Carlos Batara – Immigration Lawyer header image
Carlos Batara - Immigration Attorney

8 Tips For Winning Your I-601 Waiver And Family Unity Hardship Case

– Posted in: I-601 Hardship And Waivers

immigrant-family-seeks-i-601-waiver

Want to know the big secret to winning I-601 waiver cases?

I learned it early in my career at a seminar for new attorneys. A judge, running the course, gave me a piece of advice that guides me to this day. It’s proven crucial in countless trials and appeals with immigration courts and agencies.

The advice, though simple, was profound.

Good lawyers, said the judge, prepare in advance. They know their evidence before their hearings start. They maximize their clients’ chances of success.

I-601 And I-601A Qualifying Relatives: How To Unlock Hidden Hardships And Win Family Unity Waiver Cases

– Posted in: I-601 Hardship And Waivers

qualifying-relatives-for-i-601-waivers

If at first you don’t succeed, I was taught by my mother, try and try again.

This attitude is one of the most important mindsets for many U.S. spouses trying to help immigrate their spouses born in another country.

Especially those who need to win a hardship waiver to remain together as a family.

I’ve seen far too many couples set out thinking the green card process is simple, only to find themselves facing separation from each other for 3 years, 10 years, and longer.

Giving up is not an option.

The New USCIS I-601 Hardship Waiver Guidelines – What Are The Differences?

– Posted in: I-601 Hardship And Waivers

hardship-spectrum-i-601-extreme-hardship

To say that I was puzzled when I initially viewed the new USCIS policy guide on proving hardship for I-601 waivers is to understate my reaction.

It wasn’t based on the law.

Several months ago, when USCIS announced its intention to create hardship waiver guidelines, I went on record that I did not perceive any major additions or substantive changes forthcoming. After closer review of the new guidelines, my position remains unchanged.

On the contrary, I feared some of the proposed language could make it tougher to win hardship waivers.

Beware The Role Of Discretion In I-601 Hardship Waiver Decision-Making

– Posted in: I-601 Hardship And Waivers

mixed-immigrant-family-seeking-i-601-discretionary-waiver

Certain immigration inquiries happen too often.

Immigrants, not being fully informed, put their trust in programs with risks they do not suspect.

Like the I-601 waiver process.

A few days ago, a woman in early 30s visited my office to find out if I could help her husband.

She explained that he traveled to his home country for a green card interview, but he was not allowed to return to the United States. Despite a notario’s assurances to the contrary, her husband’s request for an I-601 waiver had been denied.

When I asked what her husband told her, she said he could not prove enough hardship. She did not know what that really meant.

Neither did I.