Applying For A LGBTQA+ Fiance Visa? We Can Help

If you and your partner are engaged, but apart because they are citizens of another country, you may be interested in learning about your options for helping them gain citizenship in the United States. Casais & Prias can help you to acquire a fiance visa in Miami.

LGBTQA+ fiance visas are one of the more popular options that same-sex couples will try when beginning the immigration process. Essentially, applying for an LGBTQA+ fiance visa in Miami proves that you and your partner are planning to marry within 90 days from the time you both reside in the United States. Once you have been officially married and received the proper licenses, your partner will be granted U.S. permanent residency.

This process is quite complicated, and it takes time to work through all of the applications and waiting periods. It is a battle that is best left to the skill of an immigration law firm, which is where Casais & Prias comes in. Our managing partner, Rolando Casais, Jr. sits on the Board of Directors of the Board of Directors for the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and is also on their budget and LGBTQ committees. When you partner with our firm, you get the experience and skill of a dedicated team of attorneys working hard on your case.

Start With A Virtual Consultation

Whether you can meet in person or online, our attorneys at Casais & Prias will be able to serve your case best after an initial consultation. During this time, you will be asked a variety of questions regarding your case, and you should arrive prepared with any documentation that may assist in the filing process.

To apply for a fiance visa in Miami, some questions that you should prepare answers for include:

  • How long have you been a couple?
  • Do you intend to marry within 90 days after your partner has been allowed entry into the United States?
  • Are you prepared to answer questions about your relationship when granted an interview?
  • What evidence are you prepared to show that proves the validity of your relationship? (photos, documents, etc.)

These are but a few of the more pertinent questions that will be asked during the initial consultation and will give our attorneys more information to work your case.

fiance visa in Miami

Apply For Your Fiance Visa in Miami

If the attorney believes an LGBTQA+ fiance visa is the best option for you and your partner, your next step will be to fill out the fiance petition. This form is the first real step toward helping your partner to receive lawful permanent residency in the United States.

Most immigration and visa applications can be quite complicated and overwhelming. With the help of an attorney, you will be able to quickly and effectively move through the application.

After the application has been submitted, there will likely be a waiting period in which the application and petition are reviewed. During this time, our firm will work to keep you updated every step of the way, as you and your partner await any news.

Let Us Help You And Your Partner With Your Fiance Visa In Miami

Casais & Prias has proudly served the Miami area and the LGBTQ community for over ten years and would be happy to help you and your partner throughout your immigration journey. Contact us with any questions or to schedule a consultation today.

Why Doral LGBT Immigrants Need Experienced Attorneys

In 2015, same-sex marriage was legalized, and LGBTQ immigrants were granted many of the same rights and protections allowed to non-LGBTQ immigrants. That being said, Doral LGBTQ immigrants need experienced attorneys to fight their cases, and here is why.

While the legalization of same-sex marriage was a huge step in the right direction for the LGBTQ community, many questions were raised as to how their immigration battles would be handled.

Would the same legal protections hold true for members of the LGBTQ community? In short, the answer is yes. However, these cases can be more complex and often require the knowledge and skills of an experienced immigration law firm to ensure that justice is served.

Below, we will dive into a couple of different scenarios in which a law firm with experience in LGBTQ immigration would prove to be very helpful.

Doral LGBTQ Immigrants Applying for Visas

Regardless of which type of visa you or your partner may be looking to apply for, it is important to note that the process can be lengthy and confusing without the help of a professional.

Some of the more common visas to apply for as a same-sex couple would be:

At Casais & Prias Law, experienced immigration attorneys can assist throughout the entire application and waiting process. You will be accompanied every step of the way and have peace of mind knowing that you have taken the proper steps to acquire the needed visa.

Having served the Doral community since 2009, Casais & Prias Law is well equipped with the tools needed to help LGBTQ immigrants reach their citizenship and visa goals.

Doral LGBTQ Immigrants Applying for Naturalization

While Casais & Prias does offer expertise in LGBTQ and same sex-law, the firm is also highly versed in the legal processes surrounding immigration and naturalization.

Applying for naturalization is another option that you and your partner may consider. The naturalization application process is very lengthy and complicated if you are unsure of where to start. Inconsistencies or mistakes on the application can cause issues down the line and may even halt your progress altogether.

