Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Pittman & Associates Law Firm
Law Firm General Questions:
What types of cases do you take?
At Pittman & Associates we only practice immigration and provide immigration representation. However we have a wide scope of knowledge regarding immigration practices; from employment visas, to marriage cases, to deportation proceedings, to citizenship, permanent residency renewals, asylums, and so much more. Check out our practices page for more information!
Do you accept cases outside of Iowa?
Yes! We represent clients from all over, including internationally!
How much do you charge?
Depending on the type of case you have, your rate will vary. We charge on a flat fee basis (not by the hour). The attorney will evaluate your case during the initial consultation process and outline a detailed breakdown of your pricing and payment expectations. We normally require a down payment to begin the process, and then figure out a payment plan for the remainder of your case. There are additional fees on top of our firm legal fees that you will see reflected in your invoice that may include government filing fees, copies, postage, etc. Once again, the attorney will breakdown all of the costs of the case during your initial meeting.
Do you accept phone consulations?
Yes! Though we prefer having our initial consultations in person so we get to meet you, we understand that you may live out of state or have a busy schedule. We can accomodate phone consultations with prior approval. We do require your consultation payment prior to your meeting.
Can you help me get a Social Security Number?
Yes and no. On certain applications, and upon client request, we can apply for a social security within the application. However, we cannot fix social security card issues or errors, help you with a lost social security card, or apply for one for you if you're not eligible on your immigration forms.
Immigration Questions:
Can I travel within the United States with just a work permit?
Yes! You can use your work permit as a valid ID to fly on domestic flights. You will need a valid drivers license (which you can obtain with your work permit) to drive, but then you may also travel via vehicle within the country. You may travel down to the border, but cannot cross the border. We do advise to be more causious around the border and to always carry your valid identification with you to show your status in the US.
Can I travel outside of the United States with just a work permit?
No. Leaving the country without completing your immigration case could affect your case.
What is the difference between a Green Card (Permanent Resident) and US Citizenship?
Permanent Residents (Green Card holders), can live and work in the US legally for the rest of their lives and have a lot of the same benefits as a American Citizen. However, some of the differences would include:
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Permanent Residents cannnot vote, US citizens can
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Permanent Residents cannot obtain a US passport, US citizens can
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Permanent Residents cannot obtain certain federal jobs, US citizens have access to all federal jobs
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Permanent Residents cannot apply for visas for brothers and sisters and have obstacles with applying, US Citizens can apply for all visas with faster wait times
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Permanent Residents still run the risk of being deported or facing immigration proceedings if serious crime has been commited, US citizens do not
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Permanent Residents have to renew their status every 10 years, US citizens do not
Otherwise, Permanent Residents and US Citizens have a lot of the same rights and it's a great solution to remain in the US forever.
Am I eligible for a work permit?
It depends on what kind of case you have. Most affirmative cases with USCIS do not offer work permits, but cases like asylums, deportation, deferred action, and so many more offer the eligiblity for a work permit. Talk to us today to see if you're eligible!
How do criminal charges affect my case?
It depends on what crimes you have and how many. If you have a severe crime sometimes this can bar you from obtaining any immigration benefits or opportunities. It's important that good moral character is established in your case and that you are a person who is not a threat to the community, so having a crime can hurt your chances of establishing this.
Do I qualify for Permanent Residency?
Depends on your situation! Not everyone is eligible for permanent residency. The route to permanent residency is a thorough process and requires several steps. Come in for a consultation and we can discuss your eligibility for permanent residency and what your best options are!
When can I apply to become a US Citizen?
You can apply for citizenship after 5 years of having your green card or if you were born abroad to US Citizen parents.
Immigration Terminology to be familiar with:
Beneficiary: this is YOU, the person requesting immigration help
Sponsor: this is a person sponsoring your immigration paperwork (usually same person as the petitioner)
Applicant: this is YOU the person requesting immigration help
Petitioner: this is the person petitioning for you (spouse, parent, child, etc)
EAD: Employment Authorization Document (or work permit)
USCIS: United States Citizenship and Immigration Services
EOIR: Executive Office of Immigration Review (or also known as immigration court)