FAQs With You From Beginning To End

Immigration Law FAQ Answers from the Law Offices of Juliana G. Lamardo

Be sure to call us at (305) 444-0099 if you have further questions.

U.S. immigration law is undoubtedly complex. Without formal training and extensive experience, it can be extremely difficult to navigate an immigration case or visa petition. At the Law Offices of Juliana G. Lamardo, we want to clear the air and help you better understand your rights, your options, and the possible outcomes in your case. Read our FAQ below as a starting point for your case.

  • Do I need an immigration lawyer, or can I handle the case on my own?
    The simple answer is no. You do not need an attorney; however, an attorney is highly recommended as the immigration laws are constantly changing. An immigration attorney facilitates the process from start to finish. Working with an immigration attorney allows for a more stress-free process.
  • What is the benefit of getting a green card?

    When you have a green card, you enjoy benefits that non-immigrants do not receive.

    As a green card holder, you:

    • File a Petition on behalf of family members
    • Pay less for college tuition
    • Only have to renew your green card every 10 years
    • Can travel more easily in and out of the U.S.
    • Can receive Social Security benefits if you work in the U.S. for at least 10 years
    • Can apply for Citizenship (through naturalization) after five years, in some circumstances three years
  • When can I apply for naturalization?
    Citizenship is also known as Naturalization. Once you have been a green card holder for five years, you may seek naturalization. There are a few circumstances in which you can apply for Citizenship before the five-year requirement, such as people who have held a green card and been married to a U.S. Citizen for three years. You can also apply for derivative Citizenship if either one or both of your parents are U.S. Citizens, in limited circumstances.
  • Do I have to disclose my criminal record on an immigration application?
    Yes. It is vital that any criminal history is reported accurately and fully. Any convictions, arrests, or charges should be reported, whether committed inside or outside of the United States. Also you must disclose any arrests/convictions obtained using a false name/alias.
  • Will criminal charges affect my immigration status?
    Not all arrests or criminal charges can affect your immigration status. However, some criminal convictions can and will affect your immigration status.
  • My application was denied on grounds of inadmissibility. What can I do?
    If USCIS has deemed you inadmissible, you may be able to obtain a waiver of inadmissibility. Essentially, an approved waiver of inadmissibility means the government is willing forgive your ground of inadmissibility. It usually takes outweighing the inadmissibility issue for the government to grant a waiver of inadmissibility.
  • Can I appeal a removal/deportation order?
    Yes. If you are facing removal proceedings, we can help you file an appeal with the Board of Immigration Appeals.
  • What can I do to protect myself if I am in removal/deportation proceedings?

    Possible forms of relief include:

    • Cancellation of removal for certain permanent residents (EOIR 42A)
    • Cancellation of removal for non-permanent residents (EOIR 42B)
    • Adjustment of status / Residency
    • Waiver for crimes of inadmissibility – 212(h)
    • Waiver for crimes before 1997 - 212(c)
    • Waiver for fraud – 212(i)
    • Special waiver for fraud under 237(a)(1)(H)
    • Petitions to remove conditions on residence (I-751)
    • Motions to Terminate
    • Voluntary departure
    • Prosecutorial discretion

    Attorney Juliana G. Lamardo can assess your case and determine which form of relief may be best suited for your situation.

  • How long will I have to wait to get my visa?
    Visa processing times vary across the board. Wait times often depend on the type of visa for which you petitioned. Applications are processed in the order they are received based on their priority date. Depending on the type of visa you are seeking, and depending on the consulate you are using, it could take anywhere from a few months to several years. When working on your case, we can advise you as to how long yours might take.
  • What is a bond? What happens at a bond hearing?

    A bond is a sum of money that must be paid to release a detainee from custody. Immigration Bonds must be paid by a U.S. Citizen, a lawful permanent resident or a bond company. Payment of a bond allows a detainee to return home until his or her hearing. Not all detainees are eligible for a bond – some are only eligible for parole.

    You may request a bond hearing if you have been denied a bond or if the bond amount is too high. We recommend retaining qualified legal counsel to represent you at your bond hearing.

