Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Immigration law is federal law, and because this practice is limited to federal immigration matters, clients can be represented throughout the United States and, depending on the case type, from abroad. Most matters can be handled remotely.

We go over your situation, which petitions are involved, the order they are filed in, and what the process will ask of you. You should come away knowing what the path looks like, whether or not you decide to move forward.

Processing times are set by USCIS, vary by form and service center, and change regularly. Any number given in advance is an estimate rather than a promise. Adjustment of status may take several months to more than a year; naturalization timing varies by jurisdiction; and consular processing depends on the relevant U.S. embassy or consulate. Current USCIS and Department of State updates are monitored throughout a case.

Not every matter requires an attorney, and some people prepare their own applications. Immigration law can be complex, however, and legal issues, procedural rules, or documentation can affect even a case that initially appears straightforward.

An attorney can evaluate eligibility, identify concerns before filing, prepare applications, respond to USCIS requests, and guide the case. Depending on the matter, the firm may offer either full-scope representation or limited-scope help with a specific service. Available options are discussed during the consultation.

Yes. Consultations are available in English and Russian.

The firm offers a complimentary 15-minute introductory call to learn the general nature of your matter, confirm whether it falls within the practice, and explain the consultation process. This call is for scheduling and general information; it does not include legal advice or a case assessment.

A full legal consultation costs $150 for a 45-minute session. If more time is needed, that will be discussed in advance. When the firm is retained within 14 days of the consultation, the $150 consultation fee is credited toward the legal fee. Before representation begins, you will receive a written engagement agreement describing the services and fees.

No. Intake information is reviewed only to evaluate whether a consultation may be appropriate. An attorney-client relationship begins only after both you and the firm sign a written engagement agreement.

Schedule a consultation. After the initial review, you will receive an assessment of eligibility and recommended next steps.

Information shared during a consultation is handled carefully and professionally. The full protections of an attorney-client relationship begin only after a written engagement agreement has been signed by both you and the firm.

The firm maintains an intentionally focused immigration practice so clients receive personalized attention, careful preparation, responsive communication, and regular case updates. Concentrating on selected case types supports thorough representation rather than a high-volume approach.

The exact documents depend on the matter. Common examples include valid passports and immigration records such as I-94s, visas, and prior approvals; birth and marriage certificates; evidence of a genuine family relationship; and financial, tax, or employment records when required. You will receive a checklist tailored to your case after intake.

A request for evidence is not a denial. It means USCIS wants something clarified or supplemented. Because the request includes a response deadline, careful and timely preparation matters.

A married couple is usually interviewed together, although an officer may choose to speak with each spouse separately. Interview preparation covers both possibilities so neither comes as a surprise.

The firm handles selected family-based and federal immigration matters, including:

• Spousal & Family Petitions (Form I-130)
• Adjustment of Status inside the U.S. (Form I-485)
• Consular Processing & National Visa Center filings (Form DS-260 & NVC)
• Visitor & Tourist Visas (Form DS-160 & B-1/B-2)
• Visitor Visa Extensions (Form I-539)
• Petition Evidence & Documentation Assembly
• USCIS Domestic & U.S. Embassy Overseas Interview Preparation
• Citizenship & Naturalization (Form N-400)
• Post-filing support, Requests for Evidence (RFEs), and case reviews

The practice is deliberately limited to selected case types so each matter receives careful, high-quality attention.

Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) allows eligible family members physically present in the United States to apply for permanent residence without leaving the country. Consular Processing is used when the applicant resides outside the U.S. or is ineligible for domestic adjustment. After USCIS approves the initial petition, the case transfers to the National Visa Center (NVC) and is finalized during an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad.

Yes. Federal immigration law allows our practice to represent clients nationwide and worldwide. We manage the online National Visa Center (NVC) portal, assist with DS-260 immigrant visa applications and Form I-864 Affidavits of Support, assemble civil document packages, and prepare family members abroad for their U.S. Embassy interviews remotely.

Yes. We assist family members and relatives with Form DS-160 filings, help assemble proof demonstrating strong social and economic ties to their home country, and conduct remote mock interview preparation before their U.S. Embassy appointment.

Possibly. Before accepting the matter, the attorney reviews the filed forms and supporting evidence, your immigration history, the current stage of the case, and any changes since filing.

Post-filing help may include reviewing a marriage-based adjustment application, identifying strategy, admissibility, evidence, or interview concerns, preparing you for the USCIS interview, and attending the interview when appropriate. A consultation is used to determine which options are available.

When appropriate, yes. The firm provides interview preparation and attorney representation for family-based immigration matters. Preparation includes what to expect, common questions, and issues that may need attention. Interview attendance may be offered through full- or limited-scope representation.

No. USCIS or the U.S. Department of State decides immigration matters. Careful preparation is important, but no attorney can guarantee an outcome.

Often, through an application for employment authorization (Form I-765). In many cases it can be filed with an adjustment of status application. Whether that applies depends on your circumstances.

Sometimes, with a travel document (Form I-131, often called advance parole). Leaving the United States while an application is pending can carry serious risks, and the rules are specific. Seek legal guidance before booking travel.

Yes, if eligible. Temporary visitors inside the U.S. who need more time due to family plans or unexpected circumstances can apply to extend their stay with USCIS using Form I-539. The application must be filed prior to status expiration and must demonstrate temporary intent, valid status maintenance, and sufficient financial resources for the extended visit.

Yes. Most matters can be handled through secure remote communication and document management. In-person meetings may be arranged when appropriate.