Guides, tools, and useful links.

Processing times vary significantly by case type and USCIS workload. Family-based petitions can take anywhere from a few months to several years depending on the relationship category. Employment petitions range from 2 months (with premium processing) to over a year. Asylum cases vary the most — affirmative asylum interviews may be scheduled years after filing. We discuss realistic timelines in every consultation so you can plan accordingly.

Our consultation is a one-hour meeting with one of our attorneys. We'll ask about your background, immigration history, and goals. We'll explain what options exist, what the process looks like, realistic timelines, and potential complications. You leave with a clear picture of your situation and a recommendation — no obligation to retain us. For complex cases, we may ask you to bring specific documents in advance.

It depends on the specific benefit you're seeking. Asylum applicants can apply regardless of how they entered, but the 1-year filing deadline applies from the date of entry. Some family-based green card applications require a lawful entry. Victims of trafficking or crime may apply for T or U visas regardless of entry. DACA requires entry before age 16, but not lawful entry. The answer depends entirely on your history and which benefit may apply — which is exactly what a consultation helps clarify.

Legally, no — most immigration applications can be filed without an attorney. In practice, the stakes are very high. A denied petition, an RFE, or an incorrect filing can cost months of additional processing time, require expensive appeals, or in some cases trigger removal proceedings. Asylum cases, cases with prior immigration violations, and anyone with criminal history should strongly consider representation. For straightforward petitions, we're happy to tell you honestly whether you need us or not.

We serve clients in English, Spanish, and Amharic (አማርኛ). If you prefer to communicate in another language, please let us know when you reach out — we will do our best to accommodate you, including working with a qualified interpreter when needed.

A Request for Evidence (RFE) is a common USCIS step — it's not a denial, but your response is critical. We draft comprehensive RFE responses that directly address USCIS concerns with strong supporting documentation. If a petition is denied outright, options include motions to reopen or reconsider, appeals to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO), and in some cases federal court review. A denial is rarely the end of the road — but the path forward depends on the specific basis for denial.