Robert F. Jacobs & Associates, PLCRobert F. Jacobs & Associates, PLC2026-10-16T02:22:12Zhttps://www.rfjimmigration.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1504995/2021/04/cropped-favicon-new-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Robert F. Jacobs & Associates, PLC<![CDATA[5 things you should know about the new U.S. citizenship test]]>https://www.rfjimmigration.com/?p=485012026-10-16T02:22:12Z2026-10-16T02:22:12Zthe new civics test in October 2025. If you're planning to apply for citizenship, here are five things you should know about the changes:
1. There are more questions to study than before
The previous citizenship test had 100 possible civics questions about American history and government. The new test has 128. That means applicants need to study additional material, including questions about the U.S. Constitution, American history and how the government works.
2. Some answers can change over time
Some of the questions on the test involve elected officials and government appointments, so the answers can differ depending on when you take the test. It is wisest to study those questions and answers as close to your test as possible.
3. You must answer more questions correctly
Under the old test, applicants had to answer six out of 10 questions correctly. Under the new test, USCIS officers can ask up to 20 questions, and applicants must answer a minimum of 12 correctly to pass. The officer stops asking questions once an applicant answers 12 correctly (or nine incorrectly).
4. Some applicants qualify for special exceptions
Applicants who are at least 65 years of age and have held a green card for a minimum of 20 years receive special consideration. They only need to study 20 designated questions and must answer six out of 10 correctly. They may also take the test in the language they prefer.
Other applicants may qualify for English-language exemptions based on their age and years as permanent residents. Certain medical disabilities may also qualify someone for an exception to the testing requirements.
5. The civics test is still given orally
The new civics test is not a written, multiple-choice exam. A USCIS officer asks the questions aloud, and applicants must provide their answers verbally. Practicing with another person can help applicants become more comfortable answering questions during their interview.
Understanding the requirements and preparing ahead of time can help make the path to citizenship less stressful. Legal guidance can be invaluable as you pursue your immigration goals.]]>On Behalf of Robert F. Jacobs & Associates, PLC<![CDATA[Your rights during a traffic stop as an immigrant]]>https://www.rfjimmigration.com/?p=484962026-09-29T11:44:14Z2026-09-29T11:44:14ZCriminal charges can impact a person’s immigration status. A traffic stop can lead to DUI, drug possession or theft charges when an immigrant is not aware of their legal rights.
You should be aware of your legal rights if you are suddenly stopped by the police. Here is what you should know:
Remain silent
What you say during a traffic stop could be used against you in court. Statements that suggest you were drunk, aware you committed a crime or have used drugs could lead to a serious criminal conviction, for example. However, you have the right to plead the Fifth and remain silent. Pleading the Fifth protects your right to remain silent and refuse to answer self-incriminating questions.
Refuse unreasonable searches
The police can use evidence collected during a search to charge you with crimes, such as drug crimes or theft. However, you have the right to refuse a search. The police may need a warrant, probable cause or to make an arrest before they can search your vehicle. If evidence is collected during an illegal search, that evidence may be dismissed in court.
Record the stop
You have the right to record a traffic stop if it does not interfere with an officer’s duties. You can use evidence to protect yourself if you face criminal charges. A recording of a traffic stop could be used to show that the police violated your legal rights. If you are an immigrant, it is important to protect your legal rights. You can reach out for professional legal guidance to build a defense against criminal charges.]]>On Behalf of Robert F. Jacobs & Associates, PLC<![CDATA[When a good plea deal is bad for your immigration case]]>https://www.rfjimmigration.com/?p=484912026-09-19T12:50:21Z2026-09-19T12:50:21ZSometimes, a plea deal seems like a good solution to a criminal case, especially if it keeps you out of jail, reduces a felony to a misdemeanor and lets you move on with your life.
If you aren’t a U.S. citizen, however, a seemingly favorable deal could ultimately threaten your ability to get a green card, prevent you from returning to this country if you travel abroad, or trigger removal proceedings.
Why a plea deal can move you “out of the frying pan and into the fire”
Criminal courts and immigration courts don’t always view a conviction the same way – and it is important to know that a plea deal has the same net effect as a conviction.A plea agreement offered by the prosecutor may seem generous because it only requires probation, lets you go with time served or keeps you from having a felony on your record. None of that guarantees that the agreement keeps your immigration status safe. Before you accept, an experienced immigration attorney needs to examine the exact charges included in the offer, the language of the plea and the potential consequences you may face under federal immigration law.While a misdemeanor may seem minor compared to a felony, some can still lead to deportation. Misdemeanor convictions involving theft, fraud, drugs, domestic violence, prostitution, gambling and similar “crimes involving moral turpitude” can drastically alter the trajectory of your immigration case. Similarly, probation may seem excellent compared to incarceration – but immigration authorities will focus more on the offense and the facts of the case, not your sentence. Sometimes, the wording of a plea deal and what you are required to admit can be structured so that it is less likely to affect your immigration status. Other times, you may need to decide if a plea is really a good deal or if it's in your best interests to fight the charges in court. Before accepting a deal, it’s wisest to seek informed legal guidance.]]>On Behalf of Robert F. Jacobs & Associates, PLC<![CDATA[The fruit of the poisonous tree doctrine]]>https://www.rfjimmigration.com/?p=484872026-09-03T16:00:45Z2026-09-03T16:00:45ZWhen facing criminal charges, it is important to understand the various legal doctrines that can impact your case. One of these is known as the fruit of the poisonous tree.This doctrine often refers to police procedures, especially as they obtain evidence. When the police do not follow the correct procedures or violate a person’s rights, this is said to poison the “tree.” The evidence is considered the “fruit” of that tree, and it is subsequently poisoned by the illegal actions that led to it.Often, this means that tainted evidence cannot be used in court. That evidence may have led to a conviction, but if the defendant can have it excluded, it can significantly weaken the case against them.
