Immigration Attorneys Los Angeles, California
We provide our services as Immigration Attorneys in Los Angeles and throughout California.
Progresso Legal Group, led by attorney Zahra H. Rawjee, is a law firm committed to serving our community. Located in the heart of Los Angeles, in the Pico-Union area, directly across from Loyola Law School in Los Angeles, California, our firm was created with a fundamental purpose: to raise our voice for those who cannot speak for themselves and defend the defenseless.
Our Mission
We serve families every day, especially those who are less fortunate and do not speak English. We provide personalized assistance to our Latino community in their language, as if they were our own family. As immigrants, we understand the needs and the importance of keeping families together. We know the challenges of legalizing immigration status in the United States and we are committed to offering the legal support necessary to overcome these obstacles.
Our Services
We are Immigration Attorneys in Los Angeles and we offer comprehensive support in all areas of immigration law, including asylum applications, work visas, family petitions, adjustment of status, and deportation defense. Our goal is to help you navigate the complex immigration system with confidence. In this sense, it should also be noted that immigration law is quite complex and strict, and it is constantly evolving, which makes it increasingly complicated rather than simpler.
In addition, immigration laws are governed by federal laws and complicated regulations. The process dictates the movement of people from one country to another and provides benefits for those who qualify and seek to remain legally, whether by becoming permanent residents or ultimately obtaining United States citizenship, or defending themselves from deportation or removal from the United States.
At Progresso Legal Group P.C., we are trained and prepared to handle immigration cases from start to finish. We have more than 25 years of experience serving and guiding families every day through these processes. Likewise, our team of attorneys is accredited to represent clients facing deportation proceedings due to criminal convictions, which may include charges related to drugs, domestic violence, fraud, or crimes considered to involve moral turpitude. Such convictions can seriously affect immigration status, potentially leading to deportation proceedings before an immigration judge who may deny, revoke, remove, or deport any individual.
Likewise, for any person who is not a U.S. citizen or who does not have legal status, a criminal conviction can be devastating. It may make them ineligible to immigrate, cause them to lose permanent residence, or even result in deportation, regardless of how much time has passed since the offense. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) may initiate deportation proceedings following criminal charges.
Serving Our Immigrant Families in Los Angeles
Our attorneys at Progresso Legal Group P.C. have helped families with immigration processes for more than 25 years, handling everything from work permit renewals and permanent resident cards to family petitions and adjustment of status, U.S. citizenship applications, asylum cases for newly arrived individuals, and alternatives to avoid deportation. We represent our clients in immigration courts and tribunals.
Our extensive experience in immigration appellate courts allows us to take cases to the highest levels, including the 5th or 9th Circuit Courts. Since immigration law is federal, we can represent our clients throughout the United States, not only in Los Angeles or California.
In this sense, if you are an immigrant, a criminal conviction can put your ability to immigrate to the United States at risk. If you already have a permanent resident card, you could lose your permanent residence and any possibility of becoming a citizen of the United States.
Our experienced team is here to help you navigate these challenges and provide the best possible representation.
Immigration Attorneys in Los Angeles
At Progresso Legal Group P.C., our attorneys and legal team specialize in immigration law, criminal law, and family law, defending the rights of immigrant families. At the same time, we strongly believe in the valuable contribution that immigrant families bring to this great country, and we understand that everyone makes mistakes, sometimes due to simple and innocent circumstances that may seem insignificant but that, under federal immigration law, can have serious consequences.
In the same way, in many circumstances immigration processes can seem like endless and insurmountable obstacles. Our goal is to help our clients and their families in Los Angeles overcome those obstacles and achieve their dreams of living in the United States.
Our immigration attorneys care deeply about the needs of our community and firmly believe in advocating for every family. We understand immigration laws and procedures and we are here to guide you every step of the way in your case. Whether you are seeking a visa, a green card, or citizenship, we can help.
Immigration Cases Handled by Our Attorneys
At Progresso Legal Group P.C., we have an excellent team of attorneys and professionals in immigration law who are prepared to provide the best legal representation to our clients, handling a wide variety of immigration matters, including the following:
Permanent Residence Applications:
Permanent residence applications are the first legal step toward future citizenship in the United States. Having the benefit of permanent residence or a Green Card does not exclude you from possible deportation. We can help you on this complex path of applying for residency, including filing all the necessary documents and assisting you with your interview. We handle any challenges that arise during this process, such as denial of your application or processing delays, so that you can obtain your Green Card efficiently.
