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Q: How can I frame an O-1A petition for work spanning multiple fields?
I am a founder, researcher, and technology entrepreneur exploring an O-1A petition. My work spans technology entrepreneurship, AI-enabled systems, cross-border commerce, supply chain technology, fintech/payment infrastructure concepts, blockchain traceability, international market development, and... View More 
Remzi Guvenc Kulen
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answered on Jul 14, 2026
Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jul 14, 2026
An O-1A petition does not always have to be limited to one narrow job title, but it must be framed clearly. USCIS wants to understand the field of extraordinary ability and why the applicant is recognized in that field.
For someone whose work spans AI systems, entrepreneurship, cross-border... View More
Q: What should I expect in my upcoming I-485 interview with a pending NTA in NY?
I filed my I-485 in May last year when the visa bulletin date for filing was available. In October, I had an interview for both my I-130 and I-485. My I-130 was approved, but my I-485 was denied because they said there was no visa available for me, even though I believe my case should have been... View More
Remzi Guvenc Kulen
Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jul 14, 2026
Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jul 14, 2026
This is a sensitive situation because you have both a pending adjustment application and a Notice to Appear. The first issue is whether the NTA has actually been filed with the immigration court. If it has not yet been filed, USCIS may still have jurisdiction over the I-485. If it has been filed... View More
Q: How to correct name discrepancy on ID if birth certificate differs?
I am 59 years old and currently reside in New York State. My birth certificate has my first name combined as "Maetheria," but throughout my life, I have used "Mae" as my first name and "Theria" as my middle name. My previous driver's license, Social Security card,... View More
Remzi Guvenc Kulen
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answered on Jul 14, 2026
Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jul 14, 2026
This is mainly a civil identity documentation issue, but it can also affect immigration, Social Security, DMV, banking, and future benefit applications if your records do not match.
If your birth certificate lists your first name as “Maetheria,” but you have used “Mae” as your first... View More
Q: Will traveling outside the U.S. as a green card holder affect my renewal?
I am a green card holder residing in New York. This year, I traveled out of the U.S. twice, totaling five months, to my home country. I plan to travel again for three months. Will this affect my green card renewal? I have commitments in the U.S. indicating my intent to maintain residency and have... View More
Remzi Guvenc Kulen
Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jul 14, 2026
Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jul 14, 2026
Traveling outside the United States does not automatically affect your Green Card renewal. A Green Card renewal is mainly about replacing or extending the physical card, not re-deciding your permanent resident status from the beginning.
That said, repeated or lengthy trips can raise... View More
Q: How to co-parent under order of protection in NY?
I have an order of protection against my co-parent due to threats made while they were filing for visitation. Despite these threats, I'm required to co-parent through the courts. I've filed police reports and updated my court-appointed lawyer, who advised that nothing more can be done yet... View More
Thomas Anthony Sirianni
answered on Jul 14, 2026
answered on Jul 14, 2026
I am a New York attorney with 27 years of practice on Long Island.
You are not expected to maintain open, direct communication with someone you have an order of protection against. The practical fix is to ask the court to build the communication method into the orders themselves. Family... View More
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