No one imagines that the joy of a new marriage could so quickly be followed by heartbreak. For our client from Guyana, that became her reality when her U.S. citizen husband — a military veteran — passed away unexpectedly in January 2024, just months after their wedding.
She had entered the United States in December 2022 and married in July 2023 after months of living together and providing care. Together, they were actively preparing her immigration paperwork when tragedy struck, leaving her grieving and unsure of her future in the U.S.
At McBean Law, we stepped in to protect her path forward. In February 2024, we filed a Form I-360 Widow Petition together with a Form I-485 Adjustment of Status. We submitted extensive proof of their cohabitation and genuine marriage, highlighting the life they had built together in a short time.
In August 2025, her case reached a critical moment at a USCIS interview. When the officer inappropriately questioned her intent in marrying, our attorney intervened immediately and escalated the matter to a supervisor. By the end of that day, both the widow petition and her adjustment of status were approved!
This story is a perfect example of why it is crucial that you have an attorney appear at your USCIS interview with you. An attorney can help to protect your rights and ensure that you get a fair interview.
Today, she is a lawful permanent resident of the United States. Her green card honors not only her marriage but also the care and devotion she gave her husband until his passing.
If you or someone you love is facing complex or unexpected challenges in an immigration case, McBean Law may be able to help. Call us at (914) 898-9488 to schedule a private consultation. We’ll meet you where you are — with strategy, clarity, and compassion.
P.S. Every case is different. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. Always consult with a licensed immigration attorney about your specific case.
