Legal Question in Immigration Law in Washington

My name is Patrick Heavey, I live in the state of Washington, USA. My Fianc�e arrived 8/21/2010 on a K1 visa from the Philippines. We then married in Nevada on October 30th. We are now in the process of applying for Adjustment of Status (AOS). I am very concerned about filling out these forms, and I need to make sure that everything is filled out properly. I believe that I have located the proper forms to fill out, I-485, I-864, I-693, G-325A, G-1145. However, I do have a few questions:
1. We got married within 90 days, but how long do I have to file for AOS? 180 days?
2. Her Maiden name is Marilou Tagle Esguerra. She wants her married name to be Marilou Esguerra Heavey. Is it OK to change her middle name like this?
3. I assume that the green card process will be many months. Her visa expires in February 2, 2011; 180 days after it was issued. Can she travel within the USA after February 2nd if she doesn�t yet have her green card? If so, what documents will she be required to present at TSA?
4. After she gets her green card, will she need to have her name changed on her Philippine passport for entry to the Philippines? For entry into USA, is all she needs to show at Customs is her green card?
5. How much would your service charge to look over my documents before I send them in?

Asked on 11/12/10, 10:53 am

3 Answers from Attorneys

Dianne Brooks The Mandel Law Firm

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I would be more comfortable answering your questions as your representative. I will say don't worry about time expiring, she will still be able to adjust even if she is out of status, so even if she isn't approved for 6-9 months that is fine. She can travel within the U.S. now, although beware of states that may have just passed harsh immigration laws. As for the Phillipines, you would need to find out what they require (I'd be willing to try and find out for you if you decided to hire me, but that's not something a U.S. lawyer would know off hand.)

If you would like to call me toll free (866) 723 7610 or email me, I can discuss my very reasonable fee for looking over your documents.

Answered on 11/17/10, 11:04 am

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