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Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a vital program that has allowed many young immigrants, often referred to as "Dreamers," to live, study, and work in the United States without fear of deportation. At the Law Office of Michael P. Kenny in Colorado, we are dedicated to helping Dreamers understand their rights and navigate the complexities of DACA to secure a brighter future.  What Is DACA? DACA is an immigration policy introduced by the Obama administration in 2012 that provides temporary protection from deportation for individuals who were brought to the U.S. as children and meet certain eligibility criteria. While DACA does not offer a path to permanent residency or citizenship, it provides crucial benefits, such as work authorization and protection from removal. DACA Eligibility Requirements To qualify for DACA, you must meet specific criteria: Age at Entry: You must have arrived in the United States before your 16th birthday. Residency: You must have continuously lived in the U.S. since June 15, 2007. Presence in the U.S.: You must have been physically present in the U.S. on June 15, 2012, and at the time of applying for DACA. Age as of 2012: You must have been under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012. Education or Military Service: You must be currently in school, have graduated, or obtained a GED, or be an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. military. No Serious Criminal Record: Individuals with certain criminal convictions, including felonies or serious misdemeanors, are ineligible for DACA. Benefits of DACA for Dreamers For many Dreamers, DACA provides critical benefits that enable them to pursue their goals and contribute to their communities: Work Authorization: DACA recipients can apply for work permits, allowing them to work legally in the U.S. Protection from Deportation: DACA offers temporary protection from removal for two years, which is renewable. Education Access: Many Dreamers use DACA to access educational opportunities, such as higher education, scholarships, and, in some cases, in-state tuition rates. Driver’s License: In Colorado, DACA recipients are eligible to apply for driver’s licenses, which increases their mobility and independence. The Future of DACA Although DACA has been a lifeline for many young immigrants, its future remains uncertain due to ongoing legal challenges and shifting immigration policies. Recent court rulings have limited the ability to process new DACA applications, though renewals are still being accepted. It’s essential for current DACA recipients to stay informed about the status of the program and ensure their renewals are filed on time. DACA Renewals: Why It’s Important to Act Early If you are a current DACA recipient, it’s crucial to renew your DACA status before it expires to avoid any gaps in protection or work authorization. The renewal process involves submitting the necessary paperwork, supporting documents, and fees to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). At the Law Office of Michael P. Kenny, we help ensure that your application is completed correctly and submitted in a timely manner. Filing for renewal at least 120 to 150 days before your expiration date is recommended to avoid delays that could affect your employment or legal status. What Happens If DACA Ends? If DACA is terminated or altered significantly, Dreamers may face uncertainty regarding their legal status and future in the U.S. In such a scenario, it’s essential to explore alternative legal options. Some potential pathways include: Family-Based Petitions: If you have a family member who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, they may be able to sponsor you for a green card. Employment-Based Visas: Certain Dreamers may qualify for employment-based visas, especially if they have advanced skills or are employed in high-demand industries. Asylum: Dreamers who fear persecution in their home country may be eligible to apply for asylum. At the Law Office of Michael P. Kenny, we are committed to helping Dreamers explore all available options to secure a stable future in the United States. How the Law Office of Michael P. Kenny Can Help Navigating the complexities of immigration law can be challenging, especially for Dreamers facing uncertainty regarding their legal status. At the Law Office of Michael P. Kenny, we provide comprehensive legal services to help DACA recipients and other immigrants in Colorado understand their rights and protect their future. Our services include: DACA Applications and Renewals: We assist with the initial DACA application process and ensure timely and accurate renewals. Legal Consultation on Immigration Options: We explore all potential pathways for Dreamers, including family-based petitions, work visas, or other forms of relief. Advocacy and Representation: If you encounter legal issues or challenges related to DACA, we are here to represent you and ensure your rights are protected. DACA has been a critical program for thousands of young immigrants, offering protection and opportunities to build a life in the United States. However, with ongoing legal challenges, it’s essential for Dreamers to stay informed and seek legal guidance to protect their status. At the Law Office of Michael P. Kenny, we are dedicated to supporting DACA recipients and helping them navigate the complexities of immigration law. If you are a Dreamer or have questions about your immigration status, contact the Law Office of Michael P. Kenny today for a consultation. We are here to help you secure your future in Colorado.

