Immigration Lawyer Broward County, FL

Navigating the immigration process can be confusing and stressful. Most people have trouble with understanding the various regulations, rules, and exceptions that come along with immigrating to the United States. It may seem impossible to figure out how to proceed with a citizenship application, visa, or simply comply with the requirements. A common problem people encounter when trying to work or move into this country are denied applications. As our Broward County, FL immigration lawyer warns, even the slightest error can cause a delay or lead to a rejection. It may take months or years to resolve the issue. But with all this being said, our team at The Andres Lopez Law Firm wants you to remain optimistic. There is a route to being in the United States, but it helps increase your odds of success if you have a legal team working for you.

Green Card Or Immigrant Visa

It isn’t legally required to have a lawyer assist you with your immigrant visa or green card. However, we strongly suggest that you do. Complications can develop that delay the process or result in a denied application altogether. Attempting to navigate the laws and procedures can be overwhelming as well. With support from our strategic immigration attorney, you will receive the attention your case deserves. In particular, delays are among the most frustrating challenges that immigrants deal with when applying for a visa. There may be a delay in the process itself or in receiving a decision. This delay may last indefinitely in specific circumstances. Other delays may be the cause of insufficient staff to handle the number of applications. There may have been a change in policies and a more thorough assessment of the application and documents needs to be had. If your green card has expired, this doesn’t automatically mean that you will lose your legal permanent resident status. But, you may be faced with:

• Trouble applying for or keeping employment
• Difficulty receiving benefits that you want to register for (or have already)
• Obstacles when attempting to re-enter the country when traveling outside of the United States

If you have status as a lawful permanent resident, this remains true for you until you lose or abandon your status, or you complete the naturalization process. You may lose your status if an immigration judge submits an order for your final removal. Additionally, you may also lose your status if you purposefully abandon it by declaring yourself as a non-immigrant on tax returns, move to another country and have intentions to stay there permanently, or you remain outside the country for a prolonged period of time unless the absence is temporary.

The Andres Lopez Law Firm

The immigration laws for the state of Florida are constantly evolving. At The Andres Lopez Law Firm, we know how to handle all aspects of your case, whether it is a straightforward or complicated situation. Once we learn more about your circumstances, our FL immigration attorney can offer further advice. Please reach out today for a consultation.

Criminal Law And Immigration Law Intersection Explained

Criminal and immigration law often intersect in ways that can significantly impact individuals and families. For non-U.S. citizens, even minor criminal charges may result in serious immigration consequences, affecting their ability to stay in the United States. As our Broward County, FL immigration lawyer can explain, this connection is essential to understand for anyone involved in both criminal and immigration cases, as even seemingly unrelated incidents can have life-altering outcomes.

When criminal law intersects with immigration law, it can lead to complications in an individual’s immigration status, particularly in deportation or removal proceedings. A person convicted of certain crimes might be considered inadmissible to the U.S., or if already residing here, they could face removal. Since criminal charges vary in severity, each one affects immigration differently. Crimes involving moral turpitude, controlled substances, aggravated felonies, or those that pose a security threat have heightened impacts on immigration cases.

In Broward County, a criminal record can lead to deportation or other restrictions that make it difficult for individuals to maintain residency or employment eligibility. An immigrant with a misdemeanor charge might still be subject to review by immigration authorities. This interdependency between criminal and immigration law makes it crucial to work with experienced attorneys who are familiar with the overlap and the ways that criminal law affects immigration cases. Our firm has over a decade of experience as trial lawyers, so we are very familiar with complicated cases.

Consequences Of Criminal Convictions On Immigration Status

Non-U.S. citizens who face criminal charges risk severe consequences regarding their immigration status. A conviction can lead to inadmissibility, which bars an individual from entering the U.S. It can also affect non-citizens who are already present in the country, potentially leading to deportation. Crimes categorized as aggravated felonies — such as violent crimes or significant theft offenses — often lead to automatic deportation without the possibility of return, creating long-term separation from families and the loss of opportunities in the U.S.

It’s important to note that immigration authorities have broad discretion in deciding how a criminal charge affects an individual’s status. Even a charge that seems minor might become a significant obstacle for those seeking residency, asylum, or naturalization. Immigration officials review each case individually, assessing the type of crime, the circumstances, and the individual’s history in the U.S. Working closely with a Broward County immigration lawyer and a criminal defense attorney who understands these issues is often essential in achieving the best possible outcome. Proper legal representation is important in these cases so that your unique situation can have your desired outcome.

