1 Research Ct., Ste 450, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
Experience, Candor, & Dedication
STRATEGIC DEPORTATION DEFENSE
At Kennedy Law, we represent persons at every stage of the removal process—from detention hearings to motions to reopen and deportation defense in immigration court. Our focus is to present every possible avenue of relief, build a record & prepare you for effective testimony that allows you to remain in the U.S.
Comprehensive Relief FROM REMOVAL - WhAT WE PURSUE
Our clients are often survivors of violence, family breadwinners, essential workers, or adults with established families and strong community ties. We believe no one should be separated from their family or future because of a rushed or incomplete defense. At Kennedy Law, we thoroughly review each client’s immigration and personal history to identify every possible form of relief, including:
- Asylum for those who fear persecution in their home country
- Withholding of Removal for those who meet the higher legal burden but are barred from or denied asylum
- Protection under the Convention Against Torture (CAT) for those at risk of torture by public officials or with government acquiescence
- Cancellation of Removal (for lawful permanent residents and non-permanent residents, with differing eligibility criteria)
- Motions to Reopen or Reconsider so that the Immigration Judge can consider new facts or evidence in the case based on changed circumstances, new evidence, approved petitions, VAWA eligibility, or legal error — including lack of notice of the removal hearing
- Adjustment of Status based on marriage or other qualifying relationships
- VAWA or SIJS Petitions for survivors of abuse or neglected minors
- Prosecutorial Discretion and Deferred Action
- Bond and Custody Hearings to seek release from immigration detention
- Waivers of inadmissibility and good moral character issues (tax, arrests, misrepresentation, child support)
- Federal court challenges and petitions for review
- Stays of Removal and Emergency Filings for individuals at imminent risk of deportation
Additional relief avenues we pursue in appropriate cases include:
- Administrative remedies and motions for administrative closure
- Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) -related relief where applicable
- Humanitarian parole requests
- Waivers of Inadmissibility (e.g. unlawful presence, previous removals)
- Federal court challenges and petitions for review when administrative remedies are exhausted or ineffective
- Temporary Protected Status (TPS) consultations and relief when eligibility criteria are met
Our Careful Approach Makes a Difference
Credible Testimony and a Consistent Record
- Direct access to your attorney from start to finish—your case is never delegated away
- Tailored declarations and testimony designed to maximize credibility
- Ensuring consistency across all applications, so your history remains consistent and reliable over timepreserving a reliable record
- Meticulous reviews of all filings to identify and prevent contradiction , to protect your record and reduce risk of challenge
- Exceptional declaration drafting
Strategy and Advocacy THAT WINS CASES
- Strategies tailored to your long-term goals, never one-size-fits-all
- Personal representation with full professional responsibility and accountability
- Creative research to uncover often-overlooked forms of relief
- Exceptional legal writing and advocacy in applications, briefs, and motions
- Strategic appeals pursued when necessary to protect your rights
- Guidance that helps you avoid obstacles throughout the immigration process
- Flat-fee billing for clarity and predictability
- Culturally competent, trauma-informed representation in asylum and humanitarian cases
Understanding Asylum and How We Prepare Your Case
To obtain asylum in the United States, a noncitizen must show that he or she has suffered persecution, or has a well-founded fear of persecution, on account of membership in one of the protected grounds recognized by U.S. law: race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group (PSG). Protection may also apply when persecutors believe or perceive that the person belongs to one of these protected groups. Immigration Judges or asylum officers then evaluate whether the harm suffered or feared occurred “on account of” that protected ground, along with several other legal factors.
When an asylum claim is based on membership in a particular social group, the group must satisfy three legal requirements. The group must be immutable, particularly defined, and socially distinct. An immutable characteristic is a trait that a person cannot change or should not be required to change, such as family ties or deeply held identity. A group is particularly defined when its boundaries are clear—meaning it is possible to determine who is and who is not part of the group. Finally, the group must be socially distinct, meaning that people within the relevant society recognize the group as a distinct segment of the population. This three-part test is intended to distinguish qualifying social groups from ordinary categories that do not fall within asylum law’s protected grounds.
At Kennedy Law, we guide clients through every stage of asylum preparation with respect, clarity, and care. We use trauma-informed preparation techniques that help organize memories, highlight key events, and maintain confidence throughout the process. Our approach is designed to help even individuals experiencing stress or trauma share their stories effectively and with dignity.
Our preparation includes helping clients:
- Present their story clearly, truthfully, and with meaningful supporting details
- Describe past harm and explain fears of future persecution
- Explain police inaction or the government’s failure to provide protection
- Prepare for what to expect during USCIS asylum interviews or immigration court hearings
- Structure testimony so that key events are presented clearly and logically
- Address inconsistencies or gaps in documentation
- Connect personal testimony with supporting evidence and relevant country conditions
You do not have to tell your story alone. We work closely with you to build a strong, honest, and well-supported case that reflects your experiences and meets the legal standards required for asylum.
NOTEWORTHY & IMPACTFUL ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Pioneered Legal Strategy Against Terrorism Bar in Asylum Cases for Extortion Victims
Developed a novel four-part legal argument in 2025 to shield gang extortion victims from the “material support to terrorism” bar after the designation of Central American gangs as terrorist organizations. Despite restrictive BIA precedent, none of Attorney Kennedy’s asylum clients were denied protection on this basis, enhancing their chances for obtaining a green card.
Author of Asylum Testimony Guidebook
Wrote “How to Testify in an Asylum Case,” a practical guide empowering asylum seekers to deliver credible and effective testimony before USCIS and Immigration Court
Secured Judicial Marriage License for Immigration Detainee
Successfully obtained a rare judicial order authorizing marriage for a client in ICE custody, overcoming bureaucratic barriers and safeguarding future immigration pathway.
Achieved First Annulment in Maryland in Over Two Decades
Won a landmark annulment—reportedly the first granted in Maryland in 24 years—demonstrating exceptional command of seldom-used legal remedies, which can impact citizenship rights.
Blocked DHS Case Dismissals to Preserve Due Process
Successfully opposed Department of Homeland Security efforts to prematurely dismiss removal cases, ensuring that clients maintained their access to immigration court protections, including the right to request a bond hearing, crucial for those facing removal proceedings.
Reopened and Rescinded Prior Removal Orders
Obtained favorable rulings reopening and vacating old removal orders, restoring clients’ eligibility for lawful relief and preventing imminent deportation, vital for those facing removal.