Navigating the U.S. immigration system can be complex, especially when seeking certain benefits that require proving a “qualifying relative.” Whether you are applying for a waiver of inadmissibility, cancellation of removal, or some other form of immigration relief, understanding what constitutes a qualifying relative and how to meet this requirement is essential. In this blog post, we’ll break down the concept of a qualifying relative, the role it plays in immigration applications, and key strategies for demonstrating eligibility. What is a “Qualifying Relative”? In the context of U.S. immigration law, a qualifying relative is a family member whose relationship to an immigrant makes the immigrant eligible for certain waivers or forms of relief. This relative must meet specific criteria, depending on the type of immigration benefit or waiver sought. Not every family relationship qualifies, and the specific requirements can vary significantly based on the legal context. Common Situations Requiring a Qualifying Relative There are several scenarios in which proving the existence of a qualifying relative is crucial. Some of the most common include: Waivers of Inadmissibility Individuals deemed inadmissible to the United States due to unlawful presence, criminal history, or other grounds may apply for a waiver of inadmissibility. In most cases, a qualifying relative—typically a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR) spouse or parent—must demonstrate that they would suffer extreme hardship if the waiver is not granted. Cancellation of Removal for Non-Permanent Residents To apply for cancellation of removal, non-permanent residents must show that their removal would result in exceptional and extremely unusual hardship to a qualifying relative, which is usually defined as a U.S. citizen or LPR spouse, parent, or child. Adjustment of Status Based on Certain Grounds of Inadmissibility Some adjustment of status applicants who are subject to specific grounds of inadmissibility may need to establish a qualifying relationship to a U.S. citizen or LPR spouse or parent to overcome these barriers. Provisional Unlawful Presence Waivers Immigrants who have accrued unlawful presence and need to leave the U.S. for a consular interview can apply for a provisional waiver to reduce the risk of being barred from re-entry. This waiver often requires a qualifying relative, which is typically a U.S. citizen or LPR spouse or parent. Who Can Be a Qualifying Relative? The exact definition of a qualifying relative varies depending on the type of relief or waiver sought. The most common qualifying relatives include: Spouse: A U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse can often serve as a qualifying relative in waiver applications and other contexts. Parent: U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident parents may qualify, particularly for non-citizen children applying for certain types of waivers. Child: In some scenarios, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident child may be a qualifying relative. However, for certain waivers, children are not considered qualifying relatives. Proving the “Extreme Hardship” Standard In many cases, the existence of a qualifying relative is not enough on its own. Applicants must also prove that the qualifying relative would suffer “extreme hardship” if the immigrant were denied the requested benefit. This can be one of the most challenging aspects of the process. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) considers several factors when evaluating hardship, including: Health Concerns: If the qualifying relative has a serious medical condition that would be worsened by separation or relocation. Financial Impact: If the denial of relief would result in a significant financial burden on the qualifying relative. Emotional or Psychological Hardship: Separation from a close family member or the emotional impact of relocating to a foreign country. Educational and Professional Impact: If the qualifying relative would lose educational or career opportunities due to the denial. Supporting evidence for extreme hardship might include medical records, psychological evaluations, affidavits from family members, financial documentation, and expert testimony. Preparing a Strong Application Successfully meeting the qualifying relative requirement and proving extreme hardship requires thorough preparation and careful presentation of evidence. Here are some tips for strengthening your case: Gather Comprehensive Documentation Collect all relevant documents that support your relationship with the qualifying relative and demonstrate the hardships they would face. This might include medical records, financial statements, educational transcripts, and personal statements. Focus on the Specific Hardship Factors Tailor your evidence to focus on the factors that USCIS will consider, such as health conditions, financial impact, and emotional well-being. Highlight any factors that make the case unique or particularly compelling. Submit Expert Opinions In some cases, expert testimony, such as a letter from a doctor or mental health professional, can strengthen the argument that a qualifying relative would suffer extreme hardship. Create a Cohesive Narrative Present the case as a cohesive story that shows how the immigrant’s departure or inability to remain in the U.S. would have a profound impact on the qualifying relative’s life. Seek Legal Assistance Immigration laws and regulations are complex, and meeting the qualifying relative requirement can be challenging without legal guidance. Working with an experienced immigration attorney can significantly improve your chances of success. How The Law Offices of Michael P. Kenny Can Help Navigating the requirements for a qualifying relative and proving extreme hardship can be daunting. At the Law Offices of Michael P. Kenny, we have extensive experience helping clients prepare strong applications and waivers to meet these requirements. We understand the intricacies of U.S. immigration law and are dedicated to protecting your family’s future. If you need help determining whether you meet the qualifying relative requirement or need assistance preparing a waiver or application, contact us today. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that your application is as strong and persuasive as possible. Call us today to learn more about how we can support your immigration case and help you keep your family together.

