Tampa Bay Immigration Attorney
The Swafford Law Group is a trusted Tampa Bay immigration attorney that provides expert legal services for individuals and families navigating the complex immigration process. With years of experience and a deep understanding of immigration law, our team is dedicated to helping clients achieve their immigration goals. Contact us today for personalized and effective legal representation.
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Immigration Lawyer In Tampa Bay
Embarking on the journey to the USA is both exciting and challenging, filled with dreams, aspirations, and uncertainties. At Swafford Law Group, we’re not just another distant, faceless law firm – we’re local, right here with you every step of the way. Our dedicated team offers expert immigration law services, driven by a singular purpose: to ensure your immigration process goes as smoothly as possible. We understand the stakes, the hopes you carry, and the life you’re trying to build. That’s why we don’t just represent you; we fight passionately on your behalf.
- Family-Based Immigration
- Employment-Based Immigration
- Appeals
- Religious Visas
- Citizenship
- Deportation & Removal Defense
- Bond Motions
- Asylum & Refugee Applications
- Naturalization & Citizenship
- Waivers
- Green Card Renewals & Replacements
- Business & Investor Visas
- DACA
- U Visas
- T Visas
- Adjustment of Status
- Consular Processing
- Immigration Appeals
- Employer Compliance
- Detention & Bond Hearings
- LGBTQ Immigration
- Immigration Audits
Family Immigration
At Swafford Law Group, we understand the profound significance of reuniting families and securing a future together in the U.S. Our expert team excels in handling the intricacies of family-based petitions. Whether it’s assessing your eligibility, guiding you through the maze of required documentation, adeptly navigating the visa bulletin, or expertly addressing any challenges like RFEs or NOIDs, we’re by your side.
Deportation Defense
Facing deportation is not only daunting but navigating the process can feel like an insurmountable challenge. At Swafford Law Group, we stand firmly by your side, ready to mount a formidable defense. Our expertise spans from representing you diligently in court and exploring all avenues of relief to guiding through intricate appeals. We stay updated on the evolving landscape of immigration law to provide you the most informed defense strategy.
Work Visas & Employment Based Immigration
When it comes to work visas and employment-based immigration, the landscape can be a minefield of complexity. At Swafford Law Group, we simplify this for you. From identifying the optimal visa category tailored to your unique situation, to meticulously handling the demanding documentation and liaising with governmental bodies, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re navigating the nuanced Labor Certification process, responding to RFEs, or transitioning to permanent residency, our expertise ensures you’re always one step ahead. With ever-changing immigration policies, you need more than just legal aid; you need a strategic partner.
Asylum & Refugee Applications
Our seasoned team deeply understands the nuances of persecution claims, ensuring your story is both heard and substantiated with compelling evidence. From meticulous application preparation and representing you in crucial interviews to navigating appeals, we’re with you every step. As regulations shift, our up-to-date expertise guarantees your application aligns with current standards. And once asylum is granted, we’ll guide you through your new rights and benefits.
Citizenship Lawyer
Our team of dedicated citizenship lawyers is well-versed in all aspects of the naturalization process. We offer thorough eligibility assessments to determine the best course of action for each client, ensuring that they meet all the requirements for U.S. citizenship.
From meticulously preparing and submitting the N-400 Application for Naturalization to providing expert advice on complex issues such as previous immigration violations or criminal records, we handle every detail with precision and care. We also offer comprehensive support in preparing for the citizenship interview and civics test, and we are prepared to represent our clients in legal proceedings, if necessary.
At Swafford Law Group, our goal is to streamline the path to citizenship, making it as clear and stress-free as possible for our clients. Trust us to be your dedicated ally in achieving your American dream.
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HOW WE CAN HELP WITH
Deportation And Removal Defense
Swafford Law Group offers specialized legal services as a deportation and removal defense lawyer, dedicated to assisting individuals facing challenges in immigration cases. Our experienced team at Swafford Law Group is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to protect your rights and navigate the complexities of immigration law.
- Legal Representation in Immigration Court: Defending clients in hearings and proceedings before immigration judges.
- Filing Appeals and Motions: Assisting with appeals against deportation orders and filing motions to reopen or reconsider cases.
- Asylum and Refugee Applications: Helping clients apply for asylum or refugee status due to persecution or fear of persecution in their home country.
- Adjustment of Status: Assisting with applications for lawful permanent residency (green card) and change of immigration status.
- Cancellation of Removal: Applying for cancellation of removal for eligible non-permanent residents and lawful permanent residents.
- Waivers of Inadmissibility: Preparing and filing waivers for clients who are considered inadmissible to the United States.
- Family-Based Immigration Petitions: Helping clients with family-based petitions to prevent separation of families due to deportation.
- Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Action: Assisting with applications for TPS and deferred action for eligible individuals.
- Bond Hearings and Detention Issues: Representing clients in bond hearings and addressing issues related to immigration detention.
- Legal Counseling and Advice: Providing guidance on the potential outcomes of immigration cases and advising on the best legal strategies.
Let us represent you with honesty and greatness.
Part of the criminal defense process will include negotiations with the Assistant State Attorney assigned to your case (the prosecutor). This is important to do quickly as the prosecutor is on a timeline to not only file formal criminal charges against you after an arrest is made, but also comply with the rules of discovery and your speedy trial right after formal charges are filed.
In order to better serve our clients, Swafford Law Group, PA will offer consultations via telephone or zoom. We will also be available by appointment to meet in person, if desired. We will use this time to offer information and advice about the criminal justice system in your area. It is important to contact an attorney quickly to ensure your case is being handled in the best manner possible.
