Immigration Lawyer

Immigration Lawyer: Immigration Law 101

Navigating the immigration system can be complex and stressful. The attorneys at the Law Office of Arrasmith have extensive experience handling all types of immigration cases. We assist both individual and corporate clients with the immigration process.

Immigration process | Immigration laws Introduction

Immigration law is the branch of law focused on the rights of foreign nationals to enter, work, study, and live in the United States. Immigration attorneys and law firms advise and represent clients on a wide range of visa, green card, citizenship, and deportation matters governed by U.S. immigration regulations.

With immigration rules and procedures being notoriously complex, securing legal counsel from qualified immigration lawyers is highly recommended when applying for any U.S. visa or immigration status. Attorneys stay up to date on the latest immigration policy changes and legal precedents to help best clients analyze their situations, determine eligibility for various programs, complete applications accurately, and improve chances for approval.

Reliable immigration law firms have experienced immigration attorneys on staff who specialize in the unique legal issues faced by foreign citizens and immigrants in the U.S. Reputable firms are transparent about their lawyers’ backgrounds and areas of expertise so potential clients can assess which attorney is the best fit for their particular immigration needs. Established firms have a strong track record of success stories and positive client outcomes.

Those seeking assistance with immigration to the United States can search for highly-rated immigration lawyers and law firms in their state or city. Initial consultations are recommended to discuss one’s situation and options and determine the ideal legal strategy. Immigration lawyers can then facilitate applications, communicate with immigration authorities, intervene if issues arise, and increase the likelihood of achieving the client’s goals to enter, live, work, study or seek permanent residence in the United States.

Immigration Law Services

Immigration Law Services
Getting approved for a visa, green card, or citizenship is life-changing, but the immigration system is complex. That’s why having an experienced immigration attorney represent you can make all the difference.

Navigating the immigration system can be complex and stressful. The attorneys at the Law Office of Arrasmith have extensive experience handling immigration cases. We assist both individual and corporate clients with:

  • Family-based immigration – We help reunite families by handling marriage green cards, fiancé visas, parent/child visas, and more.
  • Employment-based immigration – We work with employers to secure work visas such as H-1B, L-1, TN, and E visas for highly-skilled foreign workers.
  • Investment and business immigration – Investors, entrepreneurs, and small business owners can obtain EB-5, E-2, and other visas through our assistance.
  • Deportation defense – If you are facing removal proceedings, we fiercely defend your rights to fight deportation and remain in the U.S.
  • Citizenship – We handle naturalization applications and assist with dual citizenship matters.
  • Asylum/refugee status – Our attorneys can help you apply for and secure asylum or refugee status based on conditions in your home country.
  • Visa extensions and changes – We file paperwork and represent you in interviews when you need to extend or change your nonimmigrant visa type.
  • Waivers – If your visa application requires a waiver for issues such as criminal history or past immigration violations, we have experience obtaining necessary waivers.
  • Appeals – If your application gets denied, we can help file the appeal and represent you before the Board of Immigration Appeals.

Types Of Immigration Law

Whether you’re seeking to work, study, invest, join family, or make the U.S. your permanent home, we can analyze your situation, determine your options, take care of all paperwork, and increase your chances for approval.

Family-based Immigration

  • Spouse visas – We handle filing Form I-130 for foreign spouses seeking green cards through marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
  • Fiancé visas – We assist U.S. citizens in bringing their foreign fiancé to the U.S. through the K-1 nonimmigrant visa process.
  • Parent visas – Form I-130 petitions for lawful permanent resident status for parents of adult U.S. citizens.
  • Child visas – Obtaining permanent resident status for children under 21 of U.S. citizens and green card holders.
  • Sibling visas – Helping U.S. citizens sponsor brothers and sisters seeking green cards through the family preference system.

Employment-Based Immigration

  • H-1B visas – Securing temporary worker status for professionals in specialty occupations like tech, engineering, accounting.
  • L-1 visas – Intracompany transferee visas for executives, managers and specialized workers of multinational firms.
  • TN visas – Work authorization for Canadian and Mexican professionals through NAFTA.
  • E visas – Helping qualified foreign investors, traders and treaty traders obtain E category nonimmigrant visas.
  • PERM labor certification – Guiding employers through the permanent labor certification process as a prerequisite for employee green cards.

