A green card applicant faced serious trouble even after paying thousands to a lawyer who mishandled the application. USCIS sent a Request for Evidence (RFE) because key details were missing, leaving the applicant frustrated and stressed.
Lawyer Mistakes Cause RFE
The I-864 affidavit of support had the wrong household size, and crucial income proof from the joint sponsor, such as pay stubs, was missing. These errors prompted USCIS to flag the application, delaying the green card process significantly.
Additional Charges for Correction
When the applicant asked the lawyer to fix the mistakes, they demanded $600 for the correction. The lawyer claimed the forms expire after 30 days and a new application must be filed, which experts say is misleading.
Importance of Accurate Documentation
The I-864 is crucial to prove the sponsor can financially support the immigrant. Household size affects whether income meets federal poverty guidelines. Pay stubs and tax returns are essential evidence for USCIS approval.
Concerns Over Lawyer Competence
Many experts view this lawyer as incompetent and potentially exploitative. Applicants often question if lawyers genuinely assist or simply add costs due to their own mistakes. For Indian immigrants, this adds stress to an already complex process.
