INFORMATION

 A family-based immigration petition enables U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to sponsor eligible family members for lawful immigration status in the United States. Below is an outline of the key steps, required forms, and necessary documentation.

1. Petitioner Requirements:
   
   • Must be a U.S. citizen or LPR.
   • Must demonstrate financial ability to sponsor the relative (submit Form I-864).

1. Beneficiary Requirements:
   
   • Must be an eligible family member:
     • Immediate relatives: Spouse, unmarried child under 21, or parent (petitioner must be 21 or older).
     • Preference categories: Siblings, married children, or adult children (priority varies).

The following forms are typically required in a family-based immigration petition:

1. Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
   
   • Initiates the process and establishes the family relationship.

1. Form I-130A (Supplemental Information for Spouse Beneficiary)
   
   • Required if the beneficiary is the petitioner’s spouse.

1. Form I-485 (Application to Adjust Status)
   
   • If the beneficiary is already in the U.S. and eligible to adjust their status to a permanent resident.

1. Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application)
   
   • Used if the beneficiary is outside the U.S. and applying through consular processing.

1. Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support)
   
   • Demonstrates the petitioner’s financial ability to support the beneficiary.

1. Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
   
   • Optional: Allows the beneficiary to work while their application is pending (if filing concurrently with Form I-485).

1. Form I-693 (Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record)
   
   • Required for adjustment of status or consular processing.

1. Form I-601 (Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility)
   
   • Used if the beneficiary is inadmissible under certain conditions.

1. Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document)
   
   • Optional: For advanced parole to allow travel while the adjustment of status is pending.

1. Form G-28 (Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative)
   
   • If legal representation is used.

1. Submit Form I-130:
   
   • File Form I-130 with the required filing fee ($535 as of 2024) and supporting documents to establish the qualifying relationship.

1. Submit Supporting Documents:
   
   • Include proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificates, birth certificates), financial documents, and petitioner’s proof of status.

1. NVC Processing or Adjustment of Status:
   
   • After USCIS approves Form I-130, the case moves to the National Visa Center (NVC) for further processing (if applying from abroad).
   • If adjusting status in the U.S., file Form I-485 concurrently with the required forms.

1. Medical Exam:
   
   • Complete a medical exam with a USCIS-approved doctor and submit Form I-693.

1. Attend Interviews:
   
   • Both petitioner and beneficiary may need to attend interviews to confirm eligibility and the validity of the relationship.

1. Visa Issuance or Adjustment:
   
   • Upon approval, the beneficiary either receives an immigrant visa through consular processing or a green card through adjustment of status.

• Proof of U.S. citizenship or LPR status (e.g., passport, green card).
• Proof of family relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate).
• Financial evidence (e.g., tax returns, pay stubs).
• Beneficiary’s identification (e.g., passport, prior visas).
• Passport-style photographs for both petitioner and beneficiary.
• Medical exam results (Form I-693).

Processing times depend on:

• USCIS workload.
• Priority category.
• Beneficiary’s location (inside or outside the U.S.).

1. Visit USCIS.gov to download forms and access detailed instructions.
2. Track your case using the USCIS online case status tool.
3. Consult an immigration attorney or accredited representative if needed.

Completing a family-based immigration petition requires attention to detail and careful preparation of forms and evidence. Ensuring accurate documentation will help streamline the process. If you need assistance preparing these forms and ensuring accurate submission, OC Document Preparation offers professional support for Change of Status applications, helping you navigate the process efficiently.

Definition and Process

A change of status in U.S. immigration refers to the process through which a foreign national applies to modify their current visa category without leaving the country. This allows individuals, for instance, to switch from a tourist visa (B-2) to a student visa (F-1) or from a nonimmigrant status to permanent residency, provided they meet the legal requirements established by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Not all visa categories are eligible for a change of status. Typically, individuals who were legally admitted into the U.S. with a valid visa (e.g., visitors, students, or temporary workers) may apply for this process, as long as they have not violated the terms of their visa, overstayed their authorized period of stay, or entered under the Visa Waiver Program.

1. Determine eligibility:
   
   • Confirm that your current visa allows for a change of status.
   • Ensure you meet the requirements of the new visa category you wish to obtain.

1. Complete the appropriate form:
   
   • For most changes of status, use Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status).
   • For adjustment to permanent resident status, use Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status).

