Do I Need a New Orleans Immigration Lawyer to Become a Citizen?

Becoming a U.S. citizen is an empowering moment that changes the lives of many people. Ensuring the process goes well and that no obstacles get in the way takes having a solid understanding of the law. As a result, having an immigration lawyer in New Orleans can be the best decision you can make to minimize the risk of complications, delays, or denials.

At The Law Office of James A. Graham, we work closely with our immigration clients in Louisiana to ensure you know exactly what to expect in their legal matter and have all of the tools and resources to help you obtain the best possible outcome.

How a New Orleans immigration lawyer can help you

The immigration process is complex and long, often requiring multiple steps to ensure the decisions made are the best possible. As you work through this process, you will find that having an attorney with immigration experience can facilitate a better outcome for you in several potential ways.

Help you meet eligibility requirements

One of the first things your attorney will do for you is to ensure you meet all of the required eligibility requirements to become a citizen in the U.S. This includes:

• Being at least 18 years of age at the time of filing
• Being able to meet English requirements with a basic ability to read, write, and speak the language
• Being of good moral character

In situations like this, your attorney will guide you in determining not only if you meet the requirements but also what additional steps you can take to ensure you overcome any obstacles present. For example, if you are unable to speak English well, they may offer some support in how to learn the language.

Meet green card requirements

In addition to this, your immigration attorney will ensure you meet the requirements for having and maintaining good status with your green card. For example, to become a citizen, you may have had a green card (permanent resident card) for at least five years, or if you have a spouse who is a U.S. citizen, then you must maintain your green card for at least three years.

Ensure you complete the citizenship application fully and properly

There are numerous documents and steps that must be taken to become a U.S. citizen. As noted, this is not a simple process, and having an attorney to guide you in the creation of your application can be profoundly helpful.

For example, your immigration attorney in New Orleans will help you with obtaining all the necessary documents for filing your application. This includes:

• Marriage certificates
• Proof of your spouse’s citizenship
• Green card
• Any documents that show your legal name change
• S. residency proof
• Military employment records
• Tax return information
• Criminal background check documents

Not all documents listed here are always necessary, but ensuring you complete your application with the documents suitable to your situation is critical. Not doing so could result in the rejection of your application or denial of obtaining it.

We can also help you obtain assistance with each step of the immigration process, no matter which type you are filing for. Our team of New Orleans immigration attorneys can help you with most immigration matters, including:

• Family immigration
• Adjustment of status
• Immigration waivers
• Naturalization and citizenship applications
• Lawful permanent residency
• Non-immigrant visas
• Work visas

With the help of our highly skilled attorneys, you can know what type of immigration documents and applications to file, as well as how to do so with confidence. We work hard to ensure you have the best possible route forward.

Know what an authorized legal representative can do for you

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services allows for an attorney to handle some aspects of the citizenship process, but not everything can be done by your lawyer. Your attorney can help you with:

• Provide you with insight into which forms to file based on your specific legal situation
• Guide you in submitting the right documentation and evidence that is required to be considered for citizenship
• Provide you with insight and guidance throughout the immigration process, including discussing each of your immigration options
• Support you as you complete the USCIS forms, which must be done properly according to the instructions provided to minimize delays
• Provide you with support in communicating about your case, including directly to the USCIS

Having an immigration lawyer in New Orleans is one of the best decisions you can make simply because it ensures you have someone with experience by your side.

The benefits of hiring our immigration law firm in New Orleans

At The Law Office of James A. Graham, we have the experience to help you make the best decisions throughout the immigration process. Our experience is one of the core reasons so many of our clients are able to move through the immigration process without delays.

• We will ensure you are filing for citizenship in the proper manner, minimizing any risk of delays in your application and the process.
• We can help you overcome any challenges you may have through this process, including any documents that may be missing or data that may be worrisome for moving your citizenship forward.
• We can provide you with clear advice and guidance on every step of the immigration process because we have worked closely with the local and federal courts for years. We know what to expect and how to avoid common stumbling blocks.

Our legal team is honest and transparent. When you meet with our immigration attorney, you will always have a clear answer as to what to do, what to expect, and the fees involved.

Learn more about what legal steps you need to take to become a U.S. citizen. At The Law Office of James A. Graham, we respect your right to become a citizen and will provide you with all of the information and support you need to manage that process. Call our office or submit our contact form to set up a consultation.