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Be yourself; Everyone else is already taken.
— Oscar Wilde.

This is the first post on my new blog. I’m just getting this new blog going, so stay tuned for more. Subscribe below to get notified when I post new updates.

4 Common Myths About Immigration Law Debunked

Immigration law in the United States is a complex field that is constantly changing. Unfortunately, that means that it is often misunderstood. Misconceptions about United States immigration law can stop some people from legally immigrating or even jeopardize the legal immigration status of people who are already living and working in the country. What are some of the most common myths about US immigration law?

Myth 1: It’s Easy to Legally Immigrate to the US

One widespread myth is that immigrating to the US legally is a straightforward process. In reality, the process is highly complex and often lengthy. Depending on the category under which you are applying (such as family-based or employment-based), the requirements, waiting periods, and success rates can vary. Working with an attorney is essential to make sure that the legal immigration process goes as smoothly as possible.

Myth 2: Undocumented Immigrants Don’t Have Legal Rights

Another common misconception is that undocumented immigrants have no legal rights in the US. While it is true that undocumented immigrants face many legal challenges, they still have certain rights under US law. For example, they are entitled to due process and equal protection under the law, as guaranteed by the Constitution. This means they have the right to a fair trial, legal representation, and protection from unlawful search and seizure. Many undocumented immigrants misunderstand their rights, which can put them in vulnerable legal situations.

Myth 3: Marrying a US Citizen Automatically Grants Citizenship

Many people mistakenly believe that marrying a US citizen automatically grants citizenship or permanent residency. While marriage to a US citizen can provide a pathway to obtaining a green card, it is not automatically granted. The citizenship process involves several steps, including submitting a petition, attending interviews, and providing evidence of the marriage. Additionally, there are background checks to confirm that the marriage is legitimate and that there are no red flags. Any evidence of fraud or marriage solely for immigration purposes can lead to severe penalties, including deportation and bans on future entry into the US.

Myth 4: Legal Immigrants Have No Risk of Deportation

Finally, another common immigration myth is that once someone has legally immigrated to the US, they are completely protected from deportation. However, even lawful permanent residents or green card holders can be deported under certain circumstances. Crimes of moral turpitude, aggravated felonies, and violations of immigration laws can all lead to deportation proceedings for legal immigrants. Additionally, changes in your personal circumstances, like a change in marital status for those whose residency depends on marriage, could also impact your legal status.

Partner with an Experienced Personal Immigration Attorney at The Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence

If you or a loved one are interested in exploring work visas, choose an experienced firm like the Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence to give you the help you need. Please give us a call at 443.352.3201. Skype and telephone consultation are both available to clients.

4 Myths About Hit-and-Run Accidents in Maryland

From 2012 to 2021, a whopping 6.9% of fatal crashes in the state of Maryland were hit-and-run accidents. This was a 61.5% increase in the number of deadly accidents that were hit-and-runs, which means that Marylanders need to take extra caution on the roads. Unfortunately, some myths about hit-and-run accidents prevent victims from getting the restitution that they deserve. What is the reality behind these myths?

Myth 1: Hit-and-Run Accidents Are Rare

As we mentioned in the above paragraph, hit-and-run accidents are very common. Approximately 7 in every 100 fatal accidents are classified as hit-and-runs, and there are many other accidents that don’t result in injuries or fatalities but that still leave victims without insurance information for the person who hit their vehicle. There are many different reasons why people flee the scene, including driving under the influence, not realizing that they struck another vehicle, being uninsured, driving without a license, and worrying that they are at fault.

Myth 2: You’re Out of Luck If You Can’t Find Who Did It

Another common myth about hit-and-run accidents in Maryland is that you are totally out of luck if you can’t track down the driver. In reality, most uninsured motorist policies are designed to help cover hit-and-runaccidents so that you are able to get the repairs that you need without breaking the bank. Even if you think that you need to file an uninsured motorist claim, it is still a good idea to consult an attorney first.

Myth 3: You Don’t Need an Attorney

Do you still need an attorney for hit-and-run accidents if the other party has not been identified? Yes! In Maryland, attorneys can help you with a variety of important things so that you can focus on recovery and not tracking down camera footage or negotiating with your insurance company. Your insurance company is always working to minimize their expenses while your attorney is always working to fight for your rights.

