Jersey City Immigration Blog

Talk to an immigration attorney before accepting a plea deal

On behalf of Law Offices of Raymond Lo, LLC on Monday, September 30, 2019.

If a judge or jury convicts you of certain offenses, you may spend time behind bars. Accepting a plea deal is often an effective way to minimize the potential consequences of a criminal charge. Still, while a plea may help you settle a criminal matter, it may not be good for your immigration status.

Whether you are a citizen, legal permanent resident, visa holder or undocumented immigrant, you have certain rights under the U.S. Constitution. An important one is the right to legal counsel for many criminal matters. Still, your criminal defense attorney may not understand the intricacies of immigration law. As such, even if you have a criminal lawyer, you likely want to talk to an immigration attorney before accepting a plea deal.

3 ways in which immigrants do better than U.S.-born citizens

On behalf of Law Offices of Raymond Lo, LLC on Friday, June 28, 2019.

The current political conversation tends to demonize immigrants and refugees for various reasons. Although unsafe people can come from any place, the truth is that most immigrants have an appreciation and respect for America and the opportunities the country brings, as well as a desire to achieve something great with their lives.

This dream has caused immigrants to actually surpass U.S.-born citizens in three areas, showing how foreigners help improve this country.

H-1B premium processing is now a two-phase approach

On behalf of Law Offices of Raymond Lo, LLC on Tuesday, April 2, 2019.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is instituting a two-phase process for the premium processing of H-1B petitions.

The USCIS is implementing this approach for the fiscal year 2020 cap season in response to public demand.

How to secure a green card

On behalf of Law Offices of Raymond Lo, LLC on Wednesday, December 26, 2018.

A green card functions as a permit that allows a person from another country to work and live permanently in the United States. A person with a green card has much less to worry about as far as deportation. The card also grants the person more rights and protections.

There are a few different ways an immigrant can apply for and receive a green card. To unite a family, it is critical to be aware of all options to know what is right for you and your situation.

Undocumented immigrant taxes and the Earnings Suspense File

On behalf of Law Offices of Raymond Lo, LLC on Wednesday, October 3, 2018.

In various news reports, we often hear that undocumented immigrants are a drain on taxpayers. However, there is another side to these stories, and it involves payments that end up in the Earnings Suspense File at the Social Security Administration.

Unknown taxpayers

Am I eligible for U.S. citizenship?

On behalf of Law Offices of Raymond Lo, LLC on Saturday, July 7, 2018.

Many people seek U.S. citizenship, but the eligibility requirements are specific and not everyone meets them. It is important to understand the basics of who is eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship before you start the process.

There are several paths to obtaining U.S. citizenship. In the following outline, you will learn some factors for eligibility through naturalization and whether you may qualify under this opportunity.

U.S. Supreme Court reprieves DACA

On behalf of Law Offices of Raymond Lo, LLC posted in blog on Thursday, April 5, 2018.

If you are one of the many New Jersey undocumented immigrants enrolled in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, you undoubtedly know that DACA was set to expire last month, and you feared what would happen to you when it did. While you may still have some legitimate concerns about your immigration status, DACA did not expire thanks to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Despite heated debate, Congress did not devise a way to extend DACA. Republicans backed a bill including immigration enforcement and border security, while Democrats backed a “DACA-only” bill. The debate became so heated that the federal government shut down in January for three days.

Can I Be Deported If I Have A Green Card?

On behalf of Law Offices of Raymond Lo, LLC posted in blog on Tuesday, January 16, 2018.

The short, and unfortunate, answer is: YES. Too many people believe that once they have a green card or have attained Legal Permanent Resident status, they will not face removal proceedings. This is simply not true. While being an LPR does bring with it a certain level of permanence, individuals can still violate certain government regulations and end up facing deportation.

What are the two main ways a green card holder can be removed from the United States?

The USCIS Offers Help To Those Affected By Natural Disasters

On behalf of Law Offices of Raymond Lo, LLC posted in blog on Tuesday, October 17, 2017.

More than many recent years, 2017 has suffered its fair share of natural disasters. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) understands that these natural disasters can have devastating implications across all facets of your life. If you or your family has suffered and your immigration status might be negatively impacted, the U.S. government offers immigration services that may help you navigate these unforeseen circumstances.

Can I Fight A Deportation Order?

On behalf of Law Offices of Raymond Lo, LLC posted in blog on Wednesday, July 5, 2017.

What Options Do I Have?

The sudden realization that you are facing removal proceedings can be a terrifying experience. Deportation - for any reason - can be frightening no matter how much notice you have. Many people who receive a deportation letter automatically assume that the decision is made - and cannot be changed. The truth is, however, you might have additional legal options at your disposal that could allow you to continue to live and work in the United States.