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U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) take marriage fraud very seriously. When a U.S. citizen marries a foreign national for immigration purposes, there is an increased risk for abuse and exploitation of either party. Since marriage fraud bypasses some of the safeguards in our immigration system, homeland security issues arise as well.

Maybe you and your spouse believe your marriage to be legitimate, but USCIS has called it into question. Or, maybe you or your spouse knew the marriage was for immigration purposes. No matter how your marriage fraud case started, you deserve fair representation that can protect your rights. A Rockwall marriage fraud lawyer from the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg can do just that.

What Is Considered Marriage Fraud?

Marriage fraud occurs when a U.S. citizen and a foreign national enter into a marriage to bypass immigration processes.

There are many situations in which a marriage may be fraudulent. These include:

Falsified marriage documents, like a fake or invalid marriage license
Faked romantic history and/or relationship
A third-party coordinated marriage, such as through a “mail order bride” service, where at least one party knew the marriage was illegitimate
A U.S. citizen agreeing to marry a foreign national for immigration purposes, whether or not money is involved
A foreign national marrying a U.S. citizen for immigration purposes, whether or not the citizen is aware of the fake marriage

There can be a lot of nuance in marriage fraud cases, which is why it’s so important to consult with a criminal defense attorney who works on marriage fraud cases. A Rockwall marriage fraud lawyer from our office can help you defend your marriage or build a case against the government’s claims.

You Can Get Help from a Marriage Fraud Lawyer

A marriage fraud lawyer can help anyone being investigated for, accused of, or charged with marriage fraud. We represent those who firmly believe their marriage to be legitimate and fight for those who have entered potentially fraudulent unions to start new lives here in the U.S.

No matter the circumstances of your marriage fraud case, a marriage fraud lawyer from our office can help with:

Gathering evidence
Building a defense
Representing you in court
Advising you during every step
Negotiating with prosecutors
Ensuring your rights are upheld
Getting you a just sentence

Why Choose the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg?

Our founding attorney, Randall B. Isenberg, has dedicated his entire legal career to the criminal justice system. In his more than 30 years of experience, he’s served on both sides of the bench — including as Senior Chief Felony Prosecutor and State District Trial Judge.

Now, attorney Isenberg is a board-certified criminal defense lawyer and a certified criminal defense advocate. He’s also been recognized as one of Texas’s top lawyers. The Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg has the reputation and experience to tackle complex marriage fraud cases.

Rockwall Marriage Fraud Attorney Near Me

(214) 696-9253

I Thought My Marriage Was Legitimate…Now What?

Unfortunately, marriage fraud can occur even if you believe that your marriage is legitimate. Here are some situations in which a presumably legitimate marriage can be fraudulent by USCIS standards:

One partner knows the marriage is for immigration purposes: Even if you believe your marriage is based on love and wanting to build a life together, your marriage could be fraudulent if your partner married you for the sole purpose of expediting immigration processes.
Both partners thought their marriage was legitimate: Falsified or invalid marriage documents can invalidate an otherwise legitimate marriage. Or, one or both partners were still legally married to other people at the time of the marriage, which can invalidate an otherwise legitimate marriage. This can happen if a divorce doesn’t get finalized in time and you’re not aware of this fact.

If you were tricked into marrying a foreign national, either by your spouse or a third party, you can work with one of our marriage fraud lawyers to gather evidence that proves you did not know your marriage was illegitimate and you had every intention of building a life with this person.

If both you and your partner believe your marriage is real, our marriage fraud lawyer can also collect evidence to demonstrate that you weren’t intentionally trying to defraud the U.S. government and that it was a mistake or manipulation by a third party.

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Evidence to Prove a Marriage Is Legitimate

USCIS will interview you, your partner, and your friends and family to verify your relationship and the evidence in your residency application. These are the types of evidence they look for:

Relationship history
Sharing a home together
Sharing children
Sharing financial assets and responsibilities
Having met each other’s families

Not every couple meets all these standards. For instance, you may not have any children together. If USCIS calls your marriage into question, these are some areas in which we can gather evidence and refute claims.

