S Folinsky

General comment: the computer records of arrivals and departures is nowhere near perfect, but they are a lot better than they used be -- there is a very good chance that the departures are in there as having been lifted from airline manifests.

As an aside, I defended an abandonment case quite some years back where the IJ denied on basis of no ties to the US. We appealed on the basis that the ties to the home country were equally lacking and there was a medical reason not to fly. Appeal sustained. Later, AmCit son tells me how they avoided problem the next lengthy sojourn outside the US -- they told the truth, just not all of it. He had traveled with his mother [who could not speak English]. "How long has your mother been outside the United States?" He paused to think and then said "She left on November Third."

Note that this was back in the 90's. I would not have recommended it back then. Furthermore, I think the chances of this working these days is even less -- ten years ago, border security was nowhere what it was even a month later.

fatbrit

If you use the "in the US" choice, you enjoy a judge to decide the merits, a lawyer to argue your case, and an appeal if it doesn't go in your favor. You don't get that on the "apply back home" route.

Andrey_san

Do you know how long can it take to get to the first "meeting with judge"?

S Folinsky

Andrey-san: Have you printed out this thread and pass it by your lawyer? Just curious.

S Folinsky

Fatbrit does not know. Even so, it is the "last meeting" that is more important [provided there is no appeal]. The first hearing is always a "master" calendar. There will be a later hearing on the merits. This is also assuming that some type of deal is not worked out later with the Dark Forces where they agree to admit without further proceedings. [It is not unknown to happen].

fatbrit

Ask your lawyer.

And why does it matter? In all likelihood you'll be paroled in to await your court date.

Andrey_san

I don't have "my lawyer" in your understanding (the man whom I pay money for consulting services). It's just a friend-of-my-friend and I only have one call with him, explained him my situation and what he answered you know. I can't disturb him with questions like "how long does it takes...", so if you have this information I would appreciate if you share it with me.

With parole will I be eligible to work?

fatbrit

You need a US immigration attorney if you're going to do this. This is not a DIY job.

You will be eligible to work. However, you may or may not be able to document this. If you need an employer, look at the I-9 and see if you've got enough paperwork to scrape by. If you're self-employed like sensible people, it won't be a problem at all.

Andrey_san

Stupid question, but anyway:
Do you know how much the attorney's services will cost? Rough sum would be enough.

fatbrit

How long's a piece of string?

Noorah101

Go to www.ailalawyer.com and make some inquiries. Each lawyer sets his own fee, so it will vary greatly.

Rene

ian-mstm

You are now on #5 & #6 of this thread. We have no idea of your risk tolerance. Do you want someone to talk to, or do you want someone who'll be there for you the whole way? These aren't answers we can give you. Do some research. Call around and find out the cost.

Ian

Andrey_san

I understand.
Thank you guys! You've really done so much for me.

I will try to get SB-1 visa and will have my fingers crossed

S Folinsky

Thank you for confirming why I tend to go to some lengths saying I am not your lawyer, this is general comment, etc etc.

A general comment: the term lawfully admitted for permanent residence means having been accorded the right to reside permanently in the United States, such status not having changed.