Investment and Business Immigration

  • EB-5 investor green cards – Advising foreign nationals making substantial investments and creating U.S. jobs through the EB-5 program.
  • E-2 investor visas – Assisting qualified investors from treaty countries doing substantial business in the U.S.
  • L-1A visas for foreign company executives – Helping international companies transfer qualified executives to U.S. operations.
  • EB-2 National Interest Waiver green cards – For foreign entrepreneurs with businesses benefiting the U.S. national interest.

Deportation Defense

  • Removal hearings – Representing clients in immigration court removal proceedings before a judge.
  • Cancellation of removal – Applying for discretionary cancellation of removal to waive deportation.
  • Stays of removal – Seeking emergency stays from immigration courts or federal courts to temporarily halt deportation.
  • Motions to reopen – Filing a motion to reopen concluded removal proceedings based on new facts.

Citizenship: Nationality law

  • Naturalization – Filing Form N-400 citizenship application and representing clients in interviews.
  • Dual citizenship – Advising on maintenance or renouncement of original citizenship after naturalizing.
  • Citizenship denials – Filing N-336 appeals and representing clients before USCIS if citizenship is denied.
  • Derivative citizenship – Assisting children of U.S. citizens with obtaining a Certificate of Citizenship.

American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA):

The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) is a national association of over 15,000 attorneys and law professors who practice and teach immigration law. AILA was founded in 1946 and is headquartered in Washington, D.C.

AILA’s mission is to promote justice, advocate for fair and reasonable immigration law and policy, advance the quality of immigration legal services, and support the professional development of its members.

Do I Need to Have an Immigration Lawyer?

We get it – lawyers can be expensive, and you may be tempted to try applying on your own. But immigration law is notoriously complex. Having an experienced attorney like those at The Law Offices of James L. Arrasmith increases your chances of approval and prevents delays or denials over small errors. For many visa types, having skilled legal counsel is essential.

Choosing the Best Immigration Lawyer for You

An immigration lawyer can help.
Happy immigrants!

Find someone who specializes in your specific visa or case type. Not all immigration lawyers have expertise in every area. Ask about an attorney’s background, success rate with cases like yours, and client reviews. Meet with one or more immigration attorneys before deciding. Make sure you feel comfortable – this is your advocate!

If I Don’t Need an Immigration Attorney, Why Hire One?

Even if an attorney isn’t strictly required, they have knowledge of the system, forms, and latest policies that you lack. They can ensure accuracy, avoid mistakes, advise you of rights and obligations, and be your representative. Think of them as your guide to navigating the immigration maze.

Ask Friends or Other Contacts for an Immigration Lawyer Referral

An immigration lawyer can make a world of a difference.
An immigration lawyer can make a world of a difference.

People you trust can recommend someone they had a good experience with. Ask detailed questions – why were they satisfied? How was the lawyer’s communication style? Did they achieve the desired outcome? Check reviews from multiple clients if possible.

Contact a Lawyer Bar Association

Your state or city bar association can refer you to attorneys based on practice area, experience, disciplinary history, and client satisfaction. They screen lawyers and confirm proper licensing.

Make immigration law easy by hiring an immigration lawyer today!
Immigration law can be complex. But it does not have to be.

How Do You Find a Good Immigration Lawyer?

Research multiple lawyers’ qualifications, client reviews, peer recognition, and track records with cases like yours. Narrow down your list and consult with top choices in person – a good rapport is critical. Ask lots of questions to assess expertise. Go with the lawyer who instills the most trust and confidence.

In immigration, only licensed attorneys and accredited representatives can legally provide legal advice. Be skeptical of notarios or consultants charging fees to help with applications. Protect yourself by hiring a legitimate immigration lawyer.

Contact Prospective Immigration Attorneys

Schedule consultations, explain your situation, ask about their experience and past cases. Take notes on each lawyer’s proposed strategy, mannerisms, communication style – things that provide a sense of their working relationship.

