Though the current political climate surrounding the topic of immigration can be rather divisive, the United States has a long-standing tradition of accepting a large number of immigrants into its borders annually. In fact, the immigrant population continues to grow each year. In 2018, there were more than one million people legally accepted into the country as immigrants. This is in addition to the non-citizen immigrants that were already here. While the number continues to grow, it’s pace has slowed considerably since 2003. This is mostly due to stricter immigration laws and enforcement. In particular, family-based immigration issues have become increasingly difficult to navigate without the help of an experienced immigration lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ.
Family-based Immigration Services
At the Law Offices of Lemuel A. Carlos in Scottsdale, Arizona we offer a variety of family-based immigration services. Whether you are recently married to your spouse, intending on getting married or concerned about DACA issues, enlisting the services of a reputable immigration lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ can help to ensure your green card approval and/or citizenship. Listed below are some of the family-based immigration services that are requested the most in Scottsdale.
Marriage-based Immigration Services
Finding someone to spend the rest of your life with can already be difficult. Unfortunately, if you have accomplished this feat with an immigrant that resides outside of the U.S. the process of helping them become a citizen can be an even more arduous task. Petitioning for the citizenship of your spouse will require you to complete many steps, as well as prove that the marriage is legitimate. Any missteps in this process can delay your application, and in some cases, cause it to be denied. In addition to the documentation and anecdotal evidence that you will have to provide, your spouse will have to endure an interview at a USCIS office. Working with an experienced marriage-based immigration lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ can help you to navigate this sometimes confusing process.
LGBT and Same-sex Marriage Immigration
In 2013, the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) was ruled unconstitutional by the United States Supreme Court. Quickly thereafter, President Obama instructed multiple federal agencies to offer same-sex couples the same benefits that people in opposite-sex relationships enjoy. Additionally, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) was instructed to treat all couples the same, specifically regarding immigration-related visa petitions.
Fiance Visas
In some cases, couples decide to forego the Fiance Visa and wait to pursue a marriage-based immigration process. However, there are many others who decide to take advantage of the K-1 visa. It is designed for couples that intend to get married within 90 days of the issuance of the visa. If this is accomplished, the newly married non-immigrant spouse will be eligible to apply for an adjustment of status and to obtain a green card.
DACA
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) requests can be difficult to navigate alone. While the political climate surrounding DACA can be rather contentious, reputable law firms like the Law Offices of Lemuel A. Carlos help dreamers to successfully apply for renewal of their status and request it for the first time. It is important to note that immigration laws can change quickly. This is where an immigration lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ can help you to stay abreast of changes and be prepared to maintain your status.
Removal of Conditions
Due to the increased number of people committing marriage fraud in the United States, the USCIS has increased the instances that they issue green cards that are only good for two years. In order to get the conditions removed, you must file for removal using form I-751. Additionally, you must prove that you have been in an ongoing, bona fide marriage with your U.S. citizen partner. In recent years, it has become more difficult to remove conditions. It is recommended that you work with a reputable and experienced immigration lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ to help you throughout the removal of conditions process.
Pathway to Citizenship
The pathway to citizenship can sometimes be a long and difficult one. This can be especially true if you are taking on the task independently. However, there are multiple ways to gain U.S. citizenship. Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR) that have been in the United States for more than five years, have been involved in no criminal activity or have any other disqualifying factors are eligible to apply for citizenship after holding a green card for five years. LPRs that are married to a U.S. citizen can apply to become naturalized after only three years. The application process will involve providing proof of a bona fide relationship, passing a civics test and being interviewed at a USCIS office. A reputable immigration lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ can help you to prepare for the interview as well as the civics test.
How to Find an Immigration Lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ
After entering terms like “Immigration Lawyer Scottsdale, AZ” into search engines, you will find that there are a lot of options available. However, it is imperative that you choose the best course of action for your specific set of circumstances. When you are in search of an immigration lawyer, it is important to do the following:
- Conduct Ample Research: While finding an attorney that ranks high on search results is a great first step, it is imperative that you research what their past customers have said about them. In addition, it is recommended that you use the initial consultation as a time to learn more about their specific experience with the issues that you face and goals that you wish to accomplish.
- Ask Relatives and Colleagues: If you are unsure of which immigration attorney to choose, it is always a wise idea to consult the people that you trust the most. Inquire of their experiences and who they recommend.
- Discuss Expectations and Budget: Establish and maintain a clear understanding of what the payment intervals, amounts, and methods will be upfront. Additionally, discuss expectations like the length of time, the best times to call, etc.
If you are in search of an immigration lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ, give the attorneys at the Law Offices of Lemuel A. Carlos a call to schedule your initial consultation today.