Some red flags that may tip off USCIS’s and ICE’s suspicion about your marriage is if you were married in another country or were married shortly after meeting. Neither of these incidents mean that your marriage is fraudulent. And a Rockwall marriage fraud attorney can build a defense case to disprove these agencies’ claims about the validity of your union.

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Penalties for Marriage Fraud

U.S. citizens convicted of marriage fraud can face:

Felony charges for marriage fraud, visa fraud, harboring an alien, and making false statements
Up to five years in prison
Fines of up to $250,000

Immigrants found to be in a fraudulent marriage for immigration purposes can get:

Felony charges
Up to five years in prison
Their residency status and visa revoked
Denials for all future visa applications

These are sentencing guidelines, and a Rockwall marriage fraud lawyer can make sure you get a just sentence or avoid unnecessary punishment for a legitimate marriage.

When Should I Get a Marriage Fraud Lawyer?

You should obtain a lawyer any time you believe you’re being investigated, if you’re questioned about the status of your marriage outside the CIS interview process, if you’re charged with marriage fraud, or if you’re trying to appeal a decision in your marriage fraud case.

We’re Ready to Take Your Marriage Fraud Case

At the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg, we believe that you deserve quality representation when defending your marriage’s legitimacy. If USCIS or ICE are investigating or looking to charge you with marriage fraud, contact a Rockwall marriage fraud lawyer from our firm. We offer free consultations so you can learn more about how we can help your case.

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Marriage fraud is a serious crime that can lead to hefty fines, prison time, and even the deportation of the party who immigrated to the United States. United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented ways for determining whether or not a marriage is fraudulent. If you and your spouse have been accused of such a crime, legal assistance may be your best way to maintain your livelihood and avoid severe punishment

At the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg, we have over 30 years of experience defending our clients. If you are accused of marriage fraud, we can work on your behalf to gather evidence to defend you from a guilty verdict. When you need a Highland Park marriage fraud lawyer, we are ready to help you.

What Is Marriage Fraud?

Marriage fraud occurs when a non-citizen marries a citizen with the sole purpose of obtaining residency in the United States. Because of the prevalence of such marriages, the USCIS is legally aware of all marriages that involve non-citizens and citizens. After the marriage takes place, they will monitor the relationship to determine whether the marriage is authentic or not.

Immigration Marriage Fraud Amendments of 1986

In 1986, Congress added amendments to provide a timeframe for what would be considered an authentic marriage. As a result of these amendments, non-citizens had to remain married for two years to achieve legal citizenship status.

Some individuals used this two-year window as a way to gain citizenship through marriage, then terminate their union. This led to USCIS getting more involved and conducting more thorough investigations into marriages between U.S. and non-U.S. citizens.

Types of Marriage Fraud

As defined by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), marriage fraud can come in three main forms. The forms of marriage fraud are:

A U.S. citizen is paid, or asked to perform a favor, to marry a foreign national already residing in the United States
“Mail-order” marriages where at least one party knows the marriage is fraudulent
A foreign national defrauds a United States citizen who believes the marriage is legitimate

Victims of Marriage Fraud

If you believe you are the victim of marriage fraud, you should consult with an attorney regarding what to do next. By taking initiative, you can prove that you were not involved in the potential fraud. This will help you avoid any severe penalties if the marriage is eventually ruled to be fraudulent.

Highland Park Marriage Fraud Attorney Near Me

(214) 696-9253

Consequences of Marriage Fraud

In recent years, there has been a push by the United States government to prevent marriage fraud from taking place. Therefore, if you are charged with marriage fraud, you could face severe penalties whether you are a U.S. or non-U.S. citizen.

