Hello 2H2F!

Filing for asylum is one of the reasons why someone is in removal proceedings . You have to appear in front of an immigration judge and if your case is not approved you are subject to deportation. The only thing that would prevent your removal is a strong argument.

Another example is someone who is detained by ICE ( Immigration and Customs Enforcement). This person is in removal proceedings meaning that his/her case could either be approved or not. If you are approved then you will be released otherwise you have to return to your native country.

If you are not approved I think the judge asks you if you want voluntary departure or if you want to get deported ( I'm not too sure about this one but I think that's how it is). Both voluntary departure and deportation mean the same thing ( deportation) but I think that with voluntary departure you pay for your own flight (if you're detained).

Voluntary departure is more beneficial because you could reenter the U.S LEGALLY 3-10 years after you go back to your country. It all depends on the judges decision I guess. With deportation you won't be able to reenter for 10 years.

I hope this helps.