  • My family member is being held at Krome Detention Center. What can I do?
    ICE holds hundreds of detainees at Krome Detention Center. If you have a loved one being held at this facility or any other facility, the Law Offices of Juliana G. Lamardo can help. Whether they were detained for failing to attend an immigration hearing, for overstaying their visa , for being accused of a crime, we can find a solution to protect their rights. We can fight for a bond hearing or request a parole and fight any charges or removal/deportation.
  • What Are the Common Types of Immigration Visas Available?

    There are several types of immigration visas available, each serving different purposes. Family-based visas allow U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to bring their family members to the United States. Employment-based visas enable immigrants to work in the United States, with specific categories depending on the skills and qualifications of the applicant. Student visas permit individuals to pursue education at U.S. institutions, and visa categories such as the K1 allow fiancés of U.S. citizens to enter the country with the intent of marriage. Understanding these categories is crucial for selecting the appropriate visa, and at the Law Offices of Juliana G. Lamardo, we guide our clients through this complex selection process to ensure they choose the visa path best aligned with their needs.

  • How Can I Apply for U.S. Citizenship?

    Applying for U.S. citizenship involves a multi-step process that includes filing an application, attending a biometrics appointment, passing a citizenship interview, and taking an oath of allegiance. Applicants must meet certain residency and physical presence requirements, demonstrate good moral character, and possess a basic understanding of U.S. history and government. Our team helps clients prepare meticulously by offering resources and guidance through each stage, from ensuring all legal prerequisites are met to providing support through the final oath ceremony. Our commitment to your journey toward becoming a U.S. citizen reflects our dedication to helping you integrate fully into the American fabric.

  • What Should I Do If I Receive a Notice to Appear?

    Receiving a Notice to Appear (NTA) can be a daunting experience, as it signals the commencement of removal proceedings. It is crucial to respond promptly and seek professional legal advice. Our firm offers strategic representation to navigate these proceedings, focusing on building a defense that aligns with your circumstances. We evaluate each client's options, such as applying for asylum or cancellation of removal, to find the most effective route to contest or mitigate the implications of the NTA.

  • What Is the Importance of a Bond Hearing?

    A bond hearing is significant for detained immigrants seeking release while their proceedings are pending. Success at a bond hearing can mean the difference between facing your case at home with family or from detention. Understanding the procedures and criteria that judges consider is crucial for a favorable outcome. Our firm prepares clients thoroughly by gathering relevant evidence, articulating positive ties to the community, and demonstrating the detainee's credibility and trustworthiness. This preparation increases the likelihood of release and allows individuals to focus on their immigration journey.

  • Why Should I Choose Law Offices of Juliana Lamardo, Attorney At Law for My Immigration Needs?

    Choosing the right legal representation can significantly impact the outcome of your immigration journey. At Law Offices of Juliana Lamardo, Attorney At Law, we pride ourselves on our personalized approach and commitment to our clients' success. Our lead attorney's personal immigration experience provides her with unique insights into the challenges faced by our clients. We are committed to offering compassionate, effective, and tailored legal support throughout the often complex and intimidating immigration process. By choosing Law Offices of Juliana Lamardo, Attorney At Law, you are not just selecting a legal representative; you are gaining a steadfast partner in your pursuit of a better future.

Why is Juliana G. Lamardo, Attorney at Law The Best Attorney for YOU?

  • Specializes in Complicated or Overlooked Cases
    Juliana and her team understand and work hard to fight the cases that other attorneys turn away.
  • Quick to Respond
    Juliana and her team are very good at communicating quickly and working on Detention Cases.
  • Knowledge of the Law
    Juliana is very experienced with Immigration Law including Bond Cases and Complicated Removal Cases.
  • Same Attorney From Start to Finish
    Always work directly with Attorney Juliana G. Lamardo from the beginning of your case through to the end.
  • An Attorney Who Understands
    Juliana was an immigrant herself and understands the difficulties her clients face.
  • Services Available in English, Spanish & Portuguese
    Speak directly to an attorney who understands the immigration process.

