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The Comanche Nation Legal Clinics are open to all tribal members in the month of May and are open from 10 AM to 2 PM, located at the Comanche Nation Tribal Court. You can speak to an attorney about any legal issues you may have. The dates for May are: 5/1/24 10am to 2 pm 5/15/24 10am to 2 pm 5/22/24 10am to 2 pm 5/29/24 10am to 2 pm Weekend clinic 5/18/24 11am to 1 pm Come join us and get help with forms, ask attorneys your legal questions, or bring us paperwork you want us to review. There is always an attorney available to help!

In an era where change is the only constant, the realm of immigration and naturalization in the United States is witnessing a significant shift. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has rolled out its first comprehensive fee adjustment since 2016, a move poised to reshape the landscape of immigration applications and processes. Here's everything you need to know about the latest USCIS updates.  Key Updates on Fee Adjustments The USCIS has announced adjustments to the fees for various immigration and naturalization benefit requests. These changes are aimed at enhancing the agency's capacity to process applications with greater efficiency, improve customer service, and significantly reduce the backlog that has plagued applicants for years. Here are the critical updates you should be aware of: I-130 Petition for Alien Relative: Fees have increased to $675, a $140 increase. K-1 Fiancé Visa, and CR-1 Spousal Visa: Fees for these visas have seen an increase of $140, bringing the new fee to $675 each. Adjustment of Status (Form I-485): Without the inclusion of work or travel permits, the fee will now be $1,440, marking a $215 increase from its previous fee. Form I-765 (Work Permit): When filed alongside an Adjustment of Status, the fee will rise from $0 to $260. Form I-131 (Travel Permit): This fee will increase from $0 to $630. Form I-130 plus work and travel permits: The combined fee has been adjusted by $1,245, totaling $3,005. These adjustments went into effect on April 1, 2024, meaning that applications postmarked after this date will be subjected to the new fees. Exemptions and Discounts In a bid to mitigate the impact of these fee increases, USCIS has introduced several exemptions and special discounts: Expanded Fee Exemptions: Vulnerable groups such as Special Immigrant Juveniles; victims of human trafficking, crime, and domestic violence; U.S. military service members; and Afghan allies will benefit from fee exemptions. Special Fee Discounts: Nonprofit organizations and small businesses will receive special fee discounts to support their operations. 50% Fee Reduction: Applicants for employment authorization documents in conjunction with adjustment of status applications will enjoy a 50% fee reduction. Additionally, eligibility for a 50% fee reduction has been expanded to naturalization applications. $50 Discount for Online Filers: In a move to encourage online applications, a standard $50 discount will be offered to those who file their applications online. Transition Period To ease the transition to the new fee structure, USCIS will implement a grace period through June 3, 2024. During this period, certain forms can be submitted with the correct fee to avoid any potential confusion or inconvenience. For those seeking more detailed information on the revised forms and associated fees, it's recommended to visit the USCIS Frequently Asked Questions page. This resource offers comprehensive insights into the changes and how they may affect individual applicants. Moving Forward As these adjustments come into effect, it's essential for applicants and their families to stay informed and prepared. If you have questions or require guidance on how these changes may impact your situation, reaching out to legal experts or immigration services can provide the clarity and assistance needed. In a world that's constantly evolving, staying ahead of changes and understanding their implications is key. With the right information and support, navigating the complexities of immigration and naturalization can be a smoother, more manageable process.