Myth 4: A Hit-and-Run Is a Minor Offense

There is also a misconception that hit-and-run accidents, especially those that do not result in severe injury or death, are minor offenses. In reality, Maryland law treats hit-and-runs very seriously. Penalties for leaving the scene can include steep fines, imprisonment, and the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. Additionally, leaving the scene of an accident that results in serious bodily injury is a felony that can lead to up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine. If the accident results in death, the penalties are even more severe.

Partner with an Experienced Hit-and-Run Attorney at The Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence If you or a loved one are concerned about finding the right personal injury or car accident lawyer for your case, choose an experienced firm like the Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence to give you the help you need. Please give us a call at 443.352.3201. Skype and telephone consultation are both available to clients.

What Types of Work Visas Are Available?

While many people are familiar with the H-1B visa, the most commonly used type of work visa, there are numerous other types of work visas available. These visas cater to various categories of workers, including skilled professionals, seasonal workers, and even investors. Understanding the different types of work visas can help you better navigate the complex immigration process to the United States.

H Visas

The H-1B visa is one of the most popular work visas for skilled professionals. It is designed to attract individuals with specialized knowledge or advanced education in specific in-demand fields like technology, engineering, finance, and healthcare. To use these work visas to enter the country, you must be sponsored by an employer. Additionally, your employer must be able to show that they cannot find enough qualified American workers for the position.

There are also H-2A and H-2B work visas. These visas are used to attract temporary or seasonal help. While they can be used in non-agricultural settings, they are very popular for farms and other agricultural businesses that rely on a high volume of seasonal help. H-3 visas can be used to seek additional training (outside of medical school) for people who will then return to their home countries to use the training.

O Visas

The O-1 visa is for people who have special abilities or achievements in their respective fields. This type of work visa is often used by performers and professionals in arts, business, or athletics who have national or international recognition for their talents. In order to receive this work visa, applicants must provide evidence of their extraordinary abilities, like relevant awards.

I Visas

I visas allow those working in the foreign press to come to the United States for work purposes. Film crew members, reporters, and other press workers who are representing a valid foreign media entity are eligible to use these work visas. Unlike some other types of work visas, these are often indefinite so long as the person using the visa stays employed with the same media organization.

L Visas

L work visas are designed to allow temporary transfers within businesses so that employees can move from one country to another. L visas are often used for those with special expertise or for managers or company executives. These visas can last for either one year or three years, depending on which you apply for.

Partner with an Experienced Personal Immigration Attorney at The Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence

USCIS Updated filing fees from April 1, 2024

Immigration/Visa Benefit	Current Fee	New Fee (April 2024)	Fee Increase
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): H-1 Classification	$460	$780	$320
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): H-2A Classification	$460	$1,090	$630
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): H-2B Classification	$460	$1,080	$620
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): L Classification	$460	$1,385	$925
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): O Classification	$460	$1,055	$595
Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker)	$700	$715	$15
Form I-907 (Request for Premium Processing)	$2,500	$2,805	$305

Immigration Benefit	Current Fee	New Fee (April 2024)	Fee Increase
K-1 Fiancé Visa	$535	$675	$140
CR-1 Spousal Visa	$535	$675	$140
Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) without Work or Travel Permits	$1,225	$1,440	$215
Adjustment of Status Form I-765 Work Permit (Optional)	$0 when filed with an Adjustment of Status	$260 when filed with an Adjustment of Status	$260
Adjustment of Status Form I-131 Travel Permit (Optional)	$0 when filed with an Adjustment of Status	$630	$630
Adjustment of Status with Form I-130 + Work and Travel Permits	$1,760	$3,005	$1,245

The Role of Insurance Companies in a Personal Injury Case in Maryland

Personal injury cases can be complex, especially when it comes to navigating insurance claims and working with insurance companies. Your insurance company can help you to cover the cost of treatments and fight for you. However, they can also work against you and fight to pay out as little as possible. What should you understand about the role of insurance companies in your personal injury case?

