What Is Asylum - Who Is It For?
Asylum is a legal protection for people fleeing persecution.
If returning to your country puts you at risk because of your race, religion, political opinion, gender, or identity, you may be eligible.
You may qualify for asylum if:
👉 You’ve been threatened or harmed by the government or powerful groups
👉 You belong to a persecuted political, ethnic, or religious minority
👉 You fear persecution because of your gender identity or sexual orientation
👉 You are a survivor of domestic violence or gang threats that your government failed to stop
We represent individuals in both affirmative (USCIS) and defensive (immigration court) asylum proceedings.
Why It Matters
Asylum isn’t just a legal process — it’s a lifeline for people fleeing danger, persecution, or fear in their home country.
Applying for asylum can:
👉 Protect you from deportation
👉 Allow you to live and work legally in the U.S.
👉 Let you apply for a green card after one year
👉 Give your spouse and children protection too
👉 Help you rebuild your life in safety
This is your chance to claim legal protection and peace of mind.
Do You Qualify? Here's What Matters
You might be eligible for asylum if:
👉 You’ve arrived in the U.S. within the last 1 year
👉 You have a well-founded fear of persecution
👉 Your fear is based on your identity, beliefs, or past experiences
👉 You can share your story and any evidence (we’ll help with this)
Don’t assume your case is too weak — many strong claims start with fear, not paperwork.
How It Works: The Legal Process
01
Consultation & screening
We review your story and determine the best legal path, learning about your fears, background, and how to protect you moving forward.
02
Filing Form I-589
This begins your asylum application, and we make sure everything is drafted and submitted accurately to avoid delays or mistakes.
03
Building Your Case
We collect supporting evidence and prepare your affidavit, pulling together country reports, personal records, and witness statements to make your case stronger.
04
Interview or Court Hearing
You attend a USCIS interview or appear before an immigration judge, and we help you prepare every step of the way so you feel confident sharing your truth.
05
Decision or Appeal
If denied, we can file an appeal or explore other legal options to keep you safe and give your case the strongest possible second chance.
06
EAD & Next Steps
You may apply for work permission 180 days after applying, and if asylum is granted, you’ll be on the path to a green card after one year.
What You’ll Need (Document Checklist)
If you don’t have certain documents, we’ll help gather what’s needed.
👉 Your passport and immigration records
👉 Police or medical records from past harm (if available)
👉 Identity documents (birth certificate, ID)
👉 Statement explaining your fear in detail
👉 Letters from witnesses or community leaders
👉 Photos or news articles related to your situation
Common Challenges & How We Help
Applying for asylum is never easy, and many people face obstacles that make the process feel overwhelming. Here’s how we support you through the most common ones.
👉 I don’t have proof
You're not alone—many people don’t. We’ll help you create a credible personal statement and find supporting evidence from reports, witnesses, or experts.
👉 I applied after 1 year
There are legal exceptions. We explain delays caused by trauma, fear, or changes in your home country—and build your case around them.
👉 My last lawyer gave up
We take over abandoned or mishandled cases, review the entire file, and explore every option to reopen or strengthen your claim.
👉 I’m already in removal
You still have rights. We can present your asylum case in court and argue for protection while you remain in the U.S.
👉 My situation changed recently
If conditions in your home country have worsened, or your personal risk has increased, we’ll help you file a strong, updated asylum claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stay in the U.S. while my case is pending?
Yes. Once you apply, you have the legal right to stay while your case is processed — which may take several months or longer.
What if I missed the 1-year deadline?
Exceptions exist. If you’ve experienced trauma, illness, or changed country conditions, we may still be able to file.
Can I work while my case is pending?
You can apply for a work permit 150 days after submitting your asylum application, and receive it after 180 days if there are no delays.
Can my spouse and children be included in my case?
Yes. You can include your spouse and minor children if they are in the U.S., or apply to bring them later if you’re granted asylum.
Daniela Martinez, Los Angeles
I never thought anyone would believe me. But this team listened, fought for me, and now I have asylum. I can finally breathe.
Samuel Okoro, Oakland
I was in court facing deportation. Shan and his team stopped everything and won my case. My kids and I are safe now.
Lina Rahimi, San Diego
I missed the one-year deadline and thought I had no chance. But they explained my options, built my case, and I was granted asylum. I’m finally free from fear.
Andrés Villalobos, Fresno
I thought it was too late for me. But this team never gave up. They prepared me, stayed by my side, and got me through.
Book a FREE Consultation NOW!
If you’re seeking safety in the U.S., asylum may be your most important option. Our legal team supports you at every step — from understanding your story to building a strong case for protection and a new beginning.
✅ Free, confidential consultation
✅ Clear guidance on your options
✅ Support in your language
Don’t wait. Get the help you need today.
Shan D Potts
Human Rights Attorney and Global Advocate for Justice
Shan Potts is instinctively oriented with an imaginative mind and an optimistic outlook. Shan has exemplified perseverance, determination, and a profound belief in the power of justice. While his journey boasts significant professional achievements, it's the undercurrent of his indomitable spirit and dedication to fairness that truly sets him apart.
Greg Barba
Immigration Strategist and Advocate for Immigrants
Mr. Barba is a seasoned immigration strategist with over a decade of experience and hundreds of consultations. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, he served as a non-commissioned officer specializing in logistics and convoy operations. He leads the firm’s intake division and studied philosophy at UC Berkeley and ethics at Oxford’s Exeter College.
Why Choose Shan Potts Law Firm?
Asylum Protection
We focus on helping individuals fleeing danger or persecution navigate the U.S. asylum process with precision and compassion. From building a credible case to preparing your legal documents, our personalized strategies are built to protect your rights — and give you a safe future.
Proven Track Record
With a Glendale-based practice and a track record of assisting over 3,000 clients, our attorneys have deep experience in asylum and protection-based cases. We turn complex immigration laws into clear, actionable steps—so you can focus on finding safety and building your future.
23+ Years of Experience
We focus exclusively on asylum protection and truly understand the unique challenges faced by people fleeing danger. Our personalized strategies carefully strengthen your case and help you navigate the legal process quickly and effectively—so you can rebuild your life in safety.
Transparent Process
We offer unlimited, clear legal guidance throughout your asylum process—no surprise fees. You’ll receive proactive advice on your affidavit, evidence, and interviews, all with flat-fee pricing so your budget stays predictable and free of hidden costs.