1. Gather the required documentation:
   
   • Valid passport.
   • Copy of your current visa.
   • Proof of financial resources (e.g., for a student visa).
   • Acceptance letters or support documents, if applicable (e.g., for students or employees).

1. Submit the application and pay the fees:
   
   • Send the completed application and supporting documents to the designated USCIS processing center.
   • Pay the required fees, which vary depending on the form and type of request.

1. Wait for USCIS approval:
   
   • USCIS may request additional information or schedule an interview. During this time, you must maintain your current status.

1. Do not engage in new activities before approval:
   
   • You cannot begin studying, working, or engaging in activities tied to your new status until the change is approved.

Incorrectly completing forms or failing to provide required documentation can lead to rejections or significant delays. It is advisable to seek professional assistance to ensure your application is prepared and filed correctly.

OC Document Preparation, based in Santa Ana, specializes in assisting individuals with document preparation and submission to USCIS. Our expertise ensures your forms meet the required standards, reducing errors and increasing your chances of success. Contact us for personalized and reliable support with your change of status process.

 At ocdocumentpreparation.com, we prioritize our clients' needs and work closely with you to understand your specific requirements. Our client-centered approach ensures that you receive personalized service and the attention you deserve throughout the document preparation process. 

For a Change of Status in U.S. immigration, the required forms depend on the type of status you are changing to. Below is a general guide to the most commonly used forms for changing status:

• Full Name: Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status.
• Purpose: This is the primary form used for most nonimmigrants (e.g., B-1/B-2 tourist visa holders) to request a change of status to another nonimmigrant category, such as F-1 (student visa).
• Available at:
  Form I-539 on the USCIS website.

• Full Name: Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
• Purpose: Used to apply for a change to permanent resident (Green Card) status.

1. Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
   
   • If you wish to request permission to work while your adjustment of status is pending.

1. Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document)
   
   • If you need to apply for Advance Parole, allowing you to travel outside the U.S. while your adjustment of status is being processed.

1. Form G-1145 (E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance)
   
   • If you want to receive a text or email notification when USCIS accepts your application.

1. Form G-28 (Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative)
   
   • If you hire an attorney or accredited representative to assist with your application.

1. Form I-134 (Affidavit of Support)
   
   • If required, this demonstrates financial sponsorship for certain visa types, such as a change to a student or dependent visa.

• Proof of your current status: A copy of your I-94 Arrival/Departure Record or visa stamp.
• Passport: A copy of your valid passport.
• Evidence supporting the new status: Such as a university admission letter (for F-1) or proof of job offer (for work visas).
• Financial support documentation: Proof of sufficient funds to support your stay, if applicable.
• Additional evidence: Any specific documentation required for the status you are applying for.

• Online: Form I-539 can often be filed online through your USCIS account.
• By Mail: Submit the form and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS address (check form instructions for the latest mailing addresses).

1. File Before Your Current Status Expires: It is critical to apply for a change of status before your authorized stay expires.
2. Do Not Start Activities Prematurely: You cannot begin activities (e.g., working, studying) related to your new status until USCIS approves your application.

If you need assistance preparing these forms and ensuring accurate submission, OC Document Preparation offers professional support for Change of Status applications, helping you navigate the process efficiently.

Definition and Process

A Green Card renewal is the process by which lawful permanent residents (LPRs) in the United States renew their expiring or expired Green Cards to maintain proof of their permanent residency status. The Green Card (officially called a Permanent Resident Card) serves as evidence of the holder’s legal right to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely.

You should apply for a renewal if:

• Your Green Card is set to expire within the next six months.
• Your Green Card has already expired.
• Your card was lost, stolen, or damaged.
• Your card contains incorrect information due to a change in personal details, such as a legal name change.

Note: Conditional residents with a two-year Green Card (such as those granted through marriage or investment) must file Form I-751 or Form I-829 to remove conditions instead of applying for a standard renewal.

1. Complete the correct form:
   
   • Use Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) to renew your Green Card. This form can be completed online or mailed to USCIS.

1. Prepare the required documentation:
   
   • A copy of your expiring or expired Green Card.
   • Proof of any legal name change (if applicable), such as a marriage certificate or court order.

1. Submit your application:
   
   • File the form either online through the USCIS website or by mail to the appropriate address based on your state of residence.
   • Pay the required fee, which includes a $455 application fee and an $85 biometric services fee (subject to change).

