Generated by Rank Math SEO, this is an llms.txt file designed to help LLMs better understand and index this website. # Xavier Law Firm: Located in the heart of Houston, Xavier Law Firm is dedicated to guiding individuals and families through life’s toughest legal challenges. Whether you’re navigating criminal charges, immigration issues, or civil disputes, we approach every case with a deep understanding of your unique situation. At our firm, your case is more than just a number. We take care of our clients like family and fight for only the best outcomes. ## Sitemaps [XML Sitemap](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages. ## Posts - [Who Is Eligible for Immigration Amnesty Under Current U.S. Law?](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/who-is-eligible-for-immigration-amnesty-under-current-u-s-law/): Immigration amnesty is one of the most searched‑for and most misunderstood terms in U.S. immigration law. Many people believe a current amnesty program exists, or that one is about to be announced, based on news coverage or conversations they have heard secondhand. The reality is more complicated, and understanding the difference between what has existed in the past, what exists today, and what is currently being proposed matters a great deal if you are trying to figure out your own options. - [How Much Is Bail for Assault in Texas?](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/how-much-is-bail-for-assault-in-texas/): If you or someone you care about has been arrested for assault in Texas, you’re likely wondering how much bail will cost and how to get out of jail while the case is pending. Bail amounts for assault charges vary significantly depending on the specific charge, the circumstances of the incident, and the judge's assessment of the defendant's history and risk level.  - [Xavier Law Firm Plays Key Role in Landmark Habeas Corpus Initiative Challenging Unauthorized Immigration Detention Without Bond](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/xavier-law-firm-plays-key-role-in-landmark-habeas-corpus-initiative-challenging-unauthorized-immigration-detention-without-bond/): Xavier Law Firm is proud to announce its significant contribution to a growing national legal movement challenging the Trump administration's detention of unauthorized immigrants without bond. Attorney Xavier V. Chávez was recently featured in Law360 Pulse's coverage of this critical civil rights initiative, highlighting our firm's commitment to protecting liberty interests and due process rights for detained individuals. - [When Should You Hire a Bail Bond Agency and What Should You Look For?](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/when-should-you-hire-a-bail-bond-agency-and-what-should-you-look-for/): When a person is arrested, the court may set bail as a guarantee that allows the individual to be released while their legal case continues. If the full bail amount is not available, a bail bond agency may help by posting the bail in exchange for a fee. - [3 Things You Should NOT Do Before Getting Divorced](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/3-things-you-should-not-do-before-getting-divorced/): If you are currently going through or preparing to begin the divorce process, we would like to share important information that may be very helpful to you. - [What to Do If a Family Member Is Arrested in Houston](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/what-to-do-if-a-family-member-is-arrested-in-houston/): If a family member or loved one has been arrested in Houston, we understand this can be a stressful and uncertain time. In situations like this, acting quickly and having the right guidance can make a significant difference. - [Is a DWI a Felony or Misdemeanor in Texas?](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/is-a-dwi-a-felony-or-misdemeanor-in-texas/): Most first-time DWI charges in Texas are misdemeanors, but that does not mean they are minor charges. The answer depends on several factors, including prior convictions, the circumstances of the arrest, and whether anyone was injured. As those factors change, so does the severity of the charge. What starts as a misdemeanor charge can escalate quickly, and the consequences of getting it wrong are severe. - [Assault vs Battery in Texas: What You Need to Know](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/assault-vs-battery-in-texas-what-you-need-to-know/): If you have ever heard the phrase "assault and battery" and wondered whether those are two separate crimes, you are not alone. In everyday conversation, the terms are often used interchangeably, but they carry distinct legal meanings in many parts of the country. Understanding how Texas handles these offenses is important when you are facing charges, trying to understand a legal situation, or simply want to know your rights.  - [What Is the Statute of Limitations on Sexual Assault in Texas?](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/what-is-the-statute-of-limitations-on-sexual-assault-in-texas/): Navigating the Texas legal system when facing allegations of sexual misconduct is an uphill battle, especially as the state continues to expand the window for prosecution and litigation. If you are being investigated or have been served with a lawsuit regarding a past event, the first question you likely have is, "Is it too late for them to charge me?" - [Parole vs Probation in Texas: Everything You Need to Know](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/parole-vs-probation-in-texas-everything-you-need-to-know/): If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges or has already been convicted in Texas, understanding the difference between parole and probation is critical. These two forms of supervision are often confused, but they work very differently under Texas law. Knowing