What Constitutes a Personal Injury Case?

In Maryland, personal injury cases can be filed whenever someone is injured due to the negligence or wrongful actions of someone else. Personal injury law encompasses a wide range of accidents, including car accidents, slip and fall accidents, medical malpractice injuries, and more. When you are pursuing compensation for the harm that you endured as a result of the accident, you will typically file a claim with the other party’s insurance company.

How Are Insurance Companies Involved?

Insurance companies play a big role in personal injury cases by providing coverage and potentially compensating the injured party for their losses. However, insurance companies are primarily profit-driven entities. As such, their first objective is to minimize payouts and protect their financial interests, not to help you out. Insurance companies and adjusters are constantly looking for ways to decrease your payout or find fault in your actions. Working with an attorney is one way to lower your risk.

Do Insurance Companies Investigate Your Personal Injury Case?

Yes! Insurance companies will investigate any claims that you make. When you file a personal injury claim, the insurance company will conduct a separate investigation to assess liability and determine the extent of damages. This investigation can involve things like reviewing medical records, police reports, witness statements, and other relevant evidence. Insurance adjusters are tasked with evaluating the claim and negotiating settlements on behalf of the insurer.

In many cases, insurance companies will try to settle claims out of court to avoid lengthy and expensive litigation. They might offer a settlement amount to the injured party before proceedings begin. However, it’s crucial to carefully consider any settlement offers and consult with an attorney to ensure you are receiving fair compensation. Insurance companies will often lowball victims initially to minimize their financial losses.

Partner with an Experienced Personal Injury or Car Accident Attorney at The Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence

If you or a loved one are concerned about finding the right car accident lawyer for your case, choose an experienced firm like the Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence to give you the help you need. Please give us a call at 443.352.3201. Skype and telephone consultation are both available to client

DUI vs DWI: How Are They Different?

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Despite the two terms referring to different things, many people use DUI and DWI interchangeably. In the state of Maryland, the two offenses have a lot in common. Both DWI and DUI are very serious charges. If convicted, it could have a permanent impact on your life, both personally and professionally. Working with the right lawyer from the beginning is essential.

What is a DWI?

DWI stands for Driving While Impaired. In the state of Maryland, DWI is considered to be less serious than a DUI. You can be charged with a DWI when you have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.07-0.08%. This amount is below the legal limit, but you can be charged with a DWI for showing other signs of impairment, like driving poorly or failing a field sobriety test. Because you are not over the legal limit but are still impaired, this charge exists.

What Are the Punishments for a DWI Conviction?

While a DWI is less serious than a DUI, you will still have serious consequences for your conviction. Depending on the outcome of your case, you could face up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine if this is your first time being charged with a DWI. If you have future offenses, that will be weighed when determining your punishment. You will also receive an eight-point penalty on your driver’s license, which could lead to a license suspension.

What is a DUI?

DUI stands for Driving Under the Influence, and it is more serious than a DWI. You can be charged with a DUI when you have a blood alcohol percentage of .08% or above and or operating a vehicle. .08 is Maryland’s legal limit for alcohol intoxication, and going over that limit can completely change your life due to the consequences that will be levied against you.

What Are the Punishments for a DUI Conviction?

If you re found guilty of a DWI and convicted, you can face up to a year in jail and fines of up to $1,000. The penalties are even more severe for future convictions, as those who receive a second DUI may be charged up to $2,000 and need to spend up to two years in jail. Because the Motor Vehicle Administration will also charge you with a 12-point penalty, you will likely lose your driving privileges for a set period of time. This can present many challenges for the average person, as you often need a vehicle and license to work.

You Need Representation for Your DUI or DWI Case from The Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence

If you are worried about the outcome of your DUI or DWI case, choose an experienced firm Best Lawyer in Baltimore County like the Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence to give you the help you need. Please give us a call at 443.352.3201. Skype and telephone consultation are both available to clients.

