In this episode, our Des Moines attorneys explain when an immigration judge's decision is final and how you can respond. While each immigration case is unique, all U.S. immigration courts follow the same process. Deportation proceedings, also known as removal proceedings, have two stages: the first hearing, called the "master calendar hearing," and the follow-up, called the "merit hearing" or "individual hearing." The master calendar hearing functions as a preliminary hearing during which the judge discusses how your case will proceed. The merit hearing is where the judge will hear your defense and discuss any evidence.

After the merits hearing, the immigration judge will decide on the case. Some cases may take more than one day to complete, so don't assume you'll have an answer on the same day your merit hearing starts. The judge will issue the decision in writing or deliver it orally to those present in the court. Either way, you should receive a written summary of the decision. If you do not receive a written summary of the decision, it is crucial that you reach out to the court as soon as possible. Without the summary document, you will be unable to file an appeal properly.

In this video, our Des Moines immigration attorneys explain how a good immigration attorney will save you time, worry and possibly a lot of money. Below is a list of scenarios when an immigration attorney is highly suggested.

• Based on your current geographical location or for any other reason you are unsure about your eligibility for a green card or another immigration benefit;
• You’ve been deported and wish to return or face possible deportation;
• You are interested in applying for an investment-based visa;
• You are moving to the US to work with a US-based employer, but the employer is not assisting you with relocation or legal needs;
• You’re immigration application or another immigration form has been denied and you’re unsure as to why;
• You’re uncertain about the number of documents and which ones apply to you’re situation, or you feel that the entire process is too confusing;
• You’ve been convicted of a crime or have committed a crime and are trying to enter the US or avoid removal from the US;
• You received a notification that deportation or removal proceedings will be brought against you;
• You are trying to obtain a USCIS green card, citizen, or other immigration benefit and you are running into issues, or have been asked to provide more information
• You’re immigration process suddenly runs into an issue and time is of the essence or you’re on a deadline
• You’re seeking asylum or a waiver, which requires the immigration authorities to make an exception to your situation and offer benefits that it might not normally

You’re filling out forms such as Employment Eligibility Verification (I-9), Affidavit of Support (I-134), Immigration Petition for Alien Worker (I-140), Application to Register Permanent Status or Adjust Status (I-485), Immigration Form I-130, or any number of other immigration-related forms and you run into issues or foresee a problem with one of the questions on the form.

In this video, our Des Moines immigration attorneys explain how before entering the United States, foreign nationals usually have to obtain a visa. Visas can be broken down into two primary categories: immigrant and non-immigrant. For aliens seeking permanent residence in the United States, an immigrant visa is necessary. For those planning to spend time in the United States but not stay permanently, a non-immigrant visa will suffice. There are many different options for immigrant and non-immigrant visas, and knowing which is the correct one for your situation will make the application process that much easier. A foreign national that intends to live and work permanently in the United States must first secure an immigrant visa. Non-immigrant visas are for foreign nationals who plan to spend a certain amount of time in the United States but are not seeking permanent residence.