Robert F. Jacobs & Associates, PLC, Legal Blog
What’s the first thing you should do after acquiring citizenship?
Becoming a United States citizen is a proud moment that represents both an achievement and a new chapter. After the naturalization ceremony, many people wonder what the most important next step should be. While there are several responsibilities and opportunities...
What happens if you refuse a plea deal in California?
When facing criminal charges, you may be offered a plea deal to plead guilty to a lesser charge or receive a reduced sentence in exchange for avoiding a trial. It can be a quicker and less stressful resolution, but you don’t have to accept the plea deal. Plea deals...
How can job loss affect immigrants with work visas?
Many immigrants legally enter the United States through family connections. Others seek jobs in the United States or take transfers to domestic facilities when they work for international companies. Employment-based immigration is an option for many skilled and...
What are crimes of moral turpitude?
Crimes of moral turpitude (CMTs) are offenses that go against accepted moral standards. These crimes typically involve dishonesty, fraud or actions that show a disregard for others. In immigration law, being charged with or convicted of a CMT can result in severe...
What’s the purpose of a search warrant and when is it required?
Police officers sometimes need to conduct searches to obtain evidence to pursue criminal charges. They can’t just search wherever they want or whenever they want. Instead, they can only conduct a search or seize evidence under specific circumstances. One way that a...
Can your parents help you acquire American citizenship?
When it comes to acquiring American citizenship, many people wonder if having parents who are U.S. citizens gives them an automatic pathway. While the process isn’t always simple or guaranteed, the short answer is usually yes. In some cases, your parents can help you...
Who might be eligible for a U visa?
There are many different types of visas that allow people to live and work in the United States. Many visas relate to employment arrangements or family relationships. However, there are also special visas that can help people in unusual and challenging situations. The...
3 innocent mistakes that can compromise your green card
Securing a U.S. green card is a major milestone for many immigrants, symbolizing stability, opportunity and a path toward permanent residency or even citizenship. However, the journey doesn’t end once the green card is in hand. Many applicants unknowingly make small,...
Miranda rights are rooted in the United States Constitution
The United States Constitution is a historical document that some may not think truly applies today; however, legal rulings created since then have ensured that it remains just as applicable today as it was on the day it was created. One of these rulings is from the...
How will dissolving an adoption affect the child’s citizenship?
When U.S. citizens adopt children from other countries, the adoption may come with expectations of permanence and stability. However, in some situations, adoptive parents choose to dissolve the legal relationship, raising difficult questions about the child’s future,...