Category: Blog posts

Reuniting families is crucial to immigration, allowing people to stay close to their loved ones. However, the United States immigration system is fraught with complexities, making it challenging for families to reunite. This is where an immigration lawyer comes in.

An immigration lawyer plays an invaluable role in helping individuals navigate the complex waters of immigration legally, ensuring they have the best chance of being reunited with their families.

Let us look at how an immigration lawyer in Los Angeles can help you.

Assessing Eligibility

A qualified immigration lawyer will evaluate the sponsor’s immigration status and the relationship with the intended immigrant to determine eligibility for family-based immigration. They will review the specific circumstances and advise on the appropriate visa category or immigration process.

Preparing and Filing Petitions

Immigration lawyers will assist in preparing and filing the necessary immigration forms, such as Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) for family-sponsored immigrants. They ensure that all required supporting documents and evidence are included in the petition to strengthen the case.

Navigating Complex Procedures

Understanding the recent immigration laws isn’t easy. The procedures may also vary based on the family relationship and the immigrant’s location. Our immigration lawyers will guide the sponsor and beneficiary through the process, ensuring compliance with all requirements and deadlines.

Addressing Legal Issues

If there are any legal issues or complications, such as prior immigration violations or criminal history, our immigration lawyers can strategize on addressing these concerns. This can help to increase the chances of a successful application.

Responding to Requests for Evidence (RFEs)

If a Request for Evidence is issued by the USCIS, seeking additional information or documentation, an immigration lawyer will help prepare a comprehensive response to address the concerns and strengthen your case.

Liaising with Government Agencies

Immigration lawyers in Los Angeles will liaise between the sponsor and government agencies, such as USCIS or the U.S. Department of State, to ensure smooth communication and timely application processing.

Consular Processing Assistance

If the immigrant is processing their visa through a U.S. consulate abroad, the lawyer can guide the required documentation and prepare the applicant for the visa interview.

Overcoming Visa Backlogs

Visa backlogs can delay the immigration process significantly. Our Family immigration lawyers will keep track of priority dates and the Visa Bulletin to help the beneficiaries apply for their visas as soon as they become available.

Ensuring Compliance with Affidavit of Support

Lawyers will help sponsors understand and fulfill their financial responsibilities by providing an Affidavit of Support and ensuring they meet the income requirements.

Providing Legal Representation

Lawyers can represent their clients in immigration court or before the Board of Immigration Appeals if there are complications or disputes in the family immigration case.

Set Up a Consultation with an Experienced Immigration Lawyer in Los Angeles

Overall, having an experienced immigration lawyer in Los Angeles is essential to navigating the family immigration process successfully and reuniting loved ones through legal channels in the United States.  The expertise of an Immigration Lawyer in Los Angeles can significantly increase the chances of a positive outcome and provide peace of mind throughout the immigration journey.

If you want to be united with your loved ones, we advise you to schedule an initial consultation with The Shahbaz Firm, APC.

The United States is a land of opportunities for immigrants flocking to the country for a better life for themselves and their families. However, if convicted of a crime, the government can also swiftly deport them.

If you are facing deportation, you need a skilled and compassionate immigration lawyer in LA. Please remember that the government will have an attorney at your deportation or removal hearing. Having an equally experienced lawyer who is more than familiar with California immigration laws can benefit your case.

How an Immigration Lawyer Can Protect Your Rights

While your case may differ as per the circumstances you are in, the following are some of the immigration paths and reliefs an immigration lawyer can provide:

Status Adjustment

An adjustment of status allows immigrants to acquire legal status as permanent residents. Your immigration attorney in LA can tell you if you qualify.

The Immigration Appeal Process

An experienced immigration attorney can help you through the appeals process and act as your representative to the Board of Immigration Appeals.

Asylum

If you cannot return to your country of origin because you fear for your life or because of the country’s condition, an immigration lawyer can help you seek asylum in the United States.

U Visas

You may be eligible for a temporary nonimmigrant visa if you suffered significant mental and physical abuse or witnessed a crime. It may lead to potential legal US residency and citizenship if you have an experienced immigration and deportation lawyer.

