Legal Question in Immigration Law in Washington

what forms to use? or where to start?

Been married since 1999, scared to file for my husband because of all the law changes and need to do something because of deportation increases, have no sponser and live on a fixed income with 2 young children, looking for answers and suggestions to this complicated problem, no deporation records but voluntarily left usa in 2002 with wife and children, crossed border again in 2006.


Asked on 4/01/07, 11:15 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

James J. White, attorney Law Offices of Smith & White, PLLC

Re: what forms to use? or where to start?

That's smart to try to figure this out before he's being deported. Not to mention, that worry must drive you crazy sometimes. The money issue is a problem because you do need to establish the ability to support him if he becomes disabled / etc. Many people find sponsors in church or similar community organizations.

The case is a little complicated. I am assuming that he didn't have lawful status to enter the US either time. When you say voluntarily left usa was that completely on his own or granted a "voluntary departure" by immigration? Either way, if he was in the US without status more than 180 days he has a bar to returning to the US. He can request a waiver to that bar, showing extreme hardship to a US citizen (you) but he would have to do so from his home country. Lastly, the 2006 re-entry after having a bar might create problems too. Either way, this is an expensive case to get help on. I sometimes take cases pro bono but cannot at this time. I've asked a colleague if she knows who might help. Contact me directly to follow up with this question.

At your service,

Read more
Answered on 4/02/07, 12:17 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Immigration Law questions and answers in Washington