Family reunification is a top priority for many in the Immigrant population in Washington, which grew 29% between 2010 and 2021. Katrina Zafiro, founder of ZafiroLaw, is a King County family immigration lawyer with first-hand experience handling:
- Lengthy visa processes
- Seeking citizenship
- Uncertainty as an immigrant
There are three main types of family-based visas that can help you or your loved one unify in the United States.
- Immediate Relative Visa: An immediate relative visa is for a U.S. citizen’s immediate family who wants to immigrate to the United States. Family members must be “nuclear” to apply for this visa, which means parents, spouses, children, or siblings.
- Family Visas: There are different visa categories for spouses and children of lawful permanent residents (green card holders).
- K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa: The K-1 visa allows a future spouse to enter the country legally with the requirement that you’ll be married within 90 days of their arrival into the U.S.
As your lawyer, we’ll review the circumstances involved in your family and determine which visa is the best option for you and your loved one.
Call or contact us to schedule a consultation to discuss your immigration route.
What Does a Family Immigration Attorney Do?
Due to long wait times and very strict and complicated processes that must be followed, it’s in your best interest to work with a King County family immigration lawyer.
For nearly two decades, we’ve helped reunite families and also guide immigrants through:
- Adjustment of status
- Citizenship/naturalization
- Family-based green cards
- Fiancé(e) visas
- Green card visas
- Immediate relative visas
- Removing conditions on a green card
- VAWA self-petition cases
An attorney works with their clients to learn about their unique situation and determine which visa option is best for them. As an advocate, your attorney will explain every part of the process and file a petition on your behalf.
Your attorney will help you obtain all of the necessary documents for your visa, prepare for the interview, and reapply if your visa is denied.
How Can a Family Immigration Attorney Make a Difference in the Immigration Process?
Family immigration matters are highly complex, requiring lengthy applications, interviews and documentation. One missed error, document or deadline can delay your approval or even lead to a denial.
A family immigration attorney understands the ins and outs of the immigration system. They can help you avoid costly mistakes, ensure that you meet all deadlines and help you prepare for interviews with USCIS officials.
An attorney’s knowledge, skill and experience will be invaluable during this process.
At ZafiroLaw, we have nearly two decades of experience assisting clients in King County and surrounding areas with their family immigration needs. We understand that the process you face is a challenging one. We’ll help you understand your rights and ensure a smooth and successful application process.
What Should You Ask a Family Immigration Attorney?
The first step in hiring a King County family immigration lawyer is to schedule a consultation. A consultation is an initial meeting that gives you and the attorney a chance to get to know each other and for you to ask some important questions about your case.
While every family immigration case is unique, there are a few questions that every client should ask, such as:
Do You Have Experience Handling Cases Like Mine?
Family immigration matters are complex and have life-altering effects. The outcome of your case could mean the difference between continuing your life in the U.S. or having to return to your home country.
It is crucial to work with an attorney who focuses on immigration law and, more importantly, cases that are similar to yours.
Immigration law encompasses a wide range of issues, from green cards and deportation proceedings to work visas. Family immigration is a subset of immigration law and requires an attorney who understands its complexities.
An attorney who has helped other individuals with their adjustment of status applications or families secure an immediate relative visa will likely have a better understanding of your needs than a general immigration attorney.
Who Will Be Overseeing My Case?
Before you start working with an attorney, it’s important to know how your case will be handled and by whom. Will the attorney be overseeing the case from start to finish? Will your case be given to another attorney, or an associate at the firm?
The answer to this question will help you evaluate whether an attorney and their firm is the right fit for your case and will meet your expectations.
How Often Will I Be Updated on My Case?
When you’re dealing with family immigration matters, you want to know that your attorney is available to answer questions and will update you on your case regularly.
Ask the attorney about their communication policy, when they will be available and how often you will be informed about the status or progress of your case.
In Your Opinion, What is the Best Strategy for My Case?
In addition to giving you some clarity on the matter, asking this question can also help you gauge the attorney’s expertise.
Ask the attorney what they can do for you specifically. Will they handle the administrative work that’s essential to your case? Will they be able to attend interviews and court hearings with you?
Inquire about the level of service they provide, so you can determine whether they will meet your needs.
Hiring A King County Family Immigration Attorney Near You
Family immigration matters are complicated and can, at times, be stressful. An experienced and compassionate King County family immigration lawyer can walk you through the legal process and serve as your advocate.
Whether you’re applying for a marriage-based green card, an immediate relative visa or a conditional green card, ZafiroLaw can help. Our firm has extensive experience handling a wide range of family-based immigration matters, including complicated cases involving conditional green cards and divorce.
Contact us today or call us to schedule a consultation.
