ASK THE LAWYER PODCAST
By Workers' World Today
ASK THE LAWYER PODCASTApr 17, 2021
Decisions
Making the right decision isn't always easy. Sometimes it is. Sometimes it's hard. Having the courage to follow that path, to make that right decision, isn't quite so easy. Attorney Brian Figeroux speaks on the upcoming NYC Primaries and the legal issues that minority communities face.
Burn in Hell or Glorious Heaven
New York City is one of the world’s leading magnets for immigration. Immigrants contributed approximately $232 billion to the city’s GDP and accounted for 45% of its workforce. But the unfairness experienced by immigrant New Yorkers, go far beyond just immigration issues, and they remain largely unaddressed. How do the mayoral candidates feel about immigrants in New York? Attorney Brian Figeroux discusses this issue and explains the legal issues facing immigrant.
Revenge Divorce
They say the best revenge is living well. We say the best revenge is divorce revenge. Don't divorce your money or your kids. Divorce your spouse. Get what you deserve and keep what is yours! Attorney Brian Figeroux explains.
Legalization of Marijuana in NY
It's a historic day in New York. The Legalization of Marijuana in NY — which looks to fix the wrongs of the past by putting an end to harsh prison sentences. Hopefully, marginalized communities that have suffered the most will be the first to reap the benefits. And, for the immigrant communities, we have suffered the most. Attorney Brian Figeroux discusses.
Love, Marriage and A Green Card
Love is patient and kind. The U.S. Government seems to be a "love" government. Love and marriage can help you get a Green Card. You better make sure your marriage is bonafide and not fraudulent. Attorney Brian Figeroux explains.
Money 2021
Stop procrastinating! Take care of your business before your business takes care of you! Attorney Brian Figeroux explains.
Life is Not TikTok - Reality Bites
Reality is defined as the world or the state of things as they actually exist, as opposed to an idealistic or notional idea of them. Sometimes the truth is a bitter pill to swallow. Life is not TikTok. Reality bites. Attorney Brian Figeroux tells it you as it is.
U.S. Citizenship Act of 2021: Impossible or Possible?
Impossible or possible? What are the possibilities for immigration reform in the United States? President Biden's immigration reform proposed bill, the U.S. Citizenship Act of 2021, could change everything... or not pass at all. Attorney Brian Figeroux examines what you need to know.
What is Luck?
There are so many different definitions. Our favorite is, "luck is when preparation meets opportunity." The pandemic has introduced and amplified several legal issues which are not going to go away soon. They will not magically disappear. Are you prepared? Are you lucky? Are you ready to meet opportunity? Attorney Brian Figeroux discusses the pandemic legal issues.
Not Getting the COVID-19 Vaccine – Get a FREE Estate Planning Consultation
Estate planning is a necessity not a luxury. It involves a process that will decide what happens to your lifetime assets. When selecting an estate attorney, you want someone who is knowledgeable and experienced. Remember, estate planning ensures that your assets go to the desired recipients in the way you see fit. Attorney Brian Figeroux, explains the importance of estate planning and the consequences of not having an estate plan.
US. Citizenship Act of 2021 & Beware of Immigration Scammers
President Biden recently sent a new immigration bill to Congress. What does that mean for you if you’re a non-citizen in the United States? Right now, the truthful answer is likely nothing — at least not yet. Ask the Lawyer breakdowns the U.S. Citizenship Act of 2021 and shares the FTC warning about scammers. Get the right information to make the right decision for yourself and your family. Don’t be victim of immigration fraud. Listen now.
Comprehensive Immigration Reform (CIR): Where Are You?
Immigrant communities eagerly await tangible changes that can improve their lives. We need President Biden to honor his commitments to immigrant and migrant communities. We need sweeping Comprehensive Immigration Reform. Attorney Brian Figeroux discusses the latest CIR news. Plus an interview with Congresswoman Yvette Clarke on her immigration proposal, Roadmap to Freedom.
The Lawyer You Hire Does Make a Difference!
Get the right information to make the right decision for yourself and your family. Attorney Brian Figeroux discusses legal issues and the importance of consulting with an experienced and knowledgeable attorney.
