Legal Help for Asylum Seekers in Complex Situations
Request protection in the United States through a safe, respectful, and informed asylum process.
How We Build Strong, Compassionate Asylum Cases
Seeking asylum in the United States is a critical step for those fleeing danger. The legal process is complex, and credibility is key to a successful outcome. Nimer Law provides compassionate, trauma-informed support for every asylum case. We help you gather evidence, draft declarations, and prepare for interviews or hearings. Whether you're applying affirmatively or defensively, we work to protect your rights. Our firm ensures your case is presented with care, accuracy, and legal grounding. Jennifer Nimer understands the challenges faced by asylum seekers and treats every case with dignity. We prepare you for interviews and communicate with USCIS or the immigration court on your behalf. You’ll receive legal guidance tailored to your specific circumstances. At every step, we stand by your side with determination and care.

1.

For asylum seekers, the first step is a private consultation to understand your story and why you’re seeking protection. We explain the difference between affirmative and defensive asylum. Then we gather key facts and begin building your legal declaration. Supporting evidence and documents are identified early. We approach every case with sensitivity and urgency.

2.

Once your asylum application is accepted, we prepare you for a potential USCIS interview or court hearing. We help you build a compelling case with consistent testimony and credible evidence. Country conditions, expert declarations, and supporting documents are gathered strategically. You’ll be coached on how to speak clearly and confidently about your experience. Every step is guided with care and attention.

3.

For asylum cases, once the interview or hearing is scheduled, we conduct multiple prep sessions. We review your story, clarify any inconsistencies, and prepare responses to potential questions. Mock interviews or hearing simulations help reduce anxiety and increase readiness. We also finalize evidence packets and ensure everything is submitted on time. Our aim is to give you the best chance at approval.

4.

If your asylum case is approved, we review your next steps for work permits, travel, and family reunification. We help you transition to permanent residency when eligible. If follow-up filings are needed, we track and complete them. Your protection is secure, and we stay by your side. Nimer Law builds relationships that last beyond one case.

Compassionate Guidance Through Complex Processes

What You Need to Know Before Applying for Asylum
Asylum seekers may also be eligible for work permits, green cards, and eventual citizenship. Once asylum is granted, it’s important to know when and how to apply for adjustment of status. Many clients also have family members abroad who may require consular processing or visa applications. If you’re facing delay after submitting your asylum request, check our information on mandamus lawsuits. You may also want to review our change of status services if you're unsure how to remain compliant during the process. If your asylum case involves long embassy processing times, our embassy interaction support can help. At every stage, Nimer Law connects asylum to the full immigration journey. Our green card and citizenship services offer continuity after approval. We also represent clients in federal litigation if their asylum application is denied. Learn how our comprehensive services can support your case at every step.

Get the Answers You Need to Plan with Confidence

FAQs About Asylum Support

Asylum is a complex and deeply personal process, and it's natural to have concerns before filing. We’ve compiled the most common questions we hear from clients seeking protection in the U.S. From eligibility and deadlines to documentation and interviews, our FAQ section helps you understand what to expect. These answers are a starting point—your case will always receive personalized support. Learn more below.

What happens if my asylum application is denied, and how can an immigration lawyer help me appeal or pursue other forms of protection?

If asylum is denied by USCIS, your case is usually referred to immigration court for further review. If denied in court, you may appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals or seek other relief such as withholding of removal or protection under the Convention Against Torture. An immigration lawyer can help you preserve your rights, file timely appeals, and develop backup legal arguments to stay in the U.S. under humanitarian grounds.


What qualifies someone for asylum in the United States, and how can an asylum attorney in Dublin, Ohio help build a strong claim?

To qualify for asylum, applicants must demonstrate they have suffered persecution or have a well-founded fear of future persecution due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. An asylum attorney in Dublin, Ohio will gather country condition evidence, craft a compelling personal declaration, and help present consistent testimony to establish legal eligibility under U.S. asylum law.


How long do I have to apply for asylum after arriving in the U.S., and can Nimer Law assist if I missed the one-year filing deadline?

Asylum applications must generally be filed within one year of your last arrival in the U.S., but exceptions exist for changed circumstances or extraordinary situations. Nimer Law evaluates your timeline, identifies qualifying exceptions, and prepares legal arguments supported by documentation to overcome the one-year bar and ensure your claim can be considered by USCIS or an immigration judge.

What’s the difference between affirmative and defensive asylum, and how does legal strategy change based on the type of application?

Affirmative asylum is filed proactively with USCIS by individuals not in removal proceedings, while defensive asylum is requested as a defense during deportation proceedings in immigration court. Nimer Law develops tailored legal strategies for both scenarios, ensuring thorough documentation for USCIS interviews or aggressive representation and expert witness coordination during courtroom litigation.

What is the difference between changing and extending nonimmigrant status, and how can an immigration attorney in Dublin, Ohio guide me through the right process?


“Extending” and “changing” nonimmigrant status are two different ways to legally stay in the U.S. longer. The key difference is whether you want to stay in the same visa category or switch to a different one.


1. Extending Nonimmigrant Status

What it is: Asking USCIS for more time in your current status.


Example: You came on a B-2 tourist visa and want to extend your stay for medical reasons or more time to travel.


How to apply: File Form I-539 with USCIS before your I-94 expires (ideally 45 days before).


Processing time: 3–6 months on average.


Key rule: You can stay in the U.S. while the application is pending if filed on time.


Risk: If your extension is denied, your stay may be considered unlawful from the original expiration date.


2. Changing Nonimmigrant Status

What it is: Switching from one visa category to another without leaving the U.S.


Example: Changing from F-1 student to H-1B worker or B-2 visitor to F-1 student.

How to apply: Form I-539 (for non-work status) or Form I-129 (filed by employer for work status).

Processing time: 6+ months; expedited processing may be available for some work visas.

Key rule: You must maintain your current status until the change is approved.

Risk: Leaving the U.S. while your change of status is pending will cancel the request.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Missing deadlines: Apply before your I-94 expires.

Changing activities too early: Do not work or study until USCIS approves your new status.

Assuming approval allows re-entry: A change or extension only affects your stay—not your ability to re-enter the U.S. after travel. You may still need a new visa stamp abroad.


Can All Visas Be Extended or Changed?

Not always. You cannot extend or change status if you entered under:

The Visa Waiver Program (ESTA)

A C or D visa (crew members/transit)

A fiancé(e) visa (K-1) beyond 90 days


As immigration attorneys, we help you:

Determine if an extension or change is the right move

Prepare and file all required forms with supporting evidence

Monitor USCIS processing and respond to delays or requests

Advise you on status compliance so you don’t accidentally overstay or violate visa terms

Help you manage timing, especially if you’re planning to work, study, or travel