Citizenship Applications:
When a person has lived continuously in the United States for more than 5 years and has held a permanent resident card, they may be eligible to apply for citizenship. The citizenship application process can be complex and requires submitting several documents in chronological order, as well as passing exams and interviews. As experienced professionals in these types of applications, we can help you prepare for your citizenship interview and ensure that you complete the process legally and correctly.
Juvenile Visas (Special Immigrant Juveniles):
In the United States, there are many children who, from a very young age, have had to face adverse situations. Some live with violent parents who have caused them great harm, while others have been abandoned and lack shelter. Due to these problems, Congress created a special immigration status for youth as a humanitarian measure for children who are not citizens of the country. This measure protects children who have faced many problems and do not have support or help within the country. Given these considerations, we provide the best legal advice and assistance for those who wish to apply for this type of visa, helping them understand whether they can apply and what requirements they need to meet in order to submit the application.
Motion to Vacate on Constitutional Grounds:
It may be filed on constitutional grounds such as ineffective assistance of counsel at the time of the plea agreement or sentencing, or due to violation of state and federal rights to due process and a fair trial.
Statutory Motion to Vacate based on the judge’s failure to warn about possible adverse immigration consequences before entering a guilty plea (§1016.5), or due to lack of understanding (§1018), or due to a prejudicial error that harmed the ability to meaningfully understand, defend against, or knowingly accept the real or potential immigration consequences of the plea (§1473.7): Failure to warn a non-citizen, before a guilty or no contest plea, that the conviction may cause deportation, exclusion, and denial of naturalization requires the automatic vacating of the conviction. Additionally, the new California law allows individuals to challenge the validity of old convictions if they can demonstrate the existence of a prejudicial error at the time of their plea that harmed their ability to understand the immigration consequences that would or could result from the conviction. If successful, the conviction will be vacated and many of the obstacles and challenges that a non-citizen faces while the conviction remains on their record will be eliminated.
Family Petition for Permanent Residence:
If you have immediate relatives such as parents or spouses who are citizens or legal residents in the United States, they may sponsor you and request benefits to regularize your status through a family petition process. At Progresso Legal Group P.C., we are here to help you determine your relative’s eligibility for a family petition visa and guide you through the application process so your relative can regularize their status in the United States.
Deportation Defense:
Not everyone who comes to the United States can obtain legal status. If you or your family members are facing deportation proceedings, it is vital to consult with an experienced attorney in Los Angeles. You are welcome to visit our offices and our team will provide all the necessary assistance for this process and fight to help you remain in the United States.
Detained at the Border:
When Border Patrol or Immigration authorities arrest an undocumented person, a process begins that includes several stages. First, the agent in charge of the case completes numerous internal forms and prepares a detailed report of the arrest. The detained person may feel confused and frightened at this moment, as they are facing a complex and unfamiliar legal system.
However, it is important to know that options and help are available. At Progresso Legal Group P.C., our specialized attorneys understand how difficult this situation can be and are prepared to provide expert legal assistance. We can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and work with you to find the best possible solution for your case.
Political Asylum Attorney Los Angeles:
If you have recently arrived in the United States fleeing violence and face persecution in your country of origin due to your race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion or preference, you may be eligible to apply for asylum in the United States. Our team of attorneys can help you navigate the asylum application process and present your case promptly and with integrity before the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If this is your situation, we will gladly assist you in beginning the process to obtain your work permit and move your case forward effectively.
Criminal Defense for Immigrants:
If you have been accused of a crime, whether a major criminal case known in English as a felony or a minor criminal case known as a misdemeanor, it is crucial to have an experienced attorney by your side, especially if you are facing an immigration process. It is important to try to regularize your status or improve the outcome of your criminal case, either by seeking complete dismissal of the case or negotiating a charge that does not fall under regulations involving crimes of moral turpitude. At our offices at Progresso Legal Group P.C., we are ready to help you understand how a criminal conviction could affect your immigration status and fight to protect your rights.