Things To Consider When Choosing an Immigration Attorney

Expertise, experience, client feedback and your gut instinct about which lawyer is the best fit for you. Also important – responsiveness, clear communication, and setting realistic expectations. Price is a consideration but shouldn’t be the only factor – this is too important!

What Happens After I Choose My Lawyer?

You’ll sign a representation agreement detailing the lawyer’s responsibilities and fees. Gather documents they request to prepare your case. Your attorney will update you on the status, explain what to expect next, and generally guide you through the entire immigration process. Don’t be afraid to ask questions – they work for you!

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Immigration Benefits

There are many potential immigration benefits available to foreign nationals seeking to enter, live, work, study, invest, or seek permanent residence in the United States. The main types of benefits include visas, green cards, citizenship, asylum, waivers, and employment authorization. An experienced immigration attorney can evaluate your situation and determine what immigration benefits may be available to you.

Obtain your green card (permanent residence) with the help of an immigration law attorney.
American Green Card – United States Permanent Residency Card.

Permanent Residence

Obtaining a green card for permanent residence in the U.S. opens up a world of opportunities and the ability to live and work indefinitely. There are several paths to permanent resident status, including through family, employment, investment, asylum, or other special categories. An immigration lawyer can guide you through applying for a green card, ensuring you meet eligibility requirements. They can also assist with removal of conditions if you receive a conditional green card.

Immigrant Visas

An immigrant visa essentially permits you to enter the U.S. and obtain permanent resident status. There are several types, including family-based, employment-based, diversity lottery, and special immigrant visas. An immigration attorney will determine the optimal immigrant visa category for your situation and handle the application and supporting documentation. They will also prepare you for the visa interview at the U.S. consulate abroad.

Navigating the complex U.S. immigration system can be daunting without skilled legal counsel. An immigration lawyer serves as your legal representative, communicating with immigration authorities on your behalf and ensuring applications are error-free. Choose an attorney who specializes in your visa or case type. Legal representation greatly improves visa and green card approval odds.

Foreign Investors

Wealthy foreign investors can obtain permanent green cards through the EB-5 immigrant investor program by investing at least $900,000 into a new U.S. business that creates 10 full-time jobs. There are strict requirements and timelines. An experienced EB-5 immigration lawyer will advise if you qualify and provide legal representation to increase chances of success with your I-526 and I-829 petitions.

Employment Sponsorship

Some work visas and green cards require employer employment sponsorship. Our immigration attorneys work with businesses to prepare employment-based visa petitions like H-1B, L-1, O-1, TN, and E-3. We also represent employees by guiding them through the process to obtain work authorization or permanent residence through employment.

Whether you’re seeking to work, study, invest, join family, or make the U.S. your permanent home, we can analyze your situation, determine your options, take care of all paperwork, and increase your chances for approval. Read our reviews to see how we’ve helped clients just like you.

Don’t leave your immigration goals to chance. Contact us today for a consultation and let our expertise work for you. We look forward to helping you or your loved ones come to America!

Client Reviews

James Arrasmith is one smart attorney! He understood my problem and came up with a great solution right away. I can depend on him to listen and ask the right questions to get straight to my issues. His availability is...

Alan Murphy

Hiring James to handle my eviction / landlord tenant case is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. He assisted me every step of the way and made the process smooth and easy. It was obvious that he truly cared about...

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I've had a lot of attorneys in my life, and James is by far the best attorney that I've ever hired. He helped me with my case from start to finish and clearly explained the process to me without making it overly complex...

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Great consultation, efficient, attorney. I needed possession of my home, Mr. Arrasmith acted swiftly and was able to provide me the information I needed to understand what could have been a lengthy process. Mr...

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James is an amazing attorney!! I had never hired a lawyer before (and was very nervous), but James took hours of his time to explain the entire procedure to me. He gave me a thorough consultation, and I was so impressed...

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James was the only person to answer the phone at 7am on a Saturday morning. My first phone call to him was as a scared and stressed woman with no idea on where to even begin to explain the sort of help I needed. James...

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James helped me with two landlord tenant issues. In both cases, I was able to expeditiously resolve my issue with the tenant. I appreciate his genuine care for his clients; a rare trait in an attorney. I would highly...