Seeking Legal Support For Criminal And Immigration Issues

When criminal and immigration issues intersect, handling them without proper legal guidance can lead to misunderstandings and unexpected consequences. Many non-citizens find themselves unsure about how a criminal charge could affect their immigration status, making them vulnerable to potential deportation or detainment. In Broward County, collaborating with an immigration lawyer who knows criminal law can provide a balanced approach, assessing risks and offering defense strategies that consider both the immediate criminal charges and the long-term immigration consequences.

The Andres Lopez Law Firm in Broward County offers services that help clients address the challenges posed by the intersection of criminal and immigration law. We work to prevent minor offenses from escalating into life-changing immigration barriers, striving to protect clients’ rights and opportunities in the U.S. Attorney Andres Lopez himself immigrated from Bolivia as a child, so he understands these cases both legally and personally.

Protect Your Future

Whether you’re dealing with a new charge or addressing past convictions that affect your immigration status, acting quickly is vital. Understanding how immigration status is impacted by criminal charges can protect families and individuals from unnecessary consequences. Our team at The Andres Lopez Law Firm is here to help, offering clear guidance through each step of the legal process and addressing each unique situation with dedication. If you or a loved one needs a Broward County immigration lawyer, reach out to our office today to learn how we can assist you in protecting your future.

Broward County Immigration FAQs

Immigration law can be overwhelming and full of important details, especially when you’re dealing with questions about visas, applications, or family sponsorships. Whether you’re thinking about applying for immigration benefits or have already started the process, it’s helpful to know common questions people have. Here, our Broward County, FL immigration lawyer answers five of the most frequently asked questions related to immigration law, offering you clear and concise information. If you have more specific questions or need guidance through your case, feel free to reach out to The Andres Lopez Law Firm for support. Our team is ready to help.

What Are The Consequences Of Overstaying A Visa In The U.S.?

Overstaying a visa in the U.S. can have serious consequences. If you remain in the country past the expiration of your visa, you can accumulate unlawful presence. This could lead to being barred from reentering the U.S. for a period of time, which can range from three years to a permanent ban. The longer you stay beyond your authorized stay, the more severe the consequences may be. It’s critical to seek assistance from a lawyer if you find yourself in this situation. Our team can help you explore possible options to resolve your status and avoid future complications. If your visa is about to expire, reach out to a lawyer for more information on how you can possibly extend your stay, or what your options are for returning.

Can I Work In The U.S. While My Immigration Application Is Pending?

If you’ve applied for immigration benefits, such as a visa or green card, you may be wondering if you can work while your application is pending. In many cases, you can apply for work authorization during the waiting period. However, you must wait for approval before you can legally work. This can vary depending on the type of immigration application you’re submitting. A Broward County immigration lawyer can help you understand if you qualify to work while your application is being processed, and assist with filing for work permits when applicable.

What Are The Requirements For Sponsoring A Family Member For Immigration?

Sponsoring a family member for immigration involves proving your eligibility to support them financially and meet certain requirements. To sponsor a spouse, child, or other eligible family members, you must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. You also need to show that you can financially support the relative you are sponsoring, meaning you meet certain income guidelines. Andres Lopez, the founder of The Andres Lopez Law Firm, understands this process personally. As an immigrant from Bolivia, he truly grasps what you’re going through and is passionate about helping families reunite.

How Can I Avoid Immigration Scams And Fraud?

Immigration scams and fraud are unfortunately common. To avoid falling victim to scams, it’s crucial to only work with licensed and reputable professionals. Be cautious of anyone who guarantees a fast or guaranteed result in your case, as this is a red flag. A lawyer can help you navigate the application process and make sure you’re working with legitimate sources. Always verify that any attorney or agency is accredited before sharing personal information or making payments. Be sure to search up the agency/agent online to read reviews and learn from others what their experience was working with said party.

What Should I Do If My Immigration Application Is Denied?

If your immigration application is denied, it can be frustrating, but there are still options available. Depending on the reason for the denial, you may be able to appeal or file a motion to reopen your case. In some situations, you may also be eligible to reapply if you can correct the issues in your application. With over a decade of trial experience, we can guide you through these steps to maximize your chances of success. A lawyer can provide valuable advice on your next steps and help you determine whether you should challenge the decision or explore alternative solutions. If you completed the application alone, it is best to have a lawyer look over why it was denied to help you better complete it.

At The Andres Lopez Law Firm, we understand how stressful immigration cases can be. If you need assistance with any part of your immigration journey or have questions about the process, contact us today to schedule a consultation with a Broward County immigration lawyer who can guide you through every step of the process.