
j sparks law
Pflugerville Immigration Lawyer
Schedule a Confidential Consultation With a Top Pflugerville Immigration Attorney
At J. Sparks Law, PLLC, our Pflugerville immigration attorney provides personalized, solutions-focused guidance and support to clients and their families. We are devoted to empowering people with the knowledge and support that they can rely on. If you have questions or concerns about immigration law in Texas, we are here to help. Contact us today for a fully confidential, no obligation initial consultation with a top-tier Pflugerville immigration lawyer.
An Overview of Our Immigration Law Services in Pflugerville, Texas
Pflugerville is a vibrant and very diverse community that is located just north of Austin. It is known for a family-friendly vibe as well as a number of different suburban conveniences. It features a range of parks, trails, and recreational areas, including the uber-popular Lake Pflugerville. We are proud to work with people right here in Pflugerville. At J. Sparks Law, PLLC, we are a boutique law firm that provides solutions-focused immigration law experience. We are committed to ensuring that our clients receive personalized legal support for a broad spectrum of immigration needs—from visa petitions to naturalization through citizenship to deportation defense. We guide people through every stage of the immigration process. Along with other types of immigration law issues in Pflugerville, our attorneys have experience with:
- Family Petitions: We provide family immigration representation in Pflugerville. Family-based immigration is a principal mechanism by which American citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) can sponsor qualifying relatives for immigrant visas. The process typically starts with the submission of a document called Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. It is used to establish a bona fide familial relationship under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Preference categories determine priority dates with immediate relatives (e.g., spouses, unmarried minor children, and parents of U.S. citizens) exempt from numerical limitations. If you have any questions about family immigration, our Pflugerville attorneys can help.
- Asylum Claims: Asylum is a form of humanitarian relief available to individuals who can demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group, pursuant to INA §208. Applicants may file affirmatively with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or defensively in removal proceedings before an immigration judge. Claims must be substantiated through credible testimony and strong corroborating evidence. If you have any questions about an asylum claim, our Texas immigration team is here to help.
- Temporary Protected Status (TPS): TPS is a discretionary, temporary immigration status conferred upon nationals of countries designated by the Secretary of Homeland Security as experiencing ongoing armed conflict, environmental disaster, or other extraordinary conditions as defined by U.S. law. Our Pflugerville immigration lawyer has the skills and experience to help people and families navigate all types of TPS cases.
- Violence Against Women Act (VAWA): VAWA provides valuable legal protections—and important immigration options—for victims of domestic violence. Most notably, the law offers a statutory pathway for certain abused noncitizen spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or LPRs to self-petition for immigration relief independent of the abuser’s cooperation or knowledge. Both women and men are protected under VAWA. If you have any questions about self-petitioning for immigration relief through VAWA, our Pflugerville, TX immigration lawyers are standing by, ready to help.
- U Visa/T Visa: The U Visa provides immigration relief to noncitizens who have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse as victims of qualifying criminal activity and who have cooperated with law enforcement in investigation or prosecution. The T Visa Is available to victims of severe forms of human trafficking who are physically present in the country due to that act of trafficking. Our Texas immigration team has the skills and experience to handle both U visas and T visa cases.
- Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): DACA is an administrative policy, initially established in 2012 via executive memorandum, that grants discretionary deferred action and employment authorization to certain undocumented individuals who entered the United States as minors and meet strict educational and moral character requirements. It does not confer lawful status or a direct path to permanent residency but provides protection from removal and renewable two-year work authorization. There has been a lot of litigation around DACA over the last decade. It is important to interested parties to stay up-to-date on any development that could affect their rights. If you have any questions, our Texas immigration lawyers can help.
- Immigration Waivers: Immigration waivers function as discretionary legal mechanisms allowing inadmissible individuals to overcome statutory grounds of inadmissibility under the INA. Common waivers include INA §212(h) (criminal grounds), §212(i) (fraud or misrepresentation), and §212(a)(9)(B)(v) (unlawful presence). Approval generally requires a demonstration of extreme hardship to a qualifying U.S. citizen or LPR relative.
- Removal/Deportation: Few things are more stressful, confusing, and overwhelming than the risk of facing deportation from the United States. If you or your loved one received a Notice to Appear in Pflugerville, it means that formal removal proceedings have been initiated by immigration authorities. The good news is that there may still be options available to raise a defense. Be proactive: Consult with a top-tier Pflugerville, TX deportation defense lawyer as soon as possible.
- Green Card Renewals: Lawful permanent residents are required to maintain valid evidence of status by renewing their Form I-551 (green card) every ten years pursuant to 8 C.F.R. §264.5. The renewal process is executed via Form I-90, which may be submitted online or by mail, and involves biometrics collection and identity verification. While legal status does not expire with the card, failure to renew may impede travel and employment. If you have any questions about renewals, our immigration team can help.
- Citizenship Through Naturalization: We have extensive experience helping people obtain citizenship. Naturalization is the legal process by which a lawful permanent resident may acquire U.S. citizenship upon meeting statutory eligibility requirements under the law. These include continuous residence and physical presence, demonstrated proficiency in English, satisfactory knowledge of U.S. history and government, and a showing of good moral character. Applicants must file Form N-400, undergo biometrics processing, and complete a USCIS interview and civics examination
- Immigration Appeals: For a number of different reasons, you may need to appeal an adverse determination in an immigration case. There is a special process that exists for immigration appeals. These matters generally start by going before the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). Though, eventually, they could end up in federal court.