how each one functions can help you protect your freedom, avoid violations, and make informed decisions about your case. - [Is Texas a Stop and Identify State? What You Need to Know](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/is-texas-a-stop-and-identify-state-what-you-need-to-know/): Many Texans are unsure whether they are legally required to show identification during police encounters. Questions like “Is Texas a stop and identify state?” or “What happens if I refuse to show ID?” are common and there are a lot of misunderstandings that come with questions like that. Knowing the law and your rights can prevent unnecessary legal trouble, avoid escalation during encounters, and protect you from charges such as “Failure to Identify.” - [Open Container Law in Texas: Everything You Need To Know](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/open-container-law-in-texas-everything-you-need-to-know/): Open container violations may seem minor, but in Texas they can lead to fines, criminal consequences, and unwanted complications for both drivers and passengers. These laws are enforced statewide and apply in many common situations, including during traffic stops, road trips, or even when someone is simply sitting in a parked vehicle on a public roadway. Understanding how the law works can help you avoid an unexpected citation and protect your record. - [What Do Immigration Lawyers Do That You Can’t Do Yourself?](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/what-do-immigration-lawyers-do-that-you-cant-do-yourself/): Immigration law in the United States is one of the most complex legal areas. Even small mistakes in paperwork or missed deadlines can cause long delays and even result in denial of your application altogether. While some people try to handle their immigration matters on their own, working with an experienced immigration lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome. - [Money Laundering, Embezzlement, and Fraud: What's the Difference?](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/money-laundering-embezzlement-and-fraud-whats-the-difference/): Money laundering, embezzlement, and fraud are often used interchangeably in the media. Yet, they each carry distinct legal definitions, prosecutorial strategies, and penalties. If you’re under investigation or already charged with money laundering, embezzlement, or fraud, you’re facing real consequences that could upend your freedom, reputation, and future.  - [New Immigration Laws in Texas for 2025: What You Need to Know](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/new-immigration-laws-in-texas-for-2025-what-you-need-to-know/): As immigration policy becomes increasingly complicated at both the federal and state levels, it is important to protect you and your family from the very real risk of detainment and deportation. Texas has introduced several major immigration-related laws in 2025 that will affect undocumented immigrants, legal visa holders, families, property owners, and businesses alike. From heightened border security measures to real estate restrictions, the new immigration law and enforcement in Texas is rapidly changing and it is imperative to you and your loved ones safety to stay ahead of the curve and stay informed. - [Search and Seizure Laws in Texas: Understanding Probable Cause ](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/search-and-seizure-laws-in-texas-understanding-probable-cause/): When your rights are violated, the justice system can feel unfair. This is especially true in Texas, where the right to be free from illegal searches and seizures is a cornerstone of the constitution. But too often, this right is ignored. - [Protesting as an Immigrant: Your Rights and Potential Risks During Anti-ICE Protests ](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/protesting-as-an-immigrant-your-rights-and-potential-risks-during-anti-ice-protests/): As anti-ICE protests continue to grow across Houston and the nation, it’s more important than ever for immigrants, regardless of status, to know their rights before stepping into the streets. The power of protest is a cornerstone of American democracy, but for immigrants, it comes with unique risks. Participating in a protest could lead to civil or criminal charges that may impact your immigration status, residency, or future applications. Understanding your rights before, during, and after a protest is not just smart, it’s essential. At Xavier Law Firm, we stand with those who raise their voices against injustice, and we’re here to ensure your voice doesn’t cost you your future. - [The Laken Riley Act: Understanding the Changes to Immigration Enforcement ](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/the-laken-riley-act-understanding-the-changes-to-immigration-enforcement/): Navigating immigration laws has always been a complex process, but recent changes brought about by the Laken Riley Act have introduced an entirely new set of challenges. Signed into law in early 2025, this legislation aims to enhance immigration enforcement by expanding mandatory detention measures, particularly for undocumented individuals charged with crimes such as theft or fraud. While proponents argue that the Act strengthens public safety, critics highlight its potential for racial profiling, due process violations, and increased hardship for immigrant families. - [Can a Texas DUI Jeopardize Your Immigration Status?](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/can-a-texas-dui-jeopardize-your-immigration-status/): Navigating the path to a legal immigration status is a challenge in itself, but facing a DUI charge in Texas could add an unexpected and serious roadblock to your future. Mistakes happen, but for immigrants awaiting approval of their status, even a single misstep like a DUI can carry heavy consequences, potentially jeopardizing the life you've worked so hard to build. Your next steps could determine not just the outcome of the charge but also your ability to remain in the U.S.  - [Were You Stopped by an Immigration Officer? Know Your Rights in Houston](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/were-you-stopped-by-an-immigration-officer-know-your-rights-in-houston/): In today’s ever-changing and hyper charged political climate, navigating the realities of immigration enforcement starts by being prepared. If you are stopped by an immigration officer, being prepared with organized documents and a solid education on your rights can make a critical difference for you and your loved ones. It is essential to stay calm, prepared, and informed about what to do before these encounters happen.  - [Facing a DUI Conviction? Receive a Free DWI Consultation in Montgomery & Harris Counties](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/facing-a-dui-conviction-receive-a-free-dwi-consultation-in-montgomery-harris-counties/): Facing a DWI charge can be a life-changing event, and navigating the legal process in Texas can feel overwhelming. Whether this is your first offense or not, a conviction can result in severe penalties, affect your driving privileges, and have long-term consequences on your personal and professional life. The good news is that you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Xavier Law offers free in-person DWI consultations in Montgomery and Harris Counties to help you understand your case and take the first steps toward protecting your rights and future. - [What You Need to Know About ICE Raids in Texas](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-ice-raids-in-texas/): For everyone and their families, the evolving immigration landscape can cause you to fear the uncertainty of an ICE raid. At Xavier Law Firm, our team stands by your side, bringing over 30 years of tireless commitment to protecting your rights. With compassion and determination, we fight to provide the guidance and solutions you and your family need in these volatile times.  - [Texas Immigration Changes in 2025: What You Need to Know](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/texas-immigration-changes-in-2025-what-you-need-to-know/): As we head into 2025, significant changes to immigration laws and policies in Texas are on the horizon. With the shifting political landscapes following the 2024 election, these developments are sure to impact both individuals seeking to immigrate to the U.S. and employers navigating the complexities of hiring foreign talent. Understanding these shifts will help you stay informed and prepared for the evolving immigration landscape in the coming year. By working with our bilingual immigration attorneys at Xavier Law Firm, you can ensure that your story is heard by a compassionate legal team who is ready to fight for your rights.  - [Cancellation of Removal](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/cancellation-of-removal/): Cancellation of removal is an immigration benefit that allows permanent residents and nonpermanent residents to apply to cancel a removal order from the immigration judge. Not only is the order of removal canceled but it also grants the applicant permanent residence. - [How County prisons and ICE cooperate](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/prisons-ice-287-g/): During the last few years we have witnessed very discouraging stories regarding the immigrant community in the United States, and it seems that the situation is getting worse. The current government has been trying to revive the 287 (g) program since 2017, and its goal is to charge and deport foreign citizens. - [What is DACA?](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/daca-2/): It is no secret that American immigration laws are quite strict, and in order to obtain legal permanent residence in the Unites States, it can be far more difficult than expected. - [Deportation or removal from the USA](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/deportation-or-removal/): It has always been common to hear the terms deportation or removal in the United States, especially if you are an immigrant. What do these terms actually mean? What is the difference between them? Is it the same as an “express deportation”? - [Inheritance Laws In Texas : What You Should Know](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/inheritance-laws/): Inheritance comes from the word inherit or acquire. Acquire implies accepting qualities from some other person or thing. legacy includes the passing on of a private possession or responsibilities upon the demise of a person. - [Learn About TPS(Temporary Protected Status)](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/temporary-protected-status/): Many people are worried about the news, namely, that the Temporary Protected Status will soon be suspended. If you are wondering what is TPS in the United States, or how these news affect your stay in the United States, you are in the right place. - [U Visa – For Victims of Abuse in the United States](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/u-visa/): The U nonimmigrant status (U visa) is set aside for victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are helpful to law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity. - [Why You Need a Texas Appeal Attorney](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/why-you-need-a-texas-appeal-attorney/): Appeal cases require the expertise of an experienced defense lawyer who is familiar with the complex rules and laws involved in appellate courts.  - [How can you clean your criminal record in the United States?](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/clean-criminal-record/): Even if you have a few crimes on your record, it is still possible to obtain Immigration benefits. A competent Immigration attorney could be of much help during your process. Did you know that this is actually possible? Having a general knowledge of which crimes can hurt your efforts to legalize your status is of paramount importance. However, most people ignore this information. - [How to request for release on bail in Texas](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/bail-immigration/): Has a friend or relative of yours been detained by immigration? Would you like to help them? Do you have any idea of how to start? You might have so many questions, and we would like to provide some answers, so you can help your loved one through the procedure in an Immigration Detention Center. - [Adjustment of Status](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/adjustment-of-status/): When we talk about getting legal permanent residence in the United States, it is crucial to be aware of all the options and procedures you have at your disposal. Among them is the Adjustment of Status. Adjustment of status is the process that you can use to apply for lawful permanent resident status (also known as applying for a Green Card) when you are present in the United States. This means that you may get a Green Card without having to return to your home country to complete visa processing. - [Visa lottery in the United States](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/visa-lottery/): Many foreign citizens dream about getting a Green Card by means of a program better known as the “Visa Lottery”. The actual name of this program is the ‘Diversity Visa Program’ and it is an initiative that has been sponsored for over 29 years by the Department of State. - [VAWA Petition: legalize your status in the United States](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/vawa-petition-to-legalize-your-status-in-the-united-states/): How can you get VAWA? Do you have a chance to apply? Even though this is a widely discussed topic, the truth is that not many people know how it works, and everything that needs to get done to get permanent residence status in the United States when you are not a legal resident. - [How can you get permanent residence through employment?](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/how-can-you-get-a-green-card-through-employment/): One of the ways in which you can migrate to the United States is via employment. It mostly depends on the conditions and needs of the company you work, or will work for. This path allows you to legally migrate to the United States with a temporary employment visa, and later request a ‘Green Card’. - [Criminal Appeals](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/criminal-appeals/): A conviction does not always mean the end of the road for your case, your lawyer and the judge will inform you of your legal rights to appeal the court’s decision. Filing for an appeal means that you are requesting a higher court in the judicial system to review the decision made on your case to decide whether it is fair or unfair. - [Asylum](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/asylum/): Under U.S. law, people who flee their countries because they fear persecution can apply for asylum. If they are granted asylum, this gives them the right to stay in the United States. Asylum is a form of protection that allows an individual to remain in the US instead of being removed (deported). The two ways of obtaining asylum in the United States are through the affirmative process and defensive process. - [I-130 Form: Step by Step](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/family-petition/): It may have taken you a long time and much hard work, but you were finally able to obtain your Green Card, and now you are finally a permanent resident in the United States. Or maybe you were born in the US, spent some time working or studying abroad, you found ‘the one’, and got married. Can you come back home and bring your family with you? Absolutely. - [How can I get a Green Card?](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/green-card/): Millions of people around the world dream of living in the United States. The permanent residence card, widely known as “Green Card”, gives you the opportunity to live, work, study, do business etc. in the United States legally. However, you might need to follow quite different steps in order to obtain your permanent residence depending on your particular case. You can obtain your permanent residence if:  - [All you need to know about Provisional Unlawful Presence Waivers](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/provisional-unlawful-presence-waiver/): Since March 4, 2013, a great deal of immigrant visa applicants who are immediate relatives (spouses, children, or parents) of American citizens, can apply for a a Provisional Unlawful Presence waiver if they are in the United States. This waiver can help them to reduce the time they have to be in their countries of origin and away from their families, while they finish their immigrant visa process before the corresponding embassy or consulate. - [Work Permit](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/work-permit/): There are countless reasons why a growing number of foreign citizens dream of obtaining a work permit in the United States. How long does it take? What are the benefits? Who is eligible? Just like any other immigration procedure, it takes some time and you need to be patient. - [Loss of American legal residence or citizenship](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/loss-residence-citizenship/): Leaving your country of birth could be one of the most difficult decisions you could ever make. Moving to the United States and finally getting permanent residence (“Green Card”) or even citizenship is a dream come true for many people. A legal status has many benefits such as working and living in the country permanently with a feeling of confidence and safety. But did you know that it is actually possible to lose your legal status in the United States? - [Becoming A US Citizen?](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/thinking-of-becoming-a-us-citizen/): Are you a current resident and are thinking about fully becoming a US Citizen? Are you nervous of the requirements needed to pass the written and oral exam?   - [Adjustment Of Status With Tourist Visa](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/adjustment-of-status-with-tourist-visa/): U.S. immigrants place an option for those who even with a tourist visa has the opportunity to modify their status through legal channels and continue in the United States without any difficulties. There are many reasons why this application can be formalized, including the request for an immediate family member or the modification of the non-immigrant status. ## Pages - [Career](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/career/) - [Why Xavier](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/why-xavier/) - [U Visa](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/u-visa/) - [Consultation](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/contact-us-email/) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/privacy-policy/) - [Sitemap](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/sitemap/) - [Areas of Practice](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/practice-areas/) - [Blog](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/blog/) - [Testimonials](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/testimonials/) - [Contact Us](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-xavier-law-firm-2/) - [About Us](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/about-us/) - [Home](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/) ## Team - [Joel Alvarenga](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/joel-alvarenga/) - [Dianahi Salazar](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/dianahi-salazar/) - [Oscar Treviño](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/oscar-trevino/) - [Denise Chafino](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/denise-chafino/) - [Karen Flores](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/karen-flores/) - [Yailene Valencia](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/yailene-valencia/) - [Ana Miranda](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/ana-miranda/) - [Emanuel Romero](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/emanuel-romero/) - [Manuel Cuevas](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/manuel-cuevas/) - [Jocelyn Benitez](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/jocelyn-benitez/) - [Maritza Martinez](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/maritza-martinez/) - [Nerien Viveros](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/nerien-viveros/) - [Juana Rojas](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/juana-rojas/) - [Samantha Perales](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/samantha-perales/) - [Scarlet Barcenas](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/scarlet-barcenas/) - [Mirerza Herrera](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/mirerza-herrera/) - [Andrea Chavez](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/andrea-chavez/) - [Montserrat Chavez](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/montserrat-chavez/) - [Gabriela Bolanos](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/gabriela-bolanos/) - [Jose Hernandez](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/jose-hernandez/) - [Perla Ochoa](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/perla-ochoa/) - [Marivel Gonzalez](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/marivel-gonzalez/) - [Isamar Sosa](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/isamar-hernandez/) - [Amy Sanchez](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/amy-sanchez/) - [Gerardo Ochoa](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/gerardo-ochoa/) - [Isaac Montenegro](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/isaac-montenegro/) - [Alma Rojas](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/alma-rojas/) - [Anabel Ramirez](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/anabel-ramirez/) - [Monica Duran](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/monica-duran/) - [Estrellita Diane Chávez](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/estrellita-diane-chavez/) - [Nelly Carolina Sanchez Estrada](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/nelly-sanchez-estrada/) - [Xavier Chávez](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/our-team/xavier-chavez/) ## Practice Areas - [The Woodlands Criminal Defense](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/the-woodlands-criminal-defense/) - [Estate Planning](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/estate-planning/) - [Real Estate](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/real-estate/) - [Contract Law](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/contract-law/) - [Family Law](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/family-law/) - [Habeas Corpus](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-immigration-attorneys/habeas-corpus/) - [Sex Crimes](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-criminal-defense/sex-crimes/) - [Assault and Battery](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-criminal-defense/assault-and-battery/) - [Assault](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-criminal-defense/assault/) - [Sexual Assault](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-criminal-defense/sexual-assault/) - [Unlawful