Marriage Green Card Attorney in Downtown Los Angeles, CA

Helping Couples Secure Lawful Residency with Confidence and Compassion

A marriage-based green card allows a foreign-born spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder) to live and work legally in the United States. It’s a powerful pathway to residency but one that requires strict legal compliance, credible documentation, and extensive evidence to prove the legitimacy of the marital relationship. United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) rigorously investigates these applications to ensure marriages are not entered into solely for immigration benefits.

For couples living in Downtown Los Angeles, the process can feel overwhelming—especially when juggling immigration paperwork, deadlines, interviews, and potential legal obstacles. At Rod Armande Law, we offer legal guidance that simplifies the process while ensuring full compliance with federal immigration law. We take time to understand your relationship, collect the proper documentation, and present your case persuasively to immigration authorities.

Whether you are applying for Adjustment of Status from within the U.S. or undergoing Consular Processing from abroad, our law firm will walk you through every phase. Our priority is to make sure your application is complete, accurate, and compelling—reducing the risk of delays, denials, or requests for evidence (RFEs). With the right legal strategy, we help you move forward toward residency and peace of mind.

Who is Eligible for a Marriage Green Card?

Eligibility for a marriage green card is based on the legitimacy of the marital relationship and the immigration status of the sponsoring spouse. To begin the process, a valid marriage must exist under the laws of the jurisdiction where the marriage occurred. Additionally, the couple must prove that the marriage is bona fide—in other words, that it is based on a genuine emotional and marital relationship, not one created for the purpose of evading immigration laws.

U.S. citizens can immediately petition for their spouse, with no waiting period for visa availability. In contrast, lawful permanent residents (green card holders) may experience a waiting period due to annual visa limits in the second preference category (F2A).

If the couple has been married for less than two years when the green card is issued, the foreign spouse receives a conditional green card (CR1), valid for two years. After this period, both spouses must jointly file a Form I-751 to remove conditions and convert the status to a permanent green card (IR1).

Eligibility also extends to same-sex couples, intercultural marriages, and those involving foreign spouses who have overstayed visas or entered without inspection. Each of these cases may involve added legal nuances, and having dedicated legal counsel from Rod Armande Law helps navigate those complexities effectively and confidently.

The Marriage-Based Green Card Process

The process of obtaining a marriage green card is shaped by the location of the foreign spouse and the immigration status of the petitioner. There are two primary routes: Adjustment of Status (AOS) for spouses already living in the U.S. and Consular Processing for those residing abroad.

If the foreign spouse is in the U.S. and entered legally (e.g., with a visa), they may be eligible for Adjustment of Status without having to leave the country. The sponsoring spouse submits Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative), while the foreign spouse files Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). These forms are often filed together if the petitioner is a U.S. citizen, expediting the process. Additional steps include a biometrics appointment, medical examination, Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support), and a USCIS interview.

For spouses living abroad, Consular Processing is required. After approval of the I-130 petition by USCIS, the case is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC), and then to the U.S. embassy or consulate in the spouse’s home country. There, the foreign spouse will complete the visa application, submit supporting documents, and attend an interview.

Regardless of the route, a successful green card application demands full documentation, credible relationship evidence (photos, joint accounts, affidavits), and timely form submission. At Rod Armande Law, we handle every procedural step with precision, ensuring your case is both compliant and compelling from start to finish.

Common Legal Challenges in Marriage Green Card Cases

Even genuine couples may encounter legal complications during the marriage green card process. USCIS closely examines these applications, and any discrepancy, missing information, or inconsistency can trigger a Request for Evidence (RFE) or even a denial. One of the most common issues is failure to prove a bona fide marriage. Couples must demonstrate their life together with joint leases, bank accounts, photos, affidavits, and other documentation. Weak or inconsistent evidence may raise red flags with immigration officers.

Other common challenges include:

  • Overstayed visas or unauthorized presence

  • Prior immigration violations

  • Previous criminal history of either spouse

  • Ineligibility for Adjustment of Status due to illegal entry

  • Conflicting answers during the marriage interview

Additionally, if the U.S. citizen or green card holder spouse has a limited income, proving financial ability to sponsor (Form I-864) can be another hurdle. In such cases, joint sponsors may be required.

At Rod Armande Law, we anticipate these obstacles and prepare proactive strategies to overcome them. We carefully review your case history, identify weaknesses early, and help you gather strong documentation. Our firm has helped couples facing complex challenges successfully navigate the system and secure lawful permanent residence. We advocate fiercely at every stage to give your petition the best possible chance of approval.

Conditional Green Card vs. Permanent Green Card: What’s the Difference

The distinction between a Conditional Green Card (CR1) and a Permanent Green Card (IR1) is critical for spouses applying through marriage. The type you receive depends on how long you have been married at the time your green card is approved.