TPS – Temporary Protected Status:
TPS is a temporary immigration status granted to eligible individuals. TPS beneficiaries are not required to leave the United States, but it is always advisable to consult with an expert in immigration situations. Our attorneys at Progresso Legal Group P.C. are available to advise you about your case and offer the guidance you need.
Immigration Appeals:
If your immigration application has been denied or you face deportation proceedings and the immigration court has already issued its decision, you have 30 days to appeal, as you have the right to file an appeal or petition. If you are facing this type of legal situation, do not hesitate to contact our office at Progresso Legal Group P.C. We are here to help you understand your legal options and guide you through the appeals process.
Political Asylum for Venezuelans:
Due to the political, economic, and social crisis in Venezuela, along with human rights violations, many Venezuelan citizens have begun to emigrate and seek refuge in the United States. Since the beginning of the crisis, many Venezuelan families have left their country to protect their loved ones and escape the internal conflict that has affected Venezuela in recent years. Today, if you are facing a political asylum case and have not had effective legal support or representation, you can rely on the team of professionals at Progresso Legal Group P.C. We can help you with your entire asylum process.
Immigration Waivers Attorney in Los Angeles:
If you have any criminal case, whether a felony or a misdemeanor, it is crucial to pay close attention. A conviction or criminal record may make you ineligible for any immigration process, making it extremely difficult to obtain legal status through a family member. However, you may be eligible to request a waiver for your offenses. With the assistance of an immigration and criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles, you may begin a process to reduce or eliminate your criminal case. In many cases, the intervention of a criminal attorney in the state where the crime occurred is required to try to reduce the charges or change the penal code to something less severe or without moral consequences.
There are several types of immigration waivers, but the most common are the 212(h) waiver and the 212(c) waiver.
Reduction of Your Criminal Sentence:
In certain circumstances, there are statutes or provisions of the law in the State of California that allow individuals to request the court or criminal court to reduce their criminal convictions, including those of immigrants who have felony offenses (Felonies), as they are called in English, to misdemeanors (Misdemeanors), or to reduce a sentence from 365 days to 364 days. You cannot imagine how much of a difference this makes for an immigration process. These tactics can make individuals eligible to obtain a permanent resident card (Green Card) and/or avoid deportation from the United States. At Progresso Legal Group P.C., we also handle criminal matters and represent clients in post-conviction relief requests or after they have accepted criminal charges, such as:
Petition for a Writ of Error Coram Nobis:
This type of motion is filed in criminal court and is a judicial remedy used specifically to obtain relief from a judgment that was issued by the court in ignorance of a fact that does not affect guilt or innocence, but which, if known by the court, would have prevented the judgment. If successful, there will be no conviction that can be used against the defendant for immigration purposes.
Petition for a Writ of Habeas Corpus:
It may be used to overturn a conviction, obtain a new trial when the right to an attorney has been denied, or correct a sentencing error. If the conviction is overturned as legally invalid through the use of habeas corpus, the previous conviction cannot be used at all against the defendant for immigration purposes.
NACARA Law:
The NACARA Law is legislation designed to help citizens from Central American countries obtain legal residency in the United States. To better understand this law and the benefits it offers, it is recommended that you seek legal advice. The attorneys at Progresso Legal Group P.C. will be happy to explain how the law works and how it may benefit you.
How People Can End Up in Deportation
Criminal Conditions:
Criminal convictions are one of the most common reasons immigrants face deportation. For example, an immigrant convicted of a serious crime or certain misdemeanors may be deported from the United States.
Example: María, a legal resident, was convicted of a misdemeanor for drug possession. Although it seems like a minor offense, this conviction placed her at risk of deportation. With the help of Progresso Legal Group, María was able to reduce her conviction and avoid deportation.
Contact us today to obtain assistance and expert legal representation in sentence reduction and post-conviction relief. At Progresso Legal Group P.C., we are committed to helping you avoid deportation and protect your immigration status. Call now for a free consultation and begin securing your future in the United States.
Cancellation of Removal: How to Avoid Deportation:
If you have a deportation order, you will need the help of an experienced attorney. The immigration attorneys at Progresso Legal Group have the knowledge and professionalism necessary to obtain a favorable result. They will analyze your situation to determine whether you are eligible for cancellation of deportation or will look for alternatives to avoid deportation. It is crucial that when you appear in court, all your documentation is complete and in order, demonstrating to the judge that you are a trustworthy person, of good moral character, and worthy of qualifying for cancellation of deportation.
