At Johnson Law Group, we understand that immigration is not a one-size-fits-all process. Every individual's journey is unique and filled with personal stories, challenges, and aspirations. As the lead immigration attorney at Johnson Law Group, Shana Velez embodies this understanding and commitment to personalized legal support. Shana is dedicated to helping clients navigate the complexities of immigration law, ensuring their dreams and goals are within reach. Additionally, Shana's fluency in Spanish allows her to offer tailored support to Spanish-speaking clients, further enhancing her commitment to personalized service.
Shana's expertise spans various aspects of immigration law. This includes green cards (legal permanent residence), citizenship, humanitarian-based immigration, asylum, waivers, and deportation defense. Her deep understanding of these processes allows her to tailor strategies that best fit each client's circumstances. Shana's successful track record speaks volumes about her ability to achieve favorable client outcomes. Johnson Law Group invites you to schedule a consultation today to discuss your specific immigration matters. Discover how Shana's experience can benefit you. If you're seeking a form of immigration relief, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Understanding Immigration Law in Colorado
Immigration law in the United States is complex, and Colorado is no exception. Federal regulations govern who is allowed to enter, stay, and become a legal resident or citizen of the country. Here are some of the key areas of immigration law that residents in Colorado should be aware of:
Green Cards (Legal Permanent Residence)
Obtaining a green card, or permanent residency, is a significant step toward becoming a U.S. citizen. Green cards can be obtained through:
- Family Sponsorship: Permanent residents or U.S. citizens can sponsor certain family members.
- Adjustment of Status: Becoming a legal permanent resident from inside the United States.
- Consular Processing: Obtaining legal permanent residence or other permission to enter the U.S. from a foreign country through the Department of State.
- Violence Against Women Act: Individuals (women AND men) who are victims of domestic violence by their Legal Permanent Resident Spouse or U.S. citizen may be eligible to get a green card.
- Special Immigrant Juvenile Status: If a child (under 21 years old) has been abandoned or abused by one or both parents, he/she may be eligible to obtain a green card.
- U or T Visa: Three years after being granted a U visa (for victims of specific crimes) or T visa (for victims of human trafficking) status, individuals and their family members may apply for legal permanent residence.
- Asylum or Refugee Status: After one year, individuals who are granted asylum/refugee status can apply for a green card.
- Diversity Visa Lottery: This is an annual program that grants green cards to people from countries that have low immigration rates to the U.S.
The green card application process can be complicated and lengthy. Shana's expertise ensures that you qualify, your application is prepared accurately, and submitted promptly. By checking those boxes, you increase your chances of a successful outcome.
Citizenship
Becoming a U.S. citizen is the ultimate goal for many immigrants. The naturalization process involves several steps, including:
- Meeting Eligibility Requirements: Required period of time as a Legal Permanent Resident with continuous physical presence in the U.S., good moral character, among others.
- Application Submission (N-400 Form): Filing the appropriate forms and supporting documents.
- Interview and Civics Test: Attending an interview with an Immigration Officer, including demonstrating knowledge of U.S. history and government, and English proficiency.
- Oath of Allegiance: Taking the final step to become a U.S. citizen.
Shana Velez provides comprehensive support throughout the naturalization process, helping you navigate requirements and prepare for your interview and test.
Humanitarian-Based Immigration
Colorado is home to many individuals seeking refuge from persecution in their home country and to many more who have been victims of crimes or human trafficking who may be eligible to obtain legal status in the U.S.:
- U-Visa: Temporary legal status for victims of certain crimes who have cooperated with law enforcement.
- T-Visa: Temporary legal status for victims of severe forms of human trafficking who have cooperated in the investigation of their traffickers.
- Special Immigration Juvenile Status: Legal status for juveniles (under 21 years of age) who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned by one or both of their parents and have been placed in the care of another individual by a state court.
- Asylum: Legal status for individuals who can establish they've been or will be persecuted in their home country and meet other requirements.
- Temporary Protected Status: Temporary legal status for individuals from specific countries the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated because they are experiencing problems that make it difficult or unsafe for individuals to be deported there.
Waivers
Certain immigration violations or inadmissibility issues can prevent individuals from entering or staying in the U.S. Waivers can provide relief by demonstrating that denying entry or residency would cause extreme hardship to a relative who qualifies and is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Shana Velez's expertise in preparing and presenting waiver applications can make a significant difference in overcoming these challenges.
Deportation Defense
Facing deportation is a frightening experience, but you don't have to face it alone. Shana Velez is dedicated to defending clients against removal proceedings. She explores every possible avenue to keep families together and protect their rights. This includes:
- Cancellation of Removal: This is for particular permanent or non-permanent residents who meet specific criteria.
- Adjustment of Status: If eligible for a green card through a family member.
- Asylum, Withholding of Removal and Convention Against Torture: For individuals fearful of persecution or torture in their home country.
- Prosecutorial Discretion: Requesting that Immigration and Customs Enforcement exercise discretion in favor of the individual.
Working With Johnson Law Group
Navigating the world of immigration law can be daunting. However, with Johnson Law Group by your side, you can confidently approach this journey. If you are seeking a visa, green card, citizenship, legal status as a victim, or defense against deportation, our experienced team is here for you. Because immigration law is constantly changing, we keep abreast of any new developments to understand how they may affect your case. We understand the importance of every case and will do our best to help you achieve your immigration goals.
If you or a loved one need assistance with any immigration matter, don't hesitate to reach out. Schedule a consultation with Shana Velez today and let her extensive experience work for you. Call Johnson Law Group at (720) 744-3513 to get started. Together, we can turn your immigration dreams into reality.
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