Comprehensive Overview of Immigration Law (COIL) Practice Exam

In Amrit's case, what happens after an asylum officer verifies her fear of persecution?

1. She is automatically granted refugee status

2. She may be placed in "withholding only" proceedings

3. She will be removed without a hearing

4. She must wait for a decision for two years

The correct answer is: She may be placed in "withholding only" proceedings

When an asylum officer verifies Amrit's fear of persecution, she enters a specific legal process designed to further assess her claim. In this context, if the asylum officer finds that her fear is credible, she may be placed in "withholding only" proceedings. This means she can remain in the U.S. while her case is further adjudicated. "Withholding only" proceedings are distinct from standard asylum proceedings. They focus on determining whether an individual is eligible for withholding of removal, which prevents the U.S. from deporting them to a country where they would face persecution. This legal framework is crucial for individuals like Amrit, as it allows for additional legal protections while her situation is evaluated without immediately granting refugee status or asylum. The emphasis on these proceedings underscores the importance of meticulous legal processes in immigration law, especially regarding individuals at risk of persecution. In this scenario, the option highlights an essential step in seeking protection against potential harm in their home country.