Voluntary Departure

If you are not eligible for deportation relief, you may choose to leave the US voluntarily. An immigration attorney in LA can help you with the process.

Removal Cancellation

Both legal permanent residents and non-residents in the US can avail of this immigration relief if they wish to remain in the country.

Withholding Removal

This type of immigration relief is like asylum, but it allows you to stay and work in the US indefinitely without being eligible for a Green Card.

Waiver of Inadmissibility

Your attorney can help you prevent deportation with several different waivers. Ask about these in your first consultation and if you are eligible.

Los Angeles is a melting pot of diverse cultures because of its high immigrant population. Realize your dreams and remain in the country without fearing deportation with help from an immigration attorney in LA.

Citizenship Naturalization

If you meet the requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act, your attorney can help you with the naturalization process, i.e., acquiring US citizenship.

Contact The Shahbaz Firm for a Consultation Today!

Growing up in an immigrant household, immigration lawyer Danish Shahbaz understands the fear that a potential deportation can bring. He personally works with clients to determine affordable and efficient solutions to their immigration issues. To book a legal consultation with the lawyer and his team, contact The Shahbaz Firm, APC, today!

If you’re waiting to live with your foreign spouse, the last thing you want is to delay your green card application by making mistakes. Unfortunately, this is something that happens quite often. So what should you know about getting a green card through marriage? This article lists three of the most important steps on your green card journey.

Eligibility Requirements

If you want to apply for a green card in California based on marriage to a U.S. citizen (or permanent resident), you’ll need to meet certain eligibility criteria. First, you’ll need to have a legally valid marriage that’s recognized in the state of California. This means you’ll need to have a legal marriage certificate to serve as evidence of the marital relationship.

You’ll also need to provide proof that your marriage is genuine. Some people have fake marriages of convenience purely for immigration benefits. Applicants must therefore provide evidence that shows they have a real relationship.

This may include showing things like joint bank accounts, shared property, and photographs of the two of you together. You may also provide signed affidavits from family and friends. An immigration lawyer can help you get these things in order.

Filing the Petition

To actually obtain your green card, you’ll need to fill out a series of applications with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The first step is filling out Form I-130, which is the Petition for Alien Relative. This is when the U.S. Citizen (or permanent U.S. resident) files a form to establish their relationship with a foreign-born spouse.

Once the I-130 petition is approved, you’ll then file Form I-485, which is the Application to Register Permanent Residence. The foreign-born spouse files this application to adjust their status to a lawful permanent residence.

Mistakes with the forms can cause significant delays to your application. If you want to ensure you’re approved as quickly as possible, immigration lawyers can help.

Biometrics and Interview

Once you’ve successfully submitted these forms and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services have approved them, the foreign spouse will be invited to a biometrics appointment. Here the immigration department will take a photograph and the fingerprints of the foreign-born spouse.

After this, the two of you will also need to attend an interview to evaluate whether the marriage is legitimate. During the interview it may help if you can provide evidence that the marriage is legitimate. Again, hiring an immigration attorney is the optimal way to ensure you’re properly prepared.

Now You Know About Getting a Green Card Through Marriage

Getting a green card through marriage can be a difficult process, especially if you’re not correctly prepared. Given that mistakes in the application could have a huge impact on your family life, it makes sense to ensure you do it right.

If you’re looking for the best immigration lawyers in California to help you on your green card journey, contact us today. We take the stress out of the process by ensuring you and your partner are properly prepared.

Have you ever wondered about the labyrinth of immigration laws in Los Angeles? It’s a city of dreams, a melting pot of cultures, and a beacon for immigrants. But the path to becoming a naturalized citizen can be complex. So, how can a naturalization lawyer assist you in this journey?

In this article, we’re going to look at exactly that. Keep reading as we get right into it.

Understanding the Role of a Naturalization Lawyer

Naturalization lawyers, often referred to as immigration lawyers, are legal experts who specialize in immigration and citizenship matters. They are the guiding light for individuals navigating the intricate web of immigration laws, helping them comprehend their rights, obligations, and the necessary steps to become naturalized citizens.

