Immigration Lawyer in California
Federal and state immigration laws are complex and can be challenging to navigate without the right legal representation. At Martinez Immigration, we know the immigration process can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to go it alone.
California immigration lawyer Kathleen Martinez is committed to reuniting families here in the U.S. and helping immigrants gain legal status at a reasonable cost. Book a consultation to find out how she can assist you with your immigration matter.
Book a consultation with a California immigration lawyer today.
Types of Immigration Cases in California
Here is an overview of the most common immigration cases we oversee at Martinez Immigration:
Family-Based Immigration
To live permanently in the U.S., non-citizens must have an immigrant visa (IV). To apply for an IV, they must be sponsored by an immediate relative who is at least 21 and either a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR.)
We can determine if you are eligible for a family-based IV, and assist you throughout the process to obtain a green card.
Employment-Based Immigration
For others, the path to a Green Card is through their work. The U.S. provides many avenues to become a lawful permanent resident through employment in this country.
Accepted professions are ranked by preference based on our nation’s need for certain types of professionals and skilled workers.
Learn how a California Immigration attorney can help your case today.
For non-citizens already in the U.S., the process is slightly different and requires an Adjustment of Status.
We work with you to complete the proper application on time, and provide the necessary documentation to help your application proceed without errors or delays.
Asylum Cases
Asylum protects individuals from deportation to a country where they have a “well-founded fear” of harm or persecution. Someone must be physically present in the U.S. or seeking entry to the U.S. at a port of entry to apply for asylum.
We assess your situation to determine if you qualify for asylum under immigration law, and if so, build a compelling case to show your fear of returning to another country is real and reasonable, to help protect you from removal.
Deportation and Removal Proceedings
Without legal status, you can be removed from the U.S. Yet there are several possible legal defenses to protect against deportation. We carefully evaluate your case to determine if you have a valid defense, or if you qualify for an adjustment of status.
We represent clients who have been placed in removal proceedings, handling everything from filing appeals to completing your green card application. With our team leading your case, it may be possible to avoid deportation.
Book a consultation with a California immigration lawyer today.
California Immigration Laws
While federal law governs most U.S. immigration policies, some state laws may impact immigrants in California.
Because California is a “sanctuary state” for undocumented immigrants, state laws may conflict with federal policies. Sanctuary states have more favorable state immigration policies.
In California specifically, the Sanctuary State law actually requires non-cooperation between state and federal law enforcement officials.
Here, state officials may limit immigration detainers and refuse to provide details about immigration status. We explore available Sanctuary State protections to help you reach a good outcome for your immigration matter.
Immigration Legal Process in California
The immigration process for non-citizens who want to live and work permanently in the U.S. generally starts with a U.S.-based sponsor approved by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). That sponsor is an eligible relative or employer.
Applicants must complete the proper paperwork and provide supporting documents and complete a medical exam and interview. If approved, the USCIS processes the visa. If the visa is denied, the petitioner can refile, although the process can be lengthy.
Non-citizens who want to visit the U.S. on a temporary basis for work, school, or engagement to a U.S. citizen, must apply for a non-immigration visa. While the process is generally similar, most non-immigrant visas have an expiration date. Visa overstays have serious consequences, including the possibility of being barred from visiting the U.S. for several years.
Speak with a California immigration lawyer, today.
How Martinez Immigration Can Help
Award-winning California immigration lawyer Kathleen Martinez founded her virtual law firm with the goal of helping clients across the country at an affordable cost. As the spouse of a first-generation Mexican immigrant, she understands the legal and personal challenges that come with navigating evolving immigration laws in the U.S.
Kathleen is committed to making legal representation available to all and helping clients overcome barriers to live, work, and reconnect with family in the U.S. Book a virtual consultation today.
We got you covered!
No Matter What your immigration needs or questions are…
We take great pride in providing immigration services to our clients. Our mission to reunite families drives us to succeed.
