U.S. Immigration · FAQ
U.S. Immigration — Frequently Asked Questions
Plain-language answers to the questions Houston-area immigration clients ask most. Educational only — not legal advice. Immigration law changes often; confirm current rules with a licensed attorney before acting.
- Find out where they are being held — the ICE online detainee locator is one tool, and we can help locate someone if it does not show them. Then call us. We can advise on bond, removal defense, and other options. Do not sign documents on their behalf without a lawyer reviewing them first.
- A Notice to Appear (NTA) is the charging document that starts removal proceedings in Immigration Court. It lists the allegations against you and, usually, a hearing date. Missing a scheduled hearing can result in a removal order entered in your absence — so receiving an NTA should prompt an immediate call to an immigration attorney.
- It depends heavily on the type of case. Some USCIS filings resolve in months; removal cases in Immigration Court often take two to four years; appeals add months or years. Visa-bulletin backlogs affect many family and employment categories. We give a realistic timeline at the first meeting.
- For removal cases, appeals, and waivers — almost always yes. For straightforward family petitions or naturalization, some people file successfully on their own, but the cost of an error can be high. An honest evaluation at the first consultation will tell you which situation you are in.
- Often, yes. A denial by an Immigration Judge can usually be appealed to the Board of Immigration Appeals, generally within 30 days. A BIA decision can sometimes be challenged by a petition for review in the federal court of appeals. Deadlines are short — act quickly.
- Yes. Communications with the attorney during a consultation are protected by the attorney-client privilege. The firm does not share your information with immigration agencies unless you authorize a specific filing.
- Most immigration matters are handled on a flat fee — a single agreed price set in writing before any work begins. Some matters, such as long appeals or federal-court review, are billed hourly with a written estimate. Fees are always discussed clearly before we start.
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Reading this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice about a specific matter, consult a licensed attorney.
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