Marriage Green Card Lawyer in Los Angeles, CA

Trusted Legal Support for Marriage-Based Green Card Petitions | Rod Armande Law

Navigating Marriage-Based Green Cards in Los Angeles

At Rod Armande Law, we help couples in Los Angeles secure marriage-based green cards with clarity, precision, and committed legal representation. A marriage green card allows a foreign-born spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to live and work in the United States as a permanent resident. This is one of the most common—and most carefully scrutinized—paths to lawful status. Our legal team understands the importance of these petitions not just as paperwork but as life-changing processes that affect entire families.

We know the emotional and financial stress that comes with immigration filings, delays, and rejections. That’s why we approach every case with the same care and urgency we would expect for our own family. We manage every detail of the process, from petition to interview, helping clients avoid common pitfalls and delays. Whether you’re already in the U.S. and adjusting your status, or applying from overseas through consular processing, we ensure your case is handled strategically and thoroughly. At Rod Armande Law, we are committed to reuniting couples and helping them build a secure future in the U.S., starting with a solid foundation for permanent residency.

Understanding the Marriage Green Card

A marriage green card, officially known as lawful permanent residency through marriage, is granted to a foreign national who is legally married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder). This process can be simple in theory but complex in practice due to strict immigration regulations and scrutiny of the relationship’s authenticity.

U.S. citizens can petition their foreign-born spouses as “immediate relatives,” meaning there is no wait for a visa to become available. In contrast, lawful permanent residents must wait for visa availability due to annual numerical limits. This difference significantly affects timelines and case strategies. It’s also important to understand the distinction between conditional and permanent green cards. If the marriage is less than two years old at the time of approval, the foreign spouse will receive a conditional green card valid for only two years.

Rod Armande Law works with both U.S. citizens and green card holders to evaluate eligibility, build a compelling case, and submit all necessary forms and documents. We ensure our clients are fully informed about timelines, legal obligations, and the path to full permanent residency and eventual citizenship. Our goal is to protect your rights and help you move forward without uncertainty.

Why Choose Rod Armande Law

Choosing the right immigration attorney for your marriage green card case can make the difference between approval and delay—or even denial. At Rod Armande Law, we don’t treat your petition like a formality. We treat it like your future. Our firm is based in the heart of Los Angeles and has extensive experience working with the USCIS Los Angeles Field Office, the National Visa Center, and consulates around the world. We understand the nuances of local immigration procedures and how to present your relationship in the strongest legal light.

Rod Armande Law takes a tailored approach to every client. We don’t rely on templates or generic advice—we evaluate the unique aspects of your relationship, immigration history, and goals to build a customized strategy that minimizes risk and streamlines processing. From organizing evidence and filing complete petitions to preparing you for interviews and responding to RFEs, we manage every detail. We also maintain clear and responsive communication throughout the entire process, so you’re never left guessing about your case.

Whether your case is straightforward or complex, we’re here to protect your interests and ensure your marriage is respected under immigration law. When you work with Rod Armande Law, you get more than a lawyer—you get a legal ally committed to your success.

The Marriage Green Card Application Process

Applying for a marriage green card involves multiple steps, depending on whether the foreign-born spouse is inside or outside the United States. The first step is for the U.S. citizen or green card holder to file Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form establishes the existence of a valid marriage and begins the immigration process.

If the foreign spouse is already in the U.S. and eligible, they may file Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) to apply for their green card without leaving the country. In such cases, Form I-130 and I-485 can often be filed together, streamlining the process. If the spouse is living abroad, the approved I-130 will be forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC) and eventually to the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country for consular processing.

Every stage requires careful preparation of documentation, including birth certificates, marriage licenses, proof of lawful entry (if applicable), passport-style photos, and evidence of a real relationship. Mistakes, omissions, or missing documents can lead to Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or even denials. Rod Armande Law provides step-by-step legal guidance, ensuring all filings are accurate, timely, and optimized for approval.

Proving a Real Marriage to USCIS

One of the most critical—and sensitive—components of a marriage green card petition is proving to USCIS that the marriage is bona fide, meaning it was entered into in good faith, not for the purpose of obtaining immigration benefits. USCIS officers are trained to look for inconsistencies and red flags that suggest fraud. That’s why your petition must be supported by strong, credible, and consistent evidence.

Evidence typically includes jointly filed tax returns, bank statements showing shared accounts, leases or mortgage agreements with both spouses' names, utility bills, travel records, insurance policies, and photos of the couple together over time. Letters from family and friends attesting to the relationship can also strengthen the case.

However, not all couples have traditional evidence—especially if they’ve lived apart due to immigration issues, or recently married. In such cases, legal guidance becomes even more crucial. At Rod Armande Law, we help you build a compelling narrative using all available documentation, and we prepare you for the kinds of questions USCIS may ask. We also proactively address potential concerns to reduce the risk of denial or interview complications. Your genuine relationship deserves to be recognized, and we’re here to ensure that happens.

Interview Preparation and Legal Representation

Most marriage green card applicants will be required to attend a USCIS interview, especially when applying from within the United States. This interview is typically held at the local USCIS field office—in this case, Los Angeles. The interview is meant to verify that the marriage is real, and that all information submitted is accurate and complete. The officer may ask both spouses questions about their relationship, daily life, and future plans together.

The interview can be intimidating, even for genuine couples. That’s why interview preparation is essential. At Rod Armande Law, we prepare our clients for what to expect and conduct mock interviews to help couples answer confidently and consistently. We also help organize your documents and address any past immigration issues that could arise during questioning.

