Immigration Lawyer in New York City

Handling Visas, Citizenship, Asylum, Deportation Defense & More

New York City Immigration Lawyer S. Michael Musa-Obregon The legal team at Musa-Obregon Law PC is committed to providing the highest quality legal representation to clients in all matters of immigration law, from visas to deportation defense. With 100 years of combined experience, we are very familiar with all aspects of these laws and work to successfully navigate the complex federal system to help our clients resolve their specific legal challenges.

Navigating the legal intricacies of immigration law requires not just expertise but also an in-depth understanding of how these laws can affect individuals on a personal level. Each client's situation is unique and, as such, demands a strategy tailored to their specific needs. Our team continually updates its knowledge to stay abreast of the latest changes and interpretations in immigration law, ensuring that our representation is as effective and informed as possible.

Our multi-cultural staff provides services in a number of languages: English, Spanish, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Slovakian, Arabic, Hebrew, French, Tagalog (Filipino), Ukrainian, Czech, Slovenian, Haitian Creole, Swahili, and several Nigerian languages. Receive your free initial legal consultation with our NYC and Queens immigration lawyer today.

Having a multilingual team ensures that communication barriers are minimized, allowing us to serve a broader range of clients effectively. Our cultural competency not only facilitates better communication but also enhances our ability to understand the diverse backgrounds and challenges our clients face, enabling us to provide more personalized and empathetic legal services.

We represent individuals throughout Queens, Brooklyn, The Bronx, Manhattan, Rockland County, and Westchester County.

Have questions concerning immigration? Contact our NYC immigration attorneys to start discussing your options during a free consultation.

If you are dealing with any immigration-related matters and are seeking counsel from a Queens immigration immigration attorney in Queens attorney, you do not need to look any further. Our team's diverse background gives us a sensitivity to help clients who come from all countries and walks of life. We provide compassionate, supportive guidance regardless of the legal issues that our clients find themselves facing, without sacrificing results. Our attorneys and support staff know when to take a strategic approach and when more aggressive tactics are likely to yield results.

The intersectionality of immigration law with various aspects of personal and professional life necessitates a deep and nuanced understanding. We pride ourselves on our ability to tailor our approaches to the unique legal landscape of each client situation, whether it involves navigating intricate visa applications or defending against deportation orders. Our proactive legal strategies ensure that we are always prepared to advocate passionately for our clients across all scenarios.

If you are in need of immediate legal counsel due to criminal deportation or immigration detainers, or are seeking asylum to protect yourself and your loved ones, we can help. If you wish to pursue an immigrant visa or a non-immigrant visa, we can advise you on how to approach these proceedings to seek a timely and positive result. If your dream is to become a U.S. citizen, we can also help with naturalization and citizenship matters to make this dream a reality. In any area of immigration law, our firm stands prepared to provide the representation needed to navigate these complicated issues.

Our comprehensive services extend further to assist with the complexities surrounding family reunification and employment avenues. Understanding the emotional and financial stakes involved, our legal assistance is designed to provide clarity and support throughout the legal process. We work alongside our clients, offering not just legal representation but also peace of mind as they pursue their American dreams.

Family & Employment-Based Immigration in New York City

Two of the main reasons people immigrate to the United States are family and employment. Through our experience in the field of immigration law, we have come to recognize that one of the most sensitive areas of immigration law is the way it may affect families. Families may be brought together or kept apart as a result of these laws and proceedings. With our knowledge of family immigration matters and how your status as a citizen or Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) may affect your ability to obtain visas for certain family members or even affect naturalization proceedings for your loved ones, we can work to keep your family together.

Family immigration not only involves the legal formalities but also requires emotional understanding and support. Our immigration lawyer in New York City is invested in ensuring that families can stay united, helping members achieve their immigration goals through diligent preparation and representation. Whether it's assisting in the filing process or advocating for adjusted status, our team is dedicated to facilitating a seamless transition for family members.

If you are employed or are seeking employment in the United States, you may qualify for one of about 140,000 employment-based immigrant visas that are issued each year. If you are eligible for such a visa, a Queens immigration lawyer at our firm may be able to help you experience peace of mind in knowing that you can live and work in the U.S.

Employment-based immigration forms a critical part of the economic tapestry of the United States, catering to skilled, unskilled, and professional labor demands. We offer guidance on navigating complex paperwork and advise on the best immigrant categories that align with clients' professional profiles, aiming to secure a successful career path within the U.S. Connect with a skilled immigration attorney in New York City for more information.

There are five main categories of employment-based visas and various sub-categories under these; an attorney can help you determine under which of these you may qualify:

Employment First Preference: Priority Workers
Employment Second Preference: Professionals with Advanced Degrees
Employment Third Preference: Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Unskilled Workers
Employment Fourth Preference: Special Immigrants
Employment Fifth Preference: Immigrant Investors

Deportation Defense in New York

Over the past decade, there has been an increased focus by federal authorities on individuals who are in the U.S. illegally, who have expired visas, or who are working in the country without documentation. When ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) detains an individual, there is a real threat of deportation. Our legal team acts quickly to defend against deportation actions and understands the urgency and need for fast, effective help.

Facing deportation is a daunting experience that requires immediate and decisive action. We dedicate ourselves to ensuring that our clients receive the most comprehensive defense possible, conducting thorough reviews of all relevant information and crafting a defense strategy aimed at protecting their right to remain in the country. Our proactive engagement with immigration officials helps mitigate adverse outcomes and secure the best possible resolution.

