Your refugee claim begins with a Basis of Claim form submitted to Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada or the Canada Border Services Agency. This document must detail the persecution you face and why you cannot return to your country of origin.  We prepare comprehensive claims that address all elements required under Canadian immigration law. Each application includes supporting evidence such as country condition reports, personal statements, and documentary proof of your circumstances.  The quality of your initial filing directly impacts your hearing outcome. We ensure your claim meets all procedural requirements and presents compelling evidence of your need for protection. Our experience with Canadian visa offices and immigration processing allows us to anticipate issues before they arise.

Key elements we prepare:

Your hearing at the Refugee Protection Division determines whether you receive protected person status in Canada. We represent you throughout this critical stage, presenting evidence and legal arguments to support your claim.  As an immigration lawyer with extensive tribunal experience, Joshua Slayen prepares you for questioning and cross-examination. We review all aspects of your testimony to ensure consistency and credibility.  Federal tribunals require precise adherence to procedural rules and evidentiary standards. We handle all communications with the tribunal, file necessary documents before deadlines, and respond to any admissibility issues that arise. Our representation includes pre-hearing conferences, the main hearing, and any additional proceedings the tribunal orders.

If the Refugee Protection Division rejects your claim, you may have grounds to appeal. The Refugee Appeal Division reviews decisions for legal errors, factual errors, or both.  We analyse your case to determine appeal prospects and file comprehensive memorandums that identify errors in the original decision. Time limits for appeals are strict, typically 15 days from receiving the decision.  Your appeal may proceed as a hearing or on the written record. We advise which format best serves your case and prepare accordingly. The Refugee Appeal Division can allow your appeal, refer the matter back to the Refugee Protection Division, or confirm the original decision. Our experience with immigration law allows us to present persuasive arguments that address the specific errors in your case.

Procedural fairness letters indicate concerns about your claim before a final decision. These letters require immediate attention and detailed responses within tight timelines.  We craft responses that address each concern raised by the decision-maker. Our submissions include additional evidence, legal arguments, and clarifications that resolve credibility or admissibility issues.  If your claim receives a negative decision, we evaluate all available options. These may include judicial review, humanitarian and compassionate applications, or pre-removal risk assessments. Each option has specific timelines and requirements under Canadian immigration law.

Common procedural fairness concerns: