Is the New York Immigration Backlog Affecting Your Citizenship Status?

Increasing backlogs in the New York immigration court system have reached new highs in recent months. Currently, the number of pending cases stands at 167,614, which is the highest New York immigration backlog ever recorded. This is expected to cause significant delays in processing for immigration cases over the next few years. For many immigrants, working with a qualified New York immigration lawyer can streamline some of the processes to promote the best and fastest resolution for your case.

Trump Policies Contribute to New York Immigration Backlog

Since the Trump administration began its policy of harsh enforcement of immigration laws against peaceful residents, the number of cases in the immigration courts has been on the rise in the United States and in the state and city of New York. Many cases that were filed during the previous administration are still working their way through the court system, which has significantly slowed down processing for these and newer cases in the New York area.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also been a contributing factor to the current New York immigration backlog. Illnesses among those responsible for processing and deciding immigration cases have produced some delays. Immigration courts have also been closed temporarily to stop the spread of the disease among those who work for the court system and immigrants whose cases are being heard. This has led to significant slowdowns in the New York immigration system and has left many immigrants in limbo as they await their day in court.

Continuing Issues With Immigration Case Backlogs

The Trump administration, however, is not solely responsible for the current New York immigration backlog. According to figures collected and compiled by the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse (TRAC) at Syracuse University, the national backlog of cases grew by 140,000 between October to December of 2021. This rapid increase in the number of outstanding immigration cases will likely create even longer delays for individuals and families who are awaiting a decision on their fate.

A Comprehensive Solution Is Required

In light of the backlog of cases in New York and across the United States, a new approach to the immigration conundrum is necessary to allow newcomers to this country to pursue their dreams and to ensure fair treatment for all under the law. By creating a cohesive and coherent solution for immigration, government agencies and officials can take the necessary steps to resolve backlogs and to create a safer and more practical way for immigrants to manage their status and their ability to live, study and work in the United States now and in the future.

The Value of an Experienced New York Immigration Lawyer

For many families and individuals who are facing significant delays in their immigration cases, working with a New York immigration lawyer is the best first step toward ensuring that they receive fair treatment in and out of court. Your New York immigration attorney can provide important services on your behalf, including the following:

• Your attorney will examine all documents received from immigration authorities and will assist you in providing the required information. This can reduce delays caused by failure to respond to these inquiries in an appropriate and complete manner.
• If you are applying for a visa, permanent residency or citizenship in the United States, your lawyer will work with you to make sure that this process goes smoothly and that you have the best possible chance of success for your application.
• Navigating the work permit process can be tricky. Your attorney can help you to avoid missteps that could result in delays or denials for your work permit.
• Immigrants facing possible deportation need a New York immigration lawyer to provide them with the right representation in court and in negotiations with government agencies. Without professional legal help, the likelihood of deportation increases significantly for most immigrants facing these proceedings in our area.

If you need the assistance of a qualified and knowledgeable New York immigration lawyer, Pozo Goldstein can provide you with the services you need to resolve your case and to achieve the best results. Our team consists of a former judge and two former immigration prosecutors who will pursue your case to help you stay in the United States legally and to promote the best outcome for you and your family. To learn more about the services we offer or to schedule a consultation with our legal team, give us a call today at 212-201-9031. Our team is here to serve you now and in the future.