April 6, 2005
REMINDER: April 26 Deadline for Seeking 212(c) Relief from Deportation
FALLS CHURCH, Va. – The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) reminds eligible individuals seeking relief from deportation or removal under section 212(c) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) that the deadline for filing special motions to apply for this relief is April 26, 2005.
As a result of a Supreme Court decision, INS v. St. Cyr, 533 U.S. 289 (2001), on Oct. 28, 2004, the Attorney General implemented procedures for eligible aliens with certain criminal convictions obtained by plea agreements prior to April 1, 1997, to apply for relief from deportation or removal under former section 212(c) of the INA. A previous EOIR news release, dated Sept. 29, 2004, explains the final rule that implements these procedures (on EOIR’s website at http://www.usdoj.gov/eoir/press/04/StCyrReleaseFinalRule2004.pdf). The final rule is on the Internet at http://a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/2422/06jun20041800/edocket.access.gpo.gov/2004/pdf/04-21605.pdf.
For persons seeking this relief, an experienced immigration practitioner will be their best resource for advice and assistance. EOIR’s website has lists of Free Legal Service Providers at http://www.usdoj.gov/eoir/probono/states.htm and Recognized and Accredited Providers at http://www.usdoj.gov/eoir/statspub/raroster.htm, as well as information on pro bono legal assistance at http://www.usdoj.gov/eoir/probono/probonoassist.htm.
– EOIR –
| Contact: | Office of Legislative and Public Affairs |
| (703) 305-0289 Fax: (703) 605-0365 | |
| Internet: | www.usdoj.gov/eoir |