Sharma Crawford

Federal Court

Sharma-Crawford Attorneys at Law specializes in federal court litigation with a history of unparalleled successful outcomes in high-stakes litigation, including cases that have reached the US Supreme Court, showcasing our expertise in complex legal challenges.

Cases handled by our firm

Our expertise representing clients in Federal Court

Sharma-Crawford Attorneys at Law brings extensive experience in representing clients in various federal court matters, from appealing USCIS adverse decisions to advocating for habeas corpus relief and addressing mandamus cases involving agency delays.

Our practice robustly encompasses Declaratory Actions to determine rights and legal relations, as well as APA Claims, challenging federal agency decisions on procedural and substantive grounds. This breadth of expertise is evident in our history of litigation up to the Supreme Court, where we uphold the rights of our clients on the nation’s most significant legal stage.

We are adept at challenging unreasonably withheld agency actions, defending our clients’ rights with thorough preparation and passionate representation. Our firm’s track record includes taking on and succeeding in Supreme Court cases, which marks the zenith of our commitment to legal advocacy and client interests in all facets of federal court litigation.

Appeals against USCIS Adverse Decisions

If USCIS has denied your immigration application or petition, Sharma-Crawford can help. We are known for appealing these decisions, using our deep knowledge of immigration law to argue your case effectively. We focus on turning around negative rulings, giving you another chance to secure your immigration goals.

Petitions for Review in Circuit Courts

Our attorneys are well-versed in Circuit Court petitions, and adept at navigating complex appellate procedures. We focus on overturning lower court decisions by highlighting legal misinterpretations and procedural errors. Our strategic approach and thorough preparation aim to secure favorable outcomes, reflecting our commitment to justice and client advocacy in higher courts.

Habeas Corpus Relief for Detention Issues

Sharma-Crawford provides expert habeas corpus relief services, advocating for clients facing unjust detention. We challenge detention conditions and seek release, combining legal expertise with a compassionate approach. Our goal is to ensure fair treatment and due process for our clients, safeguarding their rights in the judicial system.

Mandamus Cases addressing Agency Delays

In cases of agency delays, our team adeptly handles mandamus actions, compelling government agencies to fulfill their duties. We understand the frustration of bureaucratic delays and work tirelessly to expedite processes, ensuring your case moves forward. Our proactive approach aims to resolve delays efficiently, safeguarding your legal interests.

Challenges to Unreasonably Withheld Government Agency Actions

We tackle challenges against unreasonably withheld government agency actions, fighting for justice in cases of bureaucratic inaction. Our attorneys are skilled in identifying and addressing instances where government agencies fail to act, ensuring your rights are protected. We advocate vigorously to hold agencies accountable, striving for timely and fair resolutions in your legal matters.

Affirmative Litigation

At Sharma-Crawford Attorneys at Law, our expertise extends beyond reactive legal measures to encompass affirmative litigation in federal courts. This proactive approach involves initiating lawsuits to address a variety of legal issues, not limited to appeals and delays. We understand the importance of strategic, forward-thinking legal action, and our team is equipped to undertake cases that require assertive and preemptive legal strategies. Whether it’s a matter of civil rights, immigration, or administrative law, our firm stands ready to advocate vigorously on behalf of our clients, ensuring their legal rights are proactively protected and advanced in the federal judicial system.

Constitutional Challenges

In the complex arena of constitutional law, Sharma-Crawford Attorneys at Law stands at the forefront of defending and asserting constitutional rights within the federal judiciary. Our firm brings a wealth of experience to cases that challenge federal laws or governmental actions on constitutional grounds. We pride ourselves on our meticulous approach to such cases, delving into the intricacies of constitutional law to craft compelling arguments that protect the fundamental liberties of our clients. From trial courts to the Supreme Court, our representation is unwavering in its dedication to upholding the Constitution.

From our Clients: Real Success Stories

    Hands down the best immigration attorney. I have worked with some other attorneys in past but Mrs. Sharma- Crawford is a masterpiece. I will highly recommend her to everyone she is a straight shooter and always advices righteously. Thank you for everything.

      I am always afraid of judgement when I go to places. As a trans Indian, I am used to a lot of discrimination. I had a very comfortable experience with this law firm. Rekha Ma'am was very kind to me and treated me warmly. Thank you for making me feel safe and un-judged.

        "We went to several other attorneys for an initial meeting. We felt overwhelmed and confused. Someone in the community told me to go and see this firm. I was very pleased. I can tell you that they were the only ones who took the time to really explain my case to me."

          We have known Michael and his team over 10 years. He’s consistently given us sound advice and excellent service. He’s been exceptionally easy to talk to and quick with our requests. Best lawyer we know! A blessing to our family.

            Had an emergency during the COVID-19 lockdown. They were rockstars. Thank you so so much!

            Contact Us

            From the Heartland to wherever you may be. We’re here for you.

            The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertisements.

            Past results afford no guarantee of future results. Every case is different and must be judged on its own merits.

            Call us Today

            Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

            USCIS adverse decision is a determination made by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that denies a request for an immigration benefit. This could include rejections of applications for visas, green cards, work permits, and other immigration-related requests. Common Reasons for an adverse decision include – a) incompleteness resulting from lack of required documentation or sufficient supporting information, b) ineligibility resulting from lack of meeting the legal criteria for the requested immigration benefit c) criminal history d) misrepresentation resulting from providing false or misleading information in the application  and e) security concerns resulting from the applicant deemed as a security risk to the U.S. If you receive an adverse decision, you have the right to appeal or file a motion. Call Sharma-Crawford today at (816) 994-2300 and seek immediate assistance.