Carrying out an illegal search
There are many examples of how the fruit of the poisonous tree can apply, but one is when the police conduct an illegal search of someone’s property.For instance, perhaps the police do not have consent to search a person’s home, and they have not obtained a search warrant. However, they still carry out the search, and they find evidence of criminal wrongdoing in that person’s house.Under ordinary circumstances, the evidence may have convicted the homeowner. But because the search was illegal, this tainted the evidence. Police may not be able to bring it to court, and they may not have any other evidence against that individual. They have essentially undermined their own case.Details like this can significantly change how you approach your legal defense options. Be sure you know exactly what steps to take when facing any type of criminal charges.
]]>On Behalf of Robert F. Jacobs & Associates, PLC<![CDATA[What immigrants should know about the Laken Riley Act]]>https://www.rfjimmigration.com/?p=484862026-08-23T17:03:08Z2026-08-23T17:03:08ZLaw includes mandatory detention for theft-related crimes
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Laken Riley Act “mandates the federal detention of illegal immigrants who are accused of theft, burglary, assaulting a law enforcement officer, and any crime that causes death or serious bodily injury.”
Immigrant rights advocates and representative who opposed the Laken Riley Act have argued that because the law allows potentially indefinite detention of those who haven’t been convicted of a crime (or even officially charged with one), it violates their constitutional right to due process.
The U.S. has ruled that all people in the U.S. have constitutional rights, regardless of their immigration status. With these rights facing continued and increasing challenges, it’s crucial that immigrants, regardless of their status, and their loved ones reach out for experienced legal guidance if they believe those rights have been violated.]]>On Behalf of Robert F. Jacobs & Associates, PLC<![CDATA[Can immigrants go home for a death and return to the USA?]]>https://www.rfjimmigration.com/?p=484852026-08-10T14:49:28Z2026-08-10T14:49:28ZWhen a loved one dies, many immigrants face an urgent and painful question: is it possible to leave the United States, attend the funeral or support family abroad and still return without jeopardizing immigration status? The answer depends entirely on the type of status a person currently holds and whether they have valid travel authorization.
For individuals with pending applications, travel requires special caution. Those applying for permanent residence through adjustment of status generally cannot leave the country unless they have been granted advance parole. Without it, the application may be considered abandoned.
What about emergencies?
In emergency situations, such as the death or critical illness of an immediate family member, some applicants may request expedited advance parole at a local USCIS office. The U.S. Department of State recognizes life‑or‑death emergencies as legitimate grounds for urgent travel, which can help support the request.DACA recipients may also travel only with advance parole. Humanitarian reasons, including a death in the family, fall within the permitted categories. Travel without advance parole can lead to loss of the ability to reenter the United States.
Complications for asylees
Asylum applicants may qualify for advance parole, but returning to the home country can create complications because it may conflict with the basis of the asylum claim. Each situation is unique, and individuals often need to weigh the risks carefully before making plans.
Permanent residents typically are protected
Those who already have permanent resident status can usually travel abroad and return, provided the trip is temporary and they maintain ties to the United States. Short emergency travel is typically not a problem, although long absences or certain legal issues can affect reentry.In all situations, travel during an emergency requires careful planning. Understanding the rules for advance parole, temporary travel and reentry can help immigrants navigate a difficult moment while protecting their future in the United States.]]>On Behalf of Robert F. Jacobs & Associates, PLC<![CDATA[Can you switch jobs on an employment visa in the U.S.?]]>https://www.rfjimmigration.com/?p=484842026-07-22T00:43:19Z2026-07-22T00:43:19ZDoes an employment visa let you change employers?
In many cases, changing jobs is possible, but your new employer must usually file the appropriate paperwork with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). For example, workers with an H-1B visa may qualify for "H-1B portability." This allows them to begin working for a new employer after a qualifying petition has been filed, rather than waiting for final approval, provided they meet the legal requirements.
Other visa categories have stricter rules. For example, L-1 intracompany transferee visas limit employment to the sponsoring company and its qualifying affiliates, so switching to an unrelated employer is not permitted without obtaining a different work authorization.
What should you do before changing jobs?