1. Attend a biometrics appointment:
   
   • USCIS will notify you of the date, time, and location of your biometrics appointment. You must attend this appointment, where your fingerprints, photograph, and signature will be collected.

1. Wait for your renewed Green Card:
   
   • After processing your application, USCIS will mail your new Green Card to your address. Processing times can vary but typically take several months.

An expired Green Card does not affect your permanent resident status; however, it can create complications, such as:

• Difficulty proving your right to work in the U.S.
• Problems with international travel and reentry into the U.S.
• Challenges in obtaining certain benefits or services that require proof of residency.

Errors in the application process can lead to delays or even rejection. Working with experienced professionals ensures your application is accurate and complete.

OC Document Preparation, located in Santa Ana, we offer expert assistance in preparing and submitting Green Card renewal applications. Our knowledgeable team helps you avoid common pitfalls, ensuring that your application is filed correctly and on time. Contact us for personalized and reliable support in your Green Card renewal process.

To renew a Green Card (Permanent Resident Card) in the United States, the main form you need to complete is:

• Full Name: Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.
• Purpose: This form is used to renew a Green Card that is about to expire or has already expired, as well as to replace a lost, damaged, or incorrect card.

• Copy of your current Green Card (both sides, if available).
• Proof of a legal name change, if applicable (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
• Proof of identity if your card was lost or stolen (passport, driver’s license, etc.).
• Proof of fee payment, including:
  • Application Fee: $455.
  • Biometric Services Fee: $85.

1. Form G-28 (Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative)
   
   • If you choose to work with an attorney or accredited representative for your case.

1. Form G-1145 (E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance)
   
   • If you want to receive text or email notifications when USCIS accepts your application.

1. Form I-912 (Request for Fee Waiver)
   
   • If you qualify to request a fee waiver due to financial hardship.

• Online: You can file Form I-90 directly through the USCIS portal by creating an account.
• By Mail: Submit the form to the appropriate USCIS address based on your state of residence (check the latest mailing addresses in the form instructions).

If you need assistance completing these forms and ensuring your application is accurate, OC Document Preparation can help with document preparation and submission to USCIS.

The divorce process in Orange County, California, is governed by California family law. It allows spouses or domestic partners to legally terminate their marriage or partnership. Below is an overview of the steps, required forms, and key considerations for filing a divorce in Orange County.

1. Residency Requirements:
   
   • Either spouse must have lived in California for at least 6 months and in Orange County for at least 3 months before filing.

1. Legal Grounds for Divorce:
   
   • California allows for no-fault divorce, meaning irreconcilable differences or incurable insanity are sufficient reasons.

The following forms are commonly required in the divorce process:

1. Form FL-100 (Petition for Dissolution of Marriage)
   
   • Used to start the divorce process and outline requests for property division, custody, and support.

1. Form FL-110 (Summons)
   
   • Informs the other party of the divorce filing and outlines their response deadlines.

1. Form FL-120 (Response to Petition)
   
   • Filed by the other spouse to respond to the petition.

1. Form FL-140 (Declaration of Disclosure)
   
   • Lists all assets, debts, income, and expenses to ensure transparency during the proceedings.

1. Form FL-150 (Income and Expense Declaration)
   
   • Details the financial situation of each spouse to help decide spousal or child support.

1. Form FL-142 (Schedule of Assets and Debts)
   
   • Provides detailed information on marital property and debts.

1. Form FL-170 (Declaration for Default or Uncontested Dissolution)
   
   • Filed if the divorce is uncontested or the other spouse does not respond.

1. Form FL-180 (Judgment)
   
   • Finalizes the divorce once approved by the court.

1. Form FL-105/GC-120 (Declaration Under UCCJEA)
   
   • Required if there are minor children involved, to address custody issues.

1. File the Initial Documents:
   
   • File Form FL-100 (Petition) and Form FL-110 (Summons) with the Orange County Superior Court.
   • Pay the filing fee (approximately $435 as of 2024). Fee waivers are available for those who qualify.

1. Serve the Other Party:
   
   • Serve the Petition and Summons on your spouse through a third party (not the petitioner).
   • File a Proof of Service of Summons (Form FL-115) with the court.

1. Respond to the Petition (if applicable):
   
   • The spouse has 30 days to file Form FL-120 (Response).

