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A SHORT HISTORY OF AMERICAN IMMIGRATION LAWS

BestImmigrationLawyer.com — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 05:14:26 GMT

Have you ever wondered about how the current American immigration system came into being? Today’s blog post is intended to give you a short history of American immigration laws. It’s fascinating to see how these policies have evolved over time. At BestImmigrationLawyer.com, we think you’ll find it quite interesting to learn about the history of our nation’s immigration system.

Let’s start with the early days. Back in the 18th and 19th centuries American immigration was pretty much a free-for-all. People from all over Europe were arriving in the United States seeking new opportunities and a better life. For the most part, there were no restrictions on who could come in to the country and immigration was seen as a way to boost the population and the workforce. However, as the country grew and changed, so did the attitudes towards immigration. The first major immigration law in the United States was the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 which was signed into law by President Chester A. Arthur. This act was pretty much what it sounds like—it prohibited Chinese laborers from immigrating to the US for ten years. Shamefully, this law came into being because there was a lot of anti-Chinese sentiment and prejudice during that time, fueled by fears of job competition and the belief that the Chinese were “unassimilable.” But the Chinese Exclusion Act was just the beginning.

In the early 20th century, the nation saw the introduction of a quota system with respect to immigration. The 1921 Emergency Quota Act and the 1924 Immigration Act put numerical limits on immigration and favored people from Western and Northern European countries. These laws were rooted in a desire to maintain the country’s ethnic and racial makeup, and they discriminated against people from Southern and Eastern Europe, as well as other parts of the world.

Fast forward to the mid-20th century and the “Bracero Program.” This was a series of laws and agreements between the United States and Mexico which allowed Mexican laborers to work in the US on a temporary basis. The program began in 1942 and lasted until approximately 1964. It played a significant role in shaping US-Mexican relations and the experiences of Mexican immigrants in the United States. This program came about due to a labor shortage in the agricultural industry of the United States brought about by World War II. The Bracero Program is estimated to have brought approximately 4 million person into the United States.

More big changes to the American immigration system came about in the 1960s. In 1965, the Immigration and Nationality Act was passed. Also known as the Hart-Celler Act, this law abolished the quota system and replaced it with a preference system based upon skills and family reunification. This was a significant milestone because the new law aimed to make the immigration process more equitable and less discriminatory. However, it also introduced some new challenges, like long waiting times and a backlog of applications for visas.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, there were several attempts to address the growing issue of undocumented immigration. One notable example is the 1986 Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) which was signed into law by President Ronald Reagan. The law granted amnesty to millions of undocumented immigrants who had been living in the US since before 1982. It also aimed to strengthen border enforcement and penalize employers who knowingly hired undocumented workers. Despite these efforts, undocumented immigration continued to be a contentious issue. In the 1990s, the controversial Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act (IIRIRA) was passed during the Presidency of Bill Clinton. This law increased penalties for immigration violations and expanded the grounds for deportation. It also made it more difficult for undocumented immigrants to gain legal status or access public benefits.

In the 21st century, immigration policies have continued to evolve. One of the most significant changes came in 2012, when President Barack Obama introduced the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. This policy allowed certain young undocumented immigrants, who were brought to the US as children, to apply for temporary protection from deportation and work authorization. DACA has faced its share of challenges. The Administration of President Donald Trump attempting to end the program in 2017. That effort failed when the United States Supreme Court blocked an effort to dismantle DACA.

Throughout the course of American history, immigration has been an issue of major debate. The current times are no exception. There is not a day that goes by without some news involving immigration related issues. Given that the majority of people in the United States are either immigrants or descended from immigrants, there is no doubt immigration will remain an issue of significant discussion in the years to come.

If you’re an immigrant or someone that knows an immigrant, at BestImmigrationLawyer.com we have the experience and knowledge to help persons facing the most significant immigration issues. Get in touch with us today and let us help you if you’re facing an immigration issue and need legal help. Our team of lawyers and support staff have dealt with practically every type of immigration issue. We can also help you too.

Introducing Patrick Lindemann, Esq. to the Best Immigration Lawyer Team

BestImmigrationLawyer.com — Mon, 08 Aug 2022 15:58:13 GMT

Welcome Patrick Lindemann, Esq. to the Best Immigration Lawyer Team

There are very few lawyers in the United States with Patrick Lindemann’s unique experience and accomplishments that practice immigration law. If you’re facing immigration issues and you need the best, you’ll want Patrick in your corner. An exceptional lawyer with deep experience and knowledge in the field of immigration law, Patrick is the first choice for client’s facing serious immigration issues. Based upon his professional background and work history, he has the respect of judges and government officials that deal with immigration matters.

