Immigration appeals and counsel nationwide
- Years Practicing Law
- 20+
- Consultation
- Free
- BIA Appeals of Removal Orders
- Bond Denial Appeals & Detained Cases
- USCIS / AAO Denial Appeals
- Motions to Reopen & Federal Petitions for Review
“Removal order” does not have to be the last word.
We Understand
An appeal is a second chance — if it's done right.
The BIA does not hold a new trial. It reviews the record and the written arguments. A missed deadline, a vague Notice of Appeal, or a late brief can end an appeal before anyone reads the merits.
- Not a Pro Se Kit — Real Representation
- Self-help guides tell people to file alone and “try to find counsel” for the brief. We are that counsel: a licensed attorney prepares, files, and argues your appeal.
- Direct Attorney AccessPracticing Since 1997
- You speak with the attorney handling your appeal. Questions get answered, and you always know what has been filed and what comes next.
- Clear, Flexible FeesNo Hidden Fees
- We quote the cost of your appeal upfront and offer monthly payment plans, so a deadline is never missed because of the fee.
Appeals We Handle
Immigration Appeals: How We Help
Removal & Deportation Order Appeals
BIA appeals from immigration judge orders of removal, including denials of cancellation of removal, adjustment of status, and other relief.
Dismissal & Expedited Removal Appeals
When ICE asks the judge to dismiss proceedings so it can re-arrest and fast-track removal, a timely appeal keeps the case in front of the Board.
Bond Appeals
Appeals of bond denials and unreasonably high bond amounts for detained clients, filed separately from the merits case.
Asylum, Withholding & CAT Denials
Appeals challenging credibility findings, legal errors, and denial of a full merits hearing on fear-based claims.
AAO Appeals & USCIS Motions
Form I-290B appeals and motions to the Administrative Appeals Office for denied waivers, petitions, and applications.
Motions to Reopen or Reconsider
New evidence, changed country conditions, ineffective prior counsel, or legal error — sometimes the right path is a motion, not an appeal.
Federal Petitions for Review
Petitions for review in the U.S. Courts of Appeals after a final BIA order, plus stay-of-removal requests while the case is pending.
Immigration law is federal law. Appeals before the BIA and AAO are handled on the written record, so we represent clients from every state and every immigration court.
Time Is Critical
Case dismissed, then arrested in the hallway? Appeal before day 30.
Since May 2025, ICE attorneys have asked immigration judges to dismiss removal proceedings so agents can re-arrest people and place them in expedited removal — deportation without a judge. If you objected to dismissal, you can appeal to the BIA.
While a BIA appeal is pending, the government generally cannot place you in expedited removal at the same time. That protection depends on a complete, timely Notice of Appeal.
Speak to an Attorney NowWhat we do for detained clients
- We prepare and file Form EOIR-26 with specific, record-based grounds for appeal
- We handle the filing fee or the EOIR-26A fee waiver request so the appeal is not rejected
- We serve the ICE Office of the Principal Legal Advisor that handled your case
- We notify your deportation officer that an appeal is pending
- We write and file the brief when the BIA issues the briefing schedule
Family members can call on behalf of someone in detention. Have the person's full name, A-number, detention facility, and the date of the judge's decision ready.
The Process
How a BIA Appeal Works
Most BIA appeals take many months. Each stage has strict procedural rules — we handle all of them.
- 1
Notice of Appeal
We review the decision and file Form EOIR-26 with the BIA — with payment or a fee waiver — so it is received inside the 30-day window.
- 2
Record & Briefing Schedule
The BIA sends a receipt, the hearing transcript, the judge’s decision, and the deadline for written briefs. We track every date.
- 3
The Appellate Brief
We build the legal and factual argument from the record: where the judge erred, what law applies, and why the decision should not stand.
- 4
Decision & Next Steps
The Board may sustain the appeal, dismiss it, or remand to the immigration court. If it is denied, we advise on federal court review.
Flexible Options
Appeal Now. Don't Pay Everything Upfront.
A 30-day deadline should not be lost to cost. We structure fees so you can file on time and pay over the life of the appeal.
Monthly Payment Plans
Spread the cost of your appeal over time with monthly installments that fit your situation.
Clear Pricing Upfront
You get a written quote for your appeal at the start, separate from any government filing fee.
Fee Waivers When Eligible
The BIA filing fee was raised to $1,010 in 2025. If you cannot pay it, we prepare the EOIR-26A fee waiver request.
Nationwide Practice
We Appeal for You, Wherever You Are
- Appeals from every U.S. immigration court, detained and non-detained dockets
- BIA and AAO appeals are decided on the written record — no travel required
- Consultations by phone or video, wherever you or your family are
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to appeal an immigration judge’s decision?
In most cases the Board of Immigration Appeals must receive the Notice of Appeal (Form EOIR-26) within 30 calendar days of the judge’s decision. Weekends and holidays count. If day 30 falls on a weekend or legal holiday, the deadline moves to the next business day. Contact an attorney as early as possible so the appeal is received on time.
Can you handle my appeal if I live in another state?
Yes. Immigration law is federal, and appeals to the BIA and the AAO are decided on the written record. We represent clients from immigration courts across the United States, and consultations can be held by phone or video.
My case was dismissed and ICE detained me. Can I still appeal?
If the immigration judge granted ICE’s motion to dismiss over your objection, you can file a Notice of Appeal with the BIA. While that appeal is pending, the government generally cannot also place you in expedited removal. A timely, complete appeal is essential.
What is the difference between an appeal and a motion to reopen?
An appeal asks a higher body to review whether the decision was legally or factually wrong based on the existing record. A motion to reopen asks the same court or agency to consider new facts or evidence; a motion to reconsider argues the decision got the law wrong. We review your decision and advise which route fits.
Can I be deported while my appeal is pending?
A timely BIA appeal from a removal order generally stops the order from becoming final while the appeal is pending. Federal court petitions for review are different and may require a separate request for a stay of removal. We explain the rules that apply to your case.
How much does an appeal cost? Do you offer payment plans?
We give you a clear quote at the start and offer monthly payment plans. Government fees are separate — the BIA appeal filing fee is currently $1,010 — and we can prepare a fee waiver request (Form EOIR-26A) if you qualify.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes. Your first consultation is free. Have your decision, your A-number, and your hearing date ready so we can evaluate your appeal options quickly.
Free Consultation
Every day of the 30 counts. Call today.
Speak directly with the Law Office of David S. Harris. We will review your decision, confirm your deadline, and tell you honestly whether an appeal, a motion, or another option is your strongest path.
(786) 306-7278Have this ready when you contact us
- The immigration judge’s written decision or USCIS denial notice
- Full name and A-number of everyone in the case
- Date of the decision and the immigration court location
- Any detention facility details and deportation officer name
- Prior applications, notices, and hearing documents you have
Only a licensed attorney or a DOJ-accredited representative may represent you in immigration proceedings. Beware of “notarios” offering legal services.
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