I-601A Provisional Waiver Update

Beginning March 4, 2013, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) instituted a new application procedure, the 1-601A Provisional Waiver, for certain individuals who would be subject to the three- or ten-year bars for having accrued unlawful presence when they depart the U.S. These applicants are able to file a provisional waiver of inadmissibility prior to leaving the U.S. for their consular interviews. The option to apply for the waiver before traveling abroad for a consular interview provides tremendous benefits to applicants. This process allows applicants with legal avenues to immigration status to avoid the risk of long-term family separation and uncertainty.

The benefit of USCIS Immigration Law adjudicating the waiver in advance through this process, applicants avoid having to wait for adjudication of a waiver while abroad, and it allows them to avoid the risk of getting stuck outside the US if the waiver is denied. The provisional waiver is only a change in the administrative process, not a change in the law. This practice advisory will walk you through steps to determine if your client is eligible for the I-601A provisional waiver.

UPDATE:

In August 2016, USCIS updated the I-601A Provisional Waiver process. Now, anyone who is statutorily eligible for a waiver of unlawful presence can use the I-601A process to waive the unlawful presence grounds of inadmissibility found at INA §212(a)(9)(B). The biggest change to the I-601A Provisional Waiver is the expansion to include applications from beneficiaries of all visa categories (not just those with U.S. citizen immediate relatives) who can show hardship 10 an LPR spouse or parent, in addition to U.S. citizen spouse or parent qualifying relatives. The applicant is still required to have an approved immigrant visa petition.

If you have questions regarding a I-601A waiver, please contact the Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence, LLC. on 443.352.3201.

When to Apply for an Adjustment of Status

In the United States, the process of applying for a green card after you are already in the country is known as an adjustment of status or AOS. This process allows you to remain in the United States during the application process, even if your visa is about to expire, until the green card is issued. What should you know about the process of applying for an AOS?

Know Your Requirements

In order to apply for an adjustment of status, you need to be eligible for a green card. Depending on your situation, you may qualify for:

A family-based green card if you are the child, parent, spouse, or close relative of an existing Green card Dallas holder or a current US citizen.
An employment-based green card if you are able to be sponsored through your current employer or you have accomplishments or skills that are enough to merit an adjustment of status.
A green card if you have humanitarian grounds for applying.

What Does the 90-Day Rule Mean?

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services uses a 90-day rule to help ensure that those seeking an adjustment of status did not misrepresent their intentions upon their initial arrival. Many different types of visas, including the F-1 and B2 visas, are not able to be used by people who plan on eventually immigrating permanently. However, some types of visas like H1-B can be used with the intent of permanent immigration. When applying for your adjustment of status, make sure that you have the right visa. If you ask for an adjustment within 90 days of your arrival, it is incredibly challenging to overcome the denial from USCIS.

How to Apply for an Adjustment of Status

Check your eligibility for a Green card Dallas ahead of time by contacting your attorney at the Immigration Lawyer Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence.
Ensure that your sponsor files the appropriate petition for the type of adjustment of status that you are requesting, as there are different applications for different types of green cards.
Wait for USCIS to approve or deny your application. Depending on the circumstances of your case and your application, this could take a few months or over a year.
After your petition is granted, you can confirm your visa availability and file your application for an adjustment of status.
USCIS will contact you to schedule a biometrics appointment and potentially schedule an interview. If they require any more evidence, they might mail you a request for more information or schedule another interview.
Wait for final approval or denial.

Learn More About the Immigration Process from The Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence

If you or a loved one are concerned about a citizenship application, choose an experienced Maryland Trusted law Firm like the Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence to give you the help you need. Please give us a call at 443.352.3201. Skype and telephone consultation are both available to clients.

Read more: How to Dissolve an LLC in Maryland

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How to Dissolve an LLC in Maryland

At some point, you might find yourself wanting to close down your limited liability company in Maryland. This process is referred to as dissolving your LLC. In order to dissolve an LLC in the state of Maryland, there are a variety of things that you need to do to complete the voluntary dissolution process.