Do not entrust your case to unreliable attorneys who do not submit the correct paperwork. At Progresso Legal Group P.C., our immigration attorneys prepare your case meticulously, reviewing every detail of the necessary documentation so that the judge has no reason to deny your petition. Our goal is to obtain the best possible result for your case.
Schedule a Consultation Today with One of Our Immigration Attorneys at Progresso Legal Group!
Family Petitions / I-751:
At Progresso Legal Group P.C., we help families reunite and remain legally in the United States. We specialize in fiancé petitions, visas, consular processes, and I-751 petitions. We protect your Green Card status and facilitate your path toward citizenship. Our commitment to proper documentation ensures that all applications and petitions are approved.
Green Cards:
We manage I-130 petitions and adjustments of status (Green Card) for marriages to U.S. citizens. We also handle petitions filed by children over 21 years of age, parents, or siblings of U.S. citizens, provided they are eligible (petitions on or before April 30, 2001).
Fiancé Visas (K-1):
If you are a U.S. citizen and wish to bring your fiancé(e) to the United States, our immigration attorneys have the experience necessary to prepare and manage the application for a K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa. This type of visa allows your fiancé(e) to enter the country with the condition of marrying you within the first 90 days after arrival. We will evaluate your situation to ensure that this is the best option for you.
Consular Processing and Family-Based Marriage:
The U.S. Department of State has introduced new online forms for family immigration petitions. This process can be complicated and, if done incorrectly, may cause delays. For this reason, we recommend having the support of our attorneys, who can speed up your case and obtain satisfactory results.
I-751 Petitions:
Our immigration attorneys can help you renew your resident card and obtain a 10-year resident card through I-751 petitions. This is possible if:
- You are no longer married to your citizen spouse due to divorce or death.
- You were a victim of abuse by your citizen spouse.
- You are separated but have not yet obtained a divorce.
At Progresso Legal Group P.C., we have experience handling difficult cases and obtaining good results, even in situations where I-751 waivers once seemed impossible to approve and are now accepted by USCIS.
Immigration Waivers:
Known as pardon petitions, they allow immigrants to legally request forgiveness for past mistakes such as fraud, misrepresentation, or criminal records at any stage of the citizenship process. At Progresso Legal Group P.C., we are proud of our team, which has succeeded in obtaining difficult waivers for our clients, including 212(i), 209(c) waivers on Forms I-601 and I-602, and 237(a)(1)(H). These waivers apply in cases where a Green Card was obtained through fraud or misrepresentation when entering the United States or when submitting immigration documents. If you believe you have lost the opportunity to obtain your residency or citizenship, allow us to demonstrate our experience and professionalism by helping you with your case.
Motion to Reopen an Immigration Case:
This is a legal process that allows a case to be reviewed after an immigration judge has made a decision. At Progresso Legal Group P.C., our immigration attorneys have the experience necessary to present new facts before the judge so they can be considered. There are different situations in which this motion can be filed, such as when proper notice from the court was not received or when extraordinary circumstances prevented attendance at the hearing. It is important to file the motion within a specific time frame, generally within 90 days of the judge’s order, although there are exceptions. Our team is ready to help you with this process, ensuring that it is done correctly and giving your case the best possible chance of success.
Naturalization / Citizenship Application Services:
Applying for citizenship or naturalization marks the end of a long process since your arrival in the United States. For some, this step can be complicated, as preparing the application on your own may lead to failure in the exam due to not meeting the necessary requirements. That is why having the guidance of an attorney is crucial. At Progresso Legal Group P.C., our immigration attorneys will thoroughly review your situation and ensure that you meet all the requirements for the naturalization process. Normally, this process takes between 3 and 4 months, but in more complex cases it may take a little longer. If more than 120 days have passed since your interview or since you submitted the required additional documents, you may take legal action to accelerate the process. In addition, if you have a criminal record or do not feel confident submitting the application on your own, our attorneys have the necessary experience to handle even the most difficult cases and have obtained favorable results for our clients for more than 15 years.
