Well my people the year 2020 has been full of problems and difficulties on a global level. The chaos of the virus, the closures and the associated changes have been like a bomb for the immigration system in the United States that was already devastated by four years of negative policies, rules and decisions on the part of a government that has been super anti-immigrant and wants to stop the entries whether legal or illegal.
At the end of this year 2020 I can say that the future of immigration to the United States is doubtful. Another global shutdown due to the virus is expected, which may result in consulates closing, canceling immigration appointments again, and will serve to temporarily stop immigration and delay cases that are already long overdue. This can also result in immigration courts remaining closed and cases being delayed. While that can be good for people without valid cases, it can be a disaster for many who have a chance to normalize their status.
Although cases continue to be processed, many laws have changed in recent years making cases more complicated and more expensive for immigrants. The consequences of mistakes have multiplied and are more severe and the courts have become more conservative and anti-immigrant making the process more intense, slower, and more costly for all those involved. Anyone who wants to settle papers at this time should be vigilant, working closely with their attorney and willing to cooperate with their time so that cases can be properly prepared. In addiction they must be aware that they are going to see delays and problems with the new electronic government systems.
Although it all sounds very doubtful and difficult, there are two rays of hope. The first is that there are many cases that were moved around due to the pandemic and therefore lawyers have been able to dedicate more time to the cases and we have also changed the consultations to telephone and virtual. This means that your case can be prepared faster and, in more detail, provided you cooperate in searching for the documents. The second is that at the time of writing this article it looks like we are going to see a change of government. With that comes the hope that many of the policies and mandates of the Trump administration will be unattached and that the delays of the courts will help us as when they reopen there will be laws more favorable to immigrants and their families. Don’t lose hope or faith!
Abraham Cepeda
Cultura Law