In a city as diverse as Los Angeles, the role of a naturalization lawyer is invaluable. They assist individuals in understanding and complying with the city’s unique immigration landscape and federal laws.

The Need for a Naturalization Lawyer in Los Angeles

We exist in a world governed by rules and regulations. When it comes to immigration, these rules can be intricate and perplexing. This is where a naturalization lawyer steps in. They can:

• Clarify the immigration process and your rights
• Guide you through legal procedures and paperwork
• Represent you in court if required
• Advise on potential issues or challenges

In the realm of immigration, the rules can be intricate. A naturalization lawyer is one who can simplify this complexity. They provide clarity on the immigration process, guide through legal procedures, represent in court, and advise on potential challenges.

Selecting the Right Naturalization Lawyer

Choosing the right naturalization lawyers in Los Angeles can seem like a monumental task. But fear not, we have some pointers for you:

• Find a lawyer with positive feedback
• Opt for a lawyer specializing in immigration law
• Ensure the lawyer communicates effectively
• Consider the lawyer’s fees

Choosing the right naturalization attorney in Los Angeles is like finding the right key to a lock. It requires careful consideration of the lawyer’s reputation, specialization, communication skills, and fees. The right lawyer is not just a guide but a partner in the journey toward naturalization.

The Shahbaz Firm: A Reliable Naturalization Lawyer in Los Angeles

In Los Angeles, The Shahbaz Firm is a trusted ally for those on the path to naturalization. Established by Danish Shahbaz in 2018, the firm is dedicated to professionalism, integrity, and respect for its clients.

We are experts in immigration law and are committed to assisting individuals through the complexities of the immigration process.

The Importance of a Naturalization Lawyer

So, how can a naturalization attorney assist you in Los Angeles? By helping you navigate the maze of immigration laws, representing your interests, and ensuring you understand your rights and obligations. They can simplify the complex journey toward naturalization.

The path to becoming a naturalized citizen is not just a legal journey but a transformative life experience. Having a reliable naturalization lawyer by your side can make a world of difference.

If you’re in Los Angeles and seeking naturalization, get in touch with The Shhahbaz Firm. We’re here to help!

Living in the United States as a foreign national can be a disconcerting everyday experience. Denial of visa applications hovers over your head on a daily basis. Especially knowing that the United States deports hundreds of thousands of people each year.

Deportation can tear families apart and make the future very uncertain. Once deportation is on the table, it may seem like you have no options left. Nothing could be further from the truth if you have a deportation defense attorney.

Citizen or not, you have rights. Los Angeles lawyers can give you a fighting chance to remain in the US. Let’s discuss the situations when you need deportation defense attorneys.

Call a Deportation Defense Attorney If You’re Married to a US Citizen

Marrying a US citizen may seem like a straight shot to a green card or visa. After all, your partner can sponsor a K-1 visa just for you. They can even file their taxes jointly with you before you receive permanent resident status.

Unfortunately, sometimes things don’t work out. You may be facing deportation despite having a US spouse or a child born in the US.

With the help of a defense attorney, you can submit a visa petition based on family. Your defense lawyer can secure your USCIS or green card and prevent deportation.

If You Need Asylum

Asylum-seekers arrive in the US en masse every year. Many use this strategy by default to get into the country whether or not it is true. This means border agents may question the intentions of people who are truly seeking asylum.

The United States offers asylum to individuals who fear returning to their home country. If you are concerned about persecution when returning home, defense lawyers can help. They can prove to the courts that you are seeking asylum and allow you to stay.

Currently, the United States has a huge backlog of cases for visas and asylum-seekers. You need to make your case count. Hire a deportation defense attorney before you attend your court date.

If You Are Convicted

You may have committed a crime while living in the United States. Or, much worse, authorities have convicted you of a crime you are not responsible for. In either case, you require the help of defense attorneys.

A criminal record will make things much more complicated, regardless of whether you actually did it. One thing is clear, though: you still have a fighting chance. Contact legal counsel and they will provide strategies that may get you out of hot water.

Find Help with Shahbaz Firm

A deportation defense attorney is a critical asset when your immigration status is on the line. Deportation can happen even if you are seeking asylum, or have a US-born spouse. No matter what your situation–even if you have committed a crime–call a deportation defense attorney to fight your case.