Before accepting a new position, take these important steps:
Review your visa category to determine whether changing employers is allowed.
Confirm that your new employer will complete the required USCIS filings before you begin working.
Do not resign too early if your current immigration status depends on your existing employer.
Keep copies of your immigration records, approval notices and employment documents in case USCIS requests additional information.
Changing jobs can be a positive career move, but following the correct immigration process is essential. If you are unsure about your eligibility to switch employers, speaking with an experienced legal team before making the transition can help to protect your work authorization and your ability to remain in the United States legally.]]>On Behalf of Robert F. Jacobs & Associates, PLC<![CDATA[How moral turpitude crimes can affect immigration status]]>https://www.rfjimmigration.com/?p=484832026-07-15T11:53:48Z2026-07-15T11:53:48ZA criminal conviction can create consequences that extend far beyond fines, probation or incarceration. For a noncitizen, certain offenses may also affect the right to remain in the United States or pursue future immigration benefits.
Crimes involving moral turpitude generally involve intentional dishonesty, serious misconduct or at least reckless behavior. The precise outcome depends on the elements of the offense, the sentence and the person's immigration history.
You may face deportation
A conviction for a crime involving moral turpitude may make a noncitizen deportable in certain circumstances. Timing can matter, including how soon the offense occurred after admission to the United States. The possible sentence and whether the person has more than one qualifying conviction may also affect the outcome.Deportation is not automatic after every criminal conviction. Immigration authorities examine the statute underlying the conviction and determine whether its required elements involve intentional or reckless misconduct. This means an offense may have serious immigration consequences even when it is classified as a misdemeanor under state law.
You may be denied United States citizenship
A conviction may also interfere with naturalization. Applicants seeking United States citizenship must generally demonstrate good moral character during the applicable review period. A crime involving moral turpitude can lead immigration officials to question whether that requirement has been satisfied.Older convictions may also receive attention because naturalization applications require disclosure of criminal history. Failing to provide complete and accurate information may create additional problems beyond the original offense. The government may review the conduct, the date of conviction and evidence of rehabilitation before deciding whether the applicant qualifies for citizenship.
You may be denied a visa or green card
Crimes involving moral turpitude may also make a person inadmissible. Inadmissibility can prevent someone from receiving a visa, entering the United States or becoming a lawful permanent resident through a green card application.Some limited exceptions may apply depending on the offense, possible punishment and criminal history. However, you should not assume that a minor sentence means the conviction will have no effect. Immigration law focuses heavily on the legal nature of the offense. Seek legal guidance promptly if a criminal charge or conviction may affect your immigration status.
]]>On Behalf of Robert F. Jacobs & Associates, PLC<![CDATA[Can permanent residents help their children immigrate?]]>https://www.rfjimmigration.com/?p=484822026-06-29T23:39:07Z2026-06-29T23:39:07ZFamily preference visas can help children
Permanent residents and citizens can sponsor their close family members for family preference visas. There are different preference categories based on the sponsor’s immigration status and the relationship they have with the sponsored person.
For those with green cards, there are two preference categories for their children. Unmarried, minor children are in the slightly higher preference category. Permanent residents can also sponsor their adult children who have not yet married for a family preference visa.
Unfortunately, if their children have families of their own, green card holders cannot help their adult children secure visas and green cards. Only citizens typically have the option of sponsoring their married adult children for immigration purposes. Citizens can also sponsor their parents and siblings.
Learning more about immigration rules can help people evaluate opportunities for their loved ones. Those seeking family-based visas often need assistance with paperwork, making legal guidance generally necessary.]]>On Behalf of Robert F. Jacobs & Associates, PLC<![CDATA[How does criminal history affect immigration?]]>https://www.rfjimmigration.com/?p=484812026-06-17T14:40:32Z2026-06-17T14:40:32ZComing to the United States to build a life is a wish that many people have. Making that dream a reality means going through the immigration process, which is very thorough. One area that immigration applications cover is the applicant’s criminal history.
The questions that are asked during the immigration application process include those about arrests, charges, convictions, dismissed cases, probation and any contact with law enforcement. It’s critical to disclose all criminal history information, even if it seems minor or was an old case.
What criminal history can impact immigration?
All criminal history has the ability to affect a person’s eligibility for being able to immigrate into the United States. The exact impact on immigration depends on the type of offense, but the date, sentence and immigration benefits also play a role. For example, a minor traffic offense will have a much different outcome than a drug conviction. Leaving out any criminal incident can also cause immigration issues. Immigration agencies will conduct background checks, use biometric identifiers and review court records as part of the application process. Even cases that were dismissed, expunged or reduced should be disclosed, because there’s likely a court record that will come up if during the immigration investigation. If the information an applicant provides doesn’t match, a denial of the application is likely. It’s important to handle immigration applications properly. Any incorrect information, even if it’s not related to criminal history, can lead to significant problems, including denial of entry. It may be beneficial to work with someone familiar with current immigration laws, guidelines and policies since these can change frequently.
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