Being issued a Notice to Appear does not mean your time in the United States is over. Although this document can cause fear and uncertainty, it is simply the first step in a court process—not a final deportation decision. Many individuals facing immigration court still have lawful paths to defend their presence in the country. At Sobampo, we take a strategic and personalized approach, examining every possible avenue for relief, including asylum applications (Form I-589), cancellation of removal, or dismissal of the case when appropriate.
Anyone who has been issued a Notice to Appear should seek guidance from a reliable immigration defense lawyer as soon as possible, ideally before attending their initial court appearance.
Through approved family-based petitions, eligible family members may obtain lawful permanent residence (a green card) and eventually U.S. citizenship. The process begins with a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident filing a petition to establish the qualifying family relationship.
Immediate relative categories have no annual visa limits, so they are generally processed faster.
These are subject to annual limits and the Visa Bulletin:
The U.S. citizen or permanent resident files Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) with USCIS, along with evidence of the qualifying relationship and proof of legal status.
After approval, the case is transferred either to the National Visa Center (NVC) for consular processing or remains with USCIS for adjustment of status if the relative is already in the U.S.
Immediate relatives do not face a waiting list. Family preference categories must monitor the Visa Bulletin to see when a visa becomes available.
The applicant completes a medical exam, submits civil documents, and attends an interview at a U.S. embassy/consulate abroad, or files Form I-485 to adjust status in the United States, when eligible.
If approved, the family member becomes a lawful permanent resident and receives a green card.
Petitions can be delayed or denied due to:
Professional guidance helps avoid costly mistakes and long delays.
Our immigration team can guide you through each step of the family-based petition process, including:
We work to ensure your petition is accurate, complete, and positioned for success.
Your loved ones deserve the opportunity to be with you in the United States. Let Sobampo Law Firm guide you through the immigration process from start to finish.