Shahbaz Firm helps immigrants from around the world to secure their stay in the USA. Contact us and give us a brief case summary of your immigration situation.

Only 52% of migrants passed asylum screenings in late May 2023, down from almost 80% the month before. This was due to many factors, including changing policies and the difficulty of finding a lawyer to help you. So, if you are looking for an asylum attorney now, what should you be doing to ensure you get the best one?

The following are some of the most effective methods of finding a skilled immigration lawyer who can help you with your entry to the US. As you read through, start making plans, as there are time limits on your application process and you do not want to be late.

1. Look For an Asylum Attorney Specifically

Different lawyers focus on different areas of the legal system. While you might find several attorneys when you do a search in the LA area, you want to focus on asylum attorneys only. This will ensure that the person you find has expertise in handling the issues important to you.

Immigration law can be complex, with loopholes that can frustrate even veteran attorneys. So, choose one who can give you the best chance of success as they understand the processes, regulations, and precedents already.

2. Look At Their Experience and Reputation

An immigration lawyer, or in fact, any lawyer, is only as good as their reputation suggests. When you are researching, make sure to learn how well they do their job by looking at testimonials or online reviews of their service. Check out their past cases, looking for their success rate and if they ensured people had the best chance even when they did not succeed.

Skilled immigration attorneys do not only give people success. They also ensure positive outcomes for their clients where possible even if they do not succeed.

As such, talk to the lawyer about their previous cases. Learn about how they go the extra mile to ensure the courts treat their client fairly.

3. Understand Their Fees

When searching for a Los Angeles immigration attorney, it is important to understand what you will be expected to pay them. This includes both before and after any legal process.

Talk to them about their billing methods and whether they charge either a flat fee or bill by the hour. You should also ask them if they have any extra expenses they might charge for, as well as the payment methods they accept. This will help you avoid any surprises further down the line.

Find the Right Asylum Attorney For You

These tips should give you some of the best options when it comes to looking for an asylum attorney in the LA area. Still, why not skip all the searching and work with someone who knows what they are doing?

Our firm has specialists in helping people like you who need to find immigration lawyers fast. We can answer any questions you have and get those you know on the fast track into the country. So, give us a call and let us know the situation today to start the journey.

About 44.8 million people currently living in the U.S. have come here as immigrants. This population sector accounts for about 13.7% of the U.S. population.

Leaving one country and coming to another is fraught with challenges. The U.S. immigration system is one of the biggest.

Navigating immigration problems can be daunting and scary for immigrants entering the U.S. An immigration attorney might be necessary to help guide the complicated process of trying to stay in the U.S.

If you’re facing immigration problems and want to hire a lawyer, part of the success of your case can depend on who you hire. Read on to learn the questions you should ask the attorney when meeting them.

1. What Experience Do You Have in Immigration Law?

When you’re ready to hire an attorney, you want one who knows the kind of law you need. Immigration law is highly specific, so you want to ask the attorney about their experience with immigration laws.

Ask how long they have been practicing law. Then ask how long they’ve specialized in immigration law. The more experience they have, the better. They will know all the ins and outs of immigration policy.

If your case hits a snap, their previous immigration experience will help them to know how to navigate it.

2. Are You a Member of The American Immigration Lawyers Association?

Immigration law is highly specific and constantly evolving. You want to hire an attorney to keep updated with immigration laws and policy.

Ask if they’re members of The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA). An immigration lawyer will want to be a member of this organization.

It will help them stay current on immigration regulations, policies, and best practices when handling an immigration case.

3. Have You Handled a Case Similar to Mine Before?

Not all immigration cases are the same. Each unique story brings an immigrant to the U.S., which can impact the case.

Ask if the attorney has handled any cases similar to yours and what the outcome was. Remember, they can’t be too specific because they’re bound to protect the privacy of other clients.

Listening to how a case like yours was handled can give you some perspective on what to expect and how the attorney navigated the case.

4. How Would You Proceed With My Case?

The immigration process can be challenging. You need to have a realistic picture of what to expect.

