I-130 Visa Lawyers in Jacksonville — Helping Our Clients’ Loved Ones Gain Legal Status in America

Many U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) have family members who are foreign nationals. Getting these loved ones into the country can be a complex process, but your legal status in America can make it simpler. By filing a Petition for Alien Relative, you can begin the process of bringing a family member into the United States and helping them secure residency. An I-130 visa lawyer in Jacksonville can assist in this endeavor.

At Weldon Law Group, PLLC, our Florida immigration attorneys provide guidance and assistance to immigrants and their loved ones. Gaining legal status is much easier if a person already has a family member who is legally in the country. However, the application process and meeting necessary requirements can be complicated. Fortunately, our law firm is here to help. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

Can an I-130 Visa Gain Legal Status for a Loved One?

If you’re hoping to bring a family member into the United States, the I-130 visa is among the simplest ways. While the process may differ based on your circumstances — such as whether you’re a permanent resident or a current citizen — it’s typically far easier than certain other immigration approaches. In most circumstances, you need only show that your immediate relative is eligible to enter the country and that you have the financial resources to assist them.

One of the most common questions we hear regarding this process is whether you can get I-130 status for other close family members. For instance, what if you’re applying for your adult child but also want their spouse and children to be eligible? A Jacksonville immigrant attorney can be helpful with this task, but typically, your child’s family members could file for an immigrant visa when your child files for a green card.

If this sounds complex, that’s because American immigration law is complex. Fortunately, the Jacksonville I-130 visa attorneys at Weldon Law Group can assist.

Who Can File for I-130 Petition for Alien Relative Visa?

The I-130 Petition for Alien Relative process is much simpler than other approaches to gaining legal status. However, there are strict requirements on who can file. A person seeking a green card cannot file on their own. Instead, a family member who is a current citizen or green card holder must file on their behalf. Here’s what you should know about both:

U.S. Citizens

The immediate relatives of U.S. citizens are given priority when seeking legal status and immigrant visas. As a citizen of the country, you can bring unmarried children, parents, and your spouse without having to go on a waiting list. This can help them obtain a green card even sooner, and from that point, American citizenship isn’t far away.

Lawful Permanent Residents

The main difference between U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents filing on behalf of their close family members is the waiting period. If you’re not the spouse, unmarried child, or parent of a U.S. citizen, you’ll be placed on a priority list. The sooner you file, the sooner consular processing will occur — so contact our I-130 lawyers in Jacksonville to get started today.

Domestic Abuse and Crime Victims

If you’re suffering mental or physical abuse by a relative, there are ways to file for legal status without your abuser’s help. You may also be able to seek legal residency on your own if you’ve been the victim of certain crimes. Our law firm can help identify whether you qualify.

Are There Alternatives to the I-130 Petition for Alien Relative Process?

There is more than one way for a loved one of a U.S. citizen or LPR to help their parents, children, spouses, and others gain permanent residence in the country. Family-based immigration offers various approaches, and there are times when an I-130 petition may not be the appropriate strategy. This could depend on whether your loved one is already in the country, how close their relationship is, whether they already have a visa, and more.

This is why speaking with a Jacksonville immigration attorney is so important. We can help identify the best way to seek legal status in the country and ensure all necessary paperwork and documentation is properly filed. If your loved one typically wouldn’t qualify for entry into the U.S., we can even submit a waiver request on their behalf. If your family member wants to immigrate to the United States, there are many paths. We’ll help you find the right one.

Contact an I130 Visa Lawyer in Jacksonville Today

Being the immediate relative of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident is beneficial for immigrants. While certain issues may dictate a different approach, the I-130 Petition for Alien Relative process is often the easiest path toward legal residency. Unfortunately, even the immediate relatives of current citizens can encounter hurdles in the process. That’s why you should have an experienced legal professional on your side.

At Weldon Law Group, PLLC, we’ve seen what can happen if mistakes are made when seeking an immigrant visa or legal status in America. Dealing with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services can already be a difficult and time-consuming task, but errors in paperwork, filing an I-130, and even submitting the wrong forms can prove costly. Our I-130 visa lawyers in Jacksonville can help avoid such mistakes.

Reviews

Awesome service and veteran friendly! Mr. Weldon was quick and to the point enabling me to get the results I was looking for. Semper Fi!

Mike G.

