The Refugee Act of 1980 conforms U.S. immigration laws with various UN conventions and protocols. A person within the United States may be granted asylum if he or she can demonstrate a "well-founded fear of persecution" based on (1) political opinion, (2) religion, (3) race, (4) nationality, or (5) membership in a particular social group. A person who is outside the U.S. may apply for refugee status based on this same criteria.

Brief Archive

Litigation Updates

Lasting Effects of September 11th

Listing of All AILF Practice Advisories

Rescinding an In Absentia Order of Removal

Circumventing Naturalization Delays: Judicial Review

Requesting Attorney's Fees under the Equal Access to Justice Act

Applying for a Stay of Removal During Federal Court Proceedings

Arrest, Detention & Bond Procedures for Noncitizens without Criminal Convictions

The Asylum “One-Year” Deadline and Exceptions: Obtaining Federal Court Review

How to Challenge an Affirmance without Opinion by a BIA Member

Mandamus Actions: “How To” And Summary of Relevant Case Law

Proposed St. Cyr Regulations

Protecting Your Client When Prior Counsel Was Ineffective

How To File A Petition For Review With A Federal Appeals Court

Supreme Court's §212(c) And Jurisdiction Decisions