Archives: Blogs
When USCIS Suspects Marriage Fraud: Handling Stokes Interviews and Proving Your Marriage Is Real
On Behalf of Coughlon Law Firm, PLLC. Jun 20, 2025 | Immigration
USCIS conducts a Stokes interview when it suspects that a marriage-based green card application may not be legitimate. This second interview happens only if there are concerns following the first meeting or if your documents raise red flags. It is part of a process created after the Stokes v. INS case to give applicants a […]
READ MORECriminal Convictions and Deportation: How to Leverage Post-Conviction Relief and Hardship Waivers
On Behalf of Coughlon Law Firm, PLLC. May 27, 2025 | Immigration
In Arizona, a single criminal conviction can do more than bring fines or jail time. It can also lead to deportation, especially for noncitizens. Even old convictions or minor offenses may trigger removal proceedings or block your chance to become a lawful permanent resident. Post-conviction relief and hardship waivers can offer a second chance for […]
READ MOREBorder Security Tech Workers: TN Visa Challenges for Cybersecurity Professionals
On Behalf of Coughlon Law Firm, PLLC. Apr 21, 2025 | Immigration
Cybersecurity jobs are growing fast across Arizona and the Southwest, especially near the border, where secure infrastructure is critical. However, for Canadian and Mexican tech professionals applying for TN visas, getting past Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is often harder than expected. That’s because “cybersecurity” isn’t clearly listed under the TN visa job categories. This […]
READ MOREImmigration Consequences of Cannabis Industry Employment: Balancing State Legality With Federal Inadmissibility
On Behalf of Coughlon Law Firm, PLLC. Mar 24, 2025 | Immigration
Arizona has embraced the legal cannabis industry, allowing both medical and recreational marijuana sales. Many legal residents see it as a great job opportunity, especially with dispensaries hiring workers for retail, security, and administrative roles. However, green card holders and other non-citizens could be risking their immigration status by working in the cannabis industry. Even […]
READ MORENavigating the Complexities of the U Visa for Crime Victims
On Behalf of Coughlon Law Firm, PLLC. Feb 28, 2025 | Immigration
Victims of crime and domestic abuse often experience trauma. Immigrants even have it worse because the fear of deportation makes it harder for them to come forward. The U visa was created to protect crime victims who come forward and assist law enforcement. This special visa provides temporary legal status, work authorization, and a path […]
READ MORELegal Strategies for Challenging Visa Denials and Overcoming Inadmissibility
On Behalf of Coughlon Law Firm, PLLC. Jan 23, 2025 | Immigration
Visa application is a challenging process, and it can get even more challenging when you face refusals from the Department of State. Even though it is emotionally taxing, visa denial is not the end of your quest to get into the United States. Here are a few insights on how you can appeal a visa […]
READ MOREHow Can Immigrants Navigate the Complexities of Asylum Applications Amid Policy Shifts?
On Behalf of Coughlon Law Firm, PLLC. Dec 20, 2024 | Asylum
Applying for asylum in the United States can be a long and complicated process. Frequent changes in immigration policies add even more uncertainty for asylum seekers. These shifts can impact everything from eligibility criteria to how applications are processed. However, there are steps immigrants can take to navigate these challenges and strengthen their cases. Understand […]
READ MOREHow Can Undocumented Immigrants Protect Their Children’s Rights?
On Behalf of Coughlon Law Firm, PLLC. Nov 25, 2024 | Immigration
Undocumented immigrants deal with many challenges when trying to protect their children. The fear of deportation and the stress of an uncertain future can make it difficult to access resources that their families need. Even so, there are ways to prepare and take action to ensure their children’s rights and safety are protected. Making Sure […]
READ MOREHow Immigration Status Impacts Estate Planning in the U.S.
On Behalf of Coughlon Law Firm, PLLC. Oct 22, 2024 | Immigration
Estate planning can be a little complicated when it involves immigration. If you or your spouse are not U.S. citizens, some specific tax rules and regulations will apply to you. Immigration status impacts how your estate is taxed and what you can pass down to your family. Understanding these details is important so you can […]
READ MOREAsylum vs. Refugee Status: What’s the Difference and How Do I Apply?
On Behalf of Coughlon Law Firm, PLLC. Sep 24, 2024 | Asylum
Every day, hundreds of people make the incredibly hard decision to leave their countries of birth in search of better lives and safety, which the United States offers. However, these people bear different titles when they arrive in the country. Some will be called asylum seekers, and others will be refugees. The challenge is understanding […]
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