Facing deportation is a daunting and stressful experience for anyone. If you or a loved one is at risk of being removed from the country, it is crucial to seek the help of an experienced deportation defense attorney. In Colorado, The Law Offices of Michael P. Kenny specializes in immigration law and can provide you with the legal representation needed to fight deportation proceedings. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of hiring a deportation defense attorney and how they can help you navigate through this challenging time.  Expertise in Immigration Law: Deportation defense attorneys are knowledgeable and experienced in immigration law. They understand the complexities of the legal system and can guide you through the process of fighting deportation. At The Law Offices of Michael P. Kenny, our team has a deep understanding of immigration laws and regulations, allowing us to provide effective defense strategies tailored to your specific case. Personalized Legal Representation: When facing deportation, having personalized legal representation is essential. A deportation defense attorney will work closely with you to understand your unique situation and develop a strong defense strategy. Our team at The Law Offices of Michael P. Kenny takes the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and advocate for your rights throughout the entire process. Courtroom Experience: Deportation cases often involve court hearings and proceedings that require a skilled attorney to represent you effectively. With years of courtroom experience, our deportation defense attorneys are well-equipped to handle all aspects of your case, from gathering evidence to presenting arguments in front of an immigration judge. Access to Resources: A deportation defense attorney has access to resources that can benefit your case, such as expert witnesses, interpreters, and other professionals who can provide valuable support during legal proceedings. At The Law Offices of Michael P. Kenny, we work diligently to ensure that you have all the resources necessary to build a strong defense against deportation. Support Throughout the Process: Deportation proceedings can be overwhelming and emotionally draining for individuals and their families. By hiring a deportation defense attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Kenny, you can have peace of mind knowing that someone is advocating for your rights every step of the way. We provide compassionate support and guidance throughout the entire process, helping you navigate through this difficult time with confidence. When facing deportation proceedings in Colorado, hiring a deportation defense attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Kenny can make all the difference in protecting your rights and achieving a successful outcome for your case. With expertise in immigration law, personalized legal representation, courtroom experience, access to resources, and unwavering support throughout the process, our team is dedicated to helping you fight against removal from the country. Don't face deportation alone - contact us today for a consultation and take the first step towards securing your future in the United States.

Inadmissibility can be a significant hurdle for individuals seeking to enter or remain in the United States. Various grounds for inadmissibility, such as prior immigration violations, criminal convictions, health-related issues, or misrepresentation, can prevent you from achieving your immigration goals. However, obtaining a waiver of inadmissibility can provide a pathway to overcome these obstacles. At the Law Office of Michael P. Kenny, we specialize in helping clients in Colorado navigate the complexities of inadmissibility waivers. Here’s how a waivers of inadmissibility immigration lawyer can assist you.  1. Understanding Grounds for Inadmissibility The U.S. immigration system has strict criteria that determine whether an individual is admissible or inadmissible. Common grounds for inadmissibility include: Health-related issues: Communicable diseases, lack of required vaccinations, physical or mental disorders. Criminal convictions: Crimes involving moral turpitude, drug offenses, multiple convictions. Immigration violations: Overstaying a visa, illegal entry, previous deportation orders. Fraud or misrepresentation: Providing false information on immigration applications. Security concerns: Involvement in terrorism, espionage, or other security-related activities. An experienced immigration lawyer can help you understand how these grounds apply to your case and determine your eligibility for a waiver. 2. Evaluating Your Eligibility for a Waiver Obtaining a waiver of inadmissibility is not guaranteed, and the process can be complex. An immigration lawyer can evaluate your specific circumstances, identify the applicable waiver categories, and determine your eligibility. Common waivers include: I-601 Waiver: For inadmissibility based on certain criminal grounds, immigration fraud, or unlawful presence. I-601A Provisional Waiver: Specifically for unlawful presence, allowing individuals to remain in the U.S. while their waiver is processed. I-212 Waiver: For individuals who have been previously deported or removed. 3. Preparing and Submitting the Waiver Application A successful waiver application requires thorough documentation and a compelling argument for why the waiver should be granted. An immigration lawyer can assist you in preparing a comprehensive waiver application, including: Gathering evidence: Collecting supporting documents, such as medical records, police reports, and character references. Drafting a personal statement: Writing a detailed statement explaining your circumstances, the hardship you or your family would face if the waiver is denied, and any mitigating factors. Filing the application: Ensuring that all forms are accurately completed and submitted in a timely manner. 