Does an Annulment Prevent a Plaintiff or Defendant from Filing a VAWA Application for Immigration Relief?

By Brian Figeroux, Esq.  The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provides a pathway for survivors of domestic abuse to apply for immigration relief without relying on their abusive U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR) spouse, parent, or child. VAWA allows these individuals to self-petition for a green card if they can demonstrate they were […]

What to Do If You Are Sued for Credit Card Debt: A Step-by-Step Guide

What to Do If You Are Sued for Credit Card Debt: A Step-by-Step Guide

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. Receiving a lawsuit notice for credit card debt can be stressful and overwhelming, but it’s important to remain calm and take action quickly. Ignoring the lawsuit can lead to a default judgment, which may result in wage garnishment, bank account levies, or liens on property. However, by responding strategically, negotiating, and […]

Precautions Green Card Holders Should Take When Traveling with Pending Criminal Cases or Convictions

Precautions Green Card Holders Should Take When Traveling with Pending Criminal Cases or Convictions

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. | Editorial credit: Roy De La Cruz / Shutterstock.com Click here to know your rights. Traveling with pending criminal cases or past convictions presents significant risks for green card holders. Introduction For lawful permanent residents (LPRs), commonly known as green card holders, traveling—whether domestically or internationally—can be risky if they have […]

Extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Sudan, Ukraine, Venezuela & H-1B Final Rule, H-2 Final Rule, and Revised Form I-129

Extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Sudan, Ukraine, Venezuela & H-1B Final Rule, H-2 Final Rule, and Revised Form I-129

Extension of TPS for Sudan As required by the statute, at least 60 days before the expiration of a current Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation or extension and after consultation with appropriate government agencies, the conditions in the foreign state must be reviewed to determine whether conditions for the TPS designation continue to be met. […]

How to Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) for Filing a Tax Return: Process and Immigration Considerations

How to Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) for Filing a Tax Return: Process and Immigration Considerations

By Brian Figeroux, Esq.  For individuals who are not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN) but need to file a U.S. tax return, obtaining a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), specifically an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), is essential. This process is particularly significant for non-residents, immigrants, and undocumented individuals, but it raises important questions […]

A Comprehensive Analysis: Renewing a Green Card After Expiration with Criminal Records in New York State

A Comprehensive Analysis: Renewing a Green Card After Expiration with Criminal Records in New York State

By Brian Figeroux, Esq.  Introduction For lawful permanent residents (LPRs) in the United States, renewing a green card after it has expired is typically a routine process. However, individuals with criminal records—including arrests without convictions—may face complications, including denial of renewal or placement in deportation proceedings. This article explores whether someone with a green card […]

Starting a Business in NYC: Legal Structures and Processes

Starting a Business in NYC: Legal Structures and Processes

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. New York City is one of the most vibrant and competitive business environments in the world, offering a wealth of opportunities for entrepreneurs. However, before starting a business in NYC, it’s essential to understand the various legal structures available and the processes involved in establishing your company. The legal structure you […]

Why Estate Planning Matters: Ensuring Your Legacy and Protecting Your Loved Ones. Meet with the Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates and Start Planning now

Why Estate Planning Matters: Ensuring Your Legacy and Protecting Your Loved Ones. Meet with the Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates and Start Planning now

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. | Editorial credit: Vitalii Vodolazskyi / shutterstock.com  Estate planning is the process of arranging how your assets, wealth, and personal wishes will be managed, transferred, or distributed after your death. In New York State (NYS), as in many other jurisdictions, proper estate planning ensures that your loved ones are protected, your […]

Racism in Chapter 7 and 13 Bankruptcies: Examining Racial Disparities in Access and Legal Support Amid Promises of a Fresh Start

Racism in Chapter 7 and 13 Bankruptcies: Examining Racial Disparities in Access and Legal Support Amid Promises of a Fresh Start

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. | Editorial Credit:  Smart Calender/ shutterstock.com  Bankruptcy law, in theory, is designed to offer individuals and businesses a fresh start when they are overwhelmed by debt. The process should be equitable, neutral, and available to all debtors, regardless of their race or socioeconomic background. However, a growing body of evidence suggests […]