Facing deportation is terrifying for you and your loved ones. Not only are you at risk of being separated from your friends and family, but you have to deal with court proceedings and detention. That’s why it’s essential that you do everything you can to present the best case possible so that you might see a positive outcome and remain in the country. One of those things that you can do is to find credible witnesses that can speak on your behalf at your removal (a.k.a. deportation) hearing. So, what is their significance? What’s expected of them? Read ahead for more on what you should know about witnesses in your deportation case. What is their purpose? Witnesses in deportation hearings serve several purposes. They are there to speak on your behalf to show that you are not a danger to society and that you deserve to be in this country. Another key purpose is that they can corroborate or substantiate any claims that you or lawyer have made. The immigration court will ask them questions about your everyday life and about other, more specific information that has been asserted by your legal team. What should they expect? Your witness should expect to be able to arrive on time and dress professionally for their appearance at the court. They should be prepared to answer questions about your moral character or whatever issue your attorney recommends they address. They should also be prepared for cross examination. The DHS attorneys can pose challenging, argumentative or confrontational questions, so preparing your witnesses is key to their success. When selecting your witnesses, it’s also important to make sure they are comfortable enough to speak confidently and freely on your behalf. What else should you know? When it comes to selecting your witnesses, make sure that they themselves are U.S. citizens or have been given the legal right to remain in the country whenever possible. Also, sometimes your lawyer might suggest that using an expert witness. In an asylum case, for example, an expert in human rights or the conditions of your country, like a professor, can answer questions about the dangerous and violent conditions you would face if deported back to your home country. Speak with a trusted immigration lawyer right away. If you are facing deportation, it can be difficult to know who you can trust. At Landerholm Immigration, it’s our life’s work to fight for the rights of immigrants who are facing deportation. If you or someone you love has been detained, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (510) 491-0291 right away to speak with a member of our team.