Last year I was referred to Ian to help with a guardianship proceeding involving my son and myself. Throughout the process, Ian was professional, caring and thoughtful. Our guardianship procedure went smoothly due to his organizational skills and preparation. Because of his performance and the trust I have gained in him, I have asked Ian to help with other items including estate planning and a special needs trust. I would highly recommend Ian Weldon.

Jim G.

Weldon Law Group did a fantastic job resolving my adoption case. They did everything in a rather quick, professional manner and got the result I was hoping for. Highly recommend Mr. Weldon.

Mark W.

I and my husband finally got US citizenship .
Mr Ian Weldon did such amazing excellent job for his client .This the best place to help you get your US CITIZENSHIP so easy.
I refer to The Weldon Law group for all my friend and family if you have all questions about your immigration ..
I appreciate for all you did to my family.

Kristina’s F.

I found Ian and his team through my own Google search back in January 2021 and based on the reviews, I knew choosing him and his team would be the best choice. I really don’t ever write reviews but I’m writing this hoping it’ll be helpful for someone else similar to how all the reviews I read helped me select an immigration attorney and because this process is very personal to me as it’s something my husband and I have been talking about and working towards for a long time. Upon meeting Ian(...)

Chrissy R.

We found this amazing firm via a google search in August 2021. Our immigration case was complicated because we had to go through family court before we could apply for a Special Juvenile Visa. Ian and Maria made the entire process feel very easy. We were notified of every filing, notice, court date… I mean everything. These are amazing people who truly care. They are very thorough, professional and efficient! I would highly recommend them to anyone.

Exela E.

My wife and I had a difficult adoption situation, following the death of a family member. Thankfully, Mr. Weldon took the reins of our case and made the process as easy it could be. Throughout the entire process, Christina was very helpful, thorough, and kept us updated at each new step. She was always available to answer questions and never made us seem like an inconvenience. Mr. Weldon was always honest and true to his word, he kept us confident that we were doing all of the right things,(...)

Chris M.

The Weldon Law Group is nothing short of excellent! Working with this amazing team not only lead to the best possible outcome but the professionalism, communication, and support were all amazing throughout the process.

I was referred to The Weldon Law group from a friend and it was some of the best advice I’ve ever been given!

Tyler S.

I am very grateful for the legal services provided by the Weldon Law Group firm. I highly recommend them for their professionalism and integrity. I thought I was never going to solve my immigration case, and they helped me get my
Citizenship. I am very happy, thank you very much for your services.

Juana D.

My husband and I live in Orlando and after looking into some lawyers here, the only company that had outstanding results and celebrated its clients was this one. Ian is a seasoned and professional lawyer, he has wide experience in Immigration law, he is respectful and kind. I received my green card in less than a year time. Christina was always up to date with updates and emails. I'm thankful for their help and I absolutely recommend their law services!

Nora D.

Mr. Weldon has helped me tremendously throughout my court case. I would highly recommend him. His office is also very welcoming and helpful during the difficult times. Thank you so much Mr. Weldon.

Ethan D.

Ian Weldon unravelled a years-old immigration situation that ends on November 21, 2022 with my daughter finally receiving her proof of American citizenship, all within just a few months of hiring him. I'm so happy and relieved!! Thank you for everything. If I ever need a lawyer again, you're the man!

Jeannie G.

We were refered to Mr Ian Weldon by a friend, and we are glad we hired him. He did a great job on our immigration case. Thanks to his help, our case went really smooth without issues and got approved. He was very helpful since the first time we met, every time when we had a question, he answered honestly, and explaind all the possible outcomes. If we need any legal help in the future, we definetly gonna go with him. I highly recommend him!

B. Z.

Mr. Weldon worked quickly and honestly to get my charges dropped before I even stepped foot in a courtroom. Obviously, there are no guarantees and he will be the first to tell you that because he is honest and upfront from the beginning. If I ever for some unfortunate reason need someone to trust that has the skills and intelligence to come to my defense, I'm turning to Mr. Weldon.

Brad G.

Recently, we were faced with a family legal issue. We were unsure of the potential consequences of the issue and felt it was in our best interest to consult with an attorney to protect ourselves. Ian was recommended to us by a friend and we couldn't be more pleased with his service. He was honest with all possible outcomes and helped to put our minds at ease through the process. I would not hesitate to consult with him if needed in the future.

