Louisiana Immigration Lawyers
Map courtesy of Geology.com except where noted.
Louisiana became a U.S. state in 1812. The territory was obtained from France through the Louisiana Purchase, for a total worth of $15 million at the time. The state has a cultural-linguistic atmosphere unlike any other area in the U.S., due to the French, Spanish, Native American, African, and Caribbean influences.
Much of Louisiana's laws and government structure are unique among U.S. states. For example, Louisiana is the only state to have government units called "parishes". These are equivalent to counties in other states. Another feature of Louisiana governance is its extensive system of civil law based on Spanish and French systems. The majority of countries use some form of civil law, which is based mainly on codified statutes. Most of American law is common law- that is, derived from judge-made court decisions.
Louisiana's court system is structurally similar to most states, with a Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, and District Courts. However, because of the civil law influence, the Court of Appeals tends to have much broader discretion when reviewing trials. Also, the Louisiana state Constitution does not directly provide for the right to a jury trial for civil cases. The distribution of damages is also different in Louisiana.
Although Louisiana law is so distinct, lawyers in Louisiana understand how to interpret the state's legal code. Louisiana lawyers carefully review state laws when assisting clients. Depending on your legal dispute or issue, it may be necessary to obtain the expertise of an attorney in Louisiana.
Immigration Attorneys and Law Firms in the Largest LA Cities
The Process of Immigration within Louisiana
Immigration to the U.S. is handled by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service, or USCIS. If you are planning on entering the country, have family members who want to come to Louisiana, or need to change your immigration status, you will probably have to deal with the USCIS in Louisiana during the process.
Become a U.S. Citizen and Legal Immigrant of Louisiana
No matter what your current immigrant status is, you should explore your options to become legal in Louisiana.
Do not speak to federal immigration officers in Louisiana without the necessary paperwork already prepared.
