Thompson Law Advocates, led by Peter Thompson, Esq., is dedicated to guiding military members and their families through the complexities of obtaining lawful permanent resident status, also known as “adjustment of status.” Whether you are serving actively, transitioning out of the service, or providing support from home, our Philadelphia‑based firm, serving clients across the nation, understands the unique challenges facing military families. Here’s how we work with you to secure your future and build on your service to this country.
For military personnel from abroad, or their spouses and children, the path to a green card can be confusing. Special programs such as the Armed Forces Immigration Adjustment Act of 1991 recognize that non‑citizens who serve in the U.S. armed forces can speed their route to permanent residency after honorable service. Under this law, someone who has completed at least six years in the military, provided they re‑enlist to a total twelve years, may apply for special immigrant status, and may in certain cases even bypass some typical green card pathways for themselves and their family members.
But eligibility involves strict rules: documentation of service, proof of lawful enlistment, evidence of military recommendations. A misstep in paperwork or timing can derail your application. That’s where the experience of Thompson Law Advocates becomes invaluable.
Adjustment of status is the legal process that allows a person who is already in the United States on a valid visa or parole to apply for lawful permanent resident status without needing to return to their home country for visa processing. This path can be available to:
This process typically involves submitting Form I‑485, along with supporting forms such as I‑130 (for family relationships), I‑765 (work authorization), I‑131 (advance parole for travel), and medical forms such as I‑693. It requires thorough understanding of USCIS filing requirements, precise documentation, timely fees, and readiness for interviews.
At our firm, every military‑connected case starts with a deep dive into your individual story, your service record, your family’s status, and your long‑term goals. We view each case holistically. Here’s how we support you every step of the way:
During an initial meeting, we:
Our goal is to clarify what benefits are available to you—whether through the Armed Forces Adjustment Act or a traditional family‑based green card path—and to help you understand the full process.
Form I‑485 is just the beginning. Many military families require:
We handle the completion of these forms, review evidence of military service and good moral character, double‑check accuracy, and ensure timely submission.
Military members and their families often face relocations, overseas deployments, or mission‑driven travel. We help coordinate with USCIS to safeguard your case. That might look like requesting extension documentation, advance parole before deployment, or expedited processing in urgent circumstances.
Requests for Evidence (RFEs) are common. We interpret USCIS notices carefully and prepare prompt, persuasive responses whether USCIS wants original service records, proof of continuous U.S. residence, or documentation of a bona fide marriage.
When it’s time for the adjustment interview, whether at a USCIS field office or in some cases over the phone, our attorneys prep you thoroughly. We review common questions, simulate interview scenarios, and help you feel calm and ready. You’ll know exactly what to expect.
If any prior incident threatens your eligibility such as an immigration overstay, a criminal record, or a prior removal, Thompson Law Advocates is prepared to pursue the appropriate waiver:
We draw on our team’s experience in criminal defense and immigration combined (what’s sometimes called “crimmigration”) to identify and address these issues early, pushing for positive solutions that protect your family and your future.
In rare cases, if adjustment of status is denied and you or someone in your family faces immigration court proceedings, our firm can continue representing you. We utilize options like cancellation of removal or asylum, withholding of deportation, or relief under the Convention Against Torture to advocate on your behalf.
Once permanent resident status is granted, we continue supporting your journey whether that means preparing for naturalization (USCIS Form N‑400) or offering counsel if you travel abroad. Because we believe immigration is never a one‑and‑done process small missteps years later can still cause issues.
Peter Thompson brings over 25 years of trial and appellate experience in both immigration and federal criminal courts. That’s critical in military‑connected adjustment cases if USCIS issues an RFE, denies your petition, or a hearing officer raises doubts, you need someone who knows how to argue your case under pressure.
Our law practice proudly serves clients not only in Philadelphia, but across the country from Baltimore to Seattle to San Diego. We handle USCIS offices in any jurisdiction. No matter whether your assignment is overseas, another state, or you’re stateside, we can work with you. Our firm remains flexible to your location and schedule, just like the Military members we represent.
Initial Contact: You reach out by phone or web form. We begin with a pre‑consultation to gather service background and family details.
Full Case Evaluation: At the in‑office or online meeting, we collect documents, explain options like the Armed Forces Adjustment Act versus family‑based petitions, and outline cost and timeline.
Filing: We assemble and file the appropriate USCIS forms. Depending on circumstances, we may request premium processing or expedited service.
Processing Period: You’ll receive USCIS receipts, undergo biometrics, and wait for possible interview scheduling—all of which we’ll monitor closely.
Interaction with USCIS: If you receive an RFE or notice about interviews, we respond directly with you—drafting concise, accurate responses and attending interviews when needed.
Deferred Action/Advance Parole: If travel or deployment is necessary, we may submit Form I‑131 so you can come and go without jeopardizing your status.
Approval & Green Card: Upon approval, you receive a temporary or final green card. We debrief you on next steps—travel, residency obligations, and eventual citizenship.
Ongoing Support: We’re available for any immigration issues that may arise after adjustment—travel advice, naturalization, or even family‑sponsor petitions.
Our practice is built around providing personalized, tenacious representation to individuals which includes military families. We’re deeply familiar with immigration law’s intersection with criminal and national security issues. Being a veteran or supporting one shouldn’t complicate your legal status—yet without careful attention, it can.
Rather than treating your case like another file number, we take the time to know your story your service, sacrifices, aspirations. We believe that preparation, strategy, and prompt intervention make a profound difference. Our dual experience in immigration and criminal law allows us to identify hidden issues before they become problems.
Peter Thompson’s long career in federal and immigration court means that we can litigate vigorously if needed, responding to denials, interviewing challenges, even immigration court proceedings. Our firm stands ready at every turn, until you hold that green card in your hand.
With our office in Philadelphia and a national clientele, we assist U.S. military service members and families across state lines and time zones. We frequently coordinate paperwork with overseas commands, provide virtual consultations and remote form filings, and adjust our schedules around yours; on base, abroad, or in transition.
If you’re stationed in California, Texas, Germany, North Carolina, or Japan, the law works the same. We adapt to your location. If you need translation help, interpreter services, or military‑sensitive deadlines, we make those arrangements.
To explore your eligibility and how Thompson Law Advocates can help:
Your service, and your family’s, deserves to be protected. Adjusting your status should be less of a burden and more of a celebration. With Thompson Law Advocates, you gain a committed legal advocate who works alongside you, step by step. From legal paperwork to courtroom representation, you get one firm focused on keeping your family together and secure.
If you’re ready to move forward with adjustment of status, or if you simply want to explore your options, contact Peter Thompson and his team today. Let us honor your commitment with dedicated legal assistance, drafting your path toward permanent residency, underpinned by your service to the nation.