Ask your attorney how they would proceed with your case and ask them to provide you with an expected timeline.

5. What Are My Chances for Success?

If you want the best lawyer, you should expect them to be very honest about how your case could go. While it might be nice to hear assurances and promises, it isn’t realistic.

A lawyer shouldn’t guarantee you an outcome. Instead, they should discuss what to expect and the possible results.

Get the Help You Need from an Immigration Attorney

If you or someone you love is facing immigration problems, you need an immigration attorney who will get to work on your behalf.

If you need an experienced immigration lawyer, we can help. Contact us today so we can get to work fighting for you and your rights.

Are you currently exploring the immigration process for the US? It can be overwhelming to know where to begin, but the good news is that you can hire an immigration lawyer to help. There are around 2.4 million new immigrant arrivals in the US in a year, but not all have the same experience with the immigration process. There can be obstacles that arise or confusion around how to navigate the system successfully. Read on to learn how an Immigration Law Expertise can help you.

Immigration Application Support

There are various immigration applications, such as becoming a naturalized citizen, seeking asylum, or a Green Card application. There are different documents, steps, and evidence you require to be eligible. Your immigration lawyer will help you prepare and oversee the process.

If you hire a lawyer, they will also help with any appeal processes. They will help gather evidence to challenge decisions and hopefully overturn them.

Paperwork Guidance Without Mistakes

Any mistakes on your visa application forms can lead to dismissal. Your immigration lawyer will provide the legal help you need to avoid making mistakes during your visa process. They have extensive knowledge about the different immigration processes, so you can navigate the processes from an informed position with less stress.

Immigration Law Expertise

Immigration cases can be overwhelming, especially if your case isn’t a simple one. Hire a lawyer to help build a strong case for you. They have the immigration law training, experience, and education to increase your chance of success.

Protect Your Rights

Immigration issues can lead to different challenges, such as loved ones being detained by the government and deportation cases. Over 4.7 million immigrants faced deportation proceedings in 2022 alone. Having an experienced immigration attorney on your side will help protect your rights and navigate any challenging immigration issues.

Hire an attorney to ensure your rights are protected throughout your immigration process. They have extensive legal knowledge and will prevent violation of your rights. If any violation occurs, they will also help you take legal action.

Speed Up Your Application

Immigration applications can be delayed for various reasons. Sometimes you need your case settled in a specific time frame, and it is natural to want to get answers as soon as possible!

An Immigration Law Expertise can help fast-track your application to settle your case. They have the contacts and legal expertise to know how to process your application as quickly as possible.

Find a Reputable Immigration Lawyer

An immigration lawyer can provide you with the legal help you need to navigate through your immigration process. However, not all immigration attorneys offer the same legal help. It is important to find a reputable lawyer that can provide the expertise you need for your case.

The Shahbaz Firm is based in Los Angeles and provides individualized care for different legal needs, including immigration cases. We are dedicated to advocating for immigrant rights with affordable and effective solutions. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can help you.

Looking to work and live in the United States of America? If so, you’re going to need to get a US immigrant visa. The question is: how?

The visa application process can be long and arduous. However, in terms of steps followed, it’s fairly straightforward. Just follow the guidelines below and, soon enough, you’ll get a visa to move to the US.

Submit a Petition

First and foremost, a petition must be submitted through form I-130, the Petition for Alien Relatives. This must be filled out by a relative of the person hoping to get a Immigrant Visa, and that relative must be a permanent resident of the United States.

Once the petition is filled out, it should be sent to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). They’ll decide whether the petition is approved or not, after which, you can continue to the next steps of the process.

Submit Documents to the NVC

Once you’re approved, you’ll need to submit documents to the NVC (National Visa Center). They’ll send you a welcome letter after your petition is approved. This will inform you of the types of documentation that need to be submitted.

In addition to documentation and forms, you’ll also need to pay specific fees. These usually add up to just under $200 US.

Note that it can take months or even years before a petition is sent to the NVC. As such, it’s vital that you keep your contact info updated with the NVC at all times.

