Practice Area
Asylum
You fled for your life. America should be your answer.
Asylum exists because America believes that no one should be sent back to face persecution. If you've been harmed or threatened because of your race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group, you may qualify for protection.
What Can Go Wrong
The one-year filing deadline is absolute — miss it and your claim may be barred forever. Asylum interviews and hearings require detailed, consistent testimony. Inconsistencies that seem minor to you can destroy your credibility with the judge. And the legal standards are complex — what feels like persecution to you may not meet the legal definition without proper framing.
What Gihan Does Differently
Gihan Thomas has won asylum cases that established new legal precedent. Her case Sumolang v. Holder extended asylum protection to parents whose children were harmed. She understands persecution because she understands what it means to leave your country with nothing and start over.
Real Case (Anonymized)
A Case Study
A journalist from the Middle East faced death threats after publishing articles critical of the government. Two previous attorneys told her she had no case because she hadn't been physically harmed. Gihan presented her case under the political opinion ground, documented the pattern of threats, and won asylum.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for filing an asylum application?
You must file within one year of your last arrival in the United States. There are limited exceptions for changed or extraordinary circumstances, but meeting the deadline is critical.
Can I work if I apply for asylum?
You can apply for work authorization 150 days after filing a complete asylum application, and it can be granted after 180 days. During the waiting period, you cannot legally work.
What happens at an asylum interview?
An asylum officer will ask you detailed questions about why you left your country, what happened to you, and why you're afraid to return. Gihan prepares every client thoroughly for this interview.
Can my family be included in my asylum case?
Yes. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 who are in the US can be included as derivative beneficiaries on your asylum application.
What if I entered the US without documents?
You can still apply for asylum regardless of how you entered the United States. Asylum is available even to people who entered without inspection, as long as you meet the filing deadline and qualify for protection.
Other Practice Areas
Green Card
You've built your life here. Now make it permanent.
Deportation Defense
They're trying to send you back. We're here to fight.
Naturalization
You've earned the right to call this home. Make it official.
Family Petitions
Your family belongs together. We'll make it happen.
Visas
The right visa opens the door. The wrong one closes it.
DACA
You grew up American. The law should recognize that.
Appeals
A denial is not the end. It's where the real fight begins.
Ready to Discuss Your Asylum Case?
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