In 2013, the United States Supreme Court ruled (in U.S. v. Windsor) that the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is unconstitutional; the decision cleared the path for immigrants married to partners of the same sex. For immigration purposes, legal same-sex marriages may create the grounds for immigration rights even if the couple now resides in a state where same-sex marriage is proscribed. As a result of U.S. v. Windsor, nothing now blocks U.S. citizens and green card holders from filing for immigration benefits for their same-sex spouses. Foreigners married to U.S. citizens of the same sex are now legally enabled to enter or remain in the United States. Same-sex spouses may now also act as qualifying relatives for inadmissibility waivers (I-212, I-601, I-601A) cancellation of removal proceedings, and requests of prosecutorial discretion. USCIS will consider the laws of the nation or state where the marriage was conducted in deciding if the marriage is legally binding for immigration purposes.
Immigration is always a complicated process, and same-sex immigration law is still clarifying and developing. Los Angeles same-sex couple immigration attorney Patricia Depew can help. Her comprehensive immigration practice includes representation for family-based immigration, business and employment immigration, and investment visas. Ms. Depew represents clients before the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (formerly INS) and U.S. Immigration Court, and she also offers guidance in legal matters relating to immigration and naturalization, visas, and citizenship.
Protecting the Individual
Same-sex couple immigration attorney Patricia Depew represents clients throughout Los Angeles County, Orange County, Ventura County, the San Fernando Valley region, Pasadena and the surrounding areas. She is committed to protecting the individual in immigration-related legal situations. In some of these situations, you'll want an attorney who handles your case personally rather than a firm where no one knows your name and you become just another case number. Clients work directly with the attorney; they're not shoved off onto associates or paralegals. Patricia Depew is a seasoned, veteran same-sex couple immigration attorney who will provide an honest evaluation of your situation, and should you need it, aggressive representation in the courtroom. A former award-winning film producer, Ms. Depew has sixteen years of legal experience helping families stay together and achieve their dreams in the southern California region.
Los Angeles and Pasadena Same-sex Couple Immigration Attorney
Patricia Depew provides a welcoming, comfortable environment for clients to talk about their legal issues and needs. She will move you quickly past legal rhetoric to the core of whatever legal matter you face, and save you from wasting time, financial resources, or emotional anxiety. Call her today at 310-284-8494. Se Habla Español.