September 2005

USCIS To Increase Filing Fees October 26, 2005

On October 26, 2005 USCIS will increase its filing fees. A table of new fees can be found at www.uscis.gov.

DHS Issues Handbook on Hurricaine Katrina

DHS has issued a handbook for on issues created by Hurricane Katrina, such as lost documents, etc. It can be accessed at http://www.aila.org/content/default.aspx?docid=17557

Mira Mdivani Is Honored for Pro Bono Work

Immigration Attorney Mira Mdivani was honored by the Kansas Bar Association on September 7, 2005, for her commitment to pro bono work. Mira has developed the Mdivani Law Firm Pro Bono Program dedicated to helping abused immigrant women and children. Within that program, lawyers at The Mdivani Law Firm are able to assist clients petition for their immigrant status under the Violence Against Women Act. Mira also volunteers her time with various organizations that work to combat domestic violence, and teaches classes and seminars to educate the community on domestic violence and immigration issues. We are very proud of Mira for all of her hard work for this important cause.

NO I-9 Sanctions from September 6, 2005 for 45 Days

AILA reported that On September 6, 2005, DHS announced that, for the next 45 days, it will not sanction employers for hiring Hurricane Katrina victims who are unable to obtain work or identity documents. The I-9 will need to be completed to the extent possible. At the end of 45 days, DHS will review the policy. AILA had been seeking a waiver of I-9 requirements for Katrina victims.

Laywer Hurricaine Relief Fundraiser

Lawyer Hurricane Relief Fundraiser will be held on September 12, 2005, at 5:30 PM. It is a joint effort by Association of Women Lawyers, Hispanic Bar Association, and Asian American Lawyers Association of Greater Kansas City. Questions or RSVP to Mira Mdivani 913.317.6200 or mmdivani@uslegalimmigration.com

Hurricane Katrina Relief Efforts

We are saddened by the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina. Our hearts go out to the people of Louisiana, Mississippi, and other areas affected. Our firm has made a donation to the American Red Cross to help with the relief efforts, and we encourage our friends and clients to do the same. Donations can be made at the Red Cross website at http://store.yahoo.com/redcross-donate/index.html