Asylum applicants are not required to have an attorney to apply for asylum, whether they are applying by an affirmative or defensive asylum application process. However, an attorney is highly recommended for Indian nationals applying for asylum. Asylum applications from Indian nationals can be particularly complicated, especially given the complex nature of country conditions and asylum associated factors in India. An attorney can be extremely helpful in preparing a clear and strong asylum application. In addition, the defensive asylum application process can be particularly difficult to navigate without an attorney. Since the defensive process is heard by an immigration judge in immigration court, it is best to have an experienced attorney to speak on behalf of the asylum applicant.