Navigating the U.S. immigration system is a challenging process. Whether you’re applying for citizenship, dealing with the shifting rules around immigration, or facing the threat of wrongful detainment by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, simply getting by as an immigrant in the US can be difficult. A Maine immigration attorney can help you navigate these difficulties and serve as a stalwart advocate for you in times of need.
The attorneys at Shaheen & Gordon are here to help guide you through the complexities of immigration law and resolve your case as smoothly and carefully as possible. We understand that difficulties like these put your life on hold and cause an inordinate amount of stress for you and your family.
Our Maine lawyers devote their time and focus to your case and protect your family’s rights. Contact us online today or call us at (800) 451-1002 to get the help you seek.
Shaheen & Gordon delivers proven results in immigration cases
When you hire Shaheen & Gordon, you benefit from our decades of experience. We know how stressful immigration matters can be and draw upon our in-depth knowledge of immigration law to help serve your needs.
Our team regularly represents clients in matters involving U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the U.S. and Maine Departments of Labor, and the Social Security Administration. We also handle federal mandamus and habeas corpus actions to address unreasonable delays and unlawful detention.
We take pride in building strong attorney-client relationships grounded in trust and clear communication. Because of our multilingual attorneys and staff, many of our clients can speak with their lawyer or legal assistant directly without relying on an interpreter. Shaheen & Gordon represents clients in work visa and residency matters and helps guide long-term immigration planning from start to finish. We also assist clients when applications are delayed or denied.
What our clients have to say
I’ve had a great experience working with Ron Abramson, who was my immigration attorney from 2015 to 2023. Ron helped me with several immigration-related applications ranging from OPT (Optional Practical Training) in 2015, H1b Visa (Work visa) in 2017, Permanent Residency in 2019 and finally Naturalization/Citizenship in 2023. Ron made sure that I was prepared for every step along the way and having him in-person with me for my interviews further ensured that my entire process went as smooth as possible.
“Exceptional expertise in immigration law! Mr. Ron Abramson provided invaluable guidance throughout the citizenship process. His deep knowledge and professional approach made everything smooth and manageable. Highly recommend his services to anyone navigating the complexities of immigration law. I’m immensely grateful for his dedication and highly recommend his services for anyone seeking legal support in immigration matters.”
Types of immigration cases Shaheen & Gordon handles for our clients
Shaheen & Gordon will walk you through the intricacies of immigration law. We constantly monitor changes in federal and state guidance to offer you up-to-date and sound counsel, strategies, and advice. We strive to take as much stress out of the process as possible so you can get the answers, resources, and protections you need. Our team offers several immigration services, including the following:
- Employment-based immigration
- Green cards/Lawful Permanent Residence
- Visas for employment, education, and marriage
- United States citizenship/Naturalization
- Deportation or removal defense
- Consular processing
We make a point of tailoring our services to your unique needs to help you reach a more favorable outcome. Our strategies are designed to give you peace of mind and better protect your rights so you can continue to live your life without fear and uncertainty.
What legal challenges do immigrants face in Maine?
While immigration law is governed at the federal level, immigration issues often arise locally through employment or family circumstances.
According to the American Immigration Council, 4% of the population of Maine is made up of immigrants. These individuals are a key part of the state’s workforce, pay taxes, and contribute to the economy. Roughly half of them have become naturalized citizens. Many have called Maine home for years, but a legal issue could threaten their lives and livelihoods.
Language barriers, limited access to resources, and fear can often leave our immigrant neighbors vulnerable. They may face the threat of job loss, deportation, separation from family, and more. Immigrants may also face financial hardships that can keep them from being able to pursue the legal recourse they need.
Worse yet, many of these challenges can also put immigrants at high risk for fraud and scams that seek to take advantage of their precarious legal situation, language barriers, etc.. This may lead to additional burdens and financial stressors for already vulnerable immigrants and their families. Our immigration lawyers will always provide honest, direct legal advice and engage in totally transparent billing practices.
Discuss your options with Shaheen & Gordon today
Our firm provides high-quality legal services to help you navigate a complex system with the goal of obtaining legal status in the United States. No matter what you need help with, our team gives your case the time and attention it deserves. To discuss your options with an experienced lawyer, call us at (800) 451-1002 or contact us online today to request a consultation.
FAQs about immigration in Maine
What is the naturalization process in the United States?
Naturalization is the process of becoming a citizen of the United States. Those who wish to pursue citizenship must follow the correct legal steps to fulfill the necessary requirements. The steps to naturalization include:
- Completing and submitting your Application for Naturalization
- Attending a biometrics appointment, if required
- Participating in an interview with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
- Receiving an approval, denial, or continuation decision on your application
- Taking the Oath of Allegiance, if approved
Keep in mind that individuals born in the U.S. are already citizens and do not need to apply for naturalization.
Is there a difference between a green card and citizenship?
Yes. A green card, or “permanent resident card,” allows an individual to permanently reside in the U.S. as a “lawful permanent resident. That said, a permanent resident does not have as many rights as someone who has obtained citizenship. They cannot vote in federal elections, hold certain government jobs, or sponsor family members for citizenship. Permanent resident status can also be revoked if you stay outside of the U.S. for a long period of time or commit a crime.
A green card is a first step towards naturalization. If you have been a lawful permanent resident for at least five years, you can apply to become a citizen. Not only does this save you the stress of renewing your green card, it offers you nearly all the rights of a U.S.-born citizen and makes international travel easier.
No matter your immigration status, our lawyers can help guide you through the immigration process and toward becoming a naturalized citizen.
How do I sponsor a work visa or green card for a prospective employee in Maine?
Immigration sponsorship is handled at the federal level, not by the state of Maine. However, if you want to sponsor your worker’s visa or permanent resident status, you must ensure they are eligible and complete a sponsorship petition. Some individuals will get priority status if they meet certain requirements.
Maine immigration attorneys can help you complete the steps and ensure the paperwork is filled out correctly and properly filed. Through attention and care, they can minimize delays and enable you to hire your prospective employee in a timely fashion with their status adjustment finalized.
How long will my immigration issue take to resolve?
Immigration issues are highly complicated and nuanced. There are many variables involved, stringent requirements, and extensive processing that must be completed before a resolution can be reached. This can stretch out an immigration case for months or even years. Complications in a case can also significantly impact the case’s length. To get your case resolved as smoothly as possible, it is vital to hire a lawyer right away and maintain open lines of communication so you always know what is happening in your case.
Local resources for immigrants, employers, and employees immigrating to Maine
Shaheen & Gordon, P.A in Maine
75 Pearl St. #400
Portland, ME 04101
Immigrant resources
- Maine Immigrants’ Rights Coalition: Advocacy and resources for immigrant communities in Maine
- Maine Immigrant & Refugee Services: Legal and resettlement assistance for immigrants and refugees
- Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project: Maine’s only state-wide immigration legal services organization
- Catholic Charities Refugee and Immigration Services in Maine: Community-based immigration legal services and humanitarian support
- Immigrant Resource Center of Maine: Community-based education and legal navigation support
- Visa process: General information about federal visa procedures
Employment-based immigrant resources
- Green card resources for employment-based immigrants: Information on employment-based permanent residency options
- Employment visas: Overview of common work visa categories
Discuss your options with Shaheen & Gordon today
Shaheen & Gordon is dedicated to providing you with high-quality legal services to help you secure the outcome you seek. When an immigration issue affects your ability to live or work in the United States, our team devotes the focused time and attention your case deserves.
To discuss your options with an experienced lawyer, call our firm at (800) 451-1002 or contact us online today to request a consultation.
