Green Card Lawyer Cook County: Professional Guidance for Your Immigration Journey

A Green Card Lawyer is a legal professional who helps individuals navigate the process of obtaining a green card, granting them permanent residency in the United States. This assistance can include recommendations on various eligibility categories like family, employment, asylum, and crime victim status, which all have specific requirements under U.S. immigration law.

This topic is relevant because obtaining a green card can be complex and overwhelming without proper legal guidance. Many people seeking permanent residency face a range of legal challenges that require a detailed understanding of the immigration system. Hirsch Law Group helps individuals in Cook County with their green card journey with the skilled support they deserve. Our experienced attorneys are committed to providing the clarity and support our clients need to move through the application process confidently.

Types of Immigration Green Cards

There are several types of green cards, each designed for individuals in different circumstances. Whether you’re seeking permanent residency based on family relationships, employment, refugee status, or other special categories, each green card type has its own eligibility requirements and application process. Understanding the various green card options is essential to determine the best path to obtaining permanent residency in the United States. Below, we outline the most common categories and explain who qualifies for each.

Family-Based Green Cards

Family-based green cards allow U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to sponsor certain family members for permanent residency in the United States. These green cards are one of the most common pathways to U.S. immigration. The family member being sponsored must fall into one of several specific categories, depending on the relationship to the sponsor.

U.S. citizens can sponsor their spouses, children, parents, and siblings, while lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can sponsor their spouses and unmarried children. The process generally involves the U.S. citizen or permanent resident filing a petition for their family member, who must then go through an application process that may include an interview, background checks, and biometrics.

Family-based green cards can be divided into two categories:

  1. Immediate Relatives: This includes the spouse, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens. These applicants are not subject to annual numerical limits, making the process faster.
  2. Family Preference System: This category includes more distant relatives of U.S. citizens such as siblings or married or unmarried adult (21+) children. It also includes the spouses and children of lawful permanent residents. There are annual limits on the number of green cards issued in the categories under this preference system, which often results in longer wait times.

Employment-Based Green Cards

Employment-based green cards are granted to individuals seeking permanent residency in the U.S. based on a job offer or their extraordinary skills in specific fields. These green cards are divided into five preference categories, each with its own eligibility criteria:

  1. EB-1: For individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields like science, arts, education, business, or athletics, as well as outstanding professors, researchers, and multinational executives.
  2. EB-2: For professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities in fields like science, business, or the arts. This category often requires a labor certification, though some applicants may qualify for a National Interest Waiver (NIW).
  3. EB-3: For skilled workers, professionals with bachelor’s degrees, and other workers in less specialized roles. This category typically requires labor certification and has a longer waiting period.
  4. EB-4: For special immigrants, such as religious workers, certain international employees, and other specific groups.
  5. EB-5: For investors who create or preserve jobs in the U.S. through a qualifying investment in a new commercial enterprise.

The employment-based green card process typically requires a labor certification from the employer (except the EB5 category and EB1 & EB2 categories in some cases). The process for an employment-based green card can take several months or years, depending on the category and the applicant’s country of origin.

Green Cards for Refugees and Asylees

Refugees and asylees can apply for a green card one year after being granted refugee or asylum status in the United States. The process for refugees begins once they have been in the U.S. for one year and involves filing Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). Similarly, asylees can apply for a green card after one year of being granted asylum. They must also demonstrate that they have maintained their asylum status and are eligible to adjust to permanent residency. This pathway allows refugees and asylees to transition from temporary status to lawful permanent residency, providing a more secure and stable future in the U.S. 

Green Cards for Victims of Crime

Victims of certain crimes who assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime may be eligible for a U visa, which provides temporary legal status and work authorization. After holding U status for at least three years, victims can apply for a green card. This green card for crime victims is designed to protect and encourage cooperation from victims of crime such as domestic violence, human trafficking, and other serious offenses. The U visa program helps those who have been victimized to heal and rebuild their lives while contributing to the pursuit of justice. The process for applying for a green card under this category includes submitting proof of the crime, cooperation with law enforcement, and evidence of the applicant’s continued physical and mental well-being. Evidence of the applicant’s wellbeing is to ensure that the individual has been able to move forward from the victimization and is not suffering from long-term, unresolved harm that would prevent them from adjusting their status to permanent residency.

Although U visa holders may pursue permanent residency, certain legal challenges, such as criminal charges, can impact their cases. Criminal records can often complicate immigration proceedings. Our criminal attorneys can offer essential guidance, advocating for fair treatment and working diligently to overcome these obstacles. By understanding the intricacies of both immigration and criminal law, our firm navigates the legal landscape with confidence and empathy.