Eminent domain is a legal principle that allows certain entities to take private property for public use, provided the property owner is given "just compensation." This concept is rooted in the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which states that private property cannot be taken for public use without just compensation. While the principle of eminent domain is designed to serve the greater public good, it often raises complex issues for property owners, particularly in terms of valuation and the impact on the remaining property. In this post, we'll explore how eminent domain works, who can exercise it, and what property owners should know to protect their rights. Entities That Can Exercise Eminent Domain Eminent domain can be exercised by various entities, each with the authority to take property for projects deemed to serve the public interest. These entities include: Local Government : Local governments often use eminent domain for public projects such as roads, schools, and parks. State : State agencies may take property for infrastructure projects like highways and public transportation systems. Utilities : Utility companies are granted the power to take private property to install lines, pipes, and other infrastructure necessary to provide essential services to the public. Oil and Gas Pipelines : Companies involved in the transportation of oil and gas can use eminent domain to construct pipelines across private lands, arguing that these projects serve the national interest by facilitating energy distribution. The Challenge of Valuation and Damage to the Remainder One of the most contentious issues surrounding eminent domain is the valuation of the property being taken and the impact on the remaining property, often referred to as "remainder damage." Property owners are entitled to just compensation, which theoretically includes not only the value of the land taken but also any depreciation in the value of the remaining property. However, in practice, the entities exercising eminent domain may not fully consider the extent of this remainder damage, leading to disputes over fair compensation. For instance, the construction of a new road or utility line may sever a property, limiting access and reducing its overall utility and market value. Similarly, the installation of a pipeline may impose restrictions on land use, preventing property owners from fully utilizing their remaining property. Unfortunately, these types of damages are often overlooked or undervalued in the initial compensation offers. Protecting Your Rights as a Property Owner If you're facing an eminent domain action, it's crucial to understand your rights and the true value of your property, including any damages to the remainder. Here are some steps you can take to protect your interests: Seek Legal Expertise : Consulting with a legal firm that specializes in eminent domain can help you navigate the complex legal landscape and ensure that your rights are protected. At Great Plains Legal Services, LLC, we have the expertise to evaluate the impact of the project on your property and fight for the compensation you deserve. Independent Appraisal : Consider obtaining an independent appraisal of your property to get an unbiased estimate of its value, including any remainder damages. This can serve as a powerful tool in negotiations or legal proceedings. Understand the Process : Educate yourself about the eminent domain process in your jurisdiction, including your rights to negotiation, compensation, and, if necessary, litigation. Stay Informed : Keep abreast of any proposed public projects that may affect your property and engage with the process early on. Eminent domain can be a daunting prospect for property owners, but understanding your rights and the resources available to you can make a significant difference. At Great Plains Legal Services, LLC, we're committed to ensuring that property owners receive fair treatment and just compensation in eminent domain proceedings. If you're facing an eminent domain action or have concerns about how a public project may affect your property, don't hesitate to contact us. Our team of experienced professionals is here to provide the guidance and support you need.

Bankruptcy can be a daunting word for many, but it's often a crucial step towards financial recovery and stability. At Great Plains Legal Services, LLC, we understand the complexities and emotions involved in filing for bankruptcy. This guide aims to demystify one of the most powerful protections in the bankruptcy process: the automatic stay. By breaking down its implications for garnishments and state court lawsuits we hope to provide you with clarity and a path forward. What is Bankruptcy? Bankruptcy is a legal process overseen by federal courts designed to help individuals and businesses eliminate or repay their debts under the protection of the bankruptcy court. Bankruptcies can be classified into various types, but Chapters 7 and 13 are the most common for individuals, offering different approaches to addressing debt. The Power of the Automatic Stay One of the immediate benefits of filing for bankruptcy is the automatic stay. This legal provision halts most creditors in their tracks, providing debtors with a period of relief during which collection activities must cease. Let's explore what this means for you. Halting Garnishments Garnishments – where a creditor takes money directly from your wages or bank accounts – can significantly impact your financial well-being. The automatic stay puts a stop to new and existing garnishments the moment your bankruptcy case is filed. This protection means that your income will no longer be diminished by these court-ordered deductions, providing immediate financial relief. Freezing State Court Lawsuits The reach of the automatic stay extends to most state court actions against you related to debts. This includes: Lawsuits for Debt Collections : Creditors pursuing legal action to recover money you owe will have to pause their efforts.  Evictions : In some cases, an automatic stay can also delay eviction proceedings, offering a temporary reprieve. It's important to note that the automatic stay is not all-encompassing. Certain types of legal actions, such as child support proceedings and criminal cases, are not stopped by the filing. The Path Forward with Great Plains Legal Services, LLC Understanding your rights and the protections available through bankruptcy is the first step towards regaining your financial footing. The automatic stay offers a powerful tool to immediately reduce the pressures from creditors and legal actions, allowing you to focus on your bankruptcy strategy. At Great Plains Legal Services, LLC, we are committed to guiding you through the complexities of bankruptcy with compassion and expertise. Our team is here to provide the legal advice and support you need to navigate these challenging times. If you're feeling overwhelmed by debt and looking for a way out, bankruptcy might be a viable solution. To learn more about how the automatic stay could benefit your situation and to discuss your options, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us . Let us be your partner in finding a path to financial recovery. Together, we can explore the best strategies for your unique circumstances and take the first steps towards a brighter financial future.