Penalties can include:

Up to five years in prison
Fines of up to $250,000
Inability to achieve lawful permanent resident status in the future
Deportation
A permanent bar from the United States
Other federal charges

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How to Avoid Marriage Fraud Consequences

USCIS will require that you submit proper paperwork and documentation to prove that your marriage is legitimate. These documents could consist of:

Leases
Bank statements
Proof of residency

In addition to these documents, you and your spouse will need to partake in interviews with USCIS, where they will ask you questions related to your marriage, then cross-check to confirm whether or not your stories line up.

These interviews can be intimidating. By seeking representation from a marriage fraud lawyer, you can be better prepared for questions that may come up.

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Marriage Fraud Defenses

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the marriage rate in the United States is 5.1 per 1,000 total population while the divorce rate is 2.3 per 1,000. That means that nearly half of the marriages in the United States end in divorce.

If you and your spouse end up getting divorced, or if you are seemingly unhappily married, then USCIS may try to submit that as proof that your marriage is fraudulent. At the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg, our team can help you prove that your marriage is not fraudulent by presenting evidence to the contrary.

Proving Marriage Legitimacy

If you are charged with marriage fraud, some key pieces of evidence can prove the intentions of your marriage. This evidence includes:

Proof of a shared residence
Children’s birth certificates, if you had children
Documentation such as pictures and videos showing family experiences
Testimonies from witnesses who can attest to your marriage being legitimate

All of these will be used so that you are found not guilty in a court of law. By achieving this verdict, you ensure that you and your spouse, or ex-spouse, may remain in the United States as legal citizens.

Contact a Highland Park Marriage Fraud Lawyer Today

If you have been charged with marriage fraud, then you may need a defense attorney experienced in such cases. Marriage fraud is a serious crime with very severe punishments, and it can impact your ability to not only remain in the United States with your family but also to ever be admitted to the country in the future.

At the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg, we are committed to the rights of our clients in Highland Park. If you are facing deportation, jail time, or fines because of a marriage fraud allegation, then we are ready to help you prove the legality of your marriage. Working with an attorney can give you a better chance of avoiding punishment and remaining in the United States with your family. When you need a Highland Park marriage fraud lawyer, call our offices to discuss your options.

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Have you recently been accused of committing marriage fraud? Do you have concerns that your citizenship or immigration status could be at risk? If so, you may be unsure of how to protect yourself from deportation.

A Farmers Branch marriage fraud lawyer at the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg could review the circumstances of your case and determine how to best defend yourself and prove the validity of your marriage.

What is Marriage Fraud?

According to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), marriage fraud occurs any time a foreign national enters a marriage solely for the purpose of obtaining United States citizenship.

The United States Justice Department is responsible for handling criminal charges for marriage fraud. Any time two parties who have obtained a marriage license, underwent a marriage ceremony, and otherwise attempted to seek a marriage to secure a green card may face prosecution.

When two parties do not intend to live together as a married couple, or one spouse defrauds the other to secure United States citizenship, they could face criminal charges. If convicted, the penalties could be severe and have a lasting impact on your life.

Marriages of Convenience

Technically, under United States law, you do have the right to enter into a marriage of convenience without facing criminal charges. You will need to meet specific requirements for your marriage to be considered valid.

These criteria often include both parties being old enough to consent to the marriage, obtaining a valid marriage license, and having no misrepresentation or fraud regarding the marriage.

For marriages of convenience to be valid in the United States, both spouses must reside in the same household and have some type of relationship once the foreign national has immigrated to the U.S. and obtained their green card as opposed to separating. If spouses separate once the immigrant receives their visa, USCIS may conduct an investigation into marriage fraud.

Determination of Marriage Fraud

The requirements for marriage fraud charges to be brought forward are far less strict than you might think. Even if you met the state requirements for entering into a marriage with your spouse unless you intended to legitimately live as a family and a married couple, USCIS and the United States Supreme Court will consider the marriage fraudulent.