H. F.

I can't ask for a better lawyer, very professional in his area and a great person. If you are looking for a really good lawyer, I highly recommend Ian Weldon! I'm so thankful to have him as a lawyer.

Claudia R.

Mr. Weldon was very in touch with our case, kept me updated and even though the pandemic slowed things Ian stayed focused on the goal and was able to win custody of my son and save him from an unsafe environment. I appreciate everything Mr. Weldon has done for us and I credit him for saving my son's future. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!

R. T.

Ian has helped out my family so much! After an incident occurred in October of 2018; I knew exactly who I needed to call for help and Ian surely did not disappoint! Words cannot express how thankful we were to have him as our lawyer! He's simply the best! Down to Earth and highly professional!

Ashley B.

Ian was very helpful and took care of traffic tickets. I am out of state, and he was able to represent me in court and ensured no points would be assessed to my license. The process was smooth and easy, and his overall staff was very responsive and professional.

Matt S.

Ian Weldon is a very supportive, dedicated and hard-working attorney. Unbiased and tenacious. His determination towards my case was to me relentless. No promises were made, but his understanding, knowledge, and confidence gave me a sense of reassurance. I thank you, Mr. Ian Weldon.

Darrin D.

My husband from Ireland I used Ian Weldon's services to update his immigration status here. Ian was attentive and very personable and answered all of our questions throughout the entire process. I recommend him!

Dawn T.

We highly recommend hiring Mr. Weldon. He handled the step-parent adoption for me and was very thorough and professional. The process was very simple and handled to our satisfaction. He and his staff also helped my husband and I with our wills at the last minute prior to us leaving out of the country on a mission trip. He did not hesitate to fit us in late one evening so that we could go on our trip with the confidence that our will was updated and everything would be taken off if anything (...)

Patti L.

Mr. Weldon reminds me of those unreal attorneys you see in the movies! My son was charged with a felony, and unfortunately, this was not his first time not using his God-given common sense. Not only did Mr. Weldon get the charges lowered to a misdemeanor, but he also got adjudication withheld and the only fees he was required to pay was restitution (no probation). I would suggest anyone in need of an attorney to look him up!

Lynnette H.

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Rusty B.

I am very pleased with how my case was handled and I highly recommend his services if they are needed.

James B.

Mr. Weldon is amazing at what he does! I called him for one thing and ended up using him for 3-4 different things and I know each time I can call him and know I will be taken care of to the best of their ability! Couldn't ask for a better attorney!!!!

Destiny G.

I first used Ian for my divorce a few years ago and was very impressed at his compassion in a very difficult time. His fees are very reasonable and it was a pleasure working with him. I went back to him to get some papers drawn up and as usual, he had everything done in a timely manner and was always a phone call or text away with any questions or concerns we had. Thank you Ian.

Marline W.

Ian represented myself and my 2 stepdaughters on a contested stepparent adoption, which by the way is no walk in the park. He is a great attorney. From day one I felt we were in good hands. He takes time to explain everything upfront and doesn’t sugarcoat the truth. He helps to set realistic expectations from the get-go, which I really appreciated. I’ve had experience with other attorneys in the past, and one of the things I hate is when you have a question and it takes your attorney days t(...)

Steven S.

Ian is an amazing lawyer. He means business. I did an adoption with him and everything was smooth and quick. He gets back to you whenever you call and willing to answer any questions you may have!! Great lawyer, I would definitely use him again!!

Lissette C.

Ian Weldon helped me navigate a recent misdemeanor case concerning an incident I was falsely charged with. This was a terrifying and extremely stressful period of my life, but he always returned frantic calls and emails of mine and kept me appraised and re-assured of the situation. After a nerve-wracking month that seemed MUCH longer than it was, these baseless charges were ultimately dropped completely by the state. I truly feel he is the advocate and attorney every person needs whenever t(...)

Andrew J.

Mr. Weldon is brilliant and caring and has the ability to work the most creative solutions for all of his client's cases. He truly cares and wants to do the best he can for the people in his care. A definite recommend!

Whitney L.

I couldn't have asked for a better lawyer! Ian was very attentive to my case. He's personable and highly knowledgeable about matters of the law. During my family law case, he was straightforward and he put up a good fight on my behalf. In the end, we walked away with a win. If you're in need of a great attorney, Ian is definitely your guy!

Meishka H.