Marriage Fraud Investigation Defense in Garden Grove: Protecting Your Case
Help for genuine couples facing marriage fraud allegations
Quick Answer
Facing a marriage fraud investigation can be terrifying for genuine couples. In Garden Grove, we help Arab-American families respond to USCIS inquiries and prove the authenticity of their marriages when their cases are questioned.
Reviewed for accuracy by
Maria Santos
DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience
Facing a marriage fraud investigation can be terrifying for genuine couples. In Garden Grove, we help Arab-American families respond to USCIS inquiries and prove the authenticity of their marriages when their cases are questioned.
Understanding Marriage Fraud Investigations
Common reasons cases get flagged:
• Large age difference between spouses
• Short courtship before marriage
• Language barriers between spouses
• Different living situations
• Prior immigration violations
• Anonymous tips or complaints
Signs Your Case May Be Under Investigation
- •Request for additional evidence (RFE) about your relationship
- •Second (Stokes) interview scheduled
- •Unusually long processing times
- •Site visits to your home or workplace
- •Questions about your case from USCIS investigators
- •Denial citing insufficient evidence of genuine marriage
Evidence of a Genuine Marriage
- •Joint financial accounts and credit cards
- •Joint lease or mortgage documents
- •Joint utility bills, insurance policies
- •Photos together over time (not just wedding photos)
- •Travel records together
- •Birth certificates of children (if any)
- •Affidavits from family and friends
- •Communication records (texts, calls, emails)
- •Evidence of meeting each other's families
The Stokes Interview
What to expect:
• Each spouse interviewed alone
• Detailed questions about daily life
• Questions about how you met, wedding details
• Questions about your home, routines, preferences
• Comparison of both interviews for discrepancies
Preparing for Investigation
- 1Gather Documentation
Collect all evidence of your genuine relationship and shared life
- 2Organize Timeline
Create a chronological history of your relationship
- 3Prepare Together
Review important dates, details, and shared experiences
- 4Know Your Story
Be ready to explain any circumstances that may seem unusual
- 5Stay Consistent
Both spouses should know the same key facts and dates
Common Questions in Fraud Interviews
- •How did you meet? Who introduced you?
- •Describe your wedding ceremony in detail
- •What side of the bed does your spouse sleep on?
- •What did you have for dinner last night?
- •What are your spouse's daily routines?
- •Name your spouse's relatives and friends
- •What gifts have you given each other?
- •How do you celebrate holidays together?
Consequences of Marriage Fraud Findings
- •Denial of green card application
- •Deportation/removal proceedings
- •Permanent bar from future immigration benefits
- •Criminal prosecution (fines up to $250,000, imprisonment)
- •Impact on any future immigration applications
FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Q:What triggers a marriage fraud investigation?
A: Investigations can be triggered by red flags like large age differences, short courtships, prior immigration issues, tips from third parties, or inconsistencies in your application.
Q:Can cultural differences cause problems?
A: Yes, cultural practices common in Arab marriages (like arranged marriages or family involvement) can sometimes be misunderstood. Proper documentation and explanation is important.
Q:What if we don't live together?
A: Living apart can raise concerns but doesn't automatically indicate fraud. You'll need to explain the reasons (work, family obligations) and show other evidence of a genuine relationship.
Q:Do I need an attorney for a Stokes interview?
A: While not required, professional help is strongly recommended. We can help you prepare documentation, but for legal representation in investigations, we recommend consulting an immigration attorney.
Q:What if my case was denied for fraud?
A: Denials can sometimes be appealed or cases can be reopened with additional evidence. The approach depends on the specific reasons for denial.
Need Help with Your Marriage Case?
Our experienced team helps genuine couples prepare strong evidence packages to demonstrate the authenticity of their marriages.
Related Articles
Family Preference Wait Times in Whittier: Understanding Visa Bulletin Priorities for Arab Families
Complete guide to family preference category wait times for Arab families in Whittier including F1-F4 categories, Visa Bulletin updates, and strategies to reduce waiting periods.
J-1 Waiver Services in San Marcos: Two-Year Home Residency Requirement Help for Arab Professionals
Expert J-1 waiver assistance in San Marcos for Arab professionals subject to the two-year home residency requirement including all five waiver bases and application process.