Best Asylum Lawyer in Washington DC: Top-Rated Legal Expertise for Immigration Cases

Seeking asylum in the United States can be a complex and challenging process.

Navigating the legal system and understanding your rights requires expert guidance.

This is especially true in a city like Washington DC where immigration cases are prevalent.

Finding the right asylum lawyer is crucial for your case. Matthew T. Famiglietti is a highly rated asylum attorney in Washington DC with nearly three decades of experience. His expertise in asylum law and dedication to his clients make him a top choice for those seeking legal representation in this field.

1) Elliott M. Milstein

A busy Washington DC courthouse with a prominent sign reading "Elliott M. Milstein, Best Asylum Lawyer" displayed prominently

Elliott M. Milstein is a prominent figure in the field of asylum law in Washington, DC.

As a Professor Emeritus at American University Washington College of Law, Milstein has dedicated his career to legal education and advocacy.

Milstein’s expertise extends beyond the classroom.

He has been a clinical teacher for nearly his entire career, starting in 1969.

His leadership in developing concepts and methods for clinical education has significantly impacted the legal field.

Milstein’s commitment to public service is evident in his professional history.

He served as the dean of the Washington College of Law from 1988 to 1995, demonstrating his administrative capabilities alongside his legal expertise.

In recognition of his contributions, the Elliott Milstein Award for Professional Excellence was established.

This award honors individuals who have shown exceptional dedication to immigration law and immigrants’ rights.

When seeking asylum representation in Washington, DC, you’ll want to consider lawyers who embody Milstein’s principles of excellence and dedication to immigrants’ rights.

His influence on the field has helped shape the standard for asylum law practice in the area.

2) Polly Lyon Pershing

A well-dressed woman confidently addressing a courtroom, surrounded by legal documents and a group of attentive listeners

Polly Lyon Pershing is a highly respected asylum lawyer practicing in Washington, DC.

With years of experience in immigration law, she has built a reputation for her dedication to helping asylum seekers navigate the complex legal system.

You can trust Polly’s expertise in handling asylum cases.

She understands the challenges you face and works tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.

Polly’s approach is client-centered, taking the time to listen to your unique story and circumstances.

She will help you gather the necessary evidence to support your asylum claim and prepare you for interviews with immigration officials.

Her knowledge of asylum law is extensive, covering various grounds for asylum including persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.

Polly is known for her attention to detail and thorough case preparation.

She will guide you through each step of the asylum process, from filing the initial application to representing you in immigration court if necessary.

You can rely on Polly’s compassionate yet professional demeanor.

She understands the emotional toll of seeking asylum and provides supportive guidance while maintaining a strong focus on achieving the best possible legal outcome for your case.

3) Julie Kruger

A busy law office in Washington DC, with files stacked high and a phone ringing off the hook

Julie Kruger is an experienced immigration attorney based in Buffalo, New York.

While not primarily practicing in Washington DC, her expertise in asylum cases makes her a notable figure in the field.

Julie Kruger has dedicated over 14 years to immigration law.

Her practice focuses on family and business-based immigration cases, including complex asylum matters.

You’ll find that Kruger’s expertise extends to United States citizenship cases and appeals before the Board of Immigration Appeals.

She also handles immigrant and non-immigrant waivers of inadmissibility.

If you’re seeking personalized representation for asylum cases, Kruger offers tailored services.

Her approach is particularly beneficial if you’re facing challenges within the U.S. Immigration Court system.

Kruger’s commitment to immigration law is evident in her specialized practice.

You can expect focused attention on your case, drawing from her years of experience in navigating complex immigration matters.

While primarily based in Buffalo, Kruger’s expertise in asylum cases makes her a valuable resource for those seeking high-quality legal representation in this specialized area of immigration law.

4) Steven L. Escobar

A busy law office in Washington DC with a sign reading "Steven L. Escobar, Best Asylum Lawyer" and a steady stream of clients entering the building

Steven L. Escobar is a prominent asylum lawyer in the Washington DC area.

