U.S. Permanent Residency Lawyer
Obtaining U.S. permanent residency—commonly known as a Green Card—gives you the right to live and work in the United States permanently, along with critical legal protections and benefits. At Robert M. Bell, our Florida immigration lawyers guide clients through every step of the Green Card process, from initial applications to maintaining their status as lawful permanent residents.
How a Florida Green Card Lawyer Can Help You
Green Card holders enjoy many of the same employment rights as U.S. citizens, with limited exceptions for government jobs requiring security clearance. Lawful permanent residents (LPRs) are also generally eligible for key federal and state benefits, including Social Security, disability, unemployment, SNAP, and Medicare/Medicaid—provided they meet the same qualifications as citizens.
A Florida permanent residency lawyer can explain these rights in detail, ensure you understand the applicable conditions, and assist you in addressing issues such as financial sponsor obligations or government reimbursement requests.
Legal Rights of Permanent Residents
Green Card holders gain many of the same constitutional protections as U.S. citizens under federal, state, and local law, including:
- Due process
- The right to an attorney during criminal proceedings
- Protection from unlawful searches, seizures, and arrests
- Freedom from cruel and unusual punishment
- The right to remain silent
However, lawful permanent residents do not have the right to vote and remain subject to federal immigration laws. Because certain criminal charges can make an LPR deportable, it is critical to consult an experienced Florida immigration lawyer—not just a criminal defense attorney—if you are facing potential charges.
Travel Rights for Green Card Holders
One of the key benefits of permanent residency is the ability to travel in and out of the United States with fewer restrictions than non-immigrant visa holders. Green Card holders generally enjoy the same re-entry rights as citizens, but must avoid actions that could be interpreted as abandoning residency.
Stays of more than six months can raise red flags, and absences of over a year may create a presumption of abandonment. If you anticipate extended travel or relocation abroad, a Florida permanent residency lawyer can advise you on how to protect your status and avoid re-entry problems.
Discuss Your Permanent Residency Options with a Florida Immigration Lawyer
If you’ve recently received your Green Card or are preparing to apply for lawful permanent residency, it’s essential to understand both your rights and responsibilities. At Robert M Bell, PA, our South Florida immigration lawyers help clients secure U.S. permanent residency, protect their status, and extend benefits to eligible family members. Call (954) 241-4209 or connect with us online to schedule a consultation today to discuss your options with an experienced U.S. permanent residency lawyer.