U.S. Citizenship Applicants Face Heightened ‘Good Moral Character’ Scrutiny

U.S. Citizenship Applicants Face Heightened ‘Good Moral Character’ Scrutiny

By: Mary Campbell U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has officially intensified its evaluation of the ‘good moral character’ (GMC) standard for lawful permanent residents applying for U.S. citizenship. Under this revised policy, applicants must now substantiate not only the absence of disqualifying behavior, but also demonstrate active, positive contributions to their communities. Expanded GMC […]

Why You Need Legal Representation When Going to Immigration Court – ICE Will Grab and Deport You

Why You Need Legal Representation When Going to Immigration Court – ICE Will Grab and Deport You

By: Mary Campbell Immigration court is one of the most intimidating places you can find yourself. Every case is high stakes—your future, your family, and your ability to remain in the United States are on the line. Yet too many immigrants walk into court without an attorney, thinking they can “explain their side” or handle […]

Why Are U.S. Consulates Denying Visitor Visas or Renewals When Someone in the U.S. Has Petitioned for the Applicant?

Why Are U.S. Consulates Denying Visitor Visas or Renewals When Someone in the U.S. Has Petitioned for the Applicant?

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. U.S. visitor visas (commonly B-1/B-2) are nonimmigrant visas granted to individuals who wish to travel temporarily to the United States for business or tourism. However, many applicants find their applications denied under Section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA)—especially when a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident has filed […]

ICE Detains Legal U.S. Resident of 50 Years, Sparking Debate on Immigration Enforcement and the Importance of Citizenship

By Mary Campbell A health worker who has lived legally in the United States for over five decades was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at a California airport, despite holding a valid green card. The incident has ignited renewed discussion about the legal vulnerabilities of long-term permanent residents and the crucial protections […]

We Fell in Love While on Vacation and Will Marry in the USA

We Fell in Love While on Vacation and Will Marry in the USA

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. Bringing a foreign partner to the United States with the intention of getting married involves navigating specific U.S. immigration laws and procedures. While the desire to be together “as soon as possible” is understandable, the process is governed by regulations designed to ensure compliance and can take considerable time. The concept […]

Overstaying Your Visa: Understanding the Penalties and How to Legalize Your Status in the U.S.

Overstaying Your Visa: Understanding the Penalties and How to Legalize Your Status in the U.S.

By Brian Figeroux, Esq.  The U.S. visa system is complex, and unintentionally overstaying a visa is a common issue for many foreign nationals. However, overstaying can have severe consequences, including bans on reentry, loss of future visa eligibility, and possible deportation. Understanding the penalties associated with unlawful presence in the U.S. is crucial, as well […]

The Risks of Filing an Improper or Untimely Divorce After Receiving a Green Card Through Marriage

The Risks of Filing an Improper or Untimely Divorce After Receiving a Green Card Through Marriage

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. Divorce is a complex legal process, but it becomes even more complicated when one spouse has obtained a green card (permanent residency) through marriage. The timing of the divorce and how it is handled can have serious immigration consequences, including the potential loss of legal status and deportation risks. This article […]

Citizenship Applications in 2025 Amidst Heightened Scrutiny by the Trump Administration

Citizenship Applications in 2025 Amidst Heightened Scrutiny by the Trump Administration

By Brian Figeroux, Esq.  The process of applying for U.S. citizenship has always been complex, but in 2025, under the Trump Administration’s intensified immigration policies, the path to naturalization has become even more challenging. With an ongoing crackdown on immigrants, naturalization applications face increased scrutiny, particularly for those who obtained green cards through marriage. If […]

The Impact of State and Federal Public Assistance on Non-Citizens and Green Card Holders Legalizing in the U.S.

The Impact of State and Federal Public Assistance on Non-Citizens and Green Card Holders Legalizing in the U.S.

By Mary Campbell For many non-citizens and green card holders in the United States, public assistance programs provide critical financial support, food security, healthcare, and housing assistance. However, receiving public benefits can also impact an individual’s ability to adjust status, naturalize, or petition for family members under U.S. immigration laws. Understanding how federal and state […]

The Impact of State and Federal Public Assistance on Non-Citizens and Green Card Holders Legalizing in the U.S.

The Impact of State and Federal Public Assistance on Non-Citizens and Green Card Holders Legalizing in the U.S.

By Esther Claudette Gittens For many non-citizens and green card holders in the United States, public assistance programs provide critical financial support, food security, healthcare, and housing assistance. However, receiving public benefits can also impact an individual’s ability to adjust status, naturalize, or petition for family members under U.S. immigration laws. Understanding how federal and […]