Facing the Future in Immigration Law: Standing Together Through Change

Angelica Rice • November 7, 2024

As the election results confirm the return of a Trump administration, we know many of you may be concerned about what this means for immigration policy and the future of your lives and families in the United States. Having been through this before, we at Santos Lloyd Law Firm want to reassure you: we are here, steadfast and ready to support you through any challenges that lie ahead. We see your concerns, we hear your fears, and we stand with you.


While there may be changes on the horizon, it’s important to remember that shifts in policy will take time. Legislative and policy changes do not happen overnight. They often unfold slowly, with legal reviews and, in many cases, judicial challenges. We understand how naturally unsettling this uncertainty can be. Yet it is in times like these that we ask you to trust that our team will always provide you with the latest, most accurate information. We are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared to adapt to any shifts in policy, executive orders, or regulations in the months ahead.


This is not the first time Santos Lloyd has faced an uncertain political landscape. Many of you may recall the significant changes during the first Trump administration—policies that threatened family unity, sought to redefine pathways to citizenship, and challenged the stability of immigrant communities. Through those times, our attorneys stood strong, advocating for clients’ rights in courts, challenging unjust policies, and working tirelessly to keep families together and futures secure for those who contribute so much to this country.


With each challenge, our firm has only grown stronger. We have gained invaluable experience and built a foundation of advocacy, resilience, and expertise that serves as the backbone of our firm. The months ahead will require our full focus and vigilance, but our dedication to you is unwavering, and our resolve to support you remains absolute.


As we look ahead, our commitment to you remains our top priority. We know immigration is more than just paperwork or legal procedures—it’s about lives, families, and dreams. Our mission has always been to provide not only exceptional legal service but also to be a pillar of support, especially in uncertain times. We are here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide encouragement as we move forward together.


At Santos Lloyd Law Firm, we are more than attorneys; we are your advocates, allies, and comrades. Our team believes that a successful case is not only about outcomes but about supporting our clients through the emotions, challenges, and triumphs that come with immigration law. We want to remind you that, while the coming months may bring changes, they will also bring new opportunities for us to stand beside you, to advocate for what’s fair, and to prove that even in the face of obstacles, we are stronger together.


Please continue to reach out with any questions or concerns you may have. Whether you need legal guidance, a moment of reassurance, or simply a connection with someone who truly understands your journey, we are here.


Thank you for placing your trust in Santos Lloyd Law Firm. Together, we will navigate these times with resilience, courage, and unwavering commitment to each and every one of you. We look forward to continuing our work together and to helping you achieve the dreams you’ve worked so hard to build.

This blog is not intended to be legal advice and nothing here should be construed as establishing an attorney client relationship. Please schedule a consultation with an immigration attorney before acting on any information read here.

Angelica Rice

Know Your Rights: If ICE Comes to Your Workplace

By Juliana LaMendola • March 20, 2025
All people living in the United States, regardless of immigration status, have certain U.S. constitutional rights. If Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers come to your workplace, they must have either (1) a valid search warrant, or (2) consent from your employer to enter non-public areas. Non-public areas could include: staff break rooms, server rooms, mechanical rooms, HR department offices, private meeting rooms, etc. However, ICE can enter public areas of your workplace (lobby, reception area, parking lot etc.) without a warrant or consent from your employer. If you encounter ICE at your place of employment, it is important to stay calm . If an officer stops you, you may ask if you are free to leave. If they say yes, walk away calmly. If they say no, stay where you are and do not attempt to leave. You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to speak to ICE, answer any questions, or show any documents . If asked about your place of birth, how you entered the United States, or your immigration status, you may refuse to answer or remain silent. If you choose to remain silent, say it out loud: “I choose to remain silent.” If officers ask you to stand in a group based on your immigration status, you do not have to move. Be prepared to assert your rights by downloading, printing, and carrying a "red card" (available at https://www.ilrc.org/red-cards-tarjetas-rojas ) that states you do not wish to speak, answer questions, or sign documents. You are not required to show immigration documents . You may refuse to show identity documents that reveal your nationality or citizenship. However, never show false documents or provide false information. If you are detained or taken into custody, you have the right to contact a lawyer immediately . Even if you do not have a lawyer, you can tell immigration officers, “I want to speak to a lawyer.” If you have a lawyer, you have the right to speak to them and, if possible, provide proof of this relationship (such as a signed Form G-28) to an officer. If you do not have a lawyer, ask for a list of pro bono (free) or l ow bono (low-cost) lawyers. You do not have to sign anything without first speaking to a lawyer. If you choose to sign any documents, make sure you fully understand what they mean, as signing may waive your rights or lead to deportation. If you believe your rights have been violated , write down what happened. Be sure to include specific details such as names, badge numbers, and exactly what was said and done. Report the violation to a lawyer or an immigrant rights organization as soon as possible. If you or someone you know may be impacted by this executive order, staying informed and understanding your rights is crucial. At Santos Lloyd Law Firm, P.C., our trusted immigration attorneys are available to provide guidance and support during this uncertain time. Please contact us if you need assistance.