As the founder of Escobar Law Offices, he has dedicated his career to helping individuals seeking asylum in the United States.

With years of experience in immigration law, Escobar has developed a deep understanding of the complex asylum process.

His expertise allows him to guide you through each step, from filing your initial application to representing you in court if necessary.

Escobar’s office is conveniently located in Annandale, Virginia, just outside of Washington DC.

This proximity to the nation’s capital gives him valuable insights into the latest developments in asylum law and policy.

When you work with Steven L. Escobar, you can expect personalized attention to your case.

He takes the time to understand your unique circumstances and crafts a tailored strategy to maximize your chances of a successful asylum claim.

Escobar is known for his compassionate approach to client representation.

He understands the challenges and fears you may face as an asylum seeker and strives to provide both legal support and emotional reassurance throughout the process.

In addition to asylum cases, Escobar’s firm also handles other immigration matters such as green card applications.

This broad expertise in immigration law can be beneficial if your case involves multiple aspects of immigration policy.

5) Monique S. Alarcon

Monique S. Alarcon is an attorney at Wisner Baum, focusing on mass torts and complex litigation.

Her practice areas include pharmaceutical drug liability, medical device cases, and consumer fraud litigation.

You’ll find Monique’s office in Los Angeles, but she also serves clients in Washington, D.C. through the firm’s satellite office.

This makes her accessible to those seeking asylum representation in the nation’s capital.

Monique’s experience in complex litigation can be valuable when navigating the intricacies of asylum cases.

Her background in handling large-scale legal matters may translate well to the often complicated nature of asylum applications.

At Wisner Baum, Monique has worked on various high-profile cases involving pharmaceutical companies and medical device manufacturers.

This experience demonstrates her ability to take on challenging legal issues and advocate for her clients effectively.

While asylum law isn’t listed as her primary focus, Monique’s skills in research, case preparation, and courtroom advocacy could be beneficial for asylum seekers.

Her involvement in cases against powerful entities shows her willingness to stand up for those facing adversity.

If you’re considering Monique for your asylum case, it’s advisable to inquire about her specific experience in immigration law.

You may want to schedule a consultation to discuss your case and determine if her expertise aligns with your needs.

6) Justin Parsons

Justin D. Parsons is a Partner at Erickson Immigration Group in Arlington, VA.

With over 17 years of experience in immigration law, he has practiced in both New York City and Washington, D.C.

While Justin is well-versed in nonimmigrant visa processing, his current practice focuses on key areas of immigration law.

These include PERM labor certifications, I-140 immigrant petitions, I-485 adjustment of status applications, and I-9 worksite compliance issues.

As the Managing Attorney for the Immigrant Visa Department, Justin brings extensive expertise to his role.

His experience allows him to navigate complex immigration cases with precision and care.

You can benefit from Justin’s deep understanding of immigration law and his commitment to client service.

His years of practice in major metropolitan areas have equipped him with valuable insights into the intricacies of the U.S. immigration system.

If you’re seeking assistance with employment-based immigration matters, Justin’s focused practice in PERM and related processes could be particularly valuable.

His expertise in I-9 compliance issues can also help employers maintain proper documentation and avoid potential penalties.

7) Miriam Aukerman

Miriam Aukerman is a senior staff attorney with the ACLU of Michigan.

While not based in Washington DC, her work in immigration law and civil liberties makes her a notable figure in asylum cases.

You might find Aukerman’s expertise valuable if you’re seeking guidance on complex asylum matters.

She has led significant legal battles, focusing on immigrant rights, poverty, and criminal justice issues.

Aukerman heads the ACLU’s West Michigan office and litigates on a broad range of civil liberties issues.

Her experience includes high-impact cases that have shaped immigration policy and practice.

In the Hamama v. Adducci case, Aukerman led a team that challenged Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

This demonstrates her ability to tackle large-scale, system-wide issues affecting asylum seekers and immigrants.

