Comprehensive Immigration Legal Services
The U.S. immigration system is complex, confusing, and constantly changing. Whether you're trying to bring a family member to the United States, seeking a green card, pursuing citizenship, or facing deportation, you need an experienced immigration attorney who understands the system and will fight for your rights.
Tony Carlos provides immigration legal services to families throughout Yuba City, Marysville, and the surrounding Northern California communities. Our bilingual staff (Se Habla Español) ensures clear communication throughout your case.
Why Immigration + Criminal Defense Matters
Tony Carlos practices both immigration law and criminal defense - a crucial combination. Certain criminal convictions can trigger deportation or bar you from immigration benefits. If you're a non-citizen facing criminal charges, Tony understands both areas of law and can protect both your freedom and your immigration status.
Watch: Learn About Our Immigration Services
Family-Based Immigration
Keeping families together is at the heart of immigration law. Tony Carlos helps families navigate the complex process of sponsoring relatives for immigration to the United States:
- Immediate Relative Petitions - Sponsoring spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens
- Family Preference Petitions - Sponsoring adult children, married children, and siblings
- Fiancé(e) Visas (K-1) - Bringing your fiancé(e) to the U.S. for marriage
- Adjustment of Status - Changing status to permanent resident while in the U.S.
- Consular Processing - Immigrant visa processing at U.S. consulates abroad
Green Cards & Permanent Residence
Obtaining lawful permanent resident status (a "green card") is a major milestone in the immigration journey. We assist with:
- Family-Based Green Cards - Through qualifying U.S. citizen or permanent resident relatives
- Employment-Based Green Cards - Through employer sponsorship
- Green Card Renewal - Renewing expired or expiring green cards
- Removing Conditions - For conditional residents married less than 2 years
- Replacing Lost/Stolen Cards - Obtaining replacement documentation
Citizenship & Naturalization
Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization is the final step in the immigration journey. We help permanent residents through the naturalization process:
- N-400 Applications - Preparing and filing naturalization applications
- Citizenship Interview Prep - Preparing for the civics and English tests
- Derivative Citizenship - Citizenship through parents
- Certificate of Citizenship - Documenting existing citizenship claims
Deportation Defense & Removal Proceedings
Facing deportation is terrifying. You could be separated from your family, your job, your home - everything you've built. Tony Carlos provides aggressive representation in removal proceedings:
- Bond Hearings - Fighting for release from immigration detention
- Cancellation of Removal - For certain long-term residents with U.S. citizen or permanent resident family
- Asylum - Protection for those fleeing persecution in their home countries
- Withholding of Removal - Protection from return to dangerous countries
- Convention Against Torture - Protection from torture
- Motions to Reopen - Reopening closed removal cases
- Appeals - Appealing unfavorable immigration court decisions
DACA & Dreamer Services
If you came to the United States as a child, you may qualify for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). We assist with:
- Initial DACA Applications - When new applications are being accepted
- DACA Renewals - Timely renewal of existing DACA status
- Advance Parole - Travel permission for DACA recipients
- Options Beyond DACA - Exploring paths to permanent status
Other Immigration Services
- Work Permits (EAD) - Employment authorization documents
- Travel Documents - Advance parole for international travel
- VAWA Petitions - Protection for abuse victims
- U Visas - For crime victims who assist law enforcement
- T Visas - For trafficking victims
- Waivers - Overcoming bars to admission
The Immigration Process: What to Expect
1. Initial Consultation
We'll review your immigration history, goals, and options. Every case is unique, and we'll develop a strategy tailored to your situation.
2. Document Gathering
Immigration applications require extensive documentation. We'll provide a checklist and help you gather everything needed.
3. Application Preparation
We'll prepare your applications carefully, ensuring accuracy and completeness to avoid delays and denials.
4. Filing & Monitoring
After filing, we'll track your case and respond promptly to any requests for additional evidence.
5. Interview Preparation
If an interview is required, we'll prepare you thoroughly so you know what to expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a green card?
Processing times vary significantly depending on the category and your country of birth. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens may wait 1-2 years, while some family preference categories can take 10-20+ years due to visa backlogs. We can provide estimates based on your specific situation.
Can I work while my green card application is pending?
If you've filed for adjustment of status (Form I-485) in the United States, you can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) that allows you to work while your case is pending.
What if I have a criminal record?
Criminal history can significantly impact immigration cases. Some crimes make you inadmissible or deportable. However, waivers may be available. Because Tony Carlos practices both criminal defense and immigration law, he can evaluate how past convictions affect your case and explore options.
How much does an immigration attorney cost?
Fees depend on the type of case and its complexity. We offer initial consultations to discuss your situation and provide transparent pricing. Payment plans may be available.
Can I sponsor a family member if I'm a permanent resident?
Yes, permanent residents can sponsor spouses, unmarried children, and in some cases other relatives. However, wait times are generally longer than for U.S. citizen sponsors. We can explain your options during a consultation.