If you’ve been married for less than two years, the foreign-born spouse will receive a Conditional Green Card, valid for only two years. This status is intended to prevent fraudulent marriages by requiring couples to prove the marriage is still legitimate after the initial period. Before the two-year mark expires, you must jointly file Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) to apply for a 10-year green card. This process requires updated proof of the ongoing marital relationship.

If you’ve been married for two years or more at the time of approval, the spouse receives a Permanent Green Card, valid for 10 years and renewable indefinitely, subject to naturalization eligibility.

At Rod Armande Law, we guide clients through both stages. For conditional residents, we help ensure timely and well-supported Form I-751 filings, including cases where the couple has divorced or separated before the two-year mark. Whether your green card is conditional or permanent, our firm ensures you are well-prepared to maintain or adjust your immigration status with confidence.

How Rod Armande Law Supports Your Application from Start to Finish

Marriage green card applications are more than just paperwork—they require strategy, precision, and an understanding of how USCIS evaluates relationships. At Rod Armande Law, we offer full-service legal representation for couples in Downtown Los Angeles and beyond, guiding you through the entire marriage-based immigration process with attention and professionalism.

Our legal support begins with a comprehensive consultation, where we assess your situation and determine the most efficient route to apply—Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing. We then help you gather, organize, and review all necessary documentation to demonstrate a bona fide marriage. From completing Form I-130 to preparing for the green card interview, we ensure your application is detailed, coherent, and compelling.

We offer:

  • Preparation and filing of all required USCIS forms

  • Collection and organization of strong supporting documents

  • Monitoring USCIS timelines and responding to RFEs

  • Marriage interview preparation, including mock interviews

  • Support for complex cases involving overstays, unlawful entries, or income issues

Our firm also handles follow-up filings like the I-751 Removal of Conditions and guides you through naturalization (citizenship) once you’re eligible.

Every client receives personalized service—no cookie-cutter forms, no off-the-shelf answers. We understand the local immigration climate in Los Angeles and work with the USCIS Los Angeles Field Office frequently. With Rod Armande Law by your side, you're not just filing paperwork—you’re building your future on a solid legal foundation.

Preparing for the Marriage Green Card Interview

The marriage-based green card interview is one of the most important—and nerve-wracking—stages of the process. Conducted by a USCIS officer (for Adjustment of Status) or by a consular officer (for Consular Processing), this interview evaluates whether your marriage is legitimate and whether the foreign-born spouse qualifies for lawful permanent residency.

During the interview, you’ll be asked about your relationship, daily life, living arrangements, and future plans. Questions may range from simple ("When did you meet?") to detailed ("Which side of the bed does your spouse sleep on?"). The officer is looking for consistency, honesty, and evidence that the marriage is not fraudulent.

At Rod Armande Law, we offer intensive marriage green card interview preparation. This includes:

  • Reviewing your full case file and submitted evidence

  • Coaching sessions with real interview questions

  • Advice on documentation to bring (wedding photos, joint bills, lease agreements, etc.)

  • Identifying and correcting potential red flags

  • Guidance on behavior, tone, and what to expect during the interview

In some cases, we also attend interviews with our clients for legal support. Our goal is to ensure you walk into the interview feeling confident, prepared, and credible. A successful interview can lead to immediate green card approval—so don’t face it alone. Let our experience work for your peace of mind.

Removing Conditions on Residence (Form I-751)

If you were granted a conditional green card through marriage, your permanent resident status is only valid for two years. To maintain your residency and continue the path toward U.S. citizenship, you must file Form I-751: Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence within the 90-day period before your green card expires.

This process requires you to demonstrate that your marriage is ongoing and legitimate. The petition must be filed jointly with your spouse, along with updated documentation of your relationship—such as new joint bank accounts, tax filings, children’s birth certificates, utility bills, or continued shared housing.

However, in cases where the couple has separated, divorced, or experienced abuse, the foreign-born spouse may qualify for a waiver of the joint filing requirement. These situations require strong legal arguments and sensitive handling of the case.

Rod Armande Law provides personalized assistance for every type of I-751 filing:

  • Joint petitions for couples still together

  • Waiver applications for hardship, divorce, or abuse

  • Response to Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs)

Our firm ensures your petition is timely, fully documented, and legally sound. Removal of conditions is not automatic—it’s a crucial step that can make or break your continued status in the U.S. Let our experience protect your future.

What Happens If a Marriage Ends Before the Green Card Is Finalized?

When a marriage ends before a green card is issued—or even shortly after receiving a conditional green card—it introduces serious legal complications. However, not all hope is lost, and there are legal options available to protect your immigration status depending on the circumstances.

If the couple divorces or separates before USCIS has made a decision on the marriage-based green card, the application could be denied on the grounds that the relationship is no longer bona fide. In such cases, Rod Armande Law assesses whether the marriage was legitimate at the time it was entered into. If so, the foreign spouse may still qualify for certain relief through a waiver, provided they can show the marriage was made in good faith.

Similarly, if a conditional resident gets divorced before the I-751 is filed, they may file the petition alone and request a waiver of the joint filing requirement. USCIS requires compelling evidence that the marriage was real but ended through no fault of the applicant.

For spouses who suffered abuse or cruelty during the marriage, we can file for protection under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provisions.

Rod Armande Law provides thoughtful, discreet legal support in these difficult situations. We understand the emotional weight and immigration consequences involved and work aggressively to protect your rights, lawful status, and future opportunities—even after a marriage ends.

Marriage Green Cards for Spouses in the U.S. Unlawfully (Approx. 230 words)

Many couples face unique immigration challenges when the foreign-born spouse entered the United States unlawfully or overstayed their visa. While these situations can complicate the marriage green card process, there are legal solutions available—especially with the guidance of an experienced attorney.

In general, Adjustment of Status is available only to spouses who entered the U.S. legally, even if they later overstayed their visa. However, if the foreign spouse entered without inspection (EWI)—for example, crossing the border without a visa—they are typically ineligible to adjust status from within the U.S. unless they qualify for an exception.

One such exception is Section 245(i), which allows certain undocumented individuals to adjust status if they had a petition filed before April 30, 2001. In other cases, the couple may need to pursue Consular Processing with a Provisional Waiver (Form I-601A), which forgives unlawful presence before the spouse leaves the U.S. for a visa interview abroad.

Rod Armande Law carefully evaluates your immigration history and helps determine the safest, most effective legal strategy. Filing without proper guidance could trigger bars to reentry, denials, or removal proceedings. Our team takes a proactive, detailed approach to minimize risk while working toward a secure future for your family—even in complicated or undocumented cases.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Marriage Green Card in Los Angeles?

The time it takes to receive a marriage-based green card in Los Angeles can vary depending on several factors, including your spouse’s immigration status (U.S. citizen or green card holder), your location, and whether you’re applying from inside or outside the U.S.

For spouses of U.S. citizens applying from within the U.S. through Adjustment of Status, the average processing time is between 10 to 15 months, depending on the local workload at the USCIS Los Angeles Field Office. If you're applying through Consular Processing from abroad, it may take 12 to 18 months, including National Visa Center (NVC) and embassy delays.

If your spouse is a green card holder, there may be a waiting period for an immigrant visa number to become available, which can add several additional months to your case.

Factors that can affect processing times include:

  • The completeness and accuracy of your initial petition

  • Delays caused by missing documents or RFEs

  • Background checks, biometrics scheduling, or interview availability

  • Current USCIS backlogs or policy changes

At Rod Armande Law, we streamline your case and ensure every document is properly filed to avoid unnecessary delays. We also keep track of your case status, communicate with USCIS when needed, and prepare you for every milestone, helping you move through the system as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Documents Needed for a Successful Marriage Green Card Application

One of the most critical elements of a successful marriage green card application is submitting the correct and complete documentation. USCIS requires extensive proof of the relationship’s legitimacy, immigration eligibility, and financial support. Missing or inconsistent paperwork is one of the top reasons cases are delayed or denied.

At Rod Armande Law, we help you assemble a strong package that typically includes the following:

For the U.S. citizen or green card holder petitioner:

  • Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency (passport, naturalization certificate, or green card)

  • Birth certificate

  • Marriage certificate

  • Divorce decrees or death certificates from prior marriages (if any)

For the foreign-born spouse:

  • Birth certificate with certified English translation

  • Valid passport

  • I-94 arrival/departure record (if applicable)

  • Prior immigration documents or visa history

Evidence of a bona fide marriage:

  • Joint lease or mortgage

  • Shared bank statements, utility bills, or insurance policies

  • Photographs showing your life together over time

  • Travel records, text messages, and letters

  • Affidavits from friends or family affirming the authenticity of your marriage

Additional forms and filings:

  • I-130 and I-485 (if adjusting status)

  • I-864 Affidavit of Support

  • Medical exam (Form I-693)

  • Employment Authorization and Advance Parole (optional)

We guide you through every step, verifying that all documents are complete, relevant, and well-organized for USCIS review.

Can I Work While My Application Is Pending?

Yes, if you're applying for a marriage-based green card from within the United States, you can request permission to work while your application is pending. Along with your Form I-485 (Application to Adjust Status), you may file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization). Once approved, you will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)—commonly referred to as a work permit.

This EAD typically takes 3 to 6 months to process, depending on USCIS workload. While waiting for your green card, this permit allows you to:

  • Work legally for any U.S. employer

  • Obtain a Social Security number

  • Use it for state ID or driver’s license applications in California

If you also file Form I-131 (Advance Parole), you may be allowed to travel abroad and return to the U.S. while your green card application is pending—though this carries certain risks for those with unlawful presence or other inadmissibility factors.

Rod Armande Law ensures that all auxiliary forms are filed correctly and simultaneously with your green card application, helping you avoid delays or work restrictions. For spouses who rely on employment to maintain stability or contribute to the household, the ability to work legally during processing is a key advantage—and we make sure that benefit is available to you without unnecessary obstacles.

Green Card Denials and Appeals: What to Do Next

A marriage green card denial can feel devastating, especially when you’ve put time, hope, and effort into building your life together. But a denial is not always the end of the road. At Rod Armande Law, we assess the reason for the denial and help you explore your options for appeal, motion to reopen, or re-filing the application.

Some of the most common reasons for denial include:

  • Insufficient evidence of a bona fide marriage

  • Failure to attend the USCIS interview

  • Discrepancies or contradictions in testimony

  • Unlawful presence or inadmissibility

  • Incomplete or inaccurate forms

  • Inability to meet financial sponsorship requirements

Once you receive a denial notice, we conduct a thorough legal review of your case and help you determine the most strategic next step. This may include:

  • Filing a Motion to Reopen or Motion to Reconsider with additional evidence

  • Appealing the decision to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO)

  • Re-filing a corrected or strengthened petition

  • Requesting a waiver if the denial was based on inadmissibility

In some cases, it’s best to start fresh rather than appeal—especially if the original application had significant weaknesses. Rod Armande Law provides clear guidance on which route gives you the strongest chance of success and aggressively advocates for your right to lawful residency.

Schedule Your Marriage Green Card Consultation Today

Navigating the marriage green card process in Downtown Los Angeles can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. At Rod Armande Law, we combine legal experience with compassion to support couples on their journey toward permanent residency.

Whether you’re just starting the process or facing complications with an existing application, our firm provides detailed legal analysis, personalized strategy, and direct attorney involvement every step of the way. We handle all documentation, guide you through interviews, and prepare your case to withstand scrutiny.

Located conveniently in Downtown Los Angeles, we are ready to serve clients in all neighborhoods and surrounding areas. Your future together deserves a strong legal foundation.

Contact Rod Armande Law today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can help you secure your green card through marriage—efficiently, professionally, and with peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Processing times vary based on the USCIS workload and whether you apply from within the U.S. or abroad. In Downtown LA, Adjustment of Status cases typically take 10 to 15 months, while Consular Processing can take 12 to 18 months.

  • Not necessarily. The petitioner or applicant must live within the jurisdiction of the USCIS Los Angeles Field Office for local filing and interviews. Couples residing nearby may still be eligible.

  • Yes, but it depends on the immigration history. If the undocumented spouse entered without inspection or overstayed a visa, additional legal steps—such as waivers—may be required. Legal guidance is essential.

  • Common evidence includes joint bank statements, lease agreements, utility bills, photos together, travel itineraries, insurance policies, and affidavits from friends and family.

  • Yes, most marriage-based green card applicants must attend a joint interview at the local USCIS office. The officer may ask personal and relationship-specific questions to verify your marriage.

  • If you're applying from within the U.S. (via Adjustment of Status), you can apply for a work permit (EAD) along with your green card application.

  • No. Even recent marriages are eligible. However, new marriages may face additional scrutiny during the interview, so it’s important to have strong documentation to prove the relationship is genuine.

  • Absolutely. USCIS fully recognizes same-sex marriages, as long as the marriage is legally valid where it was performed.

  • You may still qualify for a green card if the marriage was entered into in good faith. A waiver of the joint filing requirement may be possible, especially in cases involving divorce or abuse.

  • It’s not legally required, but hiring an immigration attorney—especially in complex or high-risk cases—significantly increases the chances of approval and minimizes costly mistakes or delays.

  • If your marriage is less than 2 years old at the time of approval, you receive a Conditional (CR1) green card. If married longer than 2 years, you receive a Permanent (IR1) green card.

  • Yes, stepchildren of U.S. citizens may qualify for green cards if the marriage occurred before the child turned 18. Additional forms and interviews may be required.

  • An RFE means USCIS needs more documentation. Promptly responding with the correct information is critical. Rod Armande Law assists clients with preparing strong responses to avoid denials.

  • Government filing fees are approximately $1,760 for Adjustment of Status and around $1,200–$1,400 for Consular Processing, excluding medical exams and legal fees.

  • Yes, but your local jurisdiction determines where your case is processed. If you move outside of Downtown Los Angeles during the process, you must notify USCIS with a change of address to avoid delays or misrouting.