If the marriage eventually dissolves, you are under no legal obligation to remain married. However, the Immigration Marriage Fraud Amendments, as part of 8 U.S.C. Section 11862(a), require a two-year conditional status for immigrant spouses looking to secure a permanent U.S. resident status.

Here, the couple must remain in a valid marriage and as a family for a minimum of two years, and the marriage must continue to remain after the fact for the foreign national to obtain U.S. residency.

Penalties for Marriage Fraud

If you are charged criminally with marriage fraud and convicted, the penalties could be severe. According to 8 U.S. Code Section 1325(c), a marriage fraud conviction carries harsh consequences, some of which could include:

Fines as high as $250,000
Five years in a federal prison
Probation
Deportation

United States citizens who actively participate in marriage fraud could be charged criminally as well. In addition to marriage fraud charges, you could also be charged with:

Conspiracy to commit fraud
Visa fraud
Making false statements
Harboring a foreign national

There are many collateral consequences associated with a criminal conviction for marriage fraud as well. Some examples include:

Child custody or visitation issues
Loss of firearm rights
Loss of federal student aid eligibility
Trouble finding a job
Trouble finding affordable and safe housing
Difficulty maintaining relationships with family and friends
Job and housing location restrictions
Suspension or revocation of your professional licenses
Suspension or revocation of your driver’s license

Defenses to Marriage Fraud Charges in Farmers Branch

When you are facing marriage fraud charges in Farmers Branch, preparing a powerful defense strategy is in your best interests. In some cases, your attorney may be able to work with the prosecuting attorney to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed altogether.

However, for the marriage fraud charges against you to result in a conviction, the prosecutor will be tasked with proving beyond a reasonable doubt that your marriage was for the sole purpose of obtaining citizenship for yourself or your spouse.

Proving your marriage’s legitimacy will be essential if you hope to dodge a conviction. Your attorney will carefully examine the circumstances of your case to determine how to best approach your defense strategy. In some cases, negotiating a plea deal may be well advised. You can find out more about which options are best suited for your case when you speak with us. For example, we can give you more information about the statute of limitations for marriage fraud and how it may affect your case.

Farmers Branch Marriage Fraud Attorney Near Me

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Help From a Marriage Fraud Lawyer

Satisfying the requirements to show that your marriage is legitimate by providing photos, communication exchanges, witness statements, social media posts, and other valuable evidence could go a long way in supporting your case. Your attorney may also work to show that your relationship existed prior to the marriage, which can help prove its validity.

Work With a Marriage Fraud Lawyer in Farmers Branch Today

Marriage fraud accusations should always be taken seriously. Your immigration status could be on the line. Reach out to a Farmers Branch marriage fraud lawyer at the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg to determine how to best approach your marriage fraud defense.

You can reach us by phone or through our secure contact form to learn more about what’s next for your marriage fraud case in Farmers Branch and prepare for all possible outcomes.

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Wedding ceremonies are a joyous event to celebrate the love of two people, but marriage is recognized as a legal status. Therefore, couples enter a marriage for love, not for immigration purposes. However, some people try to exploit the marriage visa system so they can live in the U.S. illegally.

These marriages are commonly known as marriage fraud or marriage visa schemes, which are different ways of deceiving immigration officials into believing that two people are married when they are not. Immigration laws designed to protect against exploitation and keep families together do not apply to those who enter into a fraudulent marriage to obtain a green card or visa.

If you have been accused of marriage fraud or believe your spouse may be involved in a marriage visa scheme, you must speak to an experienced Balch Springs marriage fraud lawyer as soon as possible. At the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg, we can help you deal with a marriage fraud case.

What Is Marriage Fraud?

Marriage fraud occurs when one person uses their marriage to another person solely for their immigration benefit. The person filing for a marriage visa must prove that their marriage is legitimate, meaning that it is based on love and not just an agreement to help the other person stay in the U.S.

