Depending on your history and family ties, you may qualify for options like cancellation of removal, adjustment of status, asylum, or a waiver. The right strategy depends on the details of your life, which is why early legal guidance matters so much.
Filing at the wrong time or missing a deadline can cost you a lot. A knowledgeable attorney helps you avoid mistakes and build the strongest case allowed under the law.
Why Choose Sverdloff Law Group
You want more than someone to file paperwork. You want an attorney who will fight for you as if your future were her own.
Julia Sverdloff focuses her entire practice on immigration, and she has a track record of winning results in difficult removal cases. She is an immigrant herself, so she understands the fear and pressure you carry, not from a textbook, but from experience.
Here’s what sets the firm apart:
- A proven advocate. Julia doesn’t just represent clients; she truly fights for them, including in cases involving criminal convictions and fraud claims. See her success stories.
- A team that speaks your language. The firm serves clients in English, Spanish, Russian, Ukrainian, Serbian, Croatian, and Bosnian, so nothing gets lost in translation.
- Nationwide reach. Based in Chicago, the firm represents clients in all 50 states facing removal proceedings.
- Personal attention. Your case gets a strategy shaped around your facts, along with responsive communication when you need answers.
Clients describe the approach as straightforward, effective, and genuinely caring. When your ability to stay is on the line, that combination matters.
Schedule Your Consultation
You do not have to wait and worry another day. A conversation with an experienced deportation defense attorney can help you understand your options and take real action. Contact us today to request a consultation and begin discussing your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deportation and Removal
Can I stay in the United States while my case is pending?
In most cases, yes. You generally remain in the country while your case works through the court, though detained individuals may need to request release on bond. Leaving before your case resolves can seriously harm your ability to return.
What is cancellation of removal?
Cancellation of removal is a form of relief that lets certain people stop their deportation and keep or gain lawful status. Eligibility depends on factors like how long you have lived here, your family ties, and your record. An attorney can tell you whether you qualify.
Can I fight deportation if I have a criminal conviction?
In some situations, yes. A conviction complicates a case, but it does not automatically end your options. Julia Sverdloff has defended clients with serious criminal history and found paths to relief that others missed.
What if my asylum application was denied?
A denial or referral to an immigration judge is not the final word. You may still present your claim in court and pursue other forms of relief. Acting quickly gives you the best chance to protect your future.
How much does deportation defense cost?
Costs vary based on the complexity of your case. During your consultation, you’ll receive clear information about fees so there are no surprises. The goal is honest guidance from the very first conversation.
Helping You Realize Your Dreams for a New Life in the United States
Our immigration attorneys will fight to ensure that you receive the best outcome in your immigration case.
Julia Sverdloff, Esq.
Attorney Julia Sverdloff is the founder and owner of Sverdloff Law Group in Chicago, Illinois. Our firm speaks Ukranian, Russian, Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian and Spanish.
Every Dream Should Be Realized.
Let Us Help You Accomplish Yours.
Reviews
Words From Our
Clients
Reviews from our clients from around the world.
Very knowledgeable attorney. I had the chance to work with many attorneys last ten years. Julia was most knowledgeable and helpful. She got the job done right. Thank you. Read More
Mirrakhim
Julia and her team were purely amazing throughout my adjustment of status process. I had one of the most difficult cases any lawyer can handle, and Julia was actually my 3rd lawyer in 12 years. I can't thank her enough for taking the time, and efforts to execute this task… Read More
Bassel George Diebo, MD
Before meeting Julia and her team, I met many lawyers, but I could not find a better and more professional than Julia Sverdloff. Julia and her team are the best of the best. This team goes to the victorious finish and does not abandon its clients halfway! With this team,… Read More
Atmir K.
Julia's help was invaluable. She is very professional, knowledgeable, straightforward, fast, and empathetic. She was able to solve a green card issue I had been dealing with for 5,5 years in 4 months and helped me with the naturalization process as well. She prepared me thoroughly for the interview, and… Read More
Veronique
I’ve worked with Julia and her team on multiple cases, and every time the experience has been absolutely great. Julia is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and supportive, honestly the best immigration attorney in Chicago. I came to them through a friend’s recommendation and have since recommended them to others. Everyone I… Read More
Anastasia S.
I highly recommend this immigration attorney. She is highly professional, punctual, and exceptionally knowledgeable in her field. She is deeply dedicated to her clients, consistently advocates on their behalf, and provides clear and timely responses to all inquiries. Her reliability, professionalism, and commitment ensure that clients feel fully supported throughout… Read More
Client
My story of love and immigration is truly amazing and wonderful! I met my husband in Romania, and our feelings grew even while we were apart. After arriving in America, we got married here. Following the wedding, we turned to the Julia Sverdloff law firm. Their team of professionals listened… Read More
Michael and Viktoriia
I had a really good experience working with Julia Sverdloff. She was very professional and knowledgeable, and I could tell she really knows what she’s doing. She took the time to answer all my questions and explain everything in a way that was easy to understand. I really appreciate her… Read More
Ana
Hi everyone. Read carefully what i am going to write. Sverdloff Law Group is absolutely the best group of people that can help you with your immigration status. Julia and her team are some of the best people you can work with. Julia is such an amazing person, full of… Read More
marko
The experience was phenomenal, professional, efficient and result oriented . I recommend the firm because they deliver results that matters. God bless the team. Read More
Soji
Julia, Chris, and everyone on the team are so knowledgeable about immigration-related matters. Julia is very kind, caring, and genuinely cares. Chris is so reliable, answers emails on time, and answers all questions thoroughly, and you can tell they take good care of every case. So glad I chose them… Read More
aiswary
Julia Sverdloff is an amazing attorney who genuinely cares about her clients and is willing to work with you. She will tailor to your specific needs and make sure you take all the right steps. 10/10 would recommend! Read More
Luka
I had an overall positive experience working with this law firm. My case was not the simplest, and there were a few mix-ups and minor issues along the way, but whenever I brought something to their attention, the team was responsive and worked with me to get it corrected. I… Read More
Alex
I am incredibly grateful to Sverdloff Law Group, Julia, and her entire team for everything they did for me. Thanks to their professionalism, dedication, and support, I was able to win my case. A very special thank you to Kristen Coffey. She was always by my side throughout the entire… Read More
Nikolay
Thanks for the help; the communication is excellent, and you can get information or clarification on pretty much anything at almost any time, thanks. Read More
MTN
I had a consultation with attorney Julia Sverdloff because I had a lot of questions about my immigration case. I’m really happy I decided to schedule it. Julia answered every question I had and explained everything in a way that was easy to understand. I left the consultation knowing exactly… Read More
Ana
Julia represented me in court. She came to the hearing with another attorney, but she was present throughout my defense, and we won my case. Thank you! Read More
Aleksandra S.
I had a wonderful experience working with Sverdloff Law Group, and I’m especially grateful to Julia. She was incredibly helpful during our interview calls, making sure I felt prepared and supported. She kept me informed every step of the way, always responding promptly and professionally. Thanks to the team's efficient… Read More
Aliya A.
As an immigration attorney, I have had the pleasure of knowing Julia Sverdloff and can confidently recommend her. She is exceptionally knowledgeable, highly competent, and deeply committed to her clients. Her professionalism, organization, and attention to detail consistently stand out, as does her compassion and responsiveness. Julia approaches every case… Read More
Steve B.
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