Many folks decide to handle immigration cases on their own. That’s understandable.

It is rarely prudent.

Over the years, I’ve seen the outcome for countless individuals who decided to represent themselves.

Many submit their paperwork, and months later, they go to an interview at the local U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office, anticipating a green card.

They returned home deflated, often clueless why their applications were rejected.

Related Podcasts:

Episode 73: Why Entries And Exits Can Make Or Break Your Case

Episode 36: The Myth Of Unaffordable Fees

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Why Thoroughness Should Not Be A Mere Afterthought In Consultations

The Impact Of Avoidable Actions: Small Mistakes, Huge Consequences

Even though I am a pro-immigrant attorney, I’m willing to admit that some immigrants commit bad acts.

It bothers me, as a matter of policy, when colleagues portray immigrants as quasi-angels.

Such an approach harms immigrants in the long run.

Like U.S. citizens, most immigrants are good, honest, hard-working people. 

Unfortunately, not all.

However, immigrant opponents commit a bigger wrong when they try to claim the majority of newcomers are criminals, thieves, and violent individuals. 

Related Podcasts:

Episode 150: Immigrant Seniors

Episode 80. A Lawyer And His Mother

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The Battle For Immigration Justice: Why Compassion Matters

A Tribute To My Father: An Immigrant Success Story

The Make America Great Again folks, known as MAGA, have it all wrong.

What they consider a great America, I recall being a overly discriminatory county.

One in which my parents, my family, and my neighbors were deemed second-class human beings.

In large part, because of their immigrant roots.

A return to those days is a step backwards.

Related Podcasts:

Episode 94: Words Matter: The Political Myth Of Anchor Babies

Episode 147: Immigrants As Political Fodder

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The Anti-Immigrant Propaganda War

Lessons From 1965: Why Skills-Based Reform Is Xenophobia In Disguise

The first step in the green card process, completing the initial petition for an immigrant relative, seems simple. 

After all, the petition – called an I-130 petition -looks simple. 

Nonetheless, devastating problems can result if actions related to the form is not handled in a conscientious manner.

Related Podcasts:

Episode 143: Upgrading I-130 Petitions For Immigrant Spouses: Tips And Pitfalls

Episode 37: Is Your Marriage Bona Fide?

Recommended Links For More Information:

The Impact Of Avoidable Actions: Small Mistakes, Huge Consequences

Just Say No To Notarios

In our previous episode, we discussed motions to reopen.

More specifically, we talked about challenging a negative USCIS decision based on a factual-based opposition. 

Today, we’ll explore a challenge based on a legal issue. 

This is called a motion to reconsider.

A motion to reconsider asks that the decision be reexamined based on the improper disregard or misinterpretation of applicable law.

Related Podcasts:

Episode 37: Is Your Marriage Bona Fide?

Episode 86: Perilous Road To Green Cards Through Second Marriages

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What Happens If Your Marriage Green Card Is Denied By USCIS?

USCIS Motions to Reopen vs Motion to Reconsider: How To Win A Green Card After Denial    Sec

Many couples begin the permanent residence process by taking it too lightly. 

They get married.  They file an application for permanent residence.  They go to an interview. 

They think that’s it. 

In short, they believe that because getting a green card through a marriage is perhaps the easiest way to get a green card – coupled with the fact their marriage is legitimate - victory is guaranteed.

Wrong.

Sometimes the negative decision is based on a government miscue.

Can the decision be challenged?

Related Podcasts:

Episode 162: What's In The USCIS Green Card Checklist?

Episode 154: Two USCIS Warnings: NOIDS vs RFEs

Recommended Links For More Information:

What Happens If Your Marriage Green Card Is Denied By USCIS?

USCIS Motions to Reopen vs Motion to Reconsider: How To Win A Green Card After Denial

Are you a permanent resident, but your status is conditional?

If this is your situation, then you’re required to file a petition to remove the conditions.

This is a petition which you and your U.S. citizen spouse are supposed to file jointly.

But what happens if the two of you have to decided to go your own ways?

Does this mean you’re going to lose your green card status?

Related Podcasts:

Episode 132: Green Card Tips For Couples Before Marriage

Episode 37: Is Your Marriage Bona Fide?

Recommended Links For More Information:

Immigrant Spouses And K-1 Fiancées: The Danger Of Abandonment And Separation

10 Facts You Should Know About I-751 Petitions To Remove Conditions

Do you have a hearing coming up in Immigration Court?

Are you worried about how to answer questions you’re asked?

Want insights on how to put your best foot forward?

Here are seven tips on how to give your best testimony at Immigration Court.

Related Podcasts:

Episode 181: What Is The Notice To Appear?

Episode 60: What Is A Merits Hearing?

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The Six Roles Of Your Deportation Lawyer

Immigration Court: Deportation Defense

It’s no secret.  The U.S. immigration system needs repair.

But how you ask?

Well, actually, a few simple ideas could greatly improve the process for family-sponsored green card applicants.

Here are five small changes that would (a) reduce how many immigrants are waiting for interviews and (b) how long they need to wait before the big day occurs.

Related Podcasts:

Episode 188: Guiding Principles For Immigration Reform

Episode 68: Why A Border Wall Is Not The Answer

Recommended Links For More Information:

Renewing The Battle For The Reuniting Families Act

Trapped In The Politics Of The 1960s: Immigrant Relative Visas

Today, I’d like to discuss priority dates, one of the most significant concepts in green card cases.

It’s one of those terms many immigrants have heard, but do not really understand what it means or how It works.

Yet, when an immigrant reaches his or her priority date, it marks a major milestone for them, bringing their dreams and hopes one big step closer to becoming reality.

Related Podcasts:

Episode 143: Upgrading I-130 Petitions For Immigrant Spouses: Tips And Pitfalls

Episode 111: What Does Conversion Of Immigrant Petitions Mean?

Recommended Links For More Information:

How To Understand Visa Preference Categories: Green Cards From Abroad

Down The Green Card Rabbit Hole: A Journey To The Back Of The Line