Undergo Your Medical Exam

US visa applicants must be assessed medically prior to their Visa interview. You’ll be informed of the time and location of the medical exam by the NVC. It must take place at least 2 weeks before your interview.

Attend Your Visa Interview

Once you’ve sent in all of the necessary documentation, and once the NVC has approved it, you’ll schedule an interview with the NVC. In this interview, you’ll answer questions pertaining to why you want to come to the United States. The key is to answer all questions honestly.

Visa interviews are carried out in US embassies. Your interview will likely be at the embassy closest to you.

Obtain Your Passport/Visa/Packet

If you are approved for a Immigrant Visa, you’ll be able to pick up your passport 10 days after your interview. This will be at the same location where your interview took place.

If you aren’t approved, you’ll receive a letter telling you why. Or you might receive a letter requesting further documentation. If you wish to proceed, follow the guidelines in the letter you receive.

Enter the United States

Once you’ve received your passport, visa, and documentation packet, and once you’ve paid all fees to the USCIS, you’ll be able to move to America. When you do, make sure to bring your passport, visa and documentation packet with you.

You’ll need to submit your documentation packet to an immigration authority upon your entry to the country. Make sure the package remains sealed.

Need Help Getting a US Immigrant Visa?

When you apply for a Immigrant Visa, there are all sorts of obstacles you can run into throughout the process. This is why in many cases, it’s good to have legal representation on your side.

Looking for an immigration lawyer in Los Angeles? Look no further than The Shahbaz Firm. We’ve helped countless immigrants obtain visas to the US and can help you as well.

Contact us today to discuss the process!

The United States has always proclaimed itself to be a nation of immigrants, and it’s as true today as it was 200 years ago. Over 13% of the entire US population are first-generation immigrants. The US attracts the highest number of immigrants in the world. Navigating this complex journey often requires the guidance of an experienced attorney for US immigration process to ensure a smooth and lawful transition.

Despite the staggering number of immigrants in the United States, the US immigration process isn’t simple. There are a lot of things that one has to do before becoming a citizen.

We’ll discuss the most important steps in this process here. Keep in mind that we can’t include everything. There’s too much bureaucracy to go into much detail.

Understanding Visas

The most important thing to understand when moving into the United States is what visas are. A visa is a document granting official government permission to enter an American airport, harbor, or other official entry point.

Two main types of visas are used in the United States, known as immigrant and non-immigrant. An immigrant or immigration visa grants someone the right to live permanently in the US. It’s also called a green card.

Non-immigrant visas give you the ability to live and work in the country for a set period of time.

Find the Right Visa

There are a few different types of immigrant visas, and each one is tailored to different circumstances. One type of green card is a family-based green card. This applies when the applicant has relatives or a spouse who is a United States citizen.

There are also green cards for skilled job-seekers, people who need to escape dangerous circumstances, anybody who’s lived in the US since at least New Years’ Day of 1972, and a few other types.

If you’re unsure which visa type suits your situation best, consulting an attorney for US immigration process can help you navigate the legal steps efficiently and increase your chances of approval.

Examination of Case

Your case must be reviewed before you can get a green card, and you can be denied at this point. A denial might occur if your initial claim is invalid. For instance, if your relative in the US died or the government that made you a refugee has been deposed.

You can also be turned away if you have a criminal record or fit the Public Charge rule. This rule allows the government to deny you a green card if you’re unlikely to adapt well to the US. For instance, if you have a long history of struggling to hold a job.

Costs and Application

The rest of the process is simple, but it’s potentially one of the most stressful parts of the procedure. Paying for the necessary materials and examinations can cost thousands. In most cases, though, it’ll cost less than $2000.

After filing a petition, you’ll be given paperwork to complete. Once this paperwork is turned in and the petition is green-lit, you must apply for a green card. The final step is an interview that will help decide if it’s approved.

If you’re approved, your green card or an equivalent will be mailed to you.

Navigating Attorney For US Immigration Process

The US immigration process is a long process. Knowing what to do can be difficult at times. We’ve discussed the process here, but you should do more research if you’re interested in the details.

If you need an immigration lawyer, please contact us at The Shahbaz Firm in Los Angeles.