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I cannot begin to describe how amazing and reassuring it was to have James guide me through the most challenging moment of my life. When my mother let me know she would soon be passing from cancer and wanted to leave...

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James Arrasmith did a great job for me on my legal matter. From the first time I talked to him he was very professional and knew what he was talking about. I would recommend James Arrasmith to anyone who needs help with...

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I can't express enough how much James put my heart at ease. He has really been dugiligant at getting things done vs what I have experienced before using other lawyers. Highly recommend James if your looking for trust...

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James Arrasmith is a fantastic attorney. He is respectful and knowledgeable! Always very responsive and really takes his time explaining everything so you can understand it. I would highly recommend you meet with James...

Andrew Noseworthy

Mr. Arrasmith was cocounsel on a complex case, but was able persuade a notoriously bad judge to go along with the resolution. He’s a fine lawyer that works hard to make sure he is prepared to win the case. I highly...

James Pearson

Highly recommend choosing James. He was extremely responsive always making sure I understood every step of the process. In addition, he would periodically check in with me before important decisions needed to be made.

Tulsi

He is experts and reasonable attorney.

Ahmad Ali Shinwary

Best attorney I ever worked with... he takes time to explain the whole process and and will make sure you are happy with his work. We did a living trust and he helped me with an eviction case. I highly recommend him!

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James is an excellent attorney. I recommend him to anyone who's looking for someone who cares and wants to help win their case! :)

Allen Esealuka

I had a few questions about my situation, I needed some legal advice so I went ahead and contacted the Arrasmith firm. James was very helpful and polite, I asked him about a dozen questions and will be pursuing llegal...

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I cannot begin to describe how amazing and reassuring it was to have James guide me through the most challenging moment of my life. When my mother let me know she would soon be passing from cancer and wanted to leave her...

Tricia

James is a professional with outstanding customer service. We hired him to take care of an issue for us and he delivered as promised. I highly recommend him if you have any ongoing legal issues. James it's absolute...

Aztec Gold99

He will go out of his way . The best lawyer in Sacramento!I don’t know what I would do without lawyer james.

Bryan

Very professional, understanding and willing to assist in any way he can. I am most definitely keeping James as my one stop shop lawyer.

Brad Naylor

I am so happy I found Mr. Arrasmith's law firm! I couldn't have been happier with my decision to hire James. He took my case from point A to point Z and kept me informed every step of the way. If I ever need an attorney...

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James is a wonderful addition to the legal community. He is hard working, bright and ethical. He goes the extra mile for his clients.

Caitlin Ross

He was a great attorney.

Devon Campbell

I contacted Mr. Arrasmith regarding a disability related inquiry for a family member. Mr. Arrasmith provided excellent and immediate responses to my questions. I felt as though he truly cared about the well being of my...

Anonymous

Great consultation, efficient, & positive attorney. I needed possession of my home, Mr. Arrasmith acted swiftly and was able to provide me the information I needed to understand what could have been a lengthy process...

Nadia

I had a few questions about my situation, I needed some legal advice so I went ahead and contacted the Arrasmith firm. James was very helpful and polite, I asked him about a dozen questions and will be pursuing llegal...

Amber

James is a great guy. He has helped me to start a very difficult case. That I was nervous to do. He has made me Confident that he will fight hard on my case.

Rachel

I am so happy I made a decision to hire James to help me with my case. He was very professional and assisted me every step of the way. I was able to get a very positive settlement on my case. I couldn’t be happier!

Ledi

James has helped me tremendously with my legal matter by going over all the forms with me and clearly explaining how to complete them. He has made everything easy for me. I am very glad I called James!

Patty

James did a great job helping us with getting our settlement. Followed up in timely manners and updates always provided. Thank you for your help!

Anonymous

Gave James smith a call late at night with an immediate answer, he is very quick to respond and was eager to answer any questions I had.

Erika

Mr. Arrasmith was great, he answered all my questions and was very helpful with my legal matter. Thanks again James.

Alvin

Mr. Arrasmith was great, he answered all my questions and was very helpful with my legal matter. Thanks again James.

