Immigration Lawyer in Carson, CA. Your Carson, CA, immigration lawyer should be someone that has intimate knowledge of U.S. immigration law, not someone without experience. Whether you're looking for assistance entering the United States, preparing for a citizenship application, petitioning for a fiancé, spouse, or family member, or being threatened by deportation, expert legal help will maximize your chances of a positive outcome.
Don't try to do this alone. Don't settle for less than an experienced team of attorneys who will break down the process for you and fight for your goals. You need the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, Inc.
We cover a wide array of immigration matters, and are ready to help you today. Call us today at (800) 755-5174 or use our online contact form to set up a no strings attached case review.
Hablamos español. Llame ahora al (800) 755-5174.
Why You Need an Immigration Lawyer in Carson, CA
Even though there are some immigration procedures you can technically do on your own, it's always a good idea to check with your Carson, CA, immigration lawyer before you start. They can make a big difference in your case. Your immigration attorney will help you avoid mistakes and save time in whatever type of case you're facing.
They can also help you navigate the ever-changing United States immigration law landscape. As legal requirements change, it's important to find a lawyer who understands the law and can explain the requirements to you.
Additionally, if you're facing removal from the U.S., your attorney can help you build a defense that guards your legal status against prosecution.
Common Immigration Challenges in Carson, CA
Getting into the United States requires immigrants to overcome several legal challenges. And afterward, it can be nearly as difficult to apply for citizenship. Between paperwork, eligibility requirements, and other hurdles, thousands of green card applications are rejected each year.
On your own, you could be facing:
- Variable eligibility requirements
- Complex paperwork and forms
- Language barriers when working on applications
- Conflicting national and state laws
- Overflowing courts and lengthy waits
Contacting your Carson, CA, immigration lawyer puts you in a positive position and maximizes your chances of a successful outcome.
How an Immigration Lawyer in Carson, CA Can Help You Get Into the United States
United States immigration law is difficult on its own, and can be even harder for non-native English speakers. Cases aren't as simple as walking through the border or filling out a citizenship form. Fortunately, you don't have to handle these processes alone: Wherever you are on the immigration pathway, your Carson, CA, immigration lawyer can offer you support.
A common first step an immigration attorney can help with is when you apply for entry to the United States. You could take any of several routes to enter the United States, but some of the ones we most frequently assist with are through asylum, family hardship, or commercial investment.
Asylum
An asylum immigration lawyer in Carson, CA, helps people who are not safe in their home country immigrate to the United States. If you are under attack because of your association with a social group, nationality, religion, or other protected characteristic, we can help you find protection through asylum. Later, after spending some time in the U.S., you'll be able to apply for lawful permanent resident status.
EB5 Visa Program (Commercial Investment)
The EB5 Visa Program provides a path for foreign business owners and/or investors to enter the United States, through the creation of a new business in the U.S. In order to qualify, the business must come from an investment of at least $1,050,000 (or $800,000 if in a Targeted Employment Area) and create at least 10 new, full-time employment opportunities for U.S. workers.
Waivers 601 & 601(a) (Family Hardship)
Waivers 601 and 601(a) exist to waive certain entry requirements for qualifying individuals. For one to apply to your case, you must have a qualifying relative who is suffering from a serious medical condition, has serious financial difficulties, or is experiencing another extreme hardship.
Waiver 601 is relevant for potential immigrants who were told they cannot immigrate to the U.S. for reasons such as health conditions, criminal record, and prior immigration fraud. It is typically filed from outside the U.S. Waiver 601(a), on the other hand, is specifically for people have entered the U.S. without permission and could be deported. Your Carson immigration attorney can help you present a case that shows your qualifying hardship and maximizes your chances of getting into, or staying in, the U.S.
Becoming a Lawful Permanent Resident or U.S. Citizen With Help From an Immigration Attorney in Carson, CA
An immigration lawyer is here to advise you after you're in the United States, as well. For many people, the next steps are earning your Green Card, then your U.S. citizenship. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is dedicated to helping Carson residents reach their immigration goals, whatever they are.
Adjustment of Status/Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card)
It's common for United States immigrants to seek Adjustment of Status. When granted, you become a lawful permanent resident (AKA a Green Card holder). The qualifications you need to meet change depending on your circumstances – for example, if you are are a religious worker, you must be entering the U.S. to work for a nonprofit religious organization. A local immigration attorney help you determine which path is most likely to work in your favor.
Citizenship Applications
Lawful permanent resident status may be enough for some people, but others want to become United States citizens. A Green Card is the end goal for some people, but many also want to earn their United States citizenship. Unfortunately, this process can be difficult, due to the many steps, fees, and complicated document requirements involved. A U.S. citizenship lawyer can help give you insight in the process and protect you from mistakes on your application.
Before you can apply, you need to fulfill the following three requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be able to read, write, and speak basic English
- Be of good moral character
In addition, you must fall into one of the following four categories:
- Be a Green Card holder for five years
- Be married to a U.S. citizen and while being a Green Card holder for three years
- Be a current or former servicemember in the United States military
- Be a child of a U.S. citizen
- You can be under the age of 18 in this case, and the language requirements may be relaxed.
If you're not sure whether or not you're eligible, or need help determining how to qualify, contact our offices today. We are here to help you no matter where you are in the process.
