ILLINOIS LEGAL NEWS & VIDEOS

Attorney John Heiderscheidt Attends Asylum Hearing at USCIS

Attorney John Heiderscheidt, founder of Subscription Lawyer and a trusted advocate for immigrant communities, recently attended an asylum hearing at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office in Chicago. His attendance reflects his continued dedication to representing clients facing difficult and often life-altering immigration decisions.

An asylum hearing is a formal interview conducted by an asylum officer at USCIS. It is part of the “affirmative” asylum process, which applies to individuals who are not currently in removal proceedings and have proactively applied for asylum within one year of entering the United States. During this hearing—also called an asylum interview—the officer evaluates whether the applicant meets the refugee definition under U.S. law. This involves assessing whether the person has a well-founded fear of persecution due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.

The process is detailed and demanding. Applicants are asked to provide documentation, personal history, and credible testimony regarding their fear of returning to their home country. Legal counsel can attend the interview, help prepare the applicant and provide a closing statement on their behalf. In some cases, interpreters are also present.

Attorney Heiderscheidt emphasizes that asylum interviews are not casual conversations but thorough evaluations that can have life-or-death consequences for applicants. He explains that individuals can expect detailed and often lengthy questioning as officers assess whether refugee status is warranted. “We work with applicants through all phases of the process,” he notes, “to ensure the government reviews your application appropriately and within the boundaries of the law.” His guidance helps clients present their stories clearly and confidently, reducing the risk of delays or denials due to misunderstanding or lack of preparation.

Heiderscheidt’s approach is thorough and compassionate, ensuring clients understand each step and are equipped with strong, well-prepared applications. His involvement at every stage—from initial filing to final decision—helps safeguard the legal rights of those fleeing danger and seeking safety in the U.S.

Through his Subscription Lawyer model, Heiderscheidt provides affordable, consistent legal support for asylum seekers and other immigrants. His presence at USCIS hearings highlights the importance of skilled legal representation during one of the most critical moments in a person’s immigration journey.

Navigating Uncertainty: Chicago’s Immigration Landscape Amid Federal Crackdowns

As of April 2025, Chicago finds itself at the epicenter of national immigration debates, grappling with federal enforcement measures and their profound local implications. The city’s commitment to being a sanctuary for immigrants is being tested by a series of federal actions and policies.

The Trump administration has launched “Operation Safeguard,” a nationwide initiative targeting undocumented immigrants, particularly in sanctuary cities like Chicago. This operation aims to detain and deport individuals with violent criminal histories. However, its implementation has raised concerns about overreach and the potential for civil rights violations. Notably, in Chicago, there have been reports of arrests that may have breached a 2022 agreement outlining the conditions under which ICE can make collateral arrests. Activists allege that 22 individuals, including a U.S. citizen, were wrongfully detained, prompting legal challenges against the federal government.

The Venezuelan immigrant community in Chicago faces heightened uncertainty. While a federal judge temporarily halted the Trump administration’s efforts to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelans, the community remains anxious about their future. The TPS program, which allows individuals from countries experiencing crises to live and work in the U.S., was set to expire for Venezuelans on April 7, 2025. The pause offers temporary relief, but the lack of a permanent solution leaves many in a state of limbo.

Local Government Response and Community Impact

Governor J.B. Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson have vocally opposed federal immigration crackdowns, emphasizing the importance of protecting law-abiding residents. Pritzker, invited to testify before Congress about Illinois’ immigration policies, criticized the hearings as politically motivated. He highlighted that the state’s sanctuary policies were enacted under a previous Republican administration, underscoring the bipartisan nature of the issue .

The influx of over 51,000 migrants since August 2022 has strained Chicago’s resources, leading to tensions in historically underserved neighborhoods. Black communities, in particular, have expressed concerns about the allocation of resources to new arrivals when longstanding local needs remain unmet.

Community Resilience and Advocacy

Despite the challenges, Chicago’s immigrant communities and advocacy groups continue to demonstrate resilience. Organizations are conducting “Know Your Rights” workshops, providing legal assistance, and mobilizing support networks to aid those affected by enforcement actions. The city’s commitment to being a welcoming place for immigrants remains steadfast, even as it navigates the complexities of federal policies and local realities.

Highland Park Parade Killer Enters Guilty Plea, Spares Families of Victims a Criminal Trial 

According to multiple Chicago news outlets, Robert Crimo III agreed to plead guilty to criminal charges stemming from the acts of murder, attempted murder, and aggravated assault he committed during the 2022 Highland Park Fourth of July Parade. Crimo III killed seven people and maimed dozens more.  His actions left at least one child as an orphan, in a terrible tragedy that rocked the Lake County Community. 

