I-130 Petition Lawyer Serving Monroe County, New York
Filing an I-130 petition in Monroe County is the first step to obtain a green card for a family member under the Immigration and Nationality Act. This petition establishes your qualifying relationship with a spouse, child, or parent. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Monroe County Court | New York State Legislature
What Is an I-130 Petition?
An I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is a formal request filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to recognize a family relationship for immigration purposes. It is the required foundation for most family-based green card applications. The petition itself does not grant any immigration status or benefits; it simply establishes that a valid relationship exists between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident petitioner and a foreign national beneficiary. Once approved, the beneficiary can then proceed with the next steps, which vary based on their location and visa availability.
Official Resources & Statutes
The I-130 petition is governed by federal law. You can review the official statute, the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.), which outlines family-based immigration. For court procedures and local filing information, the Monroe County Supreme Court website provides details on related matters that may intersect with immigration cases, such as marriage certificates or name changes.
- Determine Eligibility & Category: Confirm you are a U.S. citizen or green card holder and identify the correct family preference category (immediate relative or family preference) for your beneficiary.
- Gather Required Evidence: Collect all necessary documents to prove the family relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificates, proof of petitioner’s status) and your domicile.
- Complete and File Form I-130: Accurately complete the current version of Form I-130 and submit it with the correct filing fee ($675 as of 2026) and evidence package to the designated USCIS lockbox.
- Respond to USCIS Requests: Monitor your case and promptly respond to any Requests for Evidence (RFE) or Notices of Intent to Deny (NOID) issued by USCIS to avoid delays or denial.
- Proceed Post-Approval: Upon I-130 approval, guide the beneficiary through the next phase, which is either consular processing at a U.S. embassy abroad or filing for adjustment of status (Form I-485) if they are already lawfully in the U.S.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your I-130 Petition
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to immigration matters. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the stakes of family reunification and provide direct access to experienced counsel. We serve as an affordable I-130 petition lawyer Monroe County option, offering clear guidance on fees and processes.
Case Results & Client Focus
While specific local counts are not broken out by petition type, SRIS actively handles immigration cases for Monroe County residents. Firm-wide, we have achieved over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate of 93%+. These results span successful family-based petitions, adjustments of status, and deportation defense.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our I 130 Petition Lawyer Monroe County
Our New York location serves Monroe County residents, including those in Rochester, Irondequoit, Greece, Brighton, Pittsford, and Fairport. We are your local I-130 petition lawyer near me Monroe County resource.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Monroe County I-130 Petition FAQs
Where do Monroe County residents file an I-130 petition?
Yes. I-130 petitions are filed by mail with a USCIS lockbox or online through the USCIS portal. The specific lockbox address depends on your petitioner’s category and state of residence. An experienced I 130 petition lawyer Monroe County can ensure your packet is sent to the correct location.
How long does it take to process an I-130 petition?
It depends on the relationship category and service center. Processing times published by USCIS currently range from several months to over a year for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, and often several years for family preference categories. Check the USCIS website for the most current processing times for your specific service center.
Can I file an I-130 if my family member is in removal proceedings?
Yes, but it is a complex situation. An approved I-130 is often a prerequisite for certain forms of relief from removal, such as cancellation of removal. The timing and strategy of filing while in proceedings are critical and require immediate legal advice from an attorney experienced in both family petitions and deportation defense.
What happens after my I-130 petition is approved?
After I-130 approval, the case moves to the National Visa Center (NVC) for consular processing if the beneficiary is abroad. If the beneficiary is in the U.S. in a lawful status, they may file Form I-485 to adjust status. The subsequent steps involve additional fees, forms, and medical examinations.
What if I get a Request for Evidence (RFE) on my I-130?
An RFE is a formal request from USCIS for additional documentation. You typically have a limited time (e.g., 30-90 days) to respond. A strong, complete response is essential to avoid denial. An attorney can help you understand what evidence is needed and prepare a thorough response.
Related Practice Areas: For other legal needs in Monroe County, explore our services as a criminal defense lawyer or a divorce and family law lawyer.
More Immigration Help: For broader New York immigration resources, visit our New York immigration lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like New York County (Manhattan) and Kings County (Brooklyn).
Page Last verified: April 2026. Immigration laws and USCIS procedures change frequently. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance specific to your case.