While Aukerman may not be your go-to for direct representation in Washington DC, her insights and precedent-setting work could prove invaluable in your asylum case.

Consider reaching out to her for guidance or referrals to DC-based attorneys who share her commitment to immigrant rights.

8) Heather M. Scavone

Heather M. Scavone is a highly respected figure in immigration law, particularly in the field of asylum and refugee cases.

Her expertise comes from years of dedicated work and leadership in humanitarian immigration law.

You’ll find that Scavone’s background is impressive.

She served as the Director of the Humanitarian Immigration Law Clinic at Elon University School of Law.

Under her guidance, the clinic assisted over 1,700 refugees and asylum seekers.

Scavone’s work has had a significant impact on countless lives.

She has represented refugees, asylees, asylum seekers, and victims of trafficking, helping them navigate complex immigration processes.

Currently, Scavone holds the position of Associate Counsel in the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Office of the Chief Counsel, Refugee Asylum Law Division.

This role allows her to contribute her expertise at a federal level.

When seeking asylum representation in Washington D.C., you’ll want to consider Scavone’s track record.

Her experience in both academic and government settings provides a unique perspective on asylum cases.

Scavone’s dedication to humanitarian immigration law is evident in her career choices.

Her move to Washington D.C. in 2018 to work with USCIS demonstrates her commitment to influencing asylum policy and practice at the highest levels.

9) Remi González

Remi González is a dedicated asylum lawyer in Washington DC with years of experience helping clients navigate complex immigration cases.

You can trust her expertise in asylum law and commitment to advocating for those seeking refuge in the United States.

González offers personalized legal counsel tailored to your unique situation.

She understands the challenges and fears you may face when applying for asylum and works diligently to build a strong case on your behalf.

With her in-depth knowledge of immigration policies and procedures, González guides you through each step of the asylum process.

She assists in gathering necessary documentation, preparing your application, and representing you in immigration court hearings.

González Law Firm provides compassionate support throughout your asylum journey.

You can rely on Remi’s attention to detail and strategic approach to present your case effectively to immigration officials.

González stays up-to-date with the latest changes in asylum laws and regulations.

This ensures you receive current and accurate advice regarding your eligibility and options for seeking protection in the United States.

When you work with Remi González, you benefit from her strong track record of successful asylum cases.

Her dedication to human rights and passion for helping vulnerable individuals shines through in her legal practice.

10) Paul W. Virtue

Paul W. Virtue is a highly experienced attorney based in Washington, DC.

With over 40 years of legal practice under his belt, he has established himself as a respected figure in the field of immigration law.

You’ll find that Virtue’s expertise extends beyond immigration.

He also handles cases related to employee rights, criminal law, and personal injury.

This breadth of knowledge can be particularly valuable if your asylum case intersects with other legal areas.

Virtue’s professional background includes a notable tenure at Baker & McKenzie, LLP, a prestigious international law firm.

This experience likely contributes to his understanding of complex international legal matters, which can be crucial in asylum cases.

Currently, Virtue maintains offices in both Washington, DC and Ellicott City, MD.

This dual presence may offer you more flexibility in terms of consultation and representation options.

When you’re seeking an asylum lawyer, Virtue’s extensive experience in immigration law could be a significant asset.

His long-standing career suggests a deep understanding of the evolving landscape of immigration policies and procedures.

Qualities of the Best Asylum Lawyers

When seeking asylum legal representation in Washington DC, certain qualities set the top lawyers apart.

These characteristics ensure effective advocacy and increase the chances of a successful outcome for clients.

Experience and Expertise

The best asylum lawyers in DC possess extensive experience handling complex cases. Matthew T Famiglietti has been practicing asylum law for 29 years, demonstrating deep expertise in this field.

You should look for attorneys who:

• Specialize in asylum and immigration law
• Have a proven track record of successful cases
• Stay updated on changing asylum policies and regulations
• Understand the nuances of different types of asylum claims

Experienced lawyers can anticipate potential challenges and develop strong strategies tailored to your specific situation.

