Law

Lawyers as Guardians of Public Trust

Posted on by Av. Ertuğrul Harman

In an era where public trust in institutions is increasingly fragile, the legal profession stands at a pivotal juncture. The American Bar Association’s Model Rules of Professional Conduct remind us that the duties of lawyers extend beyond the courtroom. They are not only advocates and counselors but also stewards of the rule of law.​

The Preamble to the Model Rules states:​

“A lawyer should further the public’s understanding of and confidence in the rule of law and the justice system because legal institutions in a constitutional democracy depend on popular participation and support to maintain their authority.”​

This principle underscores the importance of transparency, education, and engagement. By demystifying legal processes and making them accessible, lawyers empower citizens to participate meaningfully in our democracy.​

Moreover, this ethical mandate calls upon lawyers to address systemic barriers to justice. Whether through pro bono work, public education, or advocating for reforms, legal professionals have a responsibility to ensure that the justice system serves all members of society equitably.​

In fulfilling these roles, lawyers reinforce the foundations of our democratic society, ensuring that the rule of law remains robust and that justice is not only done but is seen to be done.

Immigration Law/United States Law

Why U.S. Citizenship Is Worth the Journey

Posted on by Av. Ertuğrul Harman


For many permanent residents, holding a green card is a crucial step toward building a life in the United States. However, choosing to take the next step and become a U.S. citizen offers numerous advantages that can transform not just your legal status but also your opportunities, security, and sense of belonging.

Let’s explore why naturalization is a game-changer for green card holders.

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Immigration Law/United States Law

New Changes to H-1B and H-2 Visa Programs Starting January 17, 2025

Posted on by Av. Ertuğrul Harman

Big changes are coming to the H-1B and H-2 visa programs, with updated rules set to take effect tomorrow, January 17, 2025. These changes aim to make it easier for employers to hire talented workers while also providing stronger protections for foreign workers. Whether you’re an employer or a potential visa applicant, these updates will directly impact the process.

The new rules modernize the H-1B visa program, which allows employers to hire foreign workers for specialized occupations. This will result in a more streamlined approval process, greater flexibility for employers, and better safeguards to maintain the program’s integrity. Meanwhile, the H-2 visa program, which covers temporary agricultural and non-agricultural workers, will see stronger protections for workers. This includes tougher penalties for companies that charge illegal fees or violate labor laws, as well as greater flexibility for workers.

In addition, USCIS will introduce an updated Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) to reflect these changes. The updated form must be used starting January 17, 2025. Be sure to check that you’re using the latest edition, as older versions will be rejected after that date!

UCSIS announcement

The Department of Homeland Security’s H-1B final rule and H-2 final rule take effect on Friday, January 17, 2025, modernizing and improving requirements for the H-1B nonimmigrant and H-2 nonimmigrant visa programs. USCIS will also publish a revised Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker (edition date 01/17/25) on Jan. 17, reflecting combined changes associated with the two final rules. As previously announced, the 01/17/25 edition of Form I-129 goes into effect on Jan. 17, with no grace period, because the revised edition is necessary to apply the final rules.

The H-1B final rule modernizes the H-1B program by streamlining the approval process, increasing its flexibility to better allow employers to retain talented workers, and improving the integrity and oversight of the program. The H-2 final rule significantly strengthens worker protections by, among other things, imposing new consequences on companies that charge prohibited fees or violate our labor laws, and provides greater flexibility for H-2A and H-2B workers. Both rules were published in the Federal Register on Dec. 18, 2024.

Effective Jan. 17, we will reject Form I-129 petitions received using the 04/01/24 edition of Form I-129. If you file Form I-129 on paper by mail, please note that:

  • We will accept the 04/01/24 edition of Form I-129 if it was received before Jan. 17, 2025;
  • We will reject the 04/01/24 edition of Form I-129 if it is received on or after Jan. 17, 2025; and
  • We will only accept the 01/17/25 edition of Form I-129 if it is received on or after Jan. 17, 2025.