Check Your Formation Documents

When an LLC is formed, you will create formation documents that include an operating agreement and articles of organization. Depending on what you included in each one, one of them should contain defined rules that will dictate how to dissolve an LLC. In some common articles of organization, the rules include things like:

Having a certain percentage of members vote for dissolution
Setting a specific time to meet and vote on dissolution
Specific processes for providing notice to LLC members of a vote

Maryland also has an LLC Act that can supersede the rules of your LLC and provide other rules to dissolve an LLC via unanimous consent. When you obtain unanimous consent, you can dissolve the LLC without the traditional vote or processes detailed in the operating agreement.

File Articles of Dissolution

Depending on how you want to dissolve an LLC, you can also file your articles of dissolution with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation. This document will need to contain:

The date of dissolution
The date that the articles of organization and amendments were filed
The name of the LLC
Other relevant information

This is optional, but we can assist you in creating your filing.

Why Would You Want to Dissolve an LLC?

There are many different reasons why business owners choose to dissolve an LLC, including:

You are no longer making a profit, or you feel that a new business would help you better meet your profitability goals and do not want to continue paying fees and taxes on your unprofitable business
You have completed the purpose of the LLC if it was designed for a specific project, like constructing a property or holding an event
One of the members of the LLC died
Members cannot agree on the path forward for the LLC so dissolution is preferable

We can help you find the best path forward for your organization.

Learn More About How to Dissolve an LLC in Maryland from The Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence

If you are interested in dissolving your LLC for any reason, choose an experienced Maryland Trusted law Firm like the Best Female Lawyer Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence to give you the help you need. Please give us a call at 443.352.3201. Skype and telephone consultation are both available to clients.

Read more: What to Know About Family-Based Green Cards

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CONTACT US-:
Business Name: Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence, LLC
Contact Person: Elizabeth Lawrence Esquire
Country/Region: USA
Street Address: 90 Painters Mill Road Suite 226
City: Owings Mills
State: Maryland
Postal Code: 21117
Phone No: 443-352-3201
Email Address: Elizabeth@elawrencelaw.com
WEBSITE-: https://elawrencelaw.com/

What to Know About Family-Based Green Cards

While there are many different ways that people acquire green cards, one of the most popular options to become a permanent United States resident is family-based Green card Dallas. In fact, family-based green cards currently account for about 2/3 of all of the green cards that are given out every year. Current permanent residents and citizens can use these green cards as a way to unite with their family members. What should you know?

There Are Different Types of Family-Based Green Cards

There are two main categories for family-based green cards, immediate relatives and family preference. Depending on which category you or your relative falls into, that will impact what the application process looks like and how long the process might take. For immediate relative visas, close relatives of current United States citizens are eligible. This is the fastest type of family-based Green card Dallas to receive, but it also has the strictest requirements for eligibility.

In order to be eligible, you must be:

The child of a United States citizen, under the age of 21 and unmarried
The spouse of a United States citizen
An orphan adopted by a United States citizen
The parent of a United States citizen, over the age of 21
An orphan that will be adopted by a United States citizen

The family preference category is a bit broader. This type of family-based Green card Dallas has a set number of how many can be issued in a calendar year, unlike immediate relative green cards.

The different categories of family preference include:

Unmarried children of United States citizens and their minor children
Spouses, unmarried children over the age of 21, and minor children of current lawful permanent residents
Married children of United States citizens, as well as their minor children and spouses
Brothers and sisters of United States citizens, in addition to their minor children and spouses

The category that you choose matters, so if you are at all confused about which is right for you, do not hesitate to reach out to your attorney to learn more. Filing the wrong type of application can greatly impact whether or not it goes through and how long it takes.

What Documents Are Required?

If you are applying for family-based green cards, there are a variety of documents that will be required throughout the application and approval process. Some of these include:

An affidavit of support
A birth certificate
A marriage certificate, if the person is married
An immigration medical examination form
A passport that expires six months or longer past the intended date of entry
To passport photographs
Marriage termination documentation

While those will cover the basics, you may be asked for additional types of documentation depending on the circumstances of your application. Be prepared to cooperate with this process, as it can be lengthy.

Learn More About the Immigration Process from The Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence

If you or a loved one are concerned about a citizenship application, choose an experienced firm like the Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence Immigration Lawyer to give you the help you need. Please give us a call at 443.352.3201. Skype and telephone consultation are both available to clients.

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