What types of cases does Latif Law handle?

Latif Law handles two primary practice areas: family-based immigration law and civil litigation. Immigration services include marriage green cards, K-1 fiancé visas, citizenship applications, asylum, DACA, U-visas, VAWA self-petitions, TPS, and work permits (EAD). Civil litigation services include contract disputes, business litigation, construction disputes, and personal injury claims (auto accidents, slip and fall, dog bites, truck accidents).

What languages does Latif Law provide services in?

Latif Law provides full legal services in English, Spanish and Arabic — from initial consultation through USCIS interviews and court proceedings — serving Columbus's diverse Arab-American and Hispanic communities.

Where is Latif Law located and which courts does it serve?

Latif Law is located at 21 E State St Suite 200, Columbus, OH 43215, in downtown Columbus. The firm serves clients throughout Franklin County and Central Ohio in state and federal courts. Attorney Ali Latif is licensed in both Ohio and New York, and handles immigration cases nationwide since immigration law is federal.

How long does a marriage-based green card take in Columbus, Ohio?

As of 2026, a marriage-based green card through adjustment of status (for spouses already in the U.S.) typically takes 12–18 months from filing to approval at the Columbus USCIS Field Office (395 E Broad St). Depending on your circumstances, Attorney Latif can file your work permit (EAD) and advance parole simultaneously to protect your ability to work and travel while waiting. Each case is different and processing times frequently change.

How much does a consultation cost at Latif Law?

Latif Law charges a $100 consultation fee for immigration and civil litigation matters for a 30-minute initial consultation. You can schedule online at latiflaw.cliogrow.com/book or call (614) 285-5254 during business hours (Monday–Thursday 9 AM–5 PM, Friday 9 AM–3 PM). Latif Law provides a free 15-minute phone consultation for personal injury matters. To schedule a personal injury consultation please email us at info@latif.legal.

Does Latif Law handle deportation defense or removal proceedings?

No. Attorney Ali Latif does not handle removal/deportation defense, immigration court proceedings, or employment-based immigration (H-1B, EB visas). The firm focuses on affirmative immigration applications and civil litigation. If you need removal defense, the firm can provide a referral.

How much does a personal injury case cost at Latif Law?

Personal injury cases at Latif Law are handled on a flat 33% contingency fee. There is no upfront cost and no fee unless we recover compensation for you. Free 15-minute phone consultations are available — email info@latif.legal to schedule.

What is the deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit in Ohio?

Ohio's statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the injury (Ohio Revised Code § 2305.10). Missing this deadline typically bars your claim permanently.

Travel With a Pending Green Card? Advance Parole Guide

By Ali Latif, Esq. | Latif Law, LLC | Columbus, Ohio

This is one of the most dangerous mistakes in immigration law — and it is entirely preventable. If you have a pending Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) and you leave the United States without advance parole, USCIS will consider your application abandoned. You will need to restart the entire process from scratch.

What Is Advance Parole?

Advance parole (AP) is a travel document issued by USCIS that allows certain individuals with pending immigration applications to leave and re-enter the United States without abandoning their case. It is obtained on Form I-131 — Application for Travel Document.

When you file an I-485 adjustment of status application, you can and should file I-131 simultaneously. USCIS now issues the EAD (work permit) and advance parole on a single combo card.

Who Needs Advance Parole?

You need advance parole to travel internationally if:

You have a pending I-485 adjustment of status application

You do not hold a valid, unexpired H-1B, H-4, L-1, L-2, or O-1 visa (holders of these specific visas may travel without AP in some circumstances — consult an attorney before assuming this applies to you)

You are not a Lawful Permanent Resident (green card holder)

What Happens If You Leave Without It?

If you depart the U.S. without advance parole while your I-485 is pending, USCIS treats your application as abandoned. You do not get to continue the case. You must start over — which means refiling, repaying fees, waiting again, and potentially facing additional hurdles if the law or your situation has changed.

There is no exception for emergencies, family illness, or business travel. There is no way to retroactively obtain advance parole after you have already left.

How to Apply for Advance Parole

File Form I-131 with the appropriate service center. The filing fee for Form I-131 is $630. When filed concurrently with your I-485, USCIS issues the EAD and advance parole on a single combo card, but both fees ($260 for I-765 and $630 for I-131) apply separately.

Processing time: Currently three to five months for the combo card. This means you should file your I-131 with your I-485 on day one — not after you decide you need to travel. Waiting until a trip is planned and then rushing is a situation that creates risk.

Requesting Expedite Processing

USCIS may expedite processing for documented emergencies, including:

Serious illness or death of a close relative abroad

Humanitarian reasons with supporting documentation

Severe financial loss if travel is required for work

Expedite requests require documentation and are not guaranteed. Even an approved expedite may take several weeks.

Emergency Options If You Did Not File I-131

If you have a genuine emergency and your I-131 has not yet been approved, contact a Columbus immigration attorney immediately. Options include:

Submitting an emergency advance parole request in person at a USCIS Field Office

In extreme cases, requesting an emergency appointment at the Columbus Field Office

These situations are stressful and uncertain. The best approach is to file I-131 with your I-485 so you have the document before any need arises.

Traveling After You Receive Advance Parole

Once your AP is approved and you have the combo card:

Always carry the card when traveling internationally

Make sure the document is valid for your entire trip (check the expiration date)

Allow extra time at the port of entry — CBP officers may have questions

Keep a copy of the original I-797 approval notice for your I-485

When You No Longer Need Advance Parole

Once your green card is approved and you receive your Permanent Resident Card, you may travel freely as a permanent resident. You no longer need advance parole.

Learn more about marriage-based green cards →

Schedule a consultation →

Call: (614) 285-5254

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration rules regarding advance parole are complex and have numerous exceptions. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship with Latif Law, LLC. Do not make international travel decisions based solely on this article — consult a qualified immigration attorney first.