Carrying of a Weapon](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-criminal-defense/unlawful-carrying-of-a-weapon/) - [Theft](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-criminal-defense/theft/) - [VAWA and U Visa](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-immigration-attorneys/vawa-and-u-visa/) - [Estatus de Protección Temporal (TPS)](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-immigration-attorneys/estatus-de-proteccion-temporal-tps/): El TPS es un recurso legal que puedes solicitar si el país en el que vives atraviesa una situación compleja y peligrosa, y como consecuencia tu vida corre peligro. El TPS se puede otorgar a una persona que sea nacional de un país designado, haya solicitado el estatus durante un período de registro específico y haya estado físicamente presente continuamente en los EE. UU. - [Daca](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-immigration-attorneys/daca/): Xavier Law Firm, an immigration law firm located in the Houston area, want to teach you everything you need to know about DACA. This is an immigration policy that was implemented in 2012, and which benefited hundreds of thousands of undocumented immigrants in the United States. Do you want to know what this policy is all about and how it works? Well, keep on reading and find out. - [Asylum](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-immigration-attorneys/asylum/): Under U.S. law, people who flee their countries because they fear persecution can apply for asylum. If they are granted asylum, this gives them the right to stay in the United States. Asylum is a form of protection that allows an individual to remain in the US instead of being removed (deported). The two ways of obtaining asylum in the United States are through the affirmative process and defensive process. - [Immigration Attorneys](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-immigration-attorneys/): Navigating the complexities of immigration law can be overwhelming, but you don't have to tackle it alone. With over 30 years of experience, our skilled immigration attorneys in Houston, TX, are here to guide you every step of the way. At Xavier Law Firm, we’re passionate about hearing your story and fighting for your rights. Whether you’re pursuing citizenship, a visa, or seeking legal protection, we have the expertise and determination you need to achieve your goals. - [Record clearing](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/record-clearing/): A past criminal record can come between you and getting that perfect job position that you have applied for, or that lovely apartment that you want to move into. Even acquiring a professional license can be quite difficult. A criminal record can dramatically have a negative effect on your social life, especially since such records are usually available online. - [Weapons Charges](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/weapons-charges/): Today’s world presents us with a lot of uncertainties, crime being one of them. Crime and violence is prevalent in almost every state in the United States. That is why many feel the need to protect themselves, their family and those around them. It is the right as a citizen of the United States to keep and bear arms for self-defense as stipulated in the Second Amendment of the Bill of Rights. - [Probation and Parole Violations](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-criminal-defense/probation-and-parole-violations/) - [Kidnapping](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-criminal-defense/kidnapping/) - [Money Laundering](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-criminal-defense/money-laundering/) - [Criminal Appeals](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-criminal-defense/criminal-appeals/): Cases on appeals don’t entail new witnesses or evidence; they involve reviewing the case for any errors during the trial. The reviews include the examination of the clerk’s records and the reporter’s notes concerning the case. These transcripts should be acquired by your attorney in preparation for the case. - [Aggravated Assault](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-criminal-defense/aggravated-assault/): The penalty for aggression depends on the type of charge, whether it is a misdemeanor, felony, aggravated crime, or felony with a weapon. Understanding the specific nature of the charge is crucial in determining the potential legal consequences. - [Drug Possession](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-criminal-defense/drug-possession/) - [Domestic Violence](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-criminal-defense/domestic-violence/) - [DWI DUI Texas](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-criminal-defense/dwi-dui-texas/): Driving while intoxicated by drugs or alcohol is a criminal offense that can have very serious legal consequences. There are a number of ways an experienced defense lawyer can help reduce the consequences you may be facing if you are accused of drunk driving.  - [Criminal Defense](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/tx-criminal-defense/): Our practice is specially tailored to serve the particular needs of the immigrant community in the United States. Because of our extensive experience in the immigration and criminal defense fields, we are well situated to guide our clients through the veritable minefield which an immigrant must traverse whenever he or she has been charged with having committed a criminal offense. - [Civil Attorney](https://www.xavierlawfirm.com/civil-attorney/): We have experience in handling a wide variety of civil cases. We tailor our services to your individual interests and needs. Whether you are litigating a family matter, contracts, business, or estates, we make sure you obtain the best possible result.