With marriage fraud, a couple enters into a marriage to get another person a green card or visa. If you are in or are accused of a fraudulent marriage, you could face deportation and legal penalties. It is important that you retain an experienced marriage fraud attorney if you have been accused of marriage fraud. Your attorney can help you understand the charges against you and possible ways to address those charges.

Additionally, your lawyer can help you avoid a conviction and deportation. As with any criminal charge, marriage fraud can significantly impact your life. If you are charged with marriage fraud or accused of committing marriage fraud, it is best to consult with a marriage fraud lawyer serving Balch Springs as soon as possible. An attorney can help you navigate the criminal justice system and protect your rights.

Types of Marriage Fraud Cases in Balch Springs

There are several different types of marriage fraud cases. However, the most common types of marriage fraud include:

Green card marriage: A green card marriage is a marriage that occurs solely to obtain a green card for the other person.
Visa marriage: A visa marriage happens when one person uses marriage to another person to get them a visa.
Contract marriage: A contract marriage is when a couple agrees to get married but with no intention of staying together. They may agree to be married for a certain period and then annul the wedding after the spouse becomes a citizen. Sometimes the foreigner pays the U.S. citizen money to get married.
Mail-order marriage: In such marriages, some people advertise their services as either bride or groom. In exchange for their marriage, such ‘spouses’ receive monetary compensation.

What Are the Legal Consequences of a Marriage Fraud Conviction?

Marriage fraud is usually considered a felony because it involves fraud and deception. However, people who commit marriage fraud may also be charged with other crimes, such as immigration fraud.

The penalties vary based on the facts of each case and the jurisdiction in which it was committed. For example, a person convicted of marriage fraud faces a $250,000 fine or a prison sentence of up to five years. It is worth noting that the fine and prison term can be imposed on both parties to the crime.

A U.S. citizen can also face additional charges like visa fraud or harboring an alien. These additional charges carry further fines and prison terms. Entering into a sham marriage can also have some unforeseen consequences. For example, you may be hosting a terrorist. If they commit terrorist attacks in the U.S., you can also be charged as a conspirator, even if you do not know the plans.

Balch Springs Marriage Fraud Attorney Near Me

(214) 696-9253

Get a Green Card Without Committing Marriage Fraud

If you want a green card or visa, you should never enter into a fraudulent relationship with someone else. This type of activity is a crime, and if you are caught, you will face serious legal consequences.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) takes a rather stern view on marriage fraud. Therefore, it requires abundant proof to be convinced that a marriage between a U.S. citizen and an alien is legitimate (bona fide). Therefore, merely possessing a wedding certificate would not suffice. They would also require that the couple has joint bank accounts, and where applicable, they can show birth certificates for their kids.

ICE agents would doubt the validity of the marriage if there were potential indicators like the married couple not living in the same house, the couple does not speak the same language, the wedding was secretly done, and the family members of the U.S. citizen are not aware of such marriage. If any of these happen, it would indicate fraud.

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Contact a Balch Springs Marriage Fraud Attorney for Help with Your Case Today

A Balch Springs marriage fraud lawyer can help you understand the charges against you, defend your rights, and protect your reputation. If you have been accused of marriage fraud, your lawyer can help you fight the charges and avoid deportation.

If you are in a relationship with someone in the U.S. illegally, you may have questions about how to address the situation while protecting your rights. A marriage fraud attorney can help you navigate the situation and protect your rights. Your attorney can also help someone you know who is facing marriage fraud charges.

At the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg, we can help. Our founding partner has 30 years of experience in the legal profession and has previously been a prosecutor and a judge. Through his experience and other attorneys in the firm, we can help defend your case. If you know someone who has been charged with marrying a U.S. citizen for immigration purposes, we can help them navigate the charges and seek relief from the court. We are available 24/7 to help customize a solution for your case.

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Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious charge in Texas. If convicted, you could face costly fines, years in prison, and a loss of your driver’s license. There are even collateral consequences for DWI charges that can follow you for years. DWI charges aren’t just for drivers who operate a vehicle while on alcohol or illegal drugs — prescription drugs can also impair your judgment and ability to drive.