How Our Pflugerville, TX Immigration Attorney Can Help
Pflugerville immigration law cases are complicated. It is normal to have a ton of questions about your rights and your interests. At J. Sparks Law, PLLC, we put people first. Our founder attorney Julie Sparks is Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Immigration and Nationality Law. We are proactive. Along with other things, our Pflugerville immigration lawyer is ready to:
- Hear what you have to say and answer questions about your case;
- Handle all of the relevant immigration paperwork; and
- Develop a comprehensive strategy to protect your rights and achieve your goals.
When your future is on the line, the right Pflugerville, TX immigration lawyer can make all the difference. We guide clients through complex immigration matters with personal care and deep legal knowledge. Our client reviews and track record of case results reflect our commitment to every person that we serve. Your initial consultation is confidential and has zero obligations.
Immigration Law in Texas: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When should I speak to a Pflugerville immigration attorney?
The sooner, the better. If you are dealing with any type of complex immigration matter, it is best to consult with an attorney right away. A local Texas immigration lawyer who serves people and families in Pflugerville can help review your case, answer your questions, and help you find the best solution. Our firm provides confidential, no obligation consultations in immigration cases.
What is a green card?
A green card is a term used to describe the document held by people who have been granted lawful permanent resident status. It is a government-issued document. Notably, a green card allows you to live and work in the United States indefinitely. Another key benefit is that a green card may serve as a path to citizenship after a certain period. Green card holders have rights and duties, including the obligation to follow all U.S. laws and update their address with USCIS. The card is proof of legal status. If you are applying for a green card, our Pflugerville immigration lawyers can help.
What is a spousal visa?
A spousal visa allows the husband or wife of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to apply for lawful status in the United States. It requires proof of a valid, bona fide marriage and typically involves submitting Form I-130 and supporting evidence. Depending on whether the spouse is inside or outside the U.S., the process may involve adjustment of status or consular processing. Once approved, the spouse gets a green card. Our Pflugerville, TX immigration lawyers have extensive experience with spousal visas.
Can I immigrate through a family member?
You may be able to do so. Indeed, many of the people who immigrate to the United States do so through a qualifying family member. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens—spouses, unmarried children, etc—can often benefit from faster processing. Further, there are no annual visa caps for these specific categories. If you have specific questions about your options, our Pflugerville, TX family immigration lawyer is more than ready to help.
How long do I have to wait to apply for U.S. citizenship?
Most green card holders must wait five years before applying for U.S. citizenship. However, there is an exception for spouses of U.S. citizens. They may be eligible to apply for American citizenship after just three years. To be eligible to apply, you must also meet physical presence, continuous residence, and good moral character requirements. Notably, time spent outside the U.S. after getting your green card can impact your eligibility.
Why would a citizenship application be denied?
A citizenship application can be denied for several reasons, including failure to meet residency requirements, unpaid taxes, or a criminal record. Beyond that, inconsistencies or material misrepresentations within your application can raise red flags and could result in a delay or a denial. Further, failing the English and/or civics test can delay or block approval of your application for citizenship. Our immigration team can help you prepare for the process.
What is a Notice to Appear?
A Notice to Appear (NTA) is a legal document that starts the deportation process by ordering a non-citizen to appear before an immigration judge. It lists the charges against you and explains why the government believes you should be removed from the U.S.
Note: Missing a scheduled hearing after receiving an NTA can result in an automatic deportation order. You should always attend a hearing with legal representation in order to raise a defense.
Can I stop deportation?
Maybe. Deportation can sometimes be stopped if you are granted legal relief like asylum, cancellation of removal, or adjustment of status. The specific defense depends on your background, immigration history, and family ties in the U.S. Removal cases cannot be defended on a one-size-fits-all basis. A Pflugerville immigration attorney can help you explore and evaluate every potential defense.
Contact Our Pflugerville Immigration Lawyer for Immediate Help
At J. Sparks Law, PLLC, our Pflugerville immigration attorney is standing by, ready to protect your rights. Do you have any questions or concerns about immigration law? We are here to help. Contact us right away for a fully confidential, no commitment case assessment. Our firm provides immigration services in Pflugerville, Travis County, Williamson County, and communities beyond.
Our Results Speak for Themselves
We Treat Our Clients Like Family
Deported Honduran National’s Case Reopened
Deportation Case Terminated
Man Previously Tortured by Police in His Country Was Awarded Protection
Protection Won for Torture Survivor
Juveniles Facing Deportation Petition for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status
Removal Proceedings Closed
Child Sexual Abuse Victim Appeals for Asylum in Court
Victim of Child Sexual Abuse Granted Asylum
College Student Was Arrested for Possession
Client Released and Case Dismissed
Entered the U.S. Illegally
Parole Awarded to Mother of Soldier
Family Suffered Interrogation and Arrest in West Africa
Asylum Granted
Foreign Husband Petitions for Provisional Waiver
Family Suffered Interrogation and Arrest in West Africa