FOIA

Freedom of Information Act (“FOIA”) requestors with a USCIS online account can now submit requests online for their own records. Soon, requester will be able to submit online requests for non-A-File material (policies, communications, etc.) Later this year, USCIS online account holders will be able to make requests on behalf of other persons. USCIS continues […]

File Your Employment Authorization Renewal As Early As Possible

USCIS’ processing times continue to enlarge. In reality it takes more than three months to receive a renewed employment authorization card in the mail. To avoid interrupted employment, submit your application to renew your employment as early as possible. Applicants should not forget to include passport size photographs and filing fees, where applicable.

File Form I-539 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status Online

USCIS now accepting online applications from certain visitors for business, visitors for pleasure, and vocational students who wish to extend their stay in the United States. Applicants may confirm their online filing eligibility at uscis.gov/i539online, and then file Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status online with their USCIS account.

Changes in Trump Tax Plan Affects Your Personal Injury Settlement

In 2018 and thereafter, if your personal injury compensation is taxable, there is no deduction for legal fees. Yes, that means you collect 65% (your attorney keeping 33%), but are taxed on 100%. To qualify for tax-free treatment, compensation must be from physical Injuries. Emotional distress is not enough, and physical symptoms such as insomnia, headaches and stomachaches are normal[…..]

Policing for Profit – No More?

The Supreme Court handed down a unanimous decision in Timbs v. Indiana that finally imposes the Excessive Fines Clause on all 50 states. From time to time someone will call me asking for help to regain the moneys or car seized by law enforcement as alleged proceeds of criminal activity. The Excessive Fines Clause is part of[…..]

Success!

Please excuse us while we boast about our recent success! After getting her 601A Unlawful Presence Waiver granted, our client returned home to interview at the US Embassy and got an approval! Immigrant Visa in-hand, she is returning to the United States after a few short weeks at home. Hip Hip Hooray!!!

DACA

Preparing for 2019 The US Supreme Court may render decisions early next year that affect DACA. If you previously received DACA consider renewing your application in time to receive your new EAD card before January 2019. Also, consider talking with an immigration attorney about other applications for which you might be eligible to file. Schedule[…..]

File Your Immigration Application Online Rather Than Through The Mail

USCIS allows applicants and their attorneys and representatives to establish a secure, online account to communicate with USCIS directly and file several forms, including: N-400, Application for Naturalization; I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card; N-565, Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document; N-336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings; N-600, Application for[…..]

212(h) Waivers

If you have criminal convictions, it is more difficult to get legal status through a family member. You may be eligible  to ask for a waiver (or pardon) for your crimes. There are several types of waivers, but the most common is a 212(h) waiver. It can waive the following crimes: Crimes of “moral turpitude”[…..]

In What Urgent Situations Can the Police Enter Your Home?

A homeowner can always give police permission to enter his/her home. The police can also enter your home without a warrant to provide protection: – to give emergency aid to someone inside – to protect the life or safety of someone inside if they have a reasonable belief that a life-threatening emergency exists – to[…..]