To avoid any major setbacks, it is best to have an experienced firm backing you throughout your entire naturalization process.

Doral LGBT Immigrants

Casais & Prias Law – The Right Choice Attorney for Doral LGBTQ Immigrants

Fighting an immigration battle on your own is an unnecessary hardship when you can have the help of an experienced law firm to assist you.

If you are trying to apply for a visa, or are in the early stages of the naturalization application process, we would be happy to assist you to ensure that your case is handled strategically and efficiently from start to finish.

Contact us today with any questions, or complete the form on our site so that you and your partner can take the first steps on your immigration journey!

Finding A Hialeah Child Custody Lawyer You Can Trust

Child custody battles are emotionally charged legal cases that can be overwhelming to go through on your own. Learn all about the steps you need to take to find a Hialeah child custody lawyer that you can count on.

Scroll down to hear Family Attorney Nadja A. Prias explain how travel expenses are decided in a co-parenting arrangement.

It is important for us to note that in Florida family law, there is technically no such thing as “custody”. This issue is divided into “timesharing with the child” and “parental responsibilities”, which are considered separately. However, since it is still commonly referred to as “custody”, that is how we will refer to it throughout this blog.

When child custody matters are taken to court, you need to know that you can place your trust in the hands of your chosen attorney. Finding a Hialeah child custody lawyer is the first step you must take in dealing with these complex legal proceedings.

Search for A Hialeah Child Custody Lawyer With Focus In Family Law

Family law and child custody cases are often some of the most complicated battles in the court system. There are a multitude of factors that play a role in their outcome, so your lawyer needs to have solid experience and proof of knowledge in this complex field.

When starting your search, seek out firms that focus in the area of family law. A Hialeah child custody lawyer from a skilled firm will be able to offer you the best advice moving forward and will play a prominent role in ensuring the best possible outcome for you and your child.

At Casais & Prias Law, we offer legal services in the following areas:

  • Child Custody and Visitation
  • Child Support and Guardianship
  • Paternity Actions

By finding a firm that has experience in these areas, you can have peace of mind knowing that they are equipped with the knowledge to handle your case properly.

Hialeah child custody lawyer

Conduct Interviews

A great way to get a feel for your potential lawyer is to conduct an in-person interview. You should arrive prepared with a list of questions and any documents that may be pertinent to the case at hand.

During this interview, you should be able to determine exactly how the Hialeah child custody lawyer would help you to fight your case as well as how experienced they are in dealing with child custody battles as a whole. It is recommended that you conduct multiple interviews during this stage to ensure that you are not settling for a lawyer or firm that may be ill-prepared to fight your case.

A Hialeah Child Custody Lawyer You Can Trust

At Casais & Prias Law, we acknowledge that any legal battle involving your family is going to be emotionally taxing and difficult to go through.

To help you through this challenging time, we offer our specialized knowledge throughout every step of the process and will do everything we can to make sure your family is taken care of.

Each child custody battle is unique and requires the help of an experienced law firm in order to be handled correctly. Contact us today or request a free case evaluation to see why Casais & Prias Law is right for your family.

Key Things To Look For In A Miami Immigration Lawyer

When navigating your immigration process, you should seek help from a law firm that you can trust. Below, we will break down the essential things you should look for when deciding which Miami immigration lawyer is best qualified to represent your case.

There are many reasons you should partner with an trustworthy immigration attorney as you embark on your journey to naturalization. Rolando Casais, Jr. has the skills and experience you need and you will see the following benefits when you hire us to help with your naturalization application.

A Trustworthy And Ethical Firm

Immigration cases are highly personal and should be placed in the hands of a Miami immigration lawyer you can trust wholeheartedly. The process can be rather lengthy and require a legal professional with a strong moral compass and the backing of an ethical firm.

To reach the best possible solution while maintaining the highest standard of integrity, it is up to you to find a lawyer that will handle the case with your best interest in mind. Take the time to do a thorough search for firms that have a high success rate. Also, look for firms that have a positive standing in the community.

Straightforward And Clear Answers

A Miami immigration lawyer should not be afraid to answer any hard-hitting questions. If they are at all hesitant, you should probably keep searching. By asking those difficult questions early on, you will be able to get a clearer idea of how this lawyer will work your case.