4. Demonstrating Extreme Hardship One of the key factors in many waiver applications is demonstrating that a denial would result in extreme hardship to you or your qualifying relatives (U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, parent, or child). An immigration lawyer can help you build a strong case by: Identifying qualifying relatives: Determining who qualifies as a relative under the waiver requirements. Documenting hardship: Providing evidence of financial, medical, emotional, and psychological hardships that would result from a denial. Crafting a compelling argument: Presenting a persuasive argument to the immigration authorities, highlighting the unique aspects of your case. 5. Representing You in Communications and Hearings Throughout the waiver process, you may need to communicate with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or attend hearings. An immigration lawyer can represent you in these interactions, ensuring that your case is presented effectively and that you receive fair consideration. They can also respond to any requests for additional evidence or address any concerns raised by the immigration authorities. 6. Providing Ongoing Support and Guidance Navigating the immigration system can be a long and stressful process. An immigration lawyer can provide ongoing support and guidance, helping you understand your options, stay informed about the status of your application, and address any issues that arise. Their expertise and experience can significantly increase your chances of a successful outcome. Benefits of Hiring a Waivers of Inadmissibility Immigration Lawyer Hiring an immigration lawyer for waivers of inadmissibility offers several advantages: Expert Legal Knowledge: An attorney with experience in inadmissibility waivers understands the intricacies of immigration law and can provide expert advice tailored to your situation. Comprehensive Case Preparation: An attorney can ensure that your waiver application is thorough, accurate, and persuasive. Effective Advocacy: An attorney can advocate for your rights and interests throughout the waiver process. Peace of Mind: Knowing that a professional is handling your case allows you to focus on your life and future, confident that your legal matters are being addressed. At the Law Office of Michael P. Kenny, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation for individuals facing inadmissibility issues in Colorado. Our team of experienced attorneys will work tirelessly to protect your rights and help you achieve your immigration goals.

Seeking asylum in the United States is a complex and challenging process that requires thorough preparation and expert legal guidance. This blog post from The Law Offices of Michael P. Kenny explains how an attorney can assist you in navigating the asylum process, ensuring your rights are protected and increasing your chances of a successful outcome.

Are you or a loved one facing issues with inadmissibility when trying to enter or remain in the United States? The process can be complex and overwhelming, but you don't have to go through it alone. The Law Offices of Michael P. Kenny can help you navigate waivers of inadmissibility and increase your chances of success. In this blog post, we will explore what waivers of inadmissibility are, when they may be necessary, and how we can assist you in obtaining one. Waivers of inadmissibility are essentially requests for forgiveness for certain grounds of inadmissibility that would otherwise prevent an individual from entering or remaining in the United States. These grounds may include criminal convictions, fraud or misrepresentation on a visa application, unlawful presence, health-related issues, or previous removal orders. Applying for a waiver can be a complex process that requires thorough documentation and legal expertise. When might a waiver of inadmissibility be necessary? If you have been denied entry into the U.S., have been deported, or are applying for adjustment of status but are ineligible due to certain grounds of inadmissibility, you may need to seek a waiver. Additionally, if you have committed certain crimes or have a history of immigration violations, a waiver may also be required to overcome these obstacles. An immigration lawyer in Colorado can assist you throughout the waiver application process by evaluating your eligibility for a waiver, helping you gather the necessary documentation to support your case, preparing and filing the waiver application on your behalf, and representing you during any interviews with immigration officials. They can also provide guidance on how best to demonstrate that granting the waiver would not pose a threat to public safety or national security. Furthermore, an experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and options when it comes to waivers of inadmissibility. They can inform you about any potential risks associated with applying for a waiver and advise you on alternative strategies if obtaining a waiver is not feasible. By working with an immigration lawyer who specializes in waivers of inadmissibility cases, you can increase your chances of success and avoid unnecessary delays or denials. Navigating waivers of inadmissibility can be challenging without the guidance of The Law Offices of Michael P. Kenny. If you or someone you know is facing issues related to admissibility into the U.S., don't hesitate to seek professional legal assistance. Michael P. Kenny can help you understand your options, prepare a strong case for a waiver, and advocate on your behalf throughout the application process.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Green Card for Your Family