If you are facing these charges, reach out to an Austin DWI prescription drugs lawyer today. The team with the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg is ready to defend you against these charges, so don’t delay.

Texas’s Penalties for Driving While Intoxicated

DWI charges can vary based on previous offenses. These charges typically range from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class A misdemeanor, but certain circumstances could make this offense a felony. Texas Penal Code § 49.04 briefly outlines the penalties for these charges.

First DWI Offense

For a first-time offense, drivers charged with a prescription drugs DWI face Class B misdemeanor penalties. According to Texas Penal Code § 12.22, intoxicated drivers can face:

Time in jail up to 180 days, with a minimum of 75 hours (three days) in jail
Fines up to $2,000

Additionally, drivers convicted of a prescription drug DWI will face a one-year license suspension, according to Texas Transportation Code § 521.344.

Second DWI Offense

If you are convicted of a second DWI, you can be charged with a Class A misdemeanor, according to Texas Penal Code § 49.09. This second offense falls under the enhanced offenses and penalties section of chapter 49 of the Texas Penal Code. While this misdemeanor class has a maximum sentence of one year, the categorization under enhanced offenses means you have to serve jail time for a minimum of 30 days.

Drivers may also be subject to suspension lasting up to two years and financial penalties. Anyone convicted of a Class A misdemeanor may have to pay a fine of up to $4,000, per Texas Penal Code § 12.22.

Three or More DWI Offenses

If you commit a third DWI offense, the state may charge you with a felony of the third degree, according to Texas Penal Code § 49.09(b)(2). These charges can result in:

Prison time ranging from 2 to 10 years
Fines up to $10,000
A 2-year license suspension

Other circumstances can impact your charges. For example, driving while intoxicated with a child younger than 15 years of age can result in felony charges (Texas Penal Code § 49.045).

Possible Defenses an Austin DWI Prescription Drug Lawyer May Employ

Dealing with these charges alone can be overwhelming, confusing, and frightening. The fact that the medication is legal and available through a prescription does not make your case any easier than if your case involved alcohol or illegal substances.

That’s where an Austin prescription drug DWI lawyer comes in. The Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg has a team of lawyers who understand the nuances of the law and know how to build a defense strategy. We can explore several defense options against your charges of driving while intoxicated by prescription drugs. While every case is different, our lawyers can review the details for:

Reasonable Suspicion and Probable Cause

Law enforcement needs to have sufficient grounds to pull you over. They may not have a case if they cannot prove that they had justifiable reasons for pulling you over.

Probable cause is another factor that can play a part in your DWI case. With probable cause, police must prove that they had reason to believe that you were committing a crime. If law enforcement did not have probable cause, we can use this to your benefit.

Inaccurate or Illegally Obtained Evidence

We may be able to dispute any blood tests performed by law enforcement. It’s possible that the police conducted the test improperly, and that could have damaged the samples or violated testing procedures. Equipment for testing can be faulty, or police may have violated your rights during a traffic stop.

There are other strategies we can use during your case proceedings to disprove or find holes in the prosecution’s arguments and evidence. Although we may use different defenses, or a combination of different strategies, these legal defenses indicate your case may not be as open and shut as it seems.

How Can an Austin DWI Prescription Drug Attorney Help Me?

An attorney with experience defending prescription drug DWI cases can help you navigate the legal system and fight for your freedom. Randall Isenberg and his team of criminal defense lawyers are dedicated to serving you during this uncertain time. With over 30 years of experience and a history as a judge and prosecutor, Randy knows what it takes to defend you.

If you choose to hire an attorney to defend you in court, you will need an attorney with experience in cases involving prescription drug DWIs in Texas. Randy Isenberg has the experience, qualifications, and case results to give you the best chance for a favorable outcome.