1. Exchange Financial Disclosures:
   
   • Both parties must complete and serve Form FL-140, Form FL-150, and Form FL-142 to provide full financial transparency.

1. Negotiate and Reach Agreements:
   
   • Work on agreements regarding property division, child custody, spousal support, and other matters.
   • Use mediation if necessary.

1. File a Settlement or Proceed to Trial:
   
   • If both parties agree, file a Marital Settlement Agreement with the court.
   • If disputes remain, the case proceeds to trial for a judge’s decision.

1. Finalize the Divorce:
   
   • Submit Form FL-170 (Declaration for Default or Uncontested Dissolution) and Form FL-180 (Judgment).
   • Once approved, the court issues a divorce decree.

• Waiting Period:
  California requires a 6-month waiting period from the date the Petition is served before the divorce can be finalized.
• Custody and Support:
  If there are children, custody and support will be determined based on the child’s best interests.
• Community Property State:
  California divides marital property and debts equally unless a different agreement is reached.

File your forms at the Orange County Family Court:
Address: Lamoreaux Justice Center, 341 The City Drive South, Orange, CA 92868
Website: www.occourts.org

1. Court Self-Help Services:
   
   • Orange County Superior Court offers assistance for self-represented individuals.

1. Online Form Access:
   
   • Download forms from the California Courts website.

1. Legal Assistance:
   
   • Consult a family law attorney for complex cases or use the Family Law Facilitator’s Office for low-cost support.

Understanding and preparing the required forms and documents will help streamline the divorce process and reduce delays. If you need assistance preparing these forms and ensuring accurate submission, OC Document Preparation offers professional support for Divorce applications, helping you navigate the process efficiently.

The process for determining child custody, visitation, and child support in Orange County, California, is managed by the Family Court Division of the Orange County Superior Court. Below is an overview of the steps, required forms, and important considerations for parents navigating this process.

1. Child Custody:
   
   • Legal Custody: The right to make decisions about the child’s health, education, and welfare.
   • Physical Custody: Where the child lives.

1. Visitation:
   
   • The schedule for when the non-custodial parent spends time with the child.

1. Child Support:
   
   • Financial contributions from one or both parents to cover the child’s needs, based on California’s guidelines.

The following forms are required in custody, visitation, and child support cases:

1. Form FL-300 (Request for Order)
   
   • Used to request child custody, visitation, or child support orders.

1. Form FL-311 (Child Custody and Visitation Application Attachment)
   
   • Details the custody and visitation arrangements being requested.

1. Form FL-105/GC-120 (Declaration Under UCCJEA)
   
   • Provides information about where the child has lived for the past five years.

1. Form FL-150 (Income and Expense Declaration)
   
   • Required to establish financial details for child support calculation.

1. Form FL-341 (Child Custody and Visitation Order)
   
   • Used to outline custody and visitation orders after approval by the court.

1. Form FL-342 (Child Support Information and Order Attachment)
   
   • Details child support obligations, including payment amounts and schedules.

1. Form FL-191 (Child Support Case Registry Form)
   
   • Used to track child support cases and payments.

• File Form FL-300 (Request for Order) with the Orange County Family Court.
• Attach supporting documents, such as Form FL-311 for custody/visitation or Form FL-150 for child support.
• Pay the filing fee (approximately $60–$500 depending on the request type). Fee waivers are available for eligible individuals.

• Serve all forms to the other parent through a third party or professional process server.
• File Proof of Service (Form FL-330) with the court.

• California requires mediation for all custody and visitation disputes.
• Mediation is conducted by Family Court Services (FCS) at the court, where a mediator helps parents develop a parenting plan.
• If parents reach an agreement, the mediator submits a recommendation to the court.

• If no agreement is reached in mediation, the case proceeds to a court hearing.
• Both parents present evidence and arguments regarding custody, visitation, and/or child support.
• The judge issues a temporary or final order based on the child’s best interests.

• Child support is calculated using California’s Child Support Guideline Calculator, considering:
  • Each parent’s income.
  • Time spent with the child.
  • Childcare, healthcare, and other costs.
• The judge finalizes support orders using Form FL-342.

• File Form FL-191 (Child Support Case Registry) to track support payments.
• Contact the Department of Child Support Services (DCSS) for assistance with enforcement or modifications.

1. Best Interests of the Child:
   
   • Custody and visitation decisions prioritize the child’s physical, emotional, and educational well-being.

