Why do you need an asylum lawyer?

The key role of an asylum lawyer

An expert to guide the asylum application process

An asylum lawyer plays a crucial role right from the start of the procedure. He or she helps the applicant prepare a complete file, write a coherent narrative and provide the necessary evidence. He or she also assists with appeals to the CNDA (French National Commission for Refugee Appeals) to contest a refusal by OFPRA (Office Français de Protection des Réfugiés et Apatrides – French Office for the Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons).

Legal assistance for every situation

An asylum lawyer offers several services:

• Putting together an asylum application file, with support in writing a convincing story.
• Preparation for OFPRA interviews, to anticipate questions from examining officers.
• Defense before the CNDA, to plead the applicant’s case in the event of initial rejection.
• Help with regularization of residency, for illegal residents seeking a legal solution.

Who is eligible for asylum and what are their rights?

What is a refugee?

Refugee status is legal protection granted to people fleeing persecution in their country of origin. In France, this status is granted to people who meet the criteria defined by the 1951 Geneva Convention. This includes individuals persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion.

Refugees can also be activists, journalists or intellectuals threatened for their commitment to freedom. Protection is also granted to those placed under the authority of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

What rights does a refugee have?

• A residence permit in France
• The right to housing and social assistance
• The right to work and education
• The possibility of obtaining French nationality under certain conditions

These rights guarantee progressive integration and protection against expulsion.

Why can an asylum lawyer in Paris make a difference?

Precise knowledge of the legal process

Calling on the services of an asylum lawyer in Paris gives you in-depth knowledge of all the stages and difficulties involved in obtaining asylum. There are many administrative pitfalls, and the process can be lengthy. You can discover for yourself the complexity of this process here: Download the route. That’s why a law firm like Goldwin Partners can help you avoid mistakes in compiling your file, meeting deadlines and misunderstandings with the various institutions.

Support in the face of OFPRA refusals

In the event of rejection, a lawyer is essential. He or she files an appeal with the CNDA and prepares a solid defense file. He can also intervene on behalf of stateless persons or political asylum seekers.

Key steps to a successful asylum application with a lawyer

Prepare a solid file

The lawyer helps gather all the essential evidence and ensures the coherence of the story to reinforce the credibility of the claim:

• identity documents,
• testimonials,
• medical certificates,
• certificates from associations or relatives.

The importance of the OFPRA interview

The interview before the Office Français de Protection des Réfugiés et Apatrides (French Office for the Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons) is decisive. An asylum lawyer can help you prepare effectively, anticipate tricky questions and avoid inconsistencies.

What to do in the event of rejection

If the application is refused, a CNDA lawyer files an appeal and argues the case. He or she can also help to regularize the residency status of applicants who want an alternative.

Foreign nationals seeking asylum: how to choose the right lawyer?

Essential criteria

• Specialization: choose a lawyer with expertise in asylum and immigration law.
• Experience: choosing a lawyer who has already appeared before the CNDA offers a better chance of success.
• Legal aid: some lawyers accept legal aid for asylum applications, enabling applicants to benefit from a free defense.

Conclusion

Calling on the services of an asylum lawyer maximizes your chances of obtaining refugee status. His or her expertise will help you avoid mistakes, strengthen the credibility of your case and ensure an effective defense in the event of refusal. For asylum seekers, surrounding yourself with a competent professional is a strategy that pays off.