Know Your Rights: What to Do If ICE Stops You—Whether You’re a Citizen, Green Card Holder, or Undocumented

Know Your Rights: What to Do If ICE Stops You—Whether You’re a Citizen, Green Card Holder, or Undocumented

Editorial credit: Christopher Penler / Shutterstock.com Encounters with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can be terrifying—not just for undocumented immigrants, but for U.S. citizens and green card holders as well. The sight of ICE agents, the pressure of questioning, and the confusion about what you’re legally required to do can cause fear, panic, and even […]

The Path to Legalization – With or Without Inspection: Understanding Your Rights and Options

The Path to Legalization – With or Without Inspection: Understanding Your Rights and Options

In the complex world of U.S. immigration law, one of the most critical—and often misunderstood—factors is how a person entered the country. This single detail can shape an immigrant’s entire legal journey, including their eligibility to adjust status, obtain waivers, or apply for other forms of relief. This article explores the legal landscape for those […]

Dividing Lives, Defending Rights: Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce in New York When One Spouse Is Undocumented

Dividing Lives, Defending Rights: Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce in New York When One Spouse Is Undocumented

Divorce is always challenging—but when immigration status is part of the equation, it becomes significantly more complicated. For couples in New York State, understanding the legal distinction between contested and uncontested divorces is the first step in navigating a separation. When one spouse is undocumented, the stakes are even higher, involving not just emotional and […]

Breaking Free: How VAWA Empowers Immigrant Survivors of Domestic Abuse to Reclaim Their Lives

Breaking Free: How VAWA Empowers Immigrant Survivors of Domestic Abuse to Reclaim Their Lives

In the quiet corners of homes across America, countless immigrant women endure unspeakable abuse—trapped not only by the pain inflicted by their spouses but also by the fear of losing their legal status and being deported. Many of these survivors are married to U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents who exploit their immigration vulnerability to […]

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 […]