Being straightforward and clear with anything pertaining to the case is a quality that will prove to be very helpful throughout your legal journey. Your attorney should be upfront with you throughout the whole process. It is our job to keep you in the loop as the case progresses.

Relevant Experience And Positive Testimonials

Immigration issues require the attention and tenacity of a strong and knowledgeable lawyer. Some lawyers may have the basic skills required to handle a typical immigration case. That being said, you should search for someone who has extensive experience dealing with cases similar to your own.

Immigration law is very complicated and not all lawyers are able to offer you the same level of expertise. Take the time to do your research and read through the testimonials or reviews that are listed on their website. Know who you are working with and ensure that you feel confident in their ability to help you.

Miami immigration lawyer

Casais & Prias Law: The Miami Immigration Law Firm For You

The attorneys of Casais & Prias Law are well equipped to handle these cases and offer the services and qualities you are seeking when choosing a Miami immigration lawyer.

Casais & Prias Law can help you with needs such as:

  • Naturalization
  • Business and family immigration
  • Visa petitions
  • Change, extension, and adjustment of status

If you would like to request a free case evaluation to determine if Casais & Prias Law can represent your case, contact us today.

Judge Strikes Down Eviction Moratorium

– BUT WAIT! Not so fast…

The first thing you need to know is that the Justice Department immediately appealed and asked for an emergency stay of judgment.

The judge agreed to hold the eviction moratorium ruling for a week until May 12th.

For what it’s worth, the whole matter was deciding whether the Center for Disease Control (CDC) had the authority to impose a federal, nationwide eviction moratorium on landlords.  

The moratorium prevented residential landlords from evicting single renters making less than $99,000 and families making less than $198,000. The judge’s pending ruling is that the CDC does not have that authority. So here is what is likely to happen either way:

 

If the ruling stands, after May 12th in Florida,

    • Landlords can evict residential tenants for failure to pay rent.
    • State-issued moratoriums, like those in New York, will not be affected.  However, the Florida eviction moratorium expired in October of 2020.

If the ruling does not stand and is overturned by the U.S. Court of Appeals, the CDC ruling will remain in effect until June 30th, unless it extended again by Congress or a Presidential Executive Order.

If you are a landlord that has tenants that have not been paying their rent and would like to evict, you first have to give a “3 Day Notice,” which is a 3 business-day notice of demand for payment or possession of the property before you can file for eviction.

There are very specific rules and timelines laid out in the Florida Statutes on the eviction process.

If you would like to prepare for the potential federal ruling being upheld on May 12th, you need to begin the process now, as in today.

We are experienced in evictions and can help you navigate the process so that you can begin to recoup back rent or reclaim the possession of your properties.

Call our office at 305.722.8015, or visit our website at www.CasaisLaw.com to set up a free case evaluation.

eviction moratorium

How To File Your Case With A Miami Family Law Firm

When it comes to legal battles involving family issues, filing your case can present quite the challenge. Follow this guide for the steps you need to correctly file your case with our Miami family law firm, Casais & Prias, to secure the best possible outcome.

Scroll down to hear Family Attorney Nadja A. Prias explain the Florida requirement of taking parenting classes in cases involving divorce, paternity, or custody.

Find The Right Miami Family Law Firm For You

Legal battles surrounding family matters are best left to firms that have the knowledge and experience needed to successfully fight your case. Our lead family attorney Nadja A. Prias is a certified Family Law Mediator by the Florida Supreme Court and brings extensive expertise to her practice. With certifications as a Guardian Ad Litem and a strong track record of handling complex and contentious cases, she has successfully taken them to trial. Furthermore, she has effectively prosecuted and defended domestic violence injunction cases. Clients can have complete confidence that Ms. Prias prioritizes their best interests throughout the entirety of their legal representation, from the outset of their case until its final resolution.

Our Miami family law firm represents clients dealing with a variety of family matters, including:

These are some of the more common matters handled in family court, though the comprehensive list extends beyond these issues. Once you have decided on a Miami family law firm like ours, you are ready to move forward with the filing process.

Miami family law firm

Completing And Filing Required Documents

As with all legal matters, you are required to fill out a variety of forms before the judge can hear your case. Now is the time to gather everything you wish to present at the hearing and bring it to the attention of your attorney. They will proceed with completing the corresponding forms needed for filing by taking your case details into account.