Prior to joining BestImmigrationLawyer.com, Patrick spent over a decade with the United States Department of Homeland Security as a Trial Attorney handling nearly every type of immigration case. This unique experience has equipped Patrick to provide outstanding representation to clients dealing with the American immigration system. Whether you’re a business needing help with business immigration issues or you’re an individual facing deportation, Patrick can help. There are few lawyers with his level of expertise and knowledge regarding the immigration court process and system. Because of this, Patrick is often consulted by other lawyers who need help counseling their own clients about immigration matters. Whether your issue involves a bond hearing, a petition for asylum, adjustment of status, a DACA application or citizenship, Patrick and the BestImmigrationLawyer.com are here to help.

In addition to being a great lawyer, Patrick brings a sense of compassion to every case given his own background as the son of an immigrant. Born in France, Patrick’s mother emigrated to the United States after his father petitioned for her to come to America. This personal background makes Patrick sensitive to the needs and concerns of those facing the American immigration system. Immigration law is complex and the process can be stressful. The stakes are very high. For this reason, it’s extremely important to have a highly knowledgeable and competent attorney, such as Patrick, in your corner. Patrick and BestImmigrationLawyer.com pride themselves on providing honest, compassionate, and skilled representation to each client. For this reason, clients across the United States contact the firm everyday for help.

Patrick is a graduate of the University of North Dakota. He received both his undergraduate and law school education there. While at the University of North Dakota law school, he was a member of the prestigious Law Review. After completing law school, Patrick was admitted to practice law in Colorado. He joined the United States Air Force where he spent approximately 20 years as a lawyer handling interesting and important cases. After honorably serving his country in the Air Force, Patrick served as a tenured professor teaching students a variety of subjects, including immigration law. His professional and educational background makes Patrick uniquely qualified to offer a level of insight and representation to clients in immigration matters that are hard to match. If you want the best legal representation, call BestImmigrationLawyer.com today.

EducationJ.D., University of North Dakota B.A., University of North Dakota Jurisdictions Admitted to Practice All 50 States and Territories Professional & Bar Association MembershipsColorado State Bar American Immigration Lawyers Association

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT IMMIGRATION COURT

BestImmigrationLawyer.com — Mon, 25 Jul 2022 23:31:38 GMT

What you need to know about immigration court?

If you’re not an American citizen, or even if you are, you may have found yourself facing the immigration court system at some point in your life, perhaps because you entered the country without documentation or overstayed your visa. There are many misconceptions surrounding the immigration court system, and this confusion makes it much more difficult to navigate through it successfully, no matter what your particular situation is. To ensure that you’re as prepared as possible to navigate through this confusing legal process, take a look at the information below to help you understand how immigration court works.

Who Should Attend?

Immigration court is a formal proceeding, and as such, there are specific rules about who should attend. In general, the person facing removal proceedings should attend, as well as their attorney or representative. Other people who may be allowed to attend include witnesses, character witnesses, and anyone else with helpful information. If you’re not sure whether you should attend, it’s best to err on the side of caution and show up.

Role of an Attorney

When it comes to immigration court, having an attorney by your side can make a world of difference. An attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system, understand your rights, and give you the best chance at winning your case. A recent study found that when immigrants with attorneys went before judges for their final hearing, they were granted relief 84% of the time.

What To Expect During the Hearing

What you need to know about immigration court.

The immigration court process can be confusing and intimidating. This is especially true if you’re facing removal from the United States. Thankfully, there are a few things you can expect during your hearing that may help put your mind at ease.

First, you will be sworn in. This means that you will have to tell the truth during your testimony.

Next, the judge will ask you some questions. These questions will be about your case and why you think you should be allowed to stay in the United States.

After that, it will be the attorney’s turn to ask you questions. The attorney represents the government and is trying to prove that you should be removed from the United States. Your own attorney will be permitted to respond to any arguments made by the government attorney.

Finally, witnesses may be called to testify.

Afterwards, the immigration judge may decide your case on the spot or wait to decide later. In most cases, the judge will make a decision after hearing all the evidence and arguments.

How Long Does It Take?

The average immigration court case takes about 601 days to complete. However, this number can vary greatly depending on the court’s backlog, the type of case, and whether or not the individual has an attorney.

What Happens After I Arrive At Court?

After you arrive at court, you will check in with the court clerk. The clerk will then call your case and you will approach the front of the room. The Judge will ask you questions about your case and may also ask questions of any witnesses that are present. After hearing all of the evidence, the Judge will decide your case.

Can I Bring a Friend/Family Member with Me?

You are allowed to bring one support person with you to immigration court. This person can be a friend or family member. They will have to sit in the spectator section, however, and will not be able to participate in the proceedings.

Contact Us Today And Let BestImmigrationLawyer.com Help You

The immigration laws are complex. One wrong move or bad decision can have life altering consequences. Call us today or get in touch with us through this website and let us help you. At the BestImmigrationLawyer.com, we have over 50 combined years of legal experience ready to help you deal with any immigration issue. BestImmigrationLawyer.com practices immigration law throughout the United States and its territories. We can help you wherever you are.

