Immigration Lawyer Serving Bergen County, New Jersey
New Jersey’s Immigrant Trust Directive limits local police cooperation with ICE detainers, which can affect detention and removal proceedings for Bergen County residents.
Federal Immigration Law in Bergen County
U.S. immigration law is federal, governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.) and Title 8 of the Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.). For Bergen County residents, affirmative applications (like green cards and naturalization) are filed with the USCIS Newark Field Office. Defensive cases (removal/deportation proceedings) are heard at the Newark Immigration Court. The Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) reviews appeals from immigration judges.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | USCIS Laws & Policy
Official Government Resources
Bergen County Immigration Process
Understanding the local process is critical. The Newark Field Office handles most applications, while the Elizabeth Contract Detention Facility holds detained individuals. New Jersey’s Immigrant Trust Directive creates a distinct local environment for enforcement.
- Determine Jurisdiction: Confirm if your case is affirmative (USCIS) or defensive (Immigration Court).
- File Correct Forms: Submit forms like I-130, I-485, or I-589 to the correct office with fees.
- Complete Biometrics: Attend your ASC appointment for fingerprinting and photos.
- Prepare for Interview/Hearing: Gather original documents and prepare testimony.
- Respond to RFEs or Decisions: Address any follow-up requests or appeal denials promptly.
Immigration Consequences and Fees
In Bergen County, immigration violations carry federal penalties including removal (deportation), bars to re-entry (3-year, 10-year, or permanent), and ineligibility for future benefits.
| Application/Action | USCIS Filing Fee | Key Consequence of Denial |
|---|---|---|
| I-485 (Adjustment of Status) | $1,440 | May be placed in removal proceedings |
| N-400 (Naturalization) | $760 | Loss of filing fee; delay in obtaining citizenship |
| I-130 (Family Petition) | $675 | Family member may not obtain lawful status |
| I-589 (Asylum) | No fee | Referral to Immigration Court if not granted |
| Removal Proceedings | Varies (EOIR) | Deportation order; bars to re-entry |
Results may vary. Filing fees are set by USCIS and subject to change.
Our Immigration Law Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, our firm handles complex immigration matters. Mr. Sris is consulted by Indian Consulate officials in Washington, D.C. for insights on U.S. legal matters. Our approach is case-specific, focusing on the details of each client’s situation.
Documented Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our immigration practice includes successful family-based petitions, adjustments of status, naturalizations, and deportation defenses.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Immigration Lawyer Near Bergen County
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Bergen County courts and the USCIS Newark Field Office. We represent clients from Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, Englewood, Ridgewood, Fair Lawn, Bergenfield, Garfield, Mahwah, Ramsey, and Lyndhurst.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Immigrant Trust Directive in New Jersey?
The Immigrant Trust Directive is a New Jersey policy that limits local law enforcement cooperation with ICE detainers. It restricts when police can hold individuals based solely on immigration status, aiming to build trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement.
Where are Bergen County immigration cases processed?
Affirmative applications like green cards and naturalization are processed at the USCIS Newark Field Office. Removal (deportation) proceedings are heard at the Newark Immigration Court. Detained individuals may be held at the Elizabeth Contract Detention Facility.
What are the penalties for unlawful presence in the U.S.?
Unlawful presence can trigger 3-year, 10-year, or permanent bars to re-entry under the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. § 1182). The length depends on the total time spent in the U.S. without status and whether you left voluntarily.
How long does a family-based green card take in New Jersey?
For immediate relatives, the process typically takes 8 to 14 months through the Newark Field Office. Timelines vary based on visa category, country of origin, and USCIS processing backlogs. Consult an attorney for a case-specific estimate.
Can I apply for asylum if I am in Bergen County?
Yes. You can file an affirmative asylum application with USCIS within one year of arrival, or a defensive application if you are in removal proceedings before the Newark Immigration Court. There is no filing fee for Form I-589.
Related Legal Resources
Last verified: March 2026. Immigration law and policies change frequently. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current guidance regarding your specific case.