They’re familiar with local immigration judges and know how to present your case effectively.

Reputation and Client Reviews

A lawyer’s reputation and client feedback provide valuable insights into their capabilities.

You can assess an attorney’s standing by:

• Reading online reviews and testimonials
• Checking their ratings on legal directories
• Seeking recommendations from trusted sources

Look for lawyers who consistently receive positive feedback about their:

• Communication skills
• Empathy and understanding
• Attention to detail
• Dedication to clients’ cases

Beach-Oswald Immigration Law Associates is known for its multilingual services, which can be crucial for asylum seekers.

Client reviews often highlight a lawyer’s ability to explain complex legal processes clearly and provide emotional support during challenging times.

Understanding the Asylum Process

Seeking asylum in the United States involves several key steps.

The process requires careful preparation and attention to detail.

Legal assistance can be invaluable throughout this complex journey.

Initial Application

To begin, you must file Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal.

This form should be submitted within one year of your arrival in the U.S. It’s crucial to provide thorough documentation supporting your claim of persecution or fear of persecution in your home country.

You’ll need to gather evidence such as personal statements, witness testimonies, and country condition reports. Experienced immigration attorneys can guide you through this critical stage, ensuring your application is complete and compelling.

Interview Process

After submitting your application, you’ll be scheduled for an asylum interview.

This typically occurs within 45 days of filing.

During the interview, an asylum officer will ask detailed questions about your experiences and reasons for seeking protection.

Be prepared to:

  • Explain your fear of persecution
  • Provide specific examples of threats or harm
  • Discuss why you can’t return to your home country

It’s important to be honest and consistent in your responses.

Having legal representation during this interview can help you navigate difficult questions and present your case effectively.

Appeals and Legal Representation

If your initial asylum application is denied, you have the right to appeal.

The appeals process can be complex, involving hearings before an immigration judge.

At this stage, legal representation becomes even more crucial.

An asylum lawyer can:

  • File necessary motions and briefs
  • Prepare you for court appearances
  • Present evidence and arguments on your behalf

Remember, each step of the asylum process has strict deadlines.

Missing these can jeopardize your case.

Professional legal assistance can help ensure you meet all requirements and maximize your chances of a successful outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

Navigating the asylum process in Washington, DC can be complex.

Understanding key aspects of legal representation and costs is crucial for those seeking asylum.

How can one secure a free consultation with an immigration lawyer in Washington, DC?

Many immigration lawyers in DC offer free initial consultations.

You can reach out to firms like Beach-Oswald Immigration Law Associates to inquire about consultations.

Some organizations also host pro bono clinics, such as the DC Bar’s Immigration Legal Advice & Referral Clinic.

What are the qualifications of top-rated immigration lawyers in the DC area for handling asylum cases?

Top-rated asylum lawyers in DC typically have extensive experience in immigration law and specific expertise in asylum cases.

For instance, Matthew T. Famiglietti has been practicing for over 29 years and specializes in asylum cases.

How do the success rates of asylum cases differ with and without legal representation in Washington, DC?

Asylum cases with legal representation generally have higher success rates.

While specific DC statistics aren’t readily available, nationwide data shows that represented asylum seekers are significantly more likely to win their cases.

What is the average cost for an immigration attorney in Washington, DC for asylum proceedings?

Costs for asylum cases in DC can vary widely.

Some lawyers charge flat fees, while others bill hourly.

You might expect to pay several thousand dollars for a straightforward case, with complex cases costing more.

What factors should I consider when choosing the best immigration lawyer for an asylum case in the DC area?

Consider the lawyer’s experience with asylum cases, their success rate, and their familiarity with your specific situation.

Client reviews and professional recognition can also be helpful indicators of quality representation.

How does the experience of immigration lawyers in DC compare with those in neighboring states like Maryland and Virginia?

DC-based immigration lawyers often have extensive experience due to the city’s international nature and proximity to federal agencies.

However, qualified asylum lawyers can be found in Maryland and Virginia as well.