Family reunification under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA § 201) allows U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to petition for qualifying relatives to obtain lawful permanent residence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides representation for family reunification cases in Erie County, New York, with 4,739+ firm-wide documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ.
Family Reunification Lawyer Erie County, New York
Family reunification is a cornerstone of U.S. immigration law, governed primarily by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), codified at 8 U.S.C. § 1151 (INA § 201). This statute sets the worldwide levels of family-sponsored immigrants and establishes the preference categories for family-based green cards. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens — spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents — are not subject to numerical limits. Other family relationships, such as adult children and siblings, fall into preference categories with annual caps and per-country limits. The process begins with filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: April 2026 | Erie County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
For official statutory text and procedural guidance, consult these government resources:
In our experience representing clients in Erie County, USCIS adjudicators at the Buffalo Field Office (130 Delaware Avenue) and the New York City Field Office (26 Federal Plaza) routinely scrutinize family relationship evidence. We have observed that missing or inconsistent documentation — such as incomplete birth certificates or insufficient proof of a bona fide marriage — is the most common reason for Requests for Evidence (RFEs).
- Gather all primary documents: birth certificates, marriage certificates, and proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residence.
- File Form I-130 with USCIS, including all required supporting evidence and the correct filing fee ($675 as of 2026).
- Respond promptly to any RFE from USCIS — missing deadlines can result in denial.
- Attend the USCIS interview at the Buffalo Field Office or the designated consulate abroad.
- If the beneficiary is in the U.S., file Form I-485 for adjustment of status once a visa number is available.
- If the beneficiary is abroad, complete consular processing through the National Visa Center.
In Erie County, family reunification cases involve federal immigration law under the INA. There is no criminal penalty for filing a family petition, but fraud or misrepresentation can lead to denial, inadmissibility, or removal proceedings.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marriage Fraud (8 U.S.C. § 1325(c)) | Federal misdemeanor | Up to 5 years | Up to $250,000 | N/A | Permanent inadmissibility; removal proceedings |
| Visa Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1546) | Federal felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | N/A | Permanent bar from U.S. entry; criminal record |
| False Claim to U.S. Citizenship (18 U.S.C. § 911) | Federal felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $250,000 | N/A | Permanent inadmissibility; removal |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. The firm, operating under the tagline Advocacy Without Borders, provides full immigration representation for family reunification cases in Erie County. Mr. Sris, who has a background in accounting and information systems, applies analytical rigor to each case. The firm’s experience includes handling complex family-based petitions, responding to USCIS RFEs, and representing clients in removal proceedings before the New York Immigration Court.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Erie County and across New York. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ. While specific immigration case counts for Erie County are not separately tracked, the firm’s overall track record demonstrates a commitment to achieving positive results for clients.
Results may vary.
Our location in Buffalo, New York, is approximately 5 miles from the Erie County Supreme Court at 25 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14202, with access via I-90 (NYS Thruway) and I-190. If you are searching for a family reunification lawyer near me Erie County, we are conveniently located to serve you. We also serve as an affordable family reunification lawyer Erie County for clients seeking cost-effective legal representation.
Serving the communities of Buffalo, Cheektowaga, Amherst, Tonawanda, Hamburg, Orchard Park, Clarence, Lancaster, West Seneca, Lackawanna, East Aurora, Kenmore, Williamsville, and Depew.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our location: 50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142, Buffalo, NY 14202 | (838) 292-0003
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Reunification in Erie County
Where is the immigration court for Erie County, New York?
Removal proceedings for Erie County residents are heard at the New York Immigration Court, 26 Federal Plaza, Manhattan, or Varick Street Immigration Court. Affirmative applications are processed at the USCIS NYC Field Office at 26 Federal Plaza. New York has strong sanctuary policies limiting cooperation with ICE enforcement. SRIS, P.C. handles immigration for Erie County residents.
Removal proceedings are heard at New York Immigration Court, 26 Federal Plaza, Manhattan.
What immigration services are available in Erie County (Western NY), NY?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles green cards, family petitions, naturalization, deportation defense, and work visas for clients in Erie County (Western NY). Consultation by appointment — (888) 437-7747.
SRIS, P.C. handles green cards, family petitions, naturalization, deportation defense, and work visas.
How do I apply for a green card in Erie County (Western NY)?
Green card applications in Erie County (Western NY) involve USCIS filing, biometrics, and interviews. Eligibility depends on family, employment, or asylum status. SRIS, P.C. guides the full process — (888) 437-7747.
Green card applications involve USCIS filing, biometrics, and interviews.
What happens during a deportation hearing in NY?
Deportation hearings in NY immigration court allow you to present relief options including cancellation of removal, asylum, or adjustment of status. SRIS, P.C. — (888) 437-7747 — by appointment.
Deportation hearings allow you to present relief options including cancellation of removal, asylum, or adjustment of status.
How does a New York lawyer defend against family-based visa charges?
Defense strategies for family-based visa matters in New York may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under 8 U.S.C. § 1151 (INA § 201) to build the strongest possible case.
How does a New York lawyer defend against family green card charges?
Defense strategies for family green card matters in New York may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under 8 U.S.C. § 1151 (INA § 201) to build the strongest possible case.
How does a New York lawyer defend against family visa charges?
Defense strategies for family visa matters in New York may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under the Immigration and Nationality Act to build the strongest possible case.
How does a New York lawyer defend against adjustment of status charges?
Defense strategies for adjustment of status matters in New York may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under the Immigration and Nationality Act to build the strongest possible case.
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Last updated: April 29, 2026. Immigration laws and policies change frequently. Consult with an attorney for current information.