How Your Immigration Lawyer in Carson, CA, Can Fight Against Removal
It's hard to imagine something more difficult than having the government attempt to remove you from the country. But we're ready to help you fight for your place in the U.S. By filing a cancellation of removal, you can force the state to fight you in court, where we can defend you. And if you don't receive the outcome you were hoping for, we can file a motion to reopen/reconsider.
Cancellation of Removal 42(b) or 42(a)
If you're facing removal (or deportation) proceedings, don't wait and let the proceedings pass by without a fight. Your Carson, CA, immigration lawyer can file a cancellation of removal 42(b) or 42(a) procedure to let you stay in the country and grant (or preserve) lawful permanent resident status.
42(b) applies to individuals who currently are in the United States but do not have a Green Card. Unfortunately, there are a limited number of these slots available, and they are very competitive. For this procedure, you must meet the following requirements:
- 10 years of continually residing in the United States
- Possess good moral character
- No disqualifying criminal convictions on your record
- Removal would cause extreme hardship to a qualifying family member
42(a) is similar, but is for people who already have their Green Cards. Also, there is no limit on the number that the government can give out. Below are the requirements you must meet for 42(a):
- Green card for at least 5 years
- Live in the U.S. for 7 straight years
- No aggravated felony convictions on your record
Motion to Reopen/Motion to Reconsider
If you're still facing removal after a 42(a) or 42(b) application, this isn't your final option. Your Carson, CA, immigration lawyer can file a motion to reopen or a motion to reconsider, which can still keep you in the country. A motion to reopen is applicable when you have new evidence that could change the result of a hearing. Meanwhile, a motion to reconsider can be filed if the previous judgement was legally incorrect, or if the the law has been updated. By contacting an attorney right away, you can get a second chance to fight against deportation.
Special Circumstances: How Your Immigration Attorney Can Help
Sometimes, immigration cases take place in abnormal circumstances. In particular, people who have been victimized by crime can take advantage of U.S. policies that aid in immigration. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley can help applicants with any of the below procedures:
Special Immigration Juvenile Status (SIJS)
The United States offers Special Immigration Juvenile Status (SIJS) as a form of immigration relief for children who were victims of abuse, abandonment, or neglect. We will advocate for you and present your case in court.
To qualify, you must:
- Be in the United States
- Be unmarried
- Be under 21
- Have an applicable juvenile court order
- Receive permission from the Department of Homeland Security
- Receive permission from the Department of Health and Human Services, if applicable
T Visas
A T Visa helps immigrants who are victims of human trafficking by giving them lawful status in the country for up to 4 years. At the end of this time, qualifying T Visa holders can apply for lawful permanent resident status.
To qualify for a T Visa, you must match the criteria below:
- Be a victim of severe human trafficking
- Currently reside in the United States
- Help the police investigate the trafficking operation
- Be subject to extreme hardship if you were removed from the U.S.
- Meet regular admission requirements
U Visas
A U Visa works similarly to a T Visa, but is designed for a much wider type of crimes. People who have suffered abuse (where the United States has jurisdiction) can apply for a U Visa. If you are filing a U Visa, you will want an immigration lawyer in Carson, CA, who can also help you file a criminal protective order.
Below are the U Visa eligibility requirements:
- You must have been victimized by a crime from an applicable list
- During the crime, you must have suffered abuse
- You are working or will work with the police to help them catch the abuser
- The crime violated a U.S. law
- You must meet typical admission requirements
How to Find the Right Carson, CA Immigration Lawyer
There are many Carson, CA, immigration lawyers to choose from, but not all of them are right for your case. If you want a leading immigration attorney, look for the following:
- Experience with immigration law
- Knowledge of the process you're involved in
- A plan that's tailored for you
- Bilingual communication skills
- Sympathy for your situation
- Respect for your traditions
Your Carson, CA, immigration lawyer from our firm is someone who is ready to help you with your case. We offer Spanish bilingual support and are aware of the cultural needs of our different clients. If you're an immigrant in a difficult legal situation in Carson, CA, call us today at (800) 755-5174.
Carson, CA, Immigrant Criminal Defense Lawyer
For some people, immigration challenges don't stop when you earn your Green Card. If you've been accused of a crime, there could be serious immigration consequences with a conviction. Your immigration lawyer in Carson, CA, should also be ready to defend you in criminal court.
A criminal defense lawyer from the Law Offices of David S. Chesley is isn't going to settle for a 'good enough' outcome – instead, they'll fight for the best deal possible for your situation. Our dedicated attorneys are prepared to protect immigrants against criminal charges for all of the following case types:
Whatever criminal charge you're up against, and whatever your immigration background is, our team is here to help.
Post-Conviction Relief for Immigrants in Carson, CA
Many people feel defeated after a criminal conviction, but you don't have to give up yet. Your Carson, CA, immigration lawyer can also aid you with post-conviction relief. The specifics can depend on your case, but our attorneys help clients file appeals, file motions to vacate previous convictions, and more. When you act fast, you can protect your immigration status from unnecessary side-effects.
Our Carson, CA, Immigration Lawyers Will Stand By Your Side
Immigrants in Carson have worked hard to build their lives, and deserve high-quality legal assistance. Whether you need help navigating complicated paperwork, applying for asylum, appealing a court decision, or any other immigration services, our attorneys will guide you and fight for you.
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley also offers the following legal services in Carson, CA:
Connect with an immigration lawyer in Carson, CA, right away by calling us at (800) 755-5174 or send us a message online. Whatever challenge you're facing, we are ready to fight alongside you.
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