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How to Split a Toaster • Season 8 • Episode 15

Divorce Across Borders: Handling Immigration While Untying the Knot with Tahmina Watson

Navigating the Intersection of Immigration and Divorce Law

Divorce is complicated enough, but what happens when immigration status enters the picture? This week, Seth and Pete aim to provide guidance on navigating this complex legal maze. They’re joined by immigration law expert Tahmina Watson. She shares invaluable insights on the nuances of divorce and custody when immigration status plays a role.

Tahmina offers an in-depth look at key considerations for both family-based and employment-based immigration situations. We explore scenarios involving dependent visas, green cards, work visas, and more. She provides perspective on the challenges that crop up when immigration issues arise mid-divorce.

Key Themes Covered

Tahmina breaks down common pitfalls and negotiation tactics used when immigration status affects divorce outcomes. She offers advice on gathering proper documentation and how to avoid potential scams. Tahmina stresses the importance of letting your life guide your immigration status rather than the reverse.

Questions We Answer in This Episode

  • What questions should you ask your divorce lawyer about immigration concerns?
  • What should divorce lawyers ask clients to spot immigration issues?

Key Takeaways

  • Gather all relevant visa and immigration paperwork before meeting your divorce lawyer.
  • Be aware of the profound power imbalance immigration status can create in divorce.
  • Don’t let immigration concerns dictate major life decisions like divorce.

Plus, we tackle another listener question! Rich describes his suspicion that his wife may be under the influence of a cult masquerading as a “social club.” Seth and Pete advise on warning signs to watch for and stress calling a lawyer sooner rather than later.

This episode delivers invaluable guidance on properly handling the immigration side of divorce. Tahmina provides wisdom that can help avoid major pitfalls at the intersection of family and immigration law.

Links & Notes

Seth Nelson is a Tampa based family lawyer known for devising creative solutions to difficult problems. In How to Split a Toaster, Nelson and co-host Pete Wright take on the challenge of divorce with a central objective — saving your most important relationships with your family, your former spouse, and yourself.