Family Petition Lawyer Serving Somerset County, New Jersey
A family petition (Form I-130) is the first step to sponsor a relative for a U.S. green card under the Immigration and Nationality Act. In Somerset County, these petitions are processed at the USCIS Newark Field Office. As a dedicated family petition lawyer Somerset County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding Family-Based Immigration Petitions
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
The foundation of family-based immigration is the I-130 Petition for Alien Relative, filed to establish a qualifying family relationship with a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. This petition, governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.), is the prerequisite for a relative to apply for a green card, either through adjustment of status in the U.S. or consular processing abroad. The process involves strict documentation, eligibility verification, and handling USCIS and Department of State procedures. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings extensive experience to these contested cases.
Official Resources and Court Information
For Somerset County residents, immigration matters are handled at the federal level. The USCIS Newark Field Office processes applications, while the Newark Immigration Court handles removal proceedings. It is important to reference the correct forms and procedures from these official .gov sources.
Local Process for Somerset County Family Petitions
Family petitions for Somerset County are filed with USCIS, but local factors influence the process. The Newark Field Office handles interviews, and New Jersey’s Immigrant Trust Directive affects local law enforcement’s interaction with immigration authorities. An experienced family petition lawyer near me Somerset County understands these nuances.
- Determine Eligibility & Category: Confirm the petitioner’s status (U.S. citizen or LPR) and the beneficiary’s family category (immediate relative or family preference).
- Prepare Form I-130 & Supporting Evidence: Complete the petition and gather all required civil documents, translation certificates, and proof of the qualifying relationship.
- File with USCIS & Pay Fees: Submit the petition package to the correct USCIS Lockbox. The current filing fee for Form I-130 is $675.
- Respond to USCIS Requests & Attend Interview: If USCIS issues an RFE, respond promptly. Prepare the beneficiary for a potential interview at the Newark Field Office.
- Proceed to Green Card Application: Upon I-130 approval, file either Form I-485 for adjustment of status or begin the National Visa Center process for consular processing.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Family Petition
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, combines over 120 years of legal experience. We have a documented record of handling contested immigration matters. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, is personally consulted by Indian Consulate officials in Washington, D.C., for insights on U.S. legal matters, reflecting the firm’s recognized experience in cross-border family cases.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While every case is unique, our firm-wide commitment is to vigorous advocacy. SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93% firm-wide across multiple states and practice areas.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Somerset County Family Petition Lawyer
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-0900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Somerset County, including Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747, with meetings scheduled by appointment only. As an affordable family petition lawyer Somerset County, we provide clear fee structures and dedicated representation for your family’s immigration goals.
Family Petition in Somerset County FAQs
Where is the USCIS office for Somerset County, New Jersey?
Yes. Immigration applications for Somerset County residents are processed at USCIS Newark Field Office, Peter Rodino Federal Building, 970 Broad St, Newark, NJ 07102. Removal at Newark Immigration Court. Detained cases: Elizabeth Contract Detention Facility. NJ’s Immigrant Trust Directive limits local law enforcement cooperation with ICE.
What is the filing fee for a family-based I-130 petition?
As of the last verification, the USCIS filing fee for Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) is $675. This fee is subject to change, and biometrics services may require an additional $85 fee. Always check the official USCIS website for the most current fee schedule before filing.
How long does it take to get a green card through a family petition?
It depends on the family category and the beneficiary’s location. For immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouses, parents, unmarried children under 21), there is no annual limit, and processing typically takes 8-14 months for the I-130, plus additional time for the green card application. For family preference categories (e.g., married children, siblings), wait times can be several years due to visa number backlogs.
Can I adjust status in the U.S. after my I-130 is approved?
It depends on the beneficiary’s immigration status and category. If the beneficiary is in the U.S. legally and an immigrant visa is immediately available, they may file Form I-485 for adjustment of status. If the beneficiary is outside the U.S. or is ineligible to adjust, they must go through consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
What happens if my family petition is denied?
If USCIS denies an I-130 petition, they will issue a notice explaining the reasons. You typically have 30 days to file a Motion to Reopen or a Motion to Reconsider with the same USCIS office. In some cases, you may appeal to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO). Consulting with a family petition lawyer Somerset County early after a denial is important to assess your options.
Related Pages: Learn more about New Jersey Immigration Lawyer services. For help in nearby areas, see our Hunterdon County immigration lawyer and Morris County immigration lawyer pages. For other legal needs in Somerset County, visit our pages for criminal defense and family law.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Immigration laws and procedures change frequently. The information on this page is for general reference and does not constitute legal advice. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for guidance specific to your situation.
Your case in Somerset County, New Jersey
Divorce, custody, support and domestic-violence matters are heard in the Family Part of the Chancery Division. In Somerset County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage (13th Vicinage), 20 North Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ 08876, telephone (908) 231-7000, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is N.J.S.A. 2A:34-2 (grounds for divorce) and N.J.S.A. 9:2-4 (custody). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Somerset County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Somerset County NJ lawyers directory.