Case Results

That Speak for Themselves
  • USCIS granted humanitarian reinstatement A family who had an approved I-130 since 2010 and their Petitioner passed away
  • Resident after 4 Years of Fighting Deported to Home Country
  • Client was given a $5,000 bond Detained While Traveling on a Commercial Bus
  • Granted Residency in the United States Petition Twice Denied Due to Allegations of Marital Fraud
  • Granted cancellation of removal & now a citizen Placed in Deportation Proceedings
  • Granted bond within 10 days & case terminated Transported to Krome Service Processing Center

Get Started Today

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Opinions that Matter Most

Client Reviews
    "She is amazing!!"
    They say marriage interviews you are to be afraid of - but with Ms. Lamardo, that is out the door. Juliana helped us get all together, talked to us, gave us a preview and we felt way more confident. The day arrived and it was so fun with her, we laughed, we met other attorneys, we even forgot that we had the interview. We went in, and everything went smoothly. It was great! She is amazing!! Of course before all that fun we had some serious time to prepare and get everything we needed and she helped us do that and her name is well known so we were good. I just want to say - Thank you very very much!
    - Luis
    "Thank you, Juliana for all your help with my case."
    She is very knowledgeable, thorough, a great communicator, and truly represents best interests of her clients. If Juliana takes your case, you can be confident that she will do everything and will win it. Besides being an outstanding professional, she also has a very nice personality, and it's simply a pleasure to work with her. Thank you, Juliana for all your help with my case.
    - Wojciech
    "My level of happiness for my case being approved is equal to how much grateful I am to Ms. Juliana."
    Today I got the news from Ms. Juliana that my case was approved and I'm so excited that I can't thank her enough for all her professionalism, support and guidance since day one. She is not only an outstanding attorney but a great and warm person. She gives you that extra piece of mind that you need when going through this immigration process. My level of happiness for my case being approved is equal to how much grateful I am to Ms. Juliana.
    - Fabiana
    "With great appreciation I like to say thank you Juliana for all your great effort in helping me become a citizen."
    With great appreciation I like to say thank you Juliana for all your great effort in helping me become a citizen. It was a long journey and I do appreciate your consistency and dedication in handling my case. You were very sweet during the entire process and understanding. I will forever be thankful and will always keep you in mind for whoever I can refer you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Peter.
    - Peter
    "Went Above and Beyond"
    Juliana started to work on our file and completely turned an unpleasant situation into a very positive one. She handled our situation with the utmost care and went above and beyond every step of the process. Whenever we had a question she answered promptly or got back to us with a reasonable amount of time. Her customer service was exceptional and I appreciate the care she gave to us during a very difficult time in my families life. I highly recommend.
    - Alfonso & Stephanie
    "An Absolutely Incredible Job on My Case"
    Ms. Lamardo did an absolutely incredible job on my case. She listened attentively to my concerns and addressed every single item I was worried about. I have had a series of very bad experiences with multiple attorneys and Ms. Lamardo came highly recommended for her experience and professionalism. She went above and beyond even showing up to USCIS when no one would return her calls or emails about my case. NOW HERE I AM, VERY HAPPY TO BE A PERMANENT RESIDENT. Next, my citizenship. THANK YOU JULIANA, YOU SAVED MY LIFE. If you are looking for the best, I strongly recommend you call Ms. Lamardo before you waste your time and money on a bait and switch firm. She will attend to your case personally.
    - Mario
    "Solved My Case the Best Way Possible"
    I highly recommend this lawyer as she has solved my case the best way possible! She's friendly and replies to all of my e-mails promptly. Extremely professional!
    - Anonymous
    "She Was a Great Support"
    Attorney Lamardo was recommended to us by a friend and at a time of desperation, she was a great support. She assisted my husband out of deportation proceedings...Even though she was assisting us long distance, I do not have any complaints about her diligence. She is responsible and knowledgeable about the process. I have recently reached out to her after a few years without contact and I received a response within 10 minutes after the email was sent. I would definitely recommend her to anyone who may be in need of an immigration attorney!
    - Flavia