            Yes, you can appeal most adverse decisions made by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If you believe that USCIS has wrongly denied your application for an immigration benefit, such as a visa, green card, or citizenship, you have the right to challenge this decision. The likelihood of winning an appeal varies based on the specifics of your case. Seeking professional legal representation can improve your chances of success; however, past success is not a guarantee of future success.

             If USCIS issues an adverse decision on your immigration application, you must act promptly to file an appeal. The time limit for filing an appeal is typically 30 calendar days from the date of service of the decision, or 33 calendar days if the decision was mailed to you. For specific cases like the revocation of the approval of an immigrant petition, the time limit is shorter – 15 calendar days, or 18 if mailed. It’s crucial to note that the countdown starts from the date USCIS mailed the decision, not when you received it. Missing this deadline can significantly limit your options for appeal. To ensure timely action and explore all possible avenues, consult with an immigration attorney at Sharma-Crawford; call (816) 994-2300 today!

            If you miss the deadline to file an appeal, you may still be able to file a motion to reopen or reconsider the decision. However, USCIS will only grant a motion to reopen or reconsider if you can show that you have a good reason for missing the deadline and that your case is meritorious. If you believe you have missed the deadline to file an appeal, it is highly recommended that you seek a strong and professional legal representation through the attorneys at Sharma-Crawford; call (816) 994-2300 today!

            A petition for judicial review in federal court is a legal request to have a federal court review a decision made by a federal agency, such as the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).  Filing a petition for judicial review usually must be done within 30 days following the final administrative order. The process can be extremely complex, often necessitating the expertise of an experienced immigration attorney like those at Sharma-Crawford. Call (816) 994-2300 today or schedule a consultation.

            A petition for review in federal court can be filed after you have received a final decision from an immigration agency and have exhausted all available administrative appeal options. The petitioner must demonstrate that the agency’s decision was arbitrary, capricious, an abuse of discretion, or otherwise not in accordance with the law. You have 30 days from the date of the final decision by an agency like the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) or USCIS Administrative Appeals Office to file your petition. The countdown for the deadline starts from the date the decision was mailed to you, not when you received it.

            In summary this type of petition is typically filed when:

            • All administrative appeal options within the immigration system have been exhausted.
            • There are allegations of legal or constitutional violations in the handling of the case by the immigration judge, BIA, or agency.
            • There is new, compelling evidence or arguments that could potentially reverse the decision.
            • The petition aims to have the court assess whether the immigration laws and procedures were correctly applied in the case. The court has the authority to either uphold the agency’s decision or overturn it, either in part or in full.

            BIA stands for the Board of Immigration Appeals. It is the highest administrative body within the U.S. Department of Justice for reviewing and deciding appeals on immigration decisions made by Immigration Judges in the Executive Office for Immigration Review. The BIA plays a crucial role in interpreting and applying U.S. immigration laws, ensuring decisions are fair and lawful. Composed of appellate immigration judges appointed by the Attorney General, the BIA examines appeals on various immigration matters, including visa, asylum, and deportation cases. Its decisions are binding on all Immigration Judges unless overturned by a federal court of appeals, making it a pivotal institution in the U.S. immigration system.

            A writ of habeas corpus is a legal action where an individual in custody challenges the legality of their detention. Derived from Latin meaning “you have the body,” it’s a fundamental legal right ensuring no one is unlawfully detained. In the context of immigration or criminal law, it allows detainees to argue that their detention violates constitutional rights, such as due process, or is based on incorrect or insufficient grounds. The petitioner must file a petition in court, and if the court finds the detention unlawful, it can order the release of the individual. This writ is a crucial tool in safeguarding individual liberty against arbitrary detention by the government.

            Habeas corpus is a Latin term meaning “you shall have the body.” It refers to a legal procedure that allows a person to challenge the lawfulness of their detention or imprisonment. This principle is a fundamental right in many legal systems, including that of the United States, and serves as a safeguard against arbitrary detention. It ensures that individuals are not deprived of their liberty without due process of law.

            A writ of mandamus is a court order that commands a government official, agency, or public body to perform a mandatory duty required by law. It is an extraordinary legal remedy used when no other adequate solution is available. It’s applicable in situations where a government entity has failed to perform a legally mandated, non-discretionary duty. It cannot be used to influence discretionary decisions, which involve judgment or choice. Before seeking a writ of mandamus, all other administrative remedies should typically be exhausted. The success of a writ of mandamus depends on the strength of the legal argument and often requires the expertise of an experienced immigration attorney like those at Sharma-Crawford. Schedule a consultation today!

            Mandamus, derived from the Latin phrase “mandamus fieri facias,” meaning “we command that it be done,” is a legal term for a court order that directs a government official or public body to perform a legal duty. This command is typically used in situations where no other adequate remedy is available, making it an extraordinary legal remedy. Mandamus is a crucial legal tool for enforcing the performance of non-discretionary duties by public authorities, ensuring that they adhere to the law and uphold their responsibilities. It is a direct command from the court to a government entity to carry out a specific action required by law.

            Notice

            At the present time and until further notice, Sharma-Crawford Attorneys at Law is only accepting zoom, skype, or phone consultations or appointments. While there are limited in-person services (fingerprinting, dropping off documents or payments, and signing of forms), these must be coordinated with our office staff. We are fully operational and all client needs are being addressed. Please call us at 816-994-2300 to speak to someone directly.

            Covid-19 changed everything and we have now adopted a new way to do things which make us more efficient, more productive and most of all, more able to meet our client’s needs faster. We look forward to seeing you from the comfort of your home, office, car, or wherever you may be!

            Thank you!