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FAQs About
Federal Immigration Litigation
Federal litigation might seem intimidating, but it can be the right solution when agencies fail to act or make mistakes. Clients often ask about timelines, risks, and what happens if the case goes to court. That’s why we’ve put together this FAQ section—to give you straightforward answers and peace of mind. Whether you’re exploring options or ready to act, this is a great place to begin. Read on for more clarity.
What is federal immigration litigation, and how does Nimer Law represent clients in lawsuits against USCIS or other immigration agencies?
Federal immigration litigation involves suing agencies like USCIS, ICE, or the Department of State in federal court for issues such as unreasonable delays, wrongful denials, or due process violations. Nimer Law prepares comprehensive legal complaints, handles court filings, and represents clients in U.S. District Court to enforce immigration rights under the law.
When should I pursue federal litigation instead of waiting on USCIS or refiling my immigration application?
If USCIS wrongfully denies your case, unreasonably delays a decision, or violates your procedural rights, federal litigation may be more effective than waiting or refiling. Nimer Law assesses whether the agency violated legal obligations and pursues litigation only when it provides the best path forward for your immigration goals.
What kinds of immigration cases are typically handled through federal litigation, and what role does a litigation attorney play?
Federal courts can hear mandamus actions, APA (Administrative Procedure Act) lawsuits for wrongful denials, habeas corpus petitions for detention issues, and constitutional challenges. A litigation attorney drafts persuasive legal arguments, presents evidence, negotiates with government attorneys, and argues the case before a federal judge when needed.
Can I challenge a visa denial or consular inaction through federal court, and how does Nimer Law approach consular nonreviewability cases?
While consular decisions are often protected under the doctrine of nonreviewability, federal courts may still intervene if there’s an unreasonable delay or constitutional violation. Nimer Law evaluates whether your case meets the legal threshold for review and constructs a tailored legal argument to challenge the government’s inaction or misconduct abroad.
How long does federal immigration litigation take, and what results can I expect from filing a case in U.S. District Court?
The timeline and outcome of a federal immigration lawsuit depend on the type of case filed. These lawsuits are usually filed to either challenge an agency’s inaction or to reverse an incorrect decision.
Common Types of Immigration Litigation
1. Mandamus Actions (Forcing USCIS or an agency to act):
A mandamus lawsuit asks the court to order USCIS or another agency to make a decision that has been unreasonably delayed.
Timeline: Typically resolved in 3–6 months.
Outcome: The lawsuit won’t guarantee approval, but it compels the government to make a decision—whether approval, denial, or request for evidence.
Best for: Green card or naturalization applications that have been stalled far beyond normal processing times.
2. Challenging Denials of Immigration Benefits:
These lawsuits challenge the legal or procedural errors in denied applications (e.g., green cards, visas, asylum, or naturalization).
Timeline: 6–12 months or longer, depending on the court’s schedule.
Outcome: If successful, the court may order USCIS to revisit the case or reverse the denial. In naturalization cases, the judge can directly approve your application.
Best for: When there’s strong evidence that USCIS applied the law incorrectly or unfairly.
3. Removal (Deportation) Defense:
Though not handled in District Court, it’s still a form of litigation. Removal cases are handled by immigration judges.
Timeline: Several years due to heavy backlogs. Detained cases move more quickly.
Outcome: If successful, you may receive asylum, cancellation of removal, or another form of relief. If not, removal (deportation) may be ordered—with rights to appeal.
Best for: Individuals facing deportation but who may qualify for legal relief to remain in the U.S.
What Factors Affect the Outcome?
- Strength of your evidence
- Clear legal errors in a denial
- Your immigration history and current status
- Whether the agency prefers to settle before a court ruling
What to Expect Overall
Federal litigation is a powerful tool, but it’s not a quick fix. If your case is stuck or wrongly denied, it may be worth pursuing litigation—but the success depends heavily on your facts and legal grounds. An immigration attorney can evaluate whether it’s likely to succeed and guide you through the filing process.