Reduction or Dismissal

The attorneys at the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg can review your case and represent you throughout the proceedings. Depending on the case, we can seek to have your charges dismissed or reduced. Although we cannot guarantee either result, we do have experience getting our clients reduced sentences — this even includes clients with multiple DWI convictions.

Community Supervision

When facing charges of DWI by prescription drugs, thoughts of jail time and steep fines are stressful. However, community supervision, commonly called probation, is one possible way we can help you avoid jail time. This program involves regular reviews and promotes substance abuse treatment.

You must meet the eligibility requirements of the program and apply for consideration. As a resident of Austin or the Austin area, you can apply through the Travis County DWI Court Program. If you are eligible for this program, we can explore this as an avenue to help you avoid more serious charges.

Austin Prescription Drugs Attorney Near Me

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Get Started With the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg Today

Every person is presumed innocent until convicted of a crime, and we believe every person deserves the best possible defense for their case. Call our office for a free initial consultation — we are available 24/7 to take your call.

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Marriage fraud occurs when a foreign national marries a U.S. citizen to obtain U.S. citizenship without going through the U.S. immigration system. It specifically refers to fraudulent relationships where no genuine relationship exists between the two parties.

If you are faced with charges of marriage fraud, a Forney marriage fraud lawyer can help. The Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg offer free consultations to assist you with your legal defense.

How Is Marriage Fraud Defined?

You can be involved in a relationship with a foreign national and want to marry them and help them become a U.S. citizen without committing marriage fraud. According to U.S. immigration law 8 U.S. Code § 1154, a foreign national who entered into the marriage in good faith and not as part of an exchange or favor can petition to become a U.S. citizen by marriage.

Marriage fraud occurs when a foreign national or U.S. citizen enters the relationship in bad faith. For example, if either spouse misrepresented their intentions as genuine when their ulterior motive was to obtain citizenship, this could be considered marriage fraud.

Similarly, if the U.S. citizen in the relationship married a foreign national to provide them with an avenue to U.S. citizenship in exchange for favors, gifts, or other compensation, they could be found guilty of marriage fraud.

Defending Yourself Against Allegations Of Marriage Fraud In Forney, Texas

If you or your spouse have been accused or charged with marriage fraud, it is a serious criminal accusation with severe consequences that may include jail time and a hefty fine. In addition, the foreign national in your relationship faces potential deportation and could be banned from entering the U.S. in the future.

When facing serious charges, working with a criminal defense attorney familiar with U.S. immigration laws and processes is best. The Law Offices of Randal B. Isenberg have the knowledge and resources to help you defend against marriage fraud charges, whether you were a victim of marriage fraud or a suspected participant.

Understanding How A Marriage Fraud Investigation Works

If you or your spouse are suspected of marriage fraud, the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) will conduct an investigation of your living situation, including:

Documents substantiating your relationship, such as photos, notes, letters, emails, bank statements, and other evidence to prove you have been living as a couple
Interviews of both spouses asking about your living situation, routines, and other details to substantiate that you are cohabiting in a genuine relationship

8 CFR § 103.2 outlines the types of proof that may be required to prove that the relationship is genuine and disprove allegations of marriage fraud. If you receive a request for additional information, an interview summons, or request for a biometrics capture, be sure to provide any requested information and appear at all appointments.

To ensure that you provide the necessary information and protect your legal rights, it is wise to speak with a marriage fraud attorney before you speak with anyone. If you received a request for evidence or notice of intent to deny from the USCIS and fail to act, you or your spouse could lose the petition for U.S. citizenship and face charges of marriage fraud.

Forney Marriage Fraud Attorney Near Me

(214) 696-9253

How A Marriage Fraud Defense Lawyer Can Help With Your Case

U.S. law dictates that everyone accused of a crime in the U.S., including foreign nationals, has the right to an attorney representing their interests. If you have been arrested or are facing accusations of marriage fraud, a Forney marriage fraud lawyer with experience handling immigration cases in Texas can help you fight for your legal rights and defend yourself in court.

