If you or a loved one is facing removal proceedings, it is essential to work with a strong legal advocate. Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C. is a trusted law firm for removal proceedings in San Francisco. We provide strategic and compassionate support backed by over 30 years of experience in immigration law. Our attorneys understand the emotional weight and legal complexity of removal proceedings, and we are committed to protecting your rights.
Why Choose Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C. as Your Removal Proceedings Lawyer in San Francisco?
Our firm has represented countless individuals in removal proceedings cases nationwide, including in San Francisco and across the Bay Area. Since 1985, Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C. has built a reputation of excellence in complex immigration cases, ensuring clients feel confident in our expertise.
With experience in removal defense—including withholding of removal, cancellation, waivers, and status adjustments—we focus on cases that matter most to San Francisco residents.
Experience With San Francisco Cases
We have supported many clients whose cases were assigned to the San Francisco Immigration Court or to federal court.
Empathy and Clarity
We know how stressful removal proceedings can be. Our goal is to simplify the process, communicate clearly, and work tirelessly to defend your ability to stay in the United States.
Award-Winning Representation
- The Martindale-Hubbell association reports that our peers rated us as AV (very high to preeminent), reflecting our strong reputation and dedication to excellence in immigration law.
- Our founder, Scott D. Pollock, has been recognized on the Illinois Super Lawyers list for excellence in immigration law since 2007.
- We are rated a 10, or superb, by Avvo for immigration law.
- We are active in professional organizations, including the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA).
We combine decades of legal experience with a personalized approach to help San Francisco residents build the strongest possible defense.
Steps to Take if You Face Removal Proceedings in San Francisco
Read your Notice to Appear (NTA).
Verify all information and charges, and take note of your court date.
Contact our office immediately.
Early guidance means increasing the chances of a better outcome.
Gather documents.
This includes anything that could apply to your case, including identification, visas, prior applications, criminal records (if any), and proof of residence.
Attend all court hearings.
Failure to do so may result in immediate removal.
Stay informed about court updates.
This is especially important given San Francisco’s backlog of immigration cases.
Immigration Challenges Unique to San Francisco
San Francisco is one of the most diverse and culturally rich cities in the country. More than one-third of the population is foreign-born, which contributes to this vibrant city, but also places high demand on the overstrained immigration system.
Local USCIS offices and the San Francisco Immigration Court experience significant backlogs. According to Syracuse University’s Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse (TRAC), which analyzes Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) data, as of mid-2025, the San Francisco Immigration Court had over 120,000 pending immigration cases.
The USCIS San Francisco Field Office reports average processing times of 14 to 18 months, depending on case type. USCIS provides information on processing times for specific petitions.
Our firm understands San Francisco’s unique immigration environment. We work closely with clients to navigate delays, file petitions accurately, and develop strategic solutions that acknowledge local challenges, helping you feel supported.
How Removal Proceedings Work in San Francisco
If the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issues you a Notice to Appear (NTA), your case will likely be assigned to the San Francisco Immigration Court.
Our firm provides complete representation for San Francisco residents in removal proceedings, including:
- Reviewing and challenging allegations in the NTA
- Filing motions to suppress, terminate, or reopen proceedings
- Preparing applications for asylum, withholding of removal, Convention Against Torture (CAT) protection, or cancellation of removal
- Coordinating USCIS applications that affect removability (I-130, waivers, U Visas, etc.)
- Representing clients during the master calendar and individual hearings
- Advocating for prosecutorial discretion
- Filing appeals with the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA)
San Francisco Immigration Court Locations and Jurisdictions
The San Francisco Immigration Court handles cases for many counties in the Bay Area and Northern California, including:
- Asylum cases
- Criminal-based removal
- Visa overstays and unlawful presence
- Adjustment of status hearings
- Waivers of inadmissibility
San Francisco Immigration Court
100 Montgomery Street, Suite 800
San Francisco, CA 94104
(415) 705-4415
The Concord Immigration Court can also handle cases for San Francisco residents, depending on the specifics of each case.
Concord Immigration Court
1855 Gateway Blvd, Suite 850
Concord, CA 94520
(925) 680-9015
We also coordinate with the USCIS San Francisco Field Office if forms such as an I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility, or Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status are relevant to your defense.
USCIS San Francisco Field Office
630 Sansome Street
San Francisco, CA 94111
(800) 375-5283
Common Removal Proceedings Cases in San Francisco
San Francisco immigrants face a range of causes for removal proceedings. Because even a minor offense can result in removal proceedings, an immigration attorney offers you the best chance of avoiding deportation for any criminal wrongdoing.
Visa Violations and Overstays
Many individuals entered on work, student, or visitor visas and later lost status due to job changes, financial issues, or USCIS delays.
Unlawful Entry
Some removal proceedings originate from border entries through California or nearby states, eventually leading individuals to settle in San Francisco.
Immigration Fraud Accusations
Cases involving alleged document fraud, marriage fraud, or misrepresentations at entry are common in large metropolitan areas.
Involvement in Criminal Activity
The most common types of criminal activity that lead to removal proceedings are:
- Aggravated felonies
- Crimes of moral turpitude
- Controlled substance violations
- Firearms offenses
- Domestic violence
Our Removal Proceedings Experience
Scott D. Pollock and Associates, P.C. has assisted clients facing removal proceedings nationwide. For San Francisco and Bay Area residents, our strengths include:
- Our familiarity with and cultural sensitivity to diverse immigrant communities, including Mexican, Chinese, Filipino, Indian, and Vietnamese populations.
- Our strong and strategic advocacy at the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) and in federal court.
- Many of our attorneys and staff members are bilingual and speak Spanish.
We have a long record of successful appeals and motions, helping our clients successfully avoid deportation. We are honored to have earned our clients’ trust over the years. We are committed to providing thorough case preparation and compassionate representation for clients navigating one of the most stressful situations of their lives.
Local Resources for Immigrants in San Francisco
For additional assistance beyond legal services, San Francisco offers strong community support for immigrants. These trusted organizations can assist with local resources, integration, and advocacy:
- San Francisco Interfaith Council for immigration support and resources
- Catholic Charities of San Francisco Immigration Services for legal and support services
- Refugee and Immigrant Transitions for making community connections
- Immigrants Rising for education, career, and mental health assistance
While these groups do not replace legal counsel, they can be valuable partners in navigating the immigration system.
Frequently Asked Questions About Removal Proceedings in San Francisco
Timelines vary widely due to backlogs at the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR). Some cases take months, others several years.
Yes. Your case can be appealed to the Board of Immigration Appeals and, in some cases, to federal court.
Yes. Some individuals can pursue adjustment of status, waivers, or humanitarian relief.
In most cases, yes. Failure to appear may result in an automatic removal order.
Speak to an Experienced Removal Proceedings Lawyer for San Francisco Residents
Facing removal proceedings is overwhelming, but you do not have to do it alone. Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C. provides the guidance, preparation, and dedicated advocacy you need to protect your future in the United States. Our team takes the time to understand your circumstances and will build a tailored defense that reflects your goals and opportunities.
Call our office or contact us online to schedule a secure video or phone consultation today.