Matthew W. Peterson Named Among Best Boston Immigration Lawyers

best immigration lawyers in Boston

Today, the Law Office of Matthew Peterson was named one of the 20 best Boston immigration lawyers by expertise.com. Expertise.com uses multiple criteria to decide who the best immigration attorneys in Boston are. These include: Reputation: A history of delighted customers and outstanding service Credibility: Building customer confidence with licensing, accreditation, and awards. Experience: Masters of […]

What is Good Moral Character in Immigration?

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“Good moral character” in immigration is a requirement for many benefits, such as VAWA cancellation of removal and citizenship. The requirements of good moral character can be complicated. When looking for good moral character in immigration, USCIS is looking for someone who’s productive and hasn’t gotten in trouble. This can mean the lack of a […]

What is a Bona Fide Marriage in Immigration?

An adjustment of status application because of marriage requires that you prove your marriage is real and not for the purposes of getting a green card. This is the requirement to prove a bona fide marriage in immigration. USCIS wants proof that you’re not just married to get a green card – that you’re actually […]

What Is a VAWA Green Card?

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You can receive a VAWA Green Card if you can show abuse by a US citizen or LPR family member. In the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), Congress allowed certain people who have been victims of abuse to self-petition for immigration benefits and avoid removal. This means you do not have to rely on your […]

What Happens if I Get Divorced with a Conditional Green Card?

If you get divorced with a conditional green card, you may still be able to get a 10-year green card.  However, it makes the case more difficult. When you are granted a green card based on a marriage less than two years old, you are granted a conditional green card.  This conditional green card is […]

What is Adjustment of Status?

If you are an immediate relative of a US citizen and did not cross into the US illegally, you could be eligible for adjustment of status. This means you do not have to travel outside of the United States to get your green card but can remain in the country while your application is pending. […]

Can I Work While My Green Card Petition is Pending?

If you have filed an application for adjustment of status, you may apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) while the green card application is pending. This is done with a Form I-765. It requires no additional fee when filed along with an application to adjust status. When you apply for an employment authorization card, […]

What is an Aggravated Felony in Immigration?

An aggravated felony conviction can mean big trouble for a non-citizen.  It means you’re not eligible to become a U.S. citizen and can even mean you’ll be removed or deported. An aggravated felony does not have to be either a felony or aggravated.  While serious felonies such as murder, rape, child sex offenses, and drug […]

What Do I Need to Apply for Citizenship?

    To become a U.S. citizen, otherwise known as being naturalized, you must fill out an N-400 and pass numerous other requirements.  An immigration lawyer can help avoid costly delays in the process and other consequences.    The requirements for naturalization are: Must be at least 18 at the time of filing of the […]

What is a Green Card?

   A Green Card, or Lawful Permanent Residency (LPR), allows you to remain in the United States permanently.  This is unlike Visas, which require you to leave the country after the Visa expires.    Green Cards generally expire after 10 years and must be renewed within six months of their expiration.  You must file an […]