Boomers Beware: The Hidden Risks of Using Home Equity to Pay for Long-Term Care

Boomers Beware: The Hidden Risks of Using Home Equity to Pay for Long-Term Care

For many baby boomers, retirement and aging bring significant financial considerations, particularly when it comes to long-term care. As healthcare costs continue to rise, some retirees look to their biggest asset—their home—as a financial resource. Using home equity to pay for long-term care may seem like a viable option, but it carries serious financial and […]

How to Use Home Equity If You Have To: An In-Depth Analysis

How to Use Home Equity If You Have To: An In-Depth Analysis

As older adults navigate financial planning, one of the most significant assets they own is their home. In situations where additional funds are needed—especially to cover long-term care costs—home equity can be a valuable financial resource. However, accessing home equity requires careful consideration, as different financial products come with varying risks and benefits. The three […]

A Step-by-Step Guide to Collecting Surplus Money in Foreclosure Actions Under RPAPL §1361 in New York

A Step-by-Step Guide to Collecting Surplus Money in Foreclosure Actions Under RPAPL §1361 in New York

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. In New York, when a foreclosed property is sold for more than the outstanding mortgage debt and associated costs, the excess funds are known as surplus monies. These funds are deposited with the court and can be claimed by individuals or entities with a legitimate interest, such as junior lienholders or […]

Bronx Immigration Attorney Sentenced to Nearly Six Years in Prison for $16 Million Fraud Scheme

Bronx Immigration Attorney Sentenced to Nearly Six Years in Prison for $16 Million Fraud Scheme

By Mary Campbell Bronx, NY: A Bronx-based immigration attorney was sentenced Wednesday, February 26 to 70 months in federal prison for his role in a large-scale immigration fraud scheme that defrauded his clients out of $16 million. Kofi Amankwaa, 70, was also ordered to pay restitution in the full amount of $16 million, along with […]

Making the Transition from Worker to Business Owner: Legal & Business Guide by Figeroux & Associates

Making the Transition from Worker to Business Owner: Legal & Business Guide by Figeroux & Associates

Introduction: Why Transitioning from Worker to Business Owner Requires Legal & Strategic Planning Leaving behind the security of a steady paycheck to start a business is an exciting but challenging endeavor. Whether you’re an employee with a side hustle, a freelancer ready to scale up, or a corporate worker dreaming of independence, the journey from […]

The Economic Cost and Rejection Probability of Immigrants Self-Representing or Using Notarios for USCIS Applications

The Economic Cost and Rejection Probability of Immigrants Self-Representing or Using Notarios for USCIS Applications

By Brian Figeroux, Esq.  The process of applying for legal immigration status or work permits in the United States can be complex and costly. Many immigrants, due to financial constraints or lack of awareness, either self-represent or seek the help of unauthorized immigration consultants, often referred to as “notarios.” Unfortunately, errors in these applications can […]

Does an Annulment Prevent a Plaintiff or Defendant from Filing a VAWA Application for Immigration Relief?

Does an Annulment Prevent a Plaintiff or Defendant from Filing a VAWA Application for Immigration Relief?

By Brian Figeroux, Esq.  The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provides a pathway for survivors of domestic abuse to apply for immigration relief without relying on their abusive U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR) spouse, parent, or child. VAWA allows these individuals to self-petition for a green card if they can demonstrate they were […]

What to Do If You Are Sued for Credit Card Debt: A Step-by-Step Guide

What to Do If You Are Sued for Credit Card Debt: A Step-by-Step Guide

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. Receiving a lawsuit notice for credit card debt can be stressful and overwhelming, but it’s important to remain calm and take action quickly. Ignoring the lawsuit can lead to a default judgment, which may result in wage garnishment, bank account levies, or liens on property. However, by responding strategically, negotiating, and […]

Precautions Green Card Holders Should Take When Traveling with Pending Criminal Cases or Convictions

Precautions Green Card Holders Should Take When Traveling with Pending Criminal Cases or Convictions

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. | Editorial credit: Roy De La Cruz / Shutterstock.com Traveling with pending criminal cases or past convictions presents significant risks for green card holders. Introduction For lawful permanent residents (LPRs), commonly known as green card holders, traveling—whether domestically or internationally—can be risky if they have pending criminal cases or past convictions. […]

Extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Sudan, Ukraine, Venezuela & H-1B Final Rule, H-2 Final Rule, and Revised Form I-129

Extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Sudan, Ukraine, Venezuela & H-1B Final Rule, H-2 Final Rule, and Revised Form I-129

Extension of TPS for Sudan As required by the statute, at least 60 days before the expiration of a current Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation or extension and after consultation with appropriate government agencies, the conditions in the foreign state must be reviewed to determine whether conditions for the TPS designation continue to be met. […]