New Episode of Hablando con Carolina: Adjustment of Status, Birthright Citizenship, and Immigration Fraud

In this month’s episode of Hablando con Carolina, immigration attorney Carolina Antonini discusses important immigration developments, including USCIS' adjustment of status memorandum, the pending Supreme Court decision on birthright citizenship, and the growing concerns about immigration fraud.

If you have questions about these updates or how they may affect your situation, contact Antonini & Cohen Immigration Law Group at (470) 428-3200 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced Atlanta immigration attorneys.

At Antonini & Cohen, we know how. We fight harder.

01:56 – USCIS Adjustment of Status Policy Memorandum

On May 21, 2026, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a policy memorandum that purported to limit adjustment of status applications by requiring applicants to demonstrate whether they could instead apply from outside the United States. USCIS later clarified that the memorandum serves only as a reminder of immigration officers' discretionary authority.

Depending on the officer reviewing the case, discretionary factors may still be raised during the adjudication process. If you plan to apply for adjustment of status, you should prepare to potentially address the concerns raised in this memorandum and provide strong supporting evidence weighing in favor of an exercise of discretion.

04:44 – Current Status of Birthright Citizenship Decision

Carolina discusses the ongoing legal challenge to the executive order seeking to limit birthright citizenship for children born in the United States to parents who are undocumented or hold temporary visas. The Supreme Court heard arguments earlier this year and is expected to issue its decision by June 30. 

07:00 – Immigration Law Firms Under Scrutiny

Recent news reports have highlighted investigations involving immigration law firms accused of improperly handling humanitarian immigration cases, including T visas, U visas, and VAWA petitions.

As government agencies increase scrutiny of these applications, you should understand that inaccurate information, exaggerated claims, or false statements can create serious immigration consequences. Carolina explains how these investigations may affect applicants and why it is critical to ensure that all information submitted on your behalf is truthful and accurate. 

10:25 – Warning Signs When Hiring an Immigration Attorney

Carolina shares several immigration scam red flags to watch for when seeking legal representation:

• An attorney who encourages you to lie or exaggerate facts.

• Fees that are significantly higher than those charged by other attorneys.

• An attorney who never speaks directly with you or explains your options.

• Difficulty verifying the attorney's license or professional credentials.

• Individuals presenting themselves as attorneys without a verifiable law license.

  
  

If you have concerns about your current attorney, learn that your attorney is under investigation, or feel uncomfortable with how your case is being handled, contact Antonini & Cohen right away. Our experienced immigration attorneys will review your case, identify potential issues, and help you understand your options before small problems become serious immigration consequences.

16:11 – What If You Were Misled by an Attorney?

Carolina explains that individuals misled by an attorney may have options depending on the circumstances. Depending on your situation, correcting false information, withdrawing inaccurate statements, or filing a complaint against an unethical representative may help reduce immigration consequences.

If the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or other government agents contact you regarding your case or a prior attorney, Carolina strongly recommends speaking with an Antonini & Cohen attorney before answering questions.

22:19 – Do You Actually Meet with an Attorney During a Consultation?

Carolina shares her concerns about firms that rely solely on sales representatives, specialists, or case managers during consultations without meaningful attorney involvement. 

When you schedule a consultation, you deserve direct access to an attorney who can answer your questions, discuss legal strategy, and provide confidential legal advice tailored to your situation.

At Antonini & Cohen, our Atlanta immigration attorneys provide dedicated one-on-one guidance in your consultation, answering your legal questions, exploring your options, and creating a detailed action plan tailored to your situation. Schedule your consultation today by calling (470) 428-3200.

25:46 – Understanding Denaturalization Cases

Failing to disclose important information during the Green Card or naturalization process may lead to denaturalization. Carolina explains that not every mistake or omission will result in loss of citizenship, and that the government must first prove significant facts, including whether the person knowingly provided false information. 

Get Professional Immigration Guidance

Changes in immigration policy, immigration scams, and increased scrutiny of immigration applications can create uncertainty for many individuals and their families. When your future is at stake, you need clear answers and a trusted legal team on your side.

Contact Antonini & Cohen Immigration Law Group at (470) 428-3200 to schedule a consultation and receive personalized guidance from an experienced Atlanta immigration attorney.

At Antonini & Cohen, we know how. We fight harder.

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For more episodes of Hablando con Carolina, click here.