Immigration law is complicated, and even a small misstep can result in fines, jail time, and deportation. Marriage fraud is taken very seriously by the USCIS and the U.S. government. Sometimes a nervous applicant may forget or overlook important details when submitting documentation or sitting down for an interview. In this way, couples in genuine relationships, some of whom have families, jobs, and houses, can be uprooted and their lives destroyed.

When you work with the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg, you benefit from 30 years of criminal defense work across the state of Texas. Our dedicated legal team will:

Obtain evidence
Help you complete paperwork
Assist you with your preparations for interviews
Help you keep track of your USCIS deadlines and appointments
Complete legal filings
Represent you in hearings and at trial

Click to contact our Marriage Fraud Lawyers today

(214) 696-9253

Do Not Delay If You Are Facing A Marriage Fraud Investigation

If you are notified that you are under investigation for marital fraud, do not wait to reach out to a lawyer. The consequences of a marriage fraud conviction are severe and can upend your entire life. With a lawyer on your side, you can ensure that you are providing the necessary documentation for information requests and that you are prepared for questions that may arise during interviews.

By notifying your lawyer as soon as possible after the investigation begins, you give them time to thoroughly examine your case, discover the best defense for your situation, and obtain the evidence they need to support your case. To give yourself the best chance for a positive outcome, reach out to an attorney to discuss your legal options in a marriage fraud case.

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Let A Forney Marriage Fraud Attorney Get Started On Your Case Today

Marital fraud is a serious crime with severe consequences that can affect you for years to come. Reach out to the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg to discuss your legal options during a marital fraud investigation, both in and out of the courtroom.

Randall B. Isenberg has spent the past three decades successfully defending accused clients across Texas. He knows how an accusation of marriage fraud can affect every aspect of your life and place you and your family at risk of significant upheaval.

Contact our offices today for a free consultation and see how we can support you in your marriage fraud investigation.

Call or text or complete a Free Case Evaluation form

(214) 696-9253

Rockwall Marriage Fraud Lawyer

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What Is Considered Marriage Fraud?

You Can Get Help from a Marriage Fraud Lawyer

Why Choose the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg?

I Thought My Marriage Was Legitimate…Now What?

Evidence to Prove a Marriage Is Legitimate

Penalties for Marriage Fraud

When Should I Get a Marriage Fraud Lawyer?

We’re Ready to Take Your Marriage Fraud Case

Immigration Marriage Fraud Amendments of 1986

Types of Marriage Fraud

Victims of Marriage Fraud

Consequences of Marriage Fraud

How to Avoid Marriage Fraud Consequences

Marriage Fraud Defenses

Proving Marriage Legitimacy

Contact a Highland Park Marriage Fraud Lawyer Today

What is Marriage Fraud?

Marriages of Convenience

Determination of Marriage Fraud

Penalties for Marriage Fraud

Defenses to Marriage Fraud Charges in Farmers Branch

Help From a Marriage Fraud Lawyer

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What Is Marriage Fraud?

Types of Marriage Fraud Cases in Balch Springs

What Are the Legal Consequences of a Marriage Fraud Conviction?

Get a Green Card Without Committing Marriage Fraud

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Texas’s Penalties for Driving While Intoxicated

First DWI Offense

Second DWI Offense

Three or More DWI Offenses

Possible Defenses an Austin DWI Prescription Drug Lawyer May Employ

Reasonable Suspicion and Probable Cause

Inaccurate or Illegally Obtained Evidence

How Can an Austin DWI Prescription Drug Attorney Help Me?

Reduction or Dismissal

Community Supervision

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How Is Marriage Fraud Defined?

Defending Yourself Against Allegations Of Marriage Fraud In Forney, Texas

Understanding How A Marriage Fraud Investigation Works

How A Marriage Fraud Defense Lawyer Can Help With Your Case

Do Not Delay If You Are Facing A Marriage Fraud Investigation

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