VAWA Petitions:
VAWA, the acronym in English for the Violence Against Women Act, offers a legal pathway for immigrants who have been victims of abuse, whether women or men, to obtain their Green Card and become lawful permanent residents of the United States. How do you know if you qualify for a VAWA petition? If you are the spouse or former spouse of an abusive lawful permanent resident or U.S. citizen. If you are divorced from the abusive lawful permanent resident or U.S. citizen and file your VAWA petition within two years after the date your divorce was finalized. If more than two years have passed since your divorce, you may still qualify to file for VAWA cancellation. Our immigration attorneys at Progresso Legal Group P.C. will provide you with the best advice regarding this option, as sometimes these petitions are denied due to a lack of commitment from the attorneys handling the case toward the client and their situation.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive as Immigration Attorneys in Los Angeles:
What type of cases do immigration attorneys in Los Angeles, CA handle?
The attorneys at Progresso Legal Group P.C. specialize in immigration law, criminal law, and family law, handling cases such as permanent residence applications, citizenship, juvenile visas, motions to vacate convictions, deportation defense, political asylum, TPS, immigration appeals, immigration waivers, and more.
How can you help me obtain permanent residence or a Green Card?
The legal team assists you in the permanent residence application process, including the submission of necessary documents, preparation for the interview, and resolving issues such as denials or delays, ensuring that you obtain your Green Card efficiently.
What requirements do I need to apply for U.S. citizenship?
You must have lived continuously in the United States for more than 5 years as a permanent resident (or 3 years if you are married to a U.S. citizen), among other requirements. The attorneys help you prepare the documents, exams, and interviews to complete the process correctly.
What is a juvenile visa and who can apply for it?
Juvenile visas (Special Immigrant Juveniles) are for non-citizen minors who have faced abuse, abandonment, or neglect. The team advises you on eligibility and guides you through the application process.
What should I do if I have a criminal conviction that affects my immigration status?
You may file motions to vacate convictions based on constitutional or statutory grounds (such as § 1016.5 or § 1473.7). The attorneys help you challenge old convictions and reduce their immigration impact.
How does the family petition process work to obtain permanent residence?
If you have an immediate relative (spouse, parent, or child) who is a citizen or legal resident, they may sponsor you. Progresso Legal Group helps you determine eligibility and complete the application process.
What options do I have if I face deportation?
The attorneys provide defense against deportation, analyzing your case to seek solutions such as cancellation of deportation or appeals, and represent you to help you remain in the United States.
What should I do if I was detained at the border?
If you were arrested by Border Patrol, the attorneys guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and seek the best solution for your case.
How can I apply for political asylum in Los Angeles?
If you are fleeing persecution based on race, religion, nationality, social group, or political opinion, you may apply for asylum. The team helps you present your case before USCIS and obtain a work permit.
What is TPS and how can I know if I qualify?
TPS (Temporary Protected Status) is a temporary benefit for people from certain countries. The attorneys evaluate your eligibility and advise you throughout the process.
What should I do if my immigration application was denied?
You have 30 days to file an appeal. The attorneys at Progresso Legal Group help you understand your options and submit an effective appeal.
Can you help me with an immigration waiver if I have a criminal record?
Yes, they handle waivers such as 212(h) or 212(c). The attorneys work with you and, if necessary, with a criminal attorney to reduce charges and eliminate immigration obstacles.
How do I reduce a criminal conviction that affects my immigration case?
You may request sentence reductions (for example, from 365 to 364 days) or post-conviction relief such as a Writ of Error Coram Nobis or Habeas Corpus. The team represents you to improve your immigration eligibility.
What is the NACARA Law and how does it benefit me?
The NACARA Law helps certain Central Americans obtain legal residence. The attorneys explain whether you qualify and how to take advantage of this benefit.
How do I avoid deportation if I have an order against me?
The attorneys analyze your case to seek cancellation of deportation or other alternatives, ensuring that your documentation is impeccable before the judge in order to obtain a favorable result.
Our team of attorneys at Progresso Legal Group P.C. is passionately dedicated to providing comprehensive and high-quality legal services to the Hispanic community in Los Angeles County, California, and throughout Southern California. We are proud to offer advice and representation in a variety of legal areas that are crucial for our communities. From criminal defense to immigration matters and family issues, our bilingual attorneys are committed to using their experience and legal knowledge to protect the rights and well-being of our clients.