Opinion ID: 169174
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Jurisdictional Framework for Reviewing Removal Proceedings

Text: 12 Our jurisdiction to review removal proceedings requires a final order of removal. Uanreroro v. Gonzales, 443 F.3d 1197, 1203 (10th Cir.2006); 8 U.S.C. § 1252(a). 13 The Code does not expressly define an order of removal, but defines an order of deportation 5 as the order . . . concluding that the alien is deportable or ordering deportation. 8 U.S.C. § 1101(a)(47)(A). An order of deportation becomes final when (1) the BIA affirms the order on appeal, or (2) the period for seeking BIA review has expired. 8 U.S.C. § 1101(a)(47)(B). 6 14 Both parties contend that we have jurisdiction over this appeal. Although DHS agrees we have no jurisdiction to review the appeal absent a final order of removal, it argues one exists. DHS points to two sources for a final order under 8 U.S.C. § 1252(a)(1): (1) the IJ's two orders granting and affirming the § 212(c) waiver; and (2) the BIA order of removal of Sosa-Valenzuela after it ruled on appeal. Sosa-Valenzuela argues, in contrast, that jurisdiction can be found even without a final order of removal under § 1252(a)(2)(D), which allows judicial review of constitutional claims or questions of law. 15 We turn to each argument.