Venezuelan political refugees secure asylum in Orlando Immigration Court

Client(s) Clients P.H., et al.

Jones Day successfully represented a Venezuelan couple and their minor children before the Orlando Immigration Court, securing asylum for the family on the basis of past persecution suffered on account of their political opinions. P.H. and D.C. were active and vocal members of a political party known for opposing the dictatorial regime of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. They both held leadership positions within the opposition party, organizing party meetings and demonstrations and publicly sharing the party’s pro-democracy positions. As a result of their political opinions and work in opposition of the Venezuelan government, the family was persecuted by the colectivos—an armed paramilitary group that polices the country in support of the Maduro regime. The family’s close relative was murdered at a demonstration, they received multiple, credible death threats, and the family was shot at while driving in their car. Following the car shooting, the family fled Venezuela for the United States. Jones Day submitted extensive pre-hearing briefing and documentary evidence and at the family’s merits hearing on April 12, 2024, the Orlando immigration judge found the family’s claims credible and granted the family asylum.