This part of the process is where our experience as a Miami family law firm truly sets us apart. Our lawyers are here to provide you with personalized attention by taking the time to become familiar with you and your situation in order to get the best results for your case. We are dedicated to guiding you through each step of case preparation and are committed to keeping you well informed along the way.

Together, you and your attorney will double-check all documents to ensure that they are complete and accurate. It is recommended that you keep a copy of these forms for your records. You should also bring them with you to each hearing.

Choose A Miami Family Law Firm You Can Trust

Taking family and probate matters to court can be stressful and overwhelming if you do not know where to start. Once you have decided that a legal course of action is right for your case, you want to be sure that you have chosen a family law firm you can rely on. The attorneys at Casais & Prias understand the hardships involved in family related issues, and are prepared to use their experience to get the justice that you deserve.

Contact us today to request a free case evaluation and we will work to help guide you through this challenging time.

What Sets Us Apart As A Coral Gables Immigration Law Firm

Applying for a change in immigration status might seem daunting, but a skilled Coral Gables immigration law firm can guide you through the process.

The attorneys at Casais & Prias, based in our Coral Gables immigration law firm, possess extensive experience across a wide spectrum of immigration services. They stand prepared to assist you with your case.

Why Trust Us?

We aim to streamline your immigration process for ease and clarity. Our attorneys collaborate closely with you, offering a tailored and attentive approach to your case. Understanding your specific requirements is our priority, and as a trusted Coral Gables immigration law firm, we endeavor to achieve the most favorable outcomes for you.

We Have The Experience You Need

Immigration applications are often lengthy and complex, involve areas of law that are constantly changing, and require very specific documentation that demands close attention to detail. This is why it is important that you hire a highly experienced immigration law firm to help you navigate the immigration process from start to finish.

Attorney Rolando Casais, Jr., leads our immigration department and serves on the board of directors at the AILA. A Miami native fluent in both English and Spanish, he holds vast experience in immigration law practice. Whether you require any of the following services, Mr. Casais is fully prepared to handle your case.

  • Processing and submission of immigrant and non-immigrant visa petitions
  • Family immigration
  • Naturalization
  • Change of status
  • And other related services
Coral Gables Immigration Law Firm

Serving Our Community As A Coral Gables Immigration Law Firm Since 2009

Casais & Prias has been helping clients in Miami-Dade County and across the U.S. since 2009. With our roots in Little Havana, Hialeah, Brickell, and Westchester, our experience in this area gives us a familiarity with the community’s culture and its people’s legal needs. Though every case and client is unique, a shared cultural background helps us best understand your case and you, as our client. We are also proud to offer bilingual legal services.

Our Flexibility Fits Your Needs

Understanding that physical limitations might hinder office visits for immigration services, we offer convenient alternatives like phone and virtual consultations alongside in-person assistance. As a boutique Coral Gables immigration law firm, we prioritize addressing our clients’ requirements and nurturing an open client-attorney bond, distinguishing us from other local firms. Be assured, we are committed to accommodating your specific situations and delivering outstanding service.

The attorneys at Casais & Prias are here to serve you and your immigration law needs. If you are ready to consult with us to start your legal immigration process, contact us today to request a free case evaluation.

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelan Nationals

On March 8, 2021, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security designated Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for a period of 18 months, until September 9, 2022.

Scroll to the end to hear Rolando Casais, Jr., a founding partner of Casais & Prias, explain Temporary Protected Status.

Temporary Protected Status is a temporary immigration status provided to nationals of specifically designated countries that are confronting an ongoing armed conflict (such as civil war), environmental disaster (such as earthquake or hurricane), or other extraordinary and temporary conditions. It provides a stay of deportation to foreign nationals from those countries who are in the United States at the time the U.S. government makes the designation.

New Designation

This new designation of Temporary Protected Status for Venezuela enables Venezuelan nationals currently residing in the United States to file initial applications for TPS, so long as they meet eligibility requirements. Only individuals who can demonstrate continuous residence in the United States as of March 8, 2021 are eligible for TPS under Venezuela’s designation. Applicants are also eligible to apply for employment authorization that will be valid through September 9, 2022.