Bond Motions Attorney
At Swafford Law Group, we understand the challenges and stress of immigration detention. Our experienced attorneys are skilled in filing bond motions to help secure the release of detainees from ICE custody. We meticulously assess each client’s eligibility, focusing on factors like community ties and low flight risk, to build a strong case.
By effectively presenting evidence and arguments in bond hearings, we strive to persuade immigration judges to set reasonable bond amounts. Our goal is to reunite families and ensure our clients can live and work in their community while we diligently prepare for their upcoming court proceedings.
Trust Swafford Law Group to navigate the complexities of bond motions, offering a beacon of hope and professional guidance during difficult times.
- Assessment of Eligibility: Evaluating the detainee’s eligibility for bond based on their immigration history, criminal record, and community ties.
- Preparation and Filing of Bond Motions: Crafting and submitting bond motions to immigration courts, detailing reasons why the detainee should be granted bond.
- Representation at Bond Hearings: Providing legal representation in bond hearings to argue for the detainee’s release and negotiate the bond amount.
- Gathering Supporting Evidence: Collecting evidence such as character references, employment records, and family ties to strengthen the bond motion.
- Advising on Compliance: Guiding clients on compliance with bond conditions and ensuring they understand the importance of attending all immigration hearings.
- Negotiating Bond Reductions: Working to reduce the bond amount to a level affordable for the detainee and their family.
- Post-Release Assistance: Offering legal advice and assistance after the detainee’s release, including preparation for upcoming immigration proceedings.
- Coordination with Family Members: Coordinating with the detainee’s family to facilitate the bond payment process and provide comprehensive support.
Immigration Appeals
Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to providing expert legal representation for those who wish to challenge unfavorable immigration decisions.
Whether it’s a visa denial, a deportation order, or an adverse ruling by an immigration judge, our team is well-versed in navigating the complexities of the appeals process. We meticulously prepare and submit persuasive written briefs, leveraging our deep knowledge of immigration statutes and case law.
Our goal is to ensure that our clients’ cases are reviewed thoroughly and fairly by a higher authority, advocating tirelessly for a decision that aligns with their best interests and legal rights. Trust Swafford Law Group to be your staunch ally in the appeals process, striving to turn the tide in your favor.
HOW WE CAN HELP WITH
Individual Immigration
We offer comprehensive individual immigration services, designed to navigate the complexities of the U.S. immigration system. Our skilled attorneys specialize in handling a diverse range of individual immigration matters, from visa applications and family-based petitions to naturalization and citizenship processes. We understand that each case is unique, and we provide personalized guidance to meet the specific needs and goals of our clients.
Religious Visas
Our team helps facilitate R-1 religious visas for individuals seeking to enter the United States for religious work. Our experienced immigration attorneys understand the unique requirements and nuances of the R-1 visa application process.
We provide comprehensive legal assistance to religious workers, including ministers, priests, rabbis, and other religious professionals, ensuring they meet the eligibility criteria and successfully navigate the complex application procedures. Our team works closely with both the applicants and the sponsoring religious organizations in the U.S. to compile and submit all necessary documentation, including proof of religious affiliation and the bona fide nature of the religious work to be performed. With Swafford Law Group, you can trust that your religious visa case will be handled with the utmost care and professionalism, paving the way for your spiritual and religious contributions in the United States.
Immigration Waivers
Our experienced attorneys understand the challenges posed by grounds of inadmissibility and deportation, and we are dedicated to helping clients overcome these hurdles.
Whether it’s addressing issues related to unlawful presence, certain criminal offenses, or misrepresentation, our team is adept at preparing compelling waiver applications. We meticulously gather and present evidence to demonstrate extreme hardship to family members, aiming to persuade immigration authorities to grant the necessary waivers. At
Swafford Law Group, we provide personalized and compassionate legal assistance, guiding our clients through each step of the waiver process to enhance their chances of a favorable outcome.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a visa and a green card?
A visa allows someone to travel to a country and request permission to enter. It doesn’t guarantee entry or a long stay. A green card, on the other hand, allows someone to live and work in the U.S. permanently. It’s a step towards U.S. citizenship.
How long does the immigration process take?
The time varies a lot based on the type of application, where you are applying from, and the current workload of the immigration office. Some processes might take a few months, while others, especially family-sponsored visas, can take years. Always check the latest processing times and stay updated.
Can I work in the U.S. while waiting for my green card?
In most cases, if you’ve applied for a green card from within the U.S., you can apply for a work permit (Employment Authorization Document or EAD) while you wait. Once the EAD is approved, you can work legally. If you’re outside the U.S., you generally must wait until the green card is approved.
What if my visa or green card application is denied?
If your application is denied, the decision letter should explain why. In many cases, you can appeal the decision or file a motion to reopen/reconsider. It’s important to consult an immigration lawyer in such scenarios to understand your options.
Can I travel outside the U.S. while my green card application is pending?
If you’re in the U.S. and have applied for a green card, you should not leave the country without first obtaining “Advance Parole.” If you leave without it, your application might be considered abandoned. Once you have Advance Parole, you can travel but must return before its expiration.
Meet Our Team
Ryan G. Swafford, Esq. Managing Partner/Founder
Ryan has dedicated his career to helping individuals better navigate the criminal justice system.
Jessica Silva "Of Counsel"
Her experience in criminal and immigration matters has also helped her narrow issues to successfully defend clients.
Please Let Us Know How Can We Help You?
Contact Swafford Law Group for all of your injury, criminal defense, and civil litigation needs by reaching out to them today. Don’t hesitate, to take action now and get in touch with them to discuss your legal concerns.