Don’t Get Scammed: How to Spot Immigration Fraud on Social Media
Every week, more families come to our office after losing money—and sometimes losing ground on their immigration cases—to scammers who never had any intention of helping them. These schemes have grown more sophisticated, and lately they’ve moved onto the platforms you use every day: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp. The people running these scams are […]
The Quiet Power of Discretion: How immigration officers decide who receives a benefit — and who is allowed in
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services released a policy memorandum — PM-602-0199, issued on May 21, 2026 — with a title that set off alarm across the immigration bar: “Adjustment of Status is a Matter of Discretion and Administrative Grace.” The press release that accompanied it went further, announcing that USCIS would grant adjustment of status […]
The “10-Year Bar” Explained: Which One Applies to You?
Many people have heard of the “10-year bar” in immigration — but what most don’t realize is: There are actually two very different types of 10-year bars. Understanding the difference is critical, because one may allow a waiver — and the other usually does not. The First 10-Year Bar (Unlawful Presence Bar) This is the […]
Immigration Case Timeline Checklist: What You Can Do to Keep Your Case Moving
While you cannot control government processing times, there are important steps you can take to help your case move as smoothly as possible. Use this checklist to stay on track: BEFORE FILING ✔ Gather all important documents Passports (current and old) Birth, marriage, and divorce records Prior immigration documents ✔ Write down your full immigration […]
What the Rhode Island Ruling Actually Does for Immigrants — and What It Leaves Untouched
On June 5, 2026, a federal judge in Rhode Island handed many immigrants a significant win. But headlines calling the decision a blow to “the travel ban” can blur an important line. The ruling does not strike down the travel ban itself. It reaches a different, but related, set of USCIS policies that had frozen […]
USCIS Policy Change: Adjustment of Status
On May 21, 2026, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a new policy memorandum (PM-602-0199) that changes how immigration officers review applications to adjust status (also called the I-485, or the process of becoming a permanent resident without leaving the United States). USCIS PM-602-0199 This document explains what changed, what it means for your […]
The Problem with Asylum
An informational overview for the general public | Note: This post does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified immigration attorney regarding your individual situation. What Is Asylum? Asylum is a form of legal protection available to individuals who demonstrate a well-founded fear of returning to their home country due to persecution on account of […]
Red Flags That Can Delay or Harm Your Immigration Case
Many immigration delays are not caused by the government alone—they are triggered by issues in a person’s history or application that were not identified early. Understanding these red flags can help you avoid unnecessary delays—or more serious consequences. PRIOR IMMIGRATION HISTORY ISSUES Entry Without Inspection (EWI) Entering the U.S. without permission can affect: Eligibility for […]
Safety Planning & Immigration Protecting Yourself While Protecting Your Status
If you are experiencing abuse, your safety comes first. Immigration options like VAWA can provide long-term protection — but immediate safety planning is just as important. This page is designed to provide general guidance. Every situation is different. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. Your Immigration Status Is Private Abusers often use immigration […]
Consultation Policy
Consultation Policy We offer free consultations for individuals who are seeking guidance on applying for an immigration benefit and have not yet filed their case. If you have a pending or recently denied case—whether you filed on your own or through a third party—and would like our office to review or advise on that matter, […]