Once granted Temporary Protected Status, an individual may not be detained by DHS based on his or her immigration status in the United States. TPS is a temporary benefit that does not lead to legal permanent residence, U.S. citizenship, or any other immigration status. All individuals applying for TPS undergo security and background checks as part of determining eligibility.

Eligibility

Individuals are not eligible to apply for Temporary Protected Status if they have been convicted of any felony or two or more misdemeanors committed in the United States, are found to be inadmissible, or fail to meet the continuous physical presence and continuous residence in the United States.

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelan Nationals

Application Process

To apply for Temporary Protected Status under Venezuela’s designation, applicants must register during the 180-day registration period that runs from March 9, 2021 through September 5, 2021. To apply for TPS, applicants must submit the following documents with their application:

  • Venezuelan passport;
  • Venezuelan birth certificate (with English translation);
  • I-94 – arrival/departure record;
  • Proof of residence in the U.S. as of March 8, 2021 such as a copy of residential lease, mortgage statements, utility bills (gas, electric, phone, water), school records, medical records, etc.;
  • Arrest records or criminal history (if any).

If you are or know a Venezuelan national that would like to apply for Temporary Protected Status, please contact the Law Office of Casais and Prias at (305) 722-8015 or info@CasaisLaw.com. Our experienced immigration attorney will represent you in preparing and submitting your applications for TPS and employment authorization.

 

 

What Are Grounds For Dissolution of Marriage in Florida?

There are only two things in Florida that are grounds for divorce. Getting a divorce in Florida requires you to file what is known as a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage.

Aside from basic details about the marriage and the parties in the marriage, you have to indicate a reason for the divorce. As practical as it may seem, in Florida, there is no need to get all wrapped up with the reasons that led to the decision to get a divorce because it is a “No Fault” state, and what that means will be further explained below. However, because it is a no-fault state, there are only 2 things that are grounds for Divorce or the Dissolution of Marriage in Florida:

Irreconcilable Differences

This is the most common reason for divorce. Florida is a no-fault divorce state, which means that no one is assigned fault by the court. You do not need to claim adultery, abandonment, or cruelty. If you do not want to be married, in Florida you do not have to be. There is only a need for the party that is filing for divorce to indicate that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” These are known as irreconcilable differences. All this means is that the couple is no longer able to co-exist amicably.

Dissolution of Marriage in Florida

Mental Incapacity

The second ground for dissolution of marriage occurs when one of the parties is mentally incapacitated. However, a dissolution of marriage will not be allowed unless the party alleged to be mentally incapacitated has been adjudged incapacitated for at least 3 years prior to the divorce being filed.

If you have any questions as to whether you have irreconcilable differences or whether your spouse has been adjudged incapacitated, please contact Casais & Prias. Our firm will take an individualized approach to identify the strategy that works for you.

Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce in Florida

A divorce can be processed in two different ways. It can be uncontested or contested. Before filing for divorce, it is important for both parties to consider how an uncontested vs contested divorce in Florida will affect them and their family.

When a married couple wants to end the marriage amicably, it means that they are willing to divorce by cooperating instead of litigating. The couple must agree to how the property they own and debt they incurred will be divided. If there are children, the parents will also agree to the parenting plan that will detail who the children will be living with and who will be responsible for child-related expenses. This makes the divorce uncontested because all the issues are resolved outside of the court.

During this process, it is very important to have a devoted attorney assist you in order to make sure that there are no delays and that your interests are properly protected. Even in an uncontested divorce, there is a need for preparation of pleadings and the drafting of a marital settlement agreement that accurately portrays the decisions you have made. Sometimes, there is a need to amicably negotiate or creatively help with issues that you or your spouse are not sure about. This is the reason why you would hire an experienced attorney to represent you in an uncontested divorce.

A contested divorce happens when the couple cannot agree. This process takes a lot longer to finalize and may take a greater toll on the family both emotionally and financially. However, At Casais & Prias Law, we will make sure that we make your needs a priority and that those needs are properly explained to the judge who will make the decisions on the issues that you and your spouse do not agree on.

If you are still unsure about whether you will be proceeding with an uncontested vs contested divorce in Florida, contact the experienced attorneys at Casais & Prias Law.

uncontested vs contested divorce in florida
uncontested vs contested divorce in florida