Alvin

Mr. Arrasmith was cocounsel on a complex case, but was able persuade a notoriously bad judge to go along with the resolution. He’s a fine lawyer that works hard to make sure he is prepared to win the case. I highly...

James

I've had a lot of attorneys in my life, and James is by far the best attorney that I've ever hired. He helped me with my case from start to finish and clearly explained the process to me without making it overly complex...

Darren

James is a great lawyer! He is honest and very trustworthy. He will give you sound legal advice.

Jason Motto

Great service and customer service. Very professional too, thanks James and Maria!! Having a bilingual attorney who knows so many different aspects of the law is a BIG plus.

JC R

I found James online after an extensive search. He was knowledgeable and worked with me on a payment plan I could afford. I'm happy I picked him for dealing with my awful landlord. He helped me get the settlement I...

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Lawyer James Arrasmith For me He very was very approachable and likeable as a person . I felt very comfortable with the knowledge, and information shared for our case. which we got desired result from. He to me is a...

John Davis

James is a wonderful lawyer and person! He is hardworking , ethical, quick and effective lawyer! He knows what he is doing.

Ka Saelee

James Arrasmith always does amazing job helping me with my landlord and tenant cases!! He is my go-to attorney when I need assistance in evicting tenants. I like how he also represents tenants as well as landlords - so...

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No one likes to need an attorney, but when you do, James is amazing to have in your corner! He is smart, professional, patient, and always makes sure his client is comfortable and confident with the next steps. I refer...

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Best lawyer he will get the job done went out of his way totally

Larry Yabut

Mr. Arrasmith and his team are amazing. Mr. Arrasmith is very knowledgeable and has been amazing through our whole process. He treats people like a human being and not a paycheck, I would highly recommend him to...

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No one likes to need an attorney, but when you do, James is amazing to have in your corner! He is smart, professional, patient, and always makes sure his client is comfortable and confident with the next steps. I refer...

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I would highly recommend James. I did lots of research searching for a great Attorney in the area. He makes you feel hopeful during a difficult times. His knowledge and expertise was great!

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I had a personal issue and needed to consult with a lawyer. James Arrasmith took his time to explain everything so that I could understand exactly what my options were and the best way to go about my next move. I would...

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A Very Nice, Personable Attorney/Person!! He is Very Patient and Willing to Listen to My {Tour} Case/Problems>I would Highly Recommend James to Anyone Seeking Fair and Equitable Justice!! Mark, CA.

Mark Loeffler

Thank you Mr James for helping me. What a great attorney! If you need help call Mr Arrowsmith!

Marva Davis

I give James Arrowsmith Attorney at Law 5 stars not just because he supports and represents CAED (our Non- Profit Organization that works with children ) but also because of how decent a person I've found him ...

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I was sooooo nervous about my case until I called James. He literally made the entire process simple and easy for me. I cannot recommend him highly enough! He is the most amazing attorney I’ve ever had!

Peyton

James has helped me tremendously with my legal matter by going over all the forms with me and clearly explaining how to complete them. He has made everything easy for me. I am very glad I called James!

Patsa Hin-udom

I am Latina and my English is not very good, therefore the attorney made sure that there was an assistant who spoke Spanish and who translated everything he told me and answered all my questions. Excellent service, I...

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James is fantastic! He answered all of my questions and gave me clear guidance. If you are looking for an experienced and knowledgable attorney, I highly recommend James. Amazing Lawyer!

peyton cooks

James has a very good heart. He takes his cases personally as if it was him. He is a very nice understanding guy

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James arasmith is an excellent attorney when I needed help or advice he was always there to answer my calls or emails a very kind person listens & cares.

Tariq Johnson

Thank you so much for being highly responsive. Making I understand every step of the process. As well as checking in with me before important decisions need to be made.

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Very friendly, personable, and professional. I was able to get through my legal issue relatively smoothly and had exceptional support through the entire process. Pricing was reasonable and the billing process was not...

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I had some legal questions, and contacted James Arrasmith Law firm. His response was quick, and very helpful.

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I highly recommend James Arrasmith. He really listens to your needs & truly cares about his clients. He is very professional & provides great results!

Vicky Tisdale

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