Our New York City immigration attorneys have been called upon to represent those who have been caught in the tightening security net of the Department of Homeland Security. Many of these situations are related to criminal accusations, which have then led to the threat of deportation. Hundreds of thousands of individuals have been deported from the U.S. in the past decade, many of them due to criminal charges. Our firm is uniquely qualified to provide counsel in these matters. Our founding attorney, Michael Musa-Obregon, is a former NYC prosecutor who understands both sides of criminal charges. He has experience in state and federal criminal defense, immigration law, and deportation defense.

Criminal & Immigration Matters in New York

Many immigration situations will require not only a skilled New York City immigration lawyer but also a highly qualified New York City criminal defense lawyer. In such instances, we have the qualifications and proven court record in both areas of the law. Our immigration and criminal defense representation allows individuals accused in both federal and state courts to have legal counsel that can manage both areas of their legal standing, a significant advantage. By having a Queens immigration lawyer on your side who understands both the immigration issues that you are facing as well as the way that criminal law will impact them, you will be able to rest assured knowing you have an experienced advocate on your side who is truly looking out for your best interests.

Criminal charges can often complicate immigration status, leading to potential detentions and deportations. Our dual knowledge in criminal defense and immigration law enables us to craft nuanced strategies that address both legal arenas effectively. By identifying potential risks early and employing defensive measures such as plea negotiations, we are adept at safeguarding our clients' futures and preventing deportation.

Need an immigration lawyer in New York City? Contact us online or call (888) 502-8461 for expert legal support tailored to your immigration needs!

New York Immigration Trends

New York City remains one of the most vibrant and diverse places on the planet, continuously reshaped and enriched by waves of immigrants. As of recent census reports, immigrants make up nearly 40% of the city's population, contributing to its dynamic cultural and economic landscape. From the arts and academia to finance and technology, every sector feels the positive impact of the diverse immigrant community.

Legislative changes and policy shifts at both the federal and state levels affect the local immigrant population directly, with areas like employment-based immigration and family reunification frequently undergoing review. It's essential for immigrants and their families to stay informed about these changes, as they can significantly influence visa eligibility, sponsorship processes, and residency applications. At Musa-Obregon Law PC, we stay abreast of these changes and proactively update our clients, ensuring their strategies and applications reflect the current legal and regulatory environment.

Adapting to Immigration Laws in New York City

Tackling immigration issues in a state as complex as New York requires a nuanced understanding of both federal policies and state-specific regulations. With the ongoing development of state laws aimed at protecting immigrants, such as the New York DREAM Act, which opens opportunities for access to higher education, it is crucial to work with a legal team familiar with these expansions and their implications.

Understanding local benefits and protections, such as free municipal ID cards for all residents regardless of immigration status, or access to city-funded health programs, is vital. Our team educates our clients on these resources, emphasizing how they can leverage available opportunities to better their legal standing and integrate more fully into community life. We strive to empower clients with information and support that goes beyond traditional legal counsel.

Get the help you need from an experienced immigration attorney in New York City. Contact us at (888) 502-8461 or access our online form without delay.

Frequently Asked Questions About Immigration

How Can I Replace a Green Card?

After you have been granted a green card, there is always the possibility that it can be lost, destroyed, expired, or otherwise invalidated. If you need to replace your green card, you can file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. You can do this online or through the mail. Beyond the paperwork, our attorneys assist in ensuring that any specific circumstances, such as legal name changes or adjustments in renewal priorities, are appropriately managed so that the process goes smoothly and in a timely manner.

I Want to Apply for Citizenship Through Naturalization. How Can I Do This?

To apply for naturalization, you must fill out the N-400 form titled "Application for Naturalization." Naturalization is only available to certain qualifying individuals, so before you apply, be sure that you meet the eligibility requirements. Our firm guides you through eligibility assessments, such as residency requirements and language proficiency, and prepares you for interviews and tests to ensure the application is as strong as possible.

How Do State Laws Affect My Immigration Status in New York City?

State laws can have profound effects on various aspects of an immigrant's life, affecting access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. For example, New York's Sanctuary City status provides certain protections against federal immigration enforcement actions, whereas state-specific programs like the Excelsior Scholarship make higher education more accessible to undocumented students. Working with an immigration lawyer knowledgeable about state-specific laws ensure these opportunities are maximized for the benefit of your legal journey.

What Should I Do If My Immigration Status Changes?

Changes in immigration status, whether due to an expired visa or new legal developments, can significantly impact your rights and responsibilities. Prompt action is critical to ensure you remain compliant with immigration laws and protect your ability to stay in the United States. Our attorneys offer timely advice on adapting to status changes, securing renewals, and exploring new pathways to residency or citizenship.

Can I Travel Outside the U.S. While My Application Is Pending?

Traveling outside the United States with a pending application can be risky, potentially impacting the application or entry upon return. Understanding the specific guidelines, such as re-entry permits or advanced parole, and securing the proper documentation beforehand is crucial. Our firm helps clients evaluate risks and plan travel, ensuring you have the necessary legal guidance to mitigate any negative consequences affecting your immigration applications.

Where can I find United States immigration laws?

Immigration laws can be found in a few different places. The codes that USCIS enforces can be found in Title 8 of the Code of Federal Regulations, for example, while other statutes are detailed in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). You can also learn information about past immigration decisions, proposed legislation, and more by viewing administrative decisions by the USCIS Administrative Appeals Office, as well as Federal Register Publications.

Do I need an attorney to assist with immigration?

You are in no way obligated to hire an attorney if you are dealing with an immigration issue, such as applying for a visa or appealing a denied petition. However, it can be vastly beneficial to do so. A New York City immigration attorney can help you fill out the paperwork correctly as well as guide you through the process so that you can become a citizen as quickly as possible.