In some cases, USCIS may separate the spouses during the interview or follow up with a second, more detailed “Stokes Interview.” If your case is flagged for fraud, inconsistencies, or lack of evidence, our legal team will represent you and respond to USCIS concerns. We don’t just prepare you for the interview—we stand by you throughout the process, offering legal protection and peace of mind.

Green Cards for Spouses Living Abroad

When the foreign-born spouse lives outside of the United States, the marriage green card process is handled through consular processing. After the U.S. petitioner files and receives approval of Form I-130, the case is transferred to the National Visa Center (NVC), which collects civil documents, affidavits of support, and processing fees before transferring the file to the appropriate U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.

The foreign spouse will then attend a consular interview where a consular officer reviews the relationship, background, and eligibility for permanent residency. If approved, the spouse receives an immigrant visa to enter the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident.

Consular processing can involve unique challenges, including coordination across time zones, embassy-specific document requirements, and travel logistics. Applicants must also pass a medical examination with a designated panel physician and may face additional scrutiny if the couple has not spent significant time together.

Rod Armande Law has successfully managed numerous international marriage-based petitions and knows how to navigate consular bureaucracy efficiently. We prepare your documentation, anticipate embassy protocols, and ensure your spouse is fully prepared for their interview. Our goal is to unite couples—regardless of borders—with strong, approvable petitions that minimize delays and complications.

Conditional Green Cards & Removal of Conditions

When a marriage is less than two years old at the time of green card approval, USCIS issues a conditional green card valid for two years. This safeguard is meant to deter fraudulent marriages. Before the two-year period ends, the couple must jointly file Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) within the 90-day window prior to expiration.

To remove conditions and receive a permanent 10-year green card, the couple must demonstrate that their marriage is ongoing and legitimate. Documentation requirements are similar to those for the original petition but should reflect an evolving relationship—such as joint property ownership, shared finances, children, and new travel history.

In cases where the marriage ends in divorce or separation, the conditional resident can request a waiver of the joint filing requirement. USCIS still requires proof that the marriage was entered into in good faith, even if it did not last. These cases are often scrutinized more heavily, and strong legal representation is crucial.

Rod Armande Law helps both married and separated spouses navigate this complex process. We assist in gathering evidence, preparing detailed affidavits, and filing timely petitions. Whether your marriage is ongoing or has ended, we provide experienced legal support to protect your permanent residency status.

Schedule a Confidential Marriage Green Card Consultation Today

Rod Armande Law understands that every marriage green card case is more than just paperwork—it’s about your future as a couple. Whether you're applying from Los Angeles or sponsoring a spouse from abroad, we are here to guide you with care, precision, and proven legal strategy. We don’t offer generic advice or one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, we build a personalized approach to match your situation, immigration history, and goals.

From your first consultation to the final USCIS decision, you’ll have an experienced legal team on your side. We prepare you for every phase—filings, interviews, evidence, and beyond—so you can move forward with confidence. If you're facing complications such as prior denials, separation, immigration violations, or insufficient documentation, Rod Armande Law can help you overcome them with intelligent legal solutions.

Our office in Downtown Los Angeles offers convenient consultations by appointment and flexible communication options. Whether you're just starting or need help fixing a previous issue, we are ready to help you build a secure foundation for your life together.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Processing times can vary based on your case type and USCIS workload. Adjustment of status cases for spouses of U.S. citizens often take 12–20 months. Consular processing can take slightly longer due to embassy scheduling. Rod Armande Law helps you avoid unnecessary delays with thorough and timely filings.

  • Yes, if you file Form I-485 while in lawful status and remain eligible. You may stay legally and can apply for work and travel permits (EAD and Advance Parole) while your green card is pending.

  • Divorce during or after approval of a conditional green card complicates the case. You may still apply to remove conditions with a waiver, but strong evidence of a good-faith marriage is required. Legal guidance is essential.

  • Possibly. Spouses of U.S. citizens may adjust status even after visa overstay. However, entering the U.S. illegally complicates eligibility. Rod Armande Law evaluates your situation carefully before proceeding.

  • A fiancé visa (K-1) is for couples not yet married. A marriage green card is for those already married. Each has pros and cons based on your location, timeline, and preferences. We help you choose the right path.

  • Living together is strongly recommended and helps prove your marriage is real. However, USCIS understands that work, travel, or cultural reasons may require some time apart. Supporting documentation is key.

  • An RFE means more information is needed. It is not a denial but a chance to strengthen your case. We respond to RFEs with clear documentation and legal arguments to address concerns and keep your case on track.

  • Only if you have been granted Advance Parole. Otherwise, leaving the U.S. may cancel your pending application. We ensure proper documentation before any international travel.

  • File Form I-751 during the 90-day period before your conditional card expires. Evidence of an ongoing marriage is required. If divorced, you can request a waiver. Rod Armande Law helps in both scenarios.

  • Usually, yes. In some cases, USCIS may separate spouses during the interview, especially if fraud is suspected. Preparation is crucial, and we provide detailed coaching beforehand.

  • New or long-distance marriages are often reviewed more closely. Documentation of communication, visits, and future plans becomes important. We help build strong cases with nontraditional evidence when needed.

  • Yes, if applying from within the U.S., your spouse may also file Form I-765 for a work permit (EAD). This allows legal employment while awaiting green card approval.

  • Marriage green card applicants must show they won’t rely on public benefits. A properly prepared affidavit of support and financial documentation can satisfy this requirement. We help ensure compliance.

  • While not required, having an experienced immigration attorney can prevent costly mistakes, denials, and delays. Our role is to strengthen your petition, anticipate problems, and protect your legal interests.

  • This is common in consular processing. Proof of your relationship can include video calls, messages, travel receipts, and affidavits. We structure your petition to present the relationship as credible and real.