O-1 Approved! Now What? Your Roadmap to Securing an EB-1A Green Card

By Shirin Navabi • March 13, 2025
If you’ve recently received the exciting news that your O-1 visa has been approved, congratulations! The O-1 is a prestigious visa, granted only to individuals who can demonstrate extraordinary ability in their field — whether it’s O-1A: individuals with an extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics, or O-1B: individuals with an extraordinary ability in the arts or extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry. Getting O-1 approval is no small feat, and it’s a true validation of your talent and hard work. But for many O-1 visa holders, that approval brings up the next big question — what’s the path to securing a green card? For those aiming to remain in the United States permanently, the EB-1A visa is often the natural next step. It’s also known as the green card for individuals of extraordinary ability, which makes it a close cousin to the O-1. Obtaining U.S. permanent residency through EB-1A involves two steps: 1) securing approval of the EB-1A immigration petition (Form 1-40) and 2) adjusting status to that of permanent resident or seeking consular processing. However, while these two categories share similarities, they are not identical. The EB-1A standard is significantly higher, and many O-1 holders underestimate just how much more evidence they need to present to qualify for permanent residency. The good news is, if you’re proactive and strategic about building your case, you can significantly improve your chances of success. Understanding the Difference Between O-1 and EB-1A Both the O-1 and EB-1A visas focus on individuals with extraordinary ability, but they serve different purposes. The O-1 is a temporary work visa that allows you to come to the U.S. to work on specific projects or for a particular employer. It requires a U.S. sponsor to file the petition on your behalf. The EB-1A, by contrast, is an immigrant visa — it is the first step toward obtaining permanent residency. Because the EB-1A leads to permanent residency, its eligibility standards are even higher. You must not only demonstrate extraordinary ability but also show that your recognition is sustained over time and that your work has had a lasting impact on your field. What Can You Reuse From Your O-1 Case? If you put together a strong O-1 petition, some of the evidence you submitted will still be valuable for EB-1A. This includes your awards, media coverage, expert letters, and proof of memberships in prestigious organizations. But the EB-1A demands more — you need to go beyond showing what you’ve accomplished and prove that your influence is ongoing, impactful, and recognized at a national or international level. How to Strengthen Your Case While on O-1 One of the smartest moves you can make is to use your time on the O-1 visa to actively strengthen your EB-1A profile. This means seeking out opportunities to get your work featured in top-tier media, publishing more original contributions, judging competitions, and taking leadership roles in your professional community. Every action you take to enhance your visibility and influence. Final Thoughts — The Path from O-1 to EB-1A is Achievable You may not be able to file your EB-1A today, but we can help you build your case step by step. Whether you need guidance on strengthening your profile, identifying the right evidence, or preparing a strategic filing plan, our team is here to support you. If you’re currently on an O-1 visa and you believe you may be eligible for an EB-1A visa in the future, we encourage you to contact our office. Our experienced attorneys have helped countless individuals successfully navigate this path, and we would be happy to review your case and create a personalized roadmap for your green card journey.

Understanding the New USCIS Alien Registration Requirement: What You Need to Know

By Angelica Rice • March 6, 2025
In January 2025, the U.S. government introduced a mandate requiring all individuals without legal status in the country to register with federal authorities. This initiative aims to enhance national security and ensure compliance with existing immigration laws. If you or someone you know is affected by this change, it's essential to understand the specifics of this requirement and how to comply.​ Who Is Already Registered? Many individuals have already fulfilled their registration obligations through prior interactions with U.S. immigration authorities. You are considered registered if you have been issued any of the following documents:​ Lawful Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)​ Form I-94 or I-94W (Arrival/Departure Record), even if the period of admission has expired​ Immigrant or nonimmigrant visa issued before arrival​ Employment Authorization Document (EAD)​ Border Crossing Card​ Additionally, if you have applied for lawful permanent residence using forms such as I-485, I-687, I-691, I-698, or I-700, even if the applications were denied, or if you were paroled into the U.S. under INA 212(d)(5), you have met the registration requirement. ​ Who Needs to Register Now? If you have not been registered through any of the means mentioned above, you are required to register under the new mandate. This includes:​ Individuals aged 14 or older who were not registered and fingerprinted when applying for a visa and have remained in the U.S. for 30 days or longer. They must apply before the expiration of those 30 days.​ Parents or legal guardians of children under 14 who have not been registered and have been in the U.S. for 30 days or longer. They must register their children before the 30-day period ends.​ Any individual who turns 14 years old in the U.S. and was previously registered. They must apply for re-registration and fingerprinting within 30 days after their 14th birthday. Notably, American Indians born in Canada who entered the U.S. under section 289 of the INA and members of the Texas Band of Kickapoo Indians who entered under the Texas Band of Kickapoo Act are exempt from this requirement. ​ How to Register The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is developing a new form and process for registration. Starting February 25, 2025 , individuals required to register should create a USCIS online account in preparation for the registration process. Once the process is implemented, registrations will be submitted through this online account. ​ Important Considerations Registration Is Not an Immigration Status: Completing the registration does not grant any immigration status, employment authorization, or other rights or benefits under U.S. law. ​ Consequences of Non-Compliance: Failure to comply with the registration requirement may result in fines, imprisonment, or both. ​ At Santos Lloyd Law Firm, P.C., we are committed to guiding you through this process with compassion and expertise. Our trusted immigration lawyers are here to provide the information and assistance you need during this time.​ For personalized guidance and support, please contact Santos Lloyd Law Firm, P.C., and speak with one of our experienced immigration attorneys. We are dedicated to helping you navigate these changes and securing a hopeful future.
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