A green card applicant’s future has been thrown into uncertainty after their lawyer reportedly lost their new green card. The situation has left the applicant’s legal status and travel plans in jeopardy.
Card Lost Due to Wrong Address on G-28 Form
The applicant’s immigration lawyer had moved offices after filing the G-28 form, but the form still listed the old address. The G-28 allows attorneys to receive official correspondence and deliveries on behalf of clients. Because of this outdated address, the applicant never received the tracking number for their green card delivery.
USPS Delivered Card to Old Office
Fifteen days later, the applicant learned that the U.S. Postal Service had delivered the card to the lawyer’s previous address. The lawyer failed to retrieve it and later admitted the card “might have been misplaced.”
Lawyer’s Negligence and Prior Mistakes
This wasn’t the first incident. The same lawyer had previously lost the applicant’s I-485 application. Experts now suggest the applicant should report this pattern of negligence to the state bar association for review.
Applicant’s Next Steps and Legal Advice
Without the physical card, the applicant’s employment eligibility and travel rights are at risk. Legal experts have advised filing Form I-90 to replace the lost card and obtaining an ADIT stamp for temporary travel authorization.
Broader Concerns About Lawyer Accountability
Immigration attorneys say G-28 forms are now used less often to avoid misplacement of sensitive documents. This case highlights the urgent need for greater accountability and responsibility among immigration lawyers handling clients’ vital paperwork.