John W. Heiderscheidt, a criminal attorney who represents immigrant and citizen clients in criminal courts across Illinois, including Cook, DuPage, and Will counties said, “Crimo III’s actions were reprehensible, and it is near inconceivable the state would not have secured convictions against him had the trial proceeded.” Heiderscheidt further said he expected an incredibly stiff sentence, even if prosecutors and defendants had agreed to a specific sentence in principle. “This was a heinous public act. Even if the parties tentatively agree to a specific sentence, the Court may feel obligated to impose something even more harsh than prosecutors have offered or discussed in negotiations.”

Attorney Heiderscheidt also expressed relief for the victims who will not have to relive the chaotic and emotionally devastating moments of the attack. “As a husband and father, I don’t want to imagine the grief and pain Crimo III’s victims’ families have experienced. This was depraved and sickening. The only solace is that the perpetrator finally agreed to accept responsibility in a court of law.”  

If you or a loved one is under criminal investigation, charged with a crime, or trying to secure appellate or post-conviction relief, contact our offices today. 

Exploring Immigration Law and Legal Insights: John Heiderscheidt’s Interview on WRMN 1410AM’s “Life Experiences”

John Heiderscheidt, an experienced immigration attorney with over 13 years of practice, recently appeared on WRMN 1410AM’s “Life Experiences” with William Pelarenos. The show delved deep into critical aspects of immigration law, legal advice, and the ever-evolving landscape of U.S. immigration policy. With the backdrop of the Trump administration’s immigration policies, ongoing immigration reforms, and the complexities of navigating legal proceedings, the conversation touched on a wide range of crucial topics that anyone dealing with immigration matters should consider. Here’s a breakdown of what was discussed.

Immigration Law Under the Trump Administration

One of the primary topics was the effect of the Trump administration on immigration law. John and William discussed the shift in priorities during Trump’s tenure, which notably impacted various areas of immigration, including enforcement and border security. They also explored how the administration’s stance affected programs such as DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and policies like ICE raids and deportations. John emphasized the importance of staying informed on these shifts, as they can significantly impact individuals navigating the immigration process

Subscription Lawyer: A Proactive Approach to Legal Matters

A key moment in the discussion came when John introduced the concept of a “Subscription Lawyer.” This innovative approach allows individuals to have legal support on retainer, providing ongoing access to legal advice and assistance. John highlighted why it’s beneficial to have an attorney you trust and can turn to before legal issues escalate. “The key is to develop the trust and relationship with the attorney before you need it,” John shared during the interview. For anyone working through immigration matters, this strategy can be critical, especially in fast-moving and often unpredictable legal scenarios.

Navigating DACA, ICE Raids, and Other Legal Complexities

John’s insights on DACA underscored the uncertainty that recipients face, especially with shifting policies from administration to administration. The Trump administration made numerous changes that affected the status of DACA recipients, and John discussed how legal representation is crucial for anyone involved in DACA cases. The conversation also turned to ICE raids, which have become a significant concern for many immigrant communities. John provided practical advice on what to do in such situations, explaining the importance of understanding one’s rights and ensuring that the proper legal steps are taken immediately. Additionally, John touched on topics like 42a Cancellation of Removal, aggregated felony acts, and bond hearings, noting the importance of having skilled legal counsel throughout the process. He emphasized that navigating these legal complexities requires thorough investigation and preparation for various phases of immigration proceedings, from the investigative phase to evidentiary motions and the appellate phase.

Importance of Establishing a Relationship with Your Immigration Attorney Early

A central theme of the conversation was the importance of establishing a relationship with an immigration attorney before any legal issues arise. Immigration laws are constantly changing, and having an experienced attorney in your corner can make all the difference when time is of the essence. John stressed that immigration law can be unpredictable, and many rules, such as birthright citizenship and retroactivity, are nuanced. For individuals involved in immigration proceedings, building that relationship early allows attorneys to better understand the unique circumstances of each case, ultimately offering better, more proactive legal support.

Bond Hearings and Immigration Bonds

William, a retired cop, Navy veteran, and expert witness, raised a question about bond hearings. Heiderscheidt explained the process, noting that bond hearings for immigrants—whether legal or illegal—are critical. When someone is detained by immigration authorities, securing a bond can provide a pathway to release while awaiting hearings or court dates. However, John pointed out that immigration bonds must often be paid in full upfront, a financial burden for many families.

Stay Informed, Stay Prepared

John Heiderscheidt’s appearance on “Life Experiences” with William Pelarenos gave listeners a comprehensive view of immigration law and the critical role of legal counsel in navigating this complex field. From understanding the impact of different administrations to exploring proactive legal strategies like the Subscription Lawyer model, the conversation offered insights that can benefit anyone involved in the immigration process. As John said, “Develop the trust and relationship with the attorney before you need it.” This advice underscores the need for foresight in immigration matters, where delays or missteps can have long-lasting effects. Whether dealing with DACA, bond hearings, or other aspects of immigration law, establishing a strong relationship with a trusted immigration attorney is essential for navigating the legal challenges that may arise in the future. For those looking to understand immigration law better or seeking expert legal advice, John Heiderscheidt’s experience and wisdom offer valuable guidance that can help steer individuals through the intricacies of immigration law.