At ZafiroLaw, we know first-hand the struggles immigrants face. Family unification can help you start a life in the United States with your loved one. If you’re a lawful permanent resident or a U.S. citizen, a Snohomish County family immigration lawyer at our firm can help you:
- Identify the right visa for you or a loved one
- Obtain the necessary documentation
- File a petition
We’ll guide you through the entire immigration process.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) allows you to petition for a visa for the following if the petitioner is a U.S. citizen:
- Spouse
- Child
- Parent (if the petitioner is 21 or older)
- Sibling (if the petitioner is 21 or older)
- Fiancé(e) visa
A legal permanent resident (LPR) can petition for the following family members:
- Spouse
- Unmarried child under 21
- Unmarried son or daughter of any age
We have extensive experience helping both citizens and LPRs obtain family-based green cards, citizenship/naturalization, adjustment of status, removing conditions on a green card, VAWA immigration, marriage and fiancé visas and more.
Our law firm will explain the legal process and what visa options are best in your scenario. We’ll also help you through the complex process of filing a petition.
Contact us to schedule a consultation about your family-based immigration.
What Is Family-Based Immigration?
U.S. law, under the Immigration and Nationality Act, allows noncitizens to qualify to live and work in the U.S. if a petition is made by a natural-born citizen or LPR. Family-based immigration revolves around the reunification of families through different means, such as K-1 visas, immediate relative visas and a V visa.
A Snohomish County family immigration lawyer uses the laws in place to find the easiest, most applicable visa for you or your family member.
Family-sponsored preference systems are in place, which prioritizes certain family members over others. Due to a limited number of visas, family members are preferred in the following order:
- First preference: Unmarried sons and daughters.
- Second preference: Spouses and their children or an unmarried child of an LPR.
- Third preference: Married children of a U.S. citizen.
- Fourth preference: Foreign siblings of a U.S. adult citizen.
Your lawyer will help you determine the right visa and option to bring your loved one to the U.S. so that you can finally be together again.
How Much Could a Family Immigration Attorney Cost?
Every case is different, with its own set of complexities and requirements. You may have all of the documentation and paperwork ready for a lawyer to review, which means fewer billable hours for your attorney.
If you’re starting from scratch and need someone to assist through the following, costs may be higher:
- Obtain documents
- Fill out the petition
- Determine the correct type of visa
You’ll also incur other costs, such as medical exam fees, filing fees and more. Once we review your case, we’ll have a better understanding of your needs and will be more than happy to discuss costs after our consultation.
How Can an Attorney Help with the Family Immigration Process?
Family immigration cases are complex. Along with lengthy applications and documentation requirements, the legal process may also involve interviews and other procedures.
A Snohomish County family immigration lawyer can help you understand the process, answer your questions and explain your rights.
Specifically, an attorney can help you:
- Navigate confusing paperwork and ensure you have all of the appropriate documentation. Petitions, visa applications, affidavits and other relevant paperwork must be filled out properly and submitted before the deadline. Errors and missed deadlines can lead to delays or denials.
- Provide advice and strategies. A family immigration lawyer can advise you on the best course of action to take and work towards achieving the best possible outcome.
- Advocate on your behalf. An attorney will act as your advocate and represent your interests during immigration proceedings. They can help you prepare for interviews and hearings and will ensure your rights are protected throughout the entire process.
Perhaps the biggest benefit of hiring a family immigration attorney is knowing that an experienced professional is overseeing the process on your behalf. They can provide guidance, peace of mind and relief during this challenging time.
What Questions Should You Ask a Family Immigration Attorney?
When resolving complicated and important family immigration issues, meeting with an attorney can provide you with clarification and help you understand what steps to take next.
You likely have many questions relating to your specific case, but the following questions can help you gauge whether the attorney will be a good fit for you.
- Do you have experience handling family immigration cases? Your attorney should be focused on immigration law and have experience dealing with cases that are similar to yours.
- What is your success rate? Does the attorney get results for clients?
- Do you have client referrals? Can the attorney connect you with clients you can speak to about their experience?
- Who will be handling my case? Will your case be handed to another attorney? Who else will be working on your case?
- If I have a question, how do I get in touch with you? It’s important to know when and how you can contact the attorney if there’s an emergency or you have a question.
- How often will you update me on the status of my case? Your attorney should communicate with you and update you on the status of your case regularly.
Family immigration has far-reaching effects and can impact your future. It’s important to choose an attorney who has successfully handled similar matters and understands the legal process first-hand.
At Zafirolaw, we have been helping residents of Snohomish County and surrounding areas with their family immigration matters for two decades. We’ll answer your questions, help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process that lies ahead.
How a Snohomish County Family Immigration Attorney Near You Can Help
If you have a family immigration matter, you need an experienced attorney who will listen to your concerns and help you navigate the legal process.
From marriage-based green cards and immediate family visas to conditional green cards and divorce, Zafirolaw has experience handling a wide range of family immigration matters.
Contact us online or call our office to schedule a consultation with a Snohomish County family immigration lawyer.