Living as a DACA recipient in Colorado comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. To make the most of the latter and effectively handle the former, it's imperative to have the right guidance. This is where a Dreamers attorney steps in – a specialized legal aide who understands the unique situations faced by Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients.  Understanding DACA and Its Impact Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is an American immigration policy allowing some individuals with unlawful presence in the United States after being brought to the country as children to receive a renewable two-year period of deferment from deportation and become eligible for a work permit. It serves as a lifeline for many young people to work legally in the U.S. and avoid the risk of deportation. For Colorado residents who are also DACA recipients, this status is particularly crucial for their livelihood and sense of security. Here, I outline how consulting with a Dreamers attorney can support you or someone you know in this community. Dreamers Attorney: Your Guide and Advocate A Dreamers attorney is well-versed in the intricacies of immigration law, especially as it pertains to DACA policies. Here’s how they can help: Legal Advice Tailored to Your Needs: Every DACA case is unique. A Dreamers attorney can provide personalized legal advice based on an individual's situation. Assistance with DACA Applications and Renewals: The application and renewal process can be complex. An attorney can ensure accuracy, completeness, and timeliness. Representation in Immigration Matters: In any situation where legal representation is necessary, a Dreamers attorney can be a strong advocate. Protection Against Changes in Law: With immigration laws constantly evolving, an attorney can help DACA recipients understand and prepare for potential changes that may affect their status. Why Colorado Dreamers Need an Attorney Now More Than Ever In the current political climate, DACA policies are subject to change, making it even more critical to have legal counsel who can react quickly and effectively. Colorado has unique state laws and resources for DACA recipients, which a Dreamers attorney can help you access and understand. Community and Resources in Colorado Colorado is home to numerous advocacy groups, organizations, and community resources dedicated to supporting DACA recipients. By engaging with a local attorney, you tap into a vast network of support and information tailored to the needs of Dreamers within the state. If you or someone you love is a Dreamer in Colorado, it's more important than ever to be proactive about your legal status. Work with an attorney who specializes in this area of law to help safeguard your future. Remember, you are not alone, and there is a community of legal professionals ready to support you.

For many Colorado residents seeking to enter the United States, navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration law can be overwhelming. One common hurdle for those looking to secure legal status is a waiver of inadmissibility. A waiver of inadmissibility is a form of legal relief that allows certain individuals who would otherwise be barred from entering the country to gain admission or adjust their status. In this blog post, we’ll explore what waivers of inadmissibility are, who may be eligible, and how an experienced immigration lawyer can help you navigate this process. What is a Waiver of Inadmissibility? A waiver of inadmissibility is a discretionary decision by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the Department of State (DOS) to forgive certain grounds for ineligibility for admission into the United States. The most common grounds for ineligibility include criminal convictions, immigration violations, and health-related issues such as communicable diseases. If you are deemed ineligible for admission due to one or more of these grounds, you may be able to apply for a waiver. Who May Be Eligible? Not everyone who is found inadmissible will qualify for a waiver. Generally speaking, waivers are only available to applicants who can demonstrate that their denial would result in extreme hardship to themselves or their U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident family members. For example, if you have been convicted of certain crimes but can show that your deportation would cause extreme hardship for your spouse and children who are U.S. citizens, you may be eligible for a waiver. How Can an Immigration Lawyer Help? Navigating the complex world of immigration law can be challenging without proper guidance and support. An experienced immigration lawyer can help you determine whether you may be eligible for a waiver of inadmissibility and guide you through the application process. Your lawyer can help you gather the necessary evidence to support your case and prepare a strong waiver application that addresses all relevant legal requirements. What Happens After I Apply? After you submit your waiver application, USCIS or DOS will review it to determine whether you meet the legal requirements for a waiver. This process can take several months or more, depending on the complexity of your case. If your waiver is granted, you will be able to enter the United States or adjust your status. If your waiver is denied, you may have the option to appeal the decision or reapply with new evidence. If you are facing inadmissibility issues and believe that a waiver may be an option for you, it’s important to consult with an experienced immigration lawyer who can help guide you through this complex process. At our law firm, we specialize in helping Colorado residents navigate all aspects of U.S. immigration law, including waivers of inadmissibility. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals for legal status in the United States.