The Green Card Application Process: Step-By-Step

Navigating the green card application process can seem daunting, yet it is a crucial journey for those seeking permanent residency in the U.S. The path involves several key steps, each demanding careful attention to detail and timing.

Step 1: Petitioning

The journey begins with an immigration petition. Most applicants need a sponsor, often an employer or family member, to file this petition. However, in certain cases e.g., abused spouses, refugees and asylees, etc, one can petition for themselves.

Step 2: Application Submission

Once the petition is approved (or concurrently filed, in some cases), the next step is to submit the green card application. For applicants residing in the United States, this involves filing Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). However, for those outside the U.S., the process involves consular processing, where the application is submitted through a U.S. embassy or consulate in the applicant’s home country.

In consular processing, the National Visa Center (NVC) will notify the applicant when it is time to submit the required forms, documents, and fees. After the application is reviewed and deemed complete, the applicant will be scheduled for an immigrant visa interview at the designated consulate. 

Meanwhile those who are adjusting status in the US are scheduled for a biometric appointment and in most cases, an interview as well.

Step 3: Biometrics Appointment/Interview

Green card applicants within the US need to attend a biometrics appointment. During this appointment, fingerprints, photographs, and signatures are collected to conduct background and security checks on the applicant.

An interview is also typically required as part of the green card process for applicants in and outside the US. This interview is significant and affects the decision on your immigration case.

Step 4: Final Adjudication

After the interview and review of documents, the final decision is made. Receiving the green card signifies that the applicant has become a permanent resident. The green card typically comes in the mail within 90 days of entry into the US or after adjusting status. This step marks the culmination of your immigration journey.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Many face setbacks from missing paperwork or inaccurate submissions. It’s essential to gather all necessary documents and double-check everything for accuracy. As much as possible, deadlines should be adhered to prevent denials.

Together, we can navigate the complexities and nuances of immigration matters. The role of experienced legal guidance cannot be overstated in ensuring a smoother path. At Hirsch Law Group, we are ready to support you in this life-changing transition with empathy and dedication.

Criminal Records and Green Card Applications

Navigating the U.S. immigration system can be challenging, especially if a criminal record is involved. Certain criminal convictions can lead to the denial of a green card application. Crimes involving moral turpitude, aggravated felonies, and drug-related offenses are particularly problematic. They can even lead to deportation proceedings.

It’s essential to have legal assistance through this intricate process. In some cases, legal pathways such as waivers or exemptions are available, depending on the nature of the conviction. For example, certain waivers may apply if denying the green card would cause extreme hardship to a U.S. citizen spouse or parent. Understanding these options is crucial to making informed decisions.

We recognize the complexities and anxieties that come with these legal challenges. Our experience in the field emphasizes the importance of having seasoned legal counsel. The Hirsch Law Group is dedicated to exploring all legal avenues to assist immigrants with criminal records. We focus on pursuing waivers and other options that may be available, helping clients navigate both criminal and immigration law.

Why Choose Hirsch Law Group For Your Green Card Application In Cook County?

Navigating the U.S. immigration system is overwhelming for most. With the intricate regulations and ever-evolving policies, how do you secure a successful green card application in Cook County? At Hirsch Law Group, we offer the experience needed to assist you through this process smoothly.

Our team of experienced immigration attorneys understands the Cook County court systems and immigration offices. This local experience is crucial in managing the nuances of your case, offering tailored immigration solutions that align with your needs.

We prioritize empathy and equality, ensuring every client feels valued and understood from the first consultation. Our track record speaks volumes—providing personalized attention and genuine dedication to client satisfaction.

Our commitment extends to tackling complex immigration cases. We craft customized legal strategies that address and overcome potential obstacles, maximizing the chances for success in securing your green card.

Benefits of Working With Us:

  • Experienced immigration lawyers familiar with Cook County
  • Dedicated to providing personalized and empathetic service
  • Clear communication and regular updates on your case progress.
  • Assistance with other immigration needs and complications that could arise during the process e.g., getting involved in a criminal case.

Contact Us For A Consultation

Our team is dedicated to providing the assistance you need with green card applications in Cook County. If you’re seeking help, reach out for a personalized consultation.

Our goal is to offer assistance that is both effective and empathetic. Every case is unique, and we tailor our services to meet your specific needs. We also offer Spanish-speaking services to ensure clear communication for all our clients. We are available for consultation at your convenience. If you’re in the Cook County area and need assistance, do not hesitate to contact us to schedule a meeting.