DACA hits 10 year anniversary sparking calls to pass the “Dream Act”

BestImmigrationLawyer.com — Sat, 25 Jun 2022 20:00:01 GMT

DACA HITS 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY SPARKING RENEWED CALLS FOR PASSAGE OF THE “DREAM ACT”

The law known as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, commonly referred to as “DACA,” was passed 10-years ago this month (June 15, 2012) during President Barack Obama’s Administration. DACA protects individuals who arrived in the United States as children and affords them legal protection from deportation, along with giving them the right to work. While the law was a significant step in the direction of providing protection to a large class of people living in the United States, immigration advocates have fought hard since the passage of DACA to provide recipients with a pathway toward permanent legal residence or citizenship. The proposal to allow DACA recipients a pathway toward citizenship is known as the “Dream Act” and DACA eligible recipients are often referred to as “Dreamers.”

DACA hits 10 year anniversary sparking calls to pass the “Dream Act”

On the 10^th anniversary since the passage of DACA, there is now renewed calls for passage of the Dream Act. Commenting on the need for passage of the law, United States Senator Alex Padilla of California stated “Dreamers put their health, that of their families, on the line for the rest of the nation during the pandemic. They deserve better than to live in uncertainty, or fear in change of status or possible deportation.” California is home to more immigrants and “Dreamers” than any other state.

During the administration of President Donald Trump there were challenges to DACA. However, the United States Supreme Court left the law intact and rejected those challenges. Many now fear that the Supreme Court, in light of the recent ruling striking down the Roe v. Wade decision, could change its position. For that reason, immigration advocates have renewed calls for passage of the Dream Act. Summarizing the view of many, Congressman Dan Newhouse of Washington commented “Congress can no longer continue to kick this can down the road, we have to have a permanent solution signed into law.”

More than 500 college presidents and leaders of major corporations have joined the chorus of advocates calling for passage of the Dream Act. Although the law has been introduced 11 times in Congress, with bi-partisan support from both Democrats and Republicans, it has yet to become law.

CONTACT US TODAY FOR HELP

The immigration laws are complex. One wrong move or bad decision can have life altering consequences. Call us today or get in touch with us through this website and let us help you with any immigration issue, including DACA. At the BestImmigrationLawyer.com, we have over 50 combined years of legal experience ready to help you deal with any immigration issue. BestImmigrationLawyer.com practices immigration law throughout the United States and its territories. We can help you wherever you are.

What’s The Difference Between A Green Card And A Visa?

BestImmigrationLawyer.com — Mon, 09 May 2022 21:00:55 GMT

What’s The Difference Between A Green Card And A Visa?

This a question that gets asked often and is based upon a certain amount of confusion. The starting point for alleviating the confusion and understanding the key differences between a green card and a visa is understanding that the entire American immigration system is based upon only two categories of persons: immigrants and non-immigrants.

What Is A Visa And Who Can Get One?

A visa, as the term is often used, generally means temporary permission issued to a non-immigrant allowing the person to enter and remain in the United States for a limited period of time with the expectation that the non-immigrant will return to his or her home country prior to the expiration of the visa. For example, students who come to the United States to study, businesspersons who come to transact business for a short period and tourists are all non-immigrants that receive visas. Visas are generally issued at United States Embassies overseas which are part of the United States Department of State.

What Is A Green Card And Who Can Get One?

On the other hand, a person who wants to live in the United States on a permanent basis is given an immigrant visa. Once a person has an immigrant visa, he or she can seek permanent residency in the US by getting a permanent residency card or “green card” issued by the Department of Homeland Security. The card derives its name from the fact that, historically, it’s been green in color. Hence, it came to be known informally as the “green card.” Once an individual is issued an immigrant visa, they can travel to the United States and then apply for a green card. The following persons can apply for a visa and green card at the same time:

People with immediate relatives who are US citizens living in the US
Most people applying for employment-based immigration
An abused spouse or child if the abuser is a US citizen
Special immigrant juveniles

There are two types of green cards:

A conditional resident card (conditional “green card”) lasts for two years and is for foreign investors or spouses of an American citizen who got married less than two years before you received permanent resident status or came to the U.S. on your immigrant visa. A person can’t renew a conditional green card — you have to prove, within 90 days of the card expiring, that you have met the conditions necessary to get a permanent resident card. If you don’t prove this before the card expires, you will no longer have lawful resident status in the United States.
A permanent resident card(permanent “green card”) lasts for 10 years. You’ll need to get a new card every 10 years and can submit the paperwork as early as six months before your green card expires. If you let your card expire, your status doesn’t change (so you’re still a permanent resident and won’t be sent home!) but you are breaking the law, because permanent residents are required to carry a valid green card at all times.

Understanding the difference between a visa and a green card requires understanding the difference in categories of persons divided between immigrants and non-immigrants.

CONTACT US TODAY FOR HELP