1. Modifications:
   
   • Custody, visitation, and child support orders can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances.

1. Domestic Violence Cases:
   
   • If domestic violence is involved, the court may issue supervised visitation or restraining orders to protect the child.

1. Mandatory Parenting Classes:
   
   • In some cases, parents may be required to complete parenting classes or co-parenting workshops.

File your forms at the Orange County Family Court:
Address: Lamoreaux Justice Center, 341 The City Drive South, Orange, CA 92868
Website: www.occourts.org
Phone: (657) 622-8457

1. Family Court Services:
   
   • Provides mediation and counseling services for custody and visitation disputes.

1. Online Form Access:
   
   • Download forms and instructions from the California Courts website.

1. Legal Assistance:
   
   • Consult a family law attorney or utilize the Family Law Facilitator’s Office for low-cost or free assistance.

Navigating child custody, visitation, and support requires thorough preparation and adherence to California family law procedures. Ensuring all forms and requirements are completed correctly will help achieve the best outcome for your child.  If you need assistance preparing these forms and ensuring accurate submission, OC Document Preparation offers professional support for Child Custody, Visitations and Child Support applications, helping you navigate the process efficiently.

Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects individuals and families. In Orange County, California, there are specific steps and resources available to protect victims of domestic violence and their children. This article outlines the process for seeking protection, legal options, and steps to ensure the safety of children involved.

Domestic violence includes any form of abuse—physical, emotional, sexual, psychological, or financial—committed by one partner against another in a close relationship, such as marriage, cohabitation, or parenthood. It may also include threats of harm or harassment.

• In an emergency, call 911 immediately to ensure your safety and report the incident.
• For non-emergencies, contact the Orange County Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233 for support and resources.

A Restraining Order (RO) is a court order that protects victims from abuse. In Orange County, you can request:

• Emergency Protective Order (EPO): Issued by law enforcement, valid for 5-7 days.
• Temporary Restraining Order (TRO): Filed through the court, valid for up to 21 days until the court hearing.
• Permanent Restraining Order: Granted after a court hearing, valid for up to 5 years.

Forms to File:

1. Form DV-100 (Request for Domestic Violence Restraining Order)
   • Outlines the abuse and protection requested.

1. Form DV-105 (Request for Child Custody and Visitation Orders)
   • Used if you have children and need custody or visitation protections.

1. Form DV-109 (Notice of Court Hearing)
   • Informs the abuser of the court hearing.

1. Form DV-110 (Temporary Restraining Order)
   • Filed for immediate protection until the hearing.

Process:

• File the forms at the Lamoreaux Justice Center in Orange County.
• The court reviews the application and may grant a temporary order on the same day.
• Attend the court hearing to request a permanent order.

• Seek shelter at a domestic violence shelter in Orange County, such as Laura’s House or Interval House.
• These shelters provide temporary housing, legal assistance, and counseling.

• File a police report to document the violence. This can support your case in court for custody, divorce, or child support.

• Contact a family law attorney or legal aid organizations such as Legal Aid Society of Orange County for help with restraining orders, divorce, and custody.

If children are involved, you can request custody and visitation orders to protect them. Include these requests when filing for a restraining order using:

• Form DV-105 (Request for Child Custody and Visitation Orders)
• Form DV-140 (Child Custody and Visitation Order)

Supervised Visitation:

• The court may order supervised visitation for the abusive parent to ensure the child’s safety.

• If the abuser has harmed or endangered the child, report the incident to Child Protective Services (CPS) in Orange County at (714) 940-1000.

• Enroll children in counseling services to address emotional trauma and provide support.

• Orange County Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-SAFE (7233)
• Laura’s House: Offers shelter and support services for victims.
• Legal Aid Society of Orange County: Provides free legal assistance.

File restraining orders and related documents at:
Lamoreaux Justice Center
Address: 341 The City Drive South, Orange, CA 92868
Website: www.occourts.org
Phone: (657) 622-8457

1. Confidentiality: Your address and location can remain confidential using Form DV-108 (Request for Confidential Address).
2. No Cost: Filing for a domestic violence restraining order is free in California.
3. Safety Plan: Create a safety plan that includes trusted contacts, emergency numbers, and an escape route.

Victims of domestic violence should prioritize their safety and the safety of their children. By following the legal process and using available resources, victims can begin to rebuild their lives free from abuse.