Dreams, Love & Hope - A New Dawn
Amanda Gorman, 22, who delivered the inauguration poem, "The Hill We Climb," said: " If we merge mercy with might, and might with right, then love becomes our legacy." With the inauguration of President Joseph "Joe" Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris come dreams, love, and hope - a new beginning, a new dawn. The work begins immediately. Attorney Brain Figeroux shares his thoughts.
Don't tell me you love me, show me you love me.
2021 is the year of reckoning. As we celebrate MLK, let's remember this quote: "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter." Attorney Brian Figeroux shares his thoughts.
Hope for 2021!
Georgia! Georgia on my mind! Welcome 2021! Things are looking promising. Attorney Brian Figeroux shares his thoughts on how the Democrats control of the Senate could allow President-elect Biden to repair the damage of the Trump Administration. There's hope for immigration, $2000 stimulus checks and more. How will you be impacted? Listen on.
Happy New Year 2021!
The year 2020 has been quite a difficult one. The coronavirus pandemic did not only wreck our health, finances, businesses and sanity, but also left quite a lasting impact on our lives. And, one that will continue to affect our lives even when this whole nightmare is over. Yet, humanity is not taken for granted either. A new year is here but the past problems are still unresolved. Take care of them. We are here for you. Attorney Brian Figeroux looks at the issues following us in the New Year. May this New Year bring you much joy; may you find peace, love, and success. Happy New Year 2021!
All I Want for Christmas
Happy Holidays. Merry Christmas. Happy Kwanzaa. What do you want for Christmas? Attorney Brian Figeroux speaks about what should be on your list.
A Promised Land
President Barack Obama’s thoughtfulness is obvious to anyone who has observed his political career. In his book, A Promised Land he gives us a riveting, deeply personal account of history in the making. President Obama inspires us to believe in the power of democracy. Attorney Brian Figeroux discusses the importance of President Barack Obama and the lessons we should learn.
“Untouchable’” Louison is Dead
Arleigh Louison, who submitted over 1,800 fraudulent immigration applications and was indicted on 12 counts of making false statements in immigration documents is dead. Louison leaves in his death a path of devastation for his countless clients/victims. Attorney Brian Figeroux speaks on the legal ramifications.
Remember the Native Americans
The well-known story of Thanksgiving is an account of how the English pilgrims and Native Americans came together for a celebratory meal in Plymouth, Massachusetts. The true story behind Thanksgiving is a bloody one, and some people say it's time to cancel the holiday altogether.
Some people view the holiday as a reminder of the systemic racism and oppression Native Americans continue to experience in the US. Attorney Brian Figeroux shares his thoughts.
No Money, No Love
No money, no love. Can’t make love on an empty stomach. No matter the point in time, money problems and financial difficulties are always at the center of discord. It affects our bottom line, health - mental, physical and emotional - and our relationships. Now, we have the added stress and anxiety of the pandemic. Attorney Brian Figeroux explains how we can fix this.
President-elect Biden Brings Hope for all Immigrants
Trump’s single term has represented a reign of terror for many immigrants. He has done an enormous amount of damage and has really suppressed legal immigration in this country to a degree that we’ve never seen before. By 2021, Trump will have reduced legal immigration up to 50%. There is hope now for all immigrants. President-elect Joe Biden has a vision for a new chapter in US policy – but rollbacks will take time, money and support in Congress. Attorney Brian Figeroux discusses the expected changes.
The 2020 Elections: Waiting, Watching & Hoping for the Best!
The 2020 Elections: Waiting, Watching & Hoping for the Best. This is Ask the Lawyer. You have questions, we’ve got the answers. This is your opportunity for a FREE, no obligation legal consultation on any legal issue or concern that you may have. Call us at 855-768-8845 or visit us at www.ask the lawyer.us
Estate Planning Is a Necessity, Not a Luxury. Vote on November 3rd
We are being warned about the pandemic hitting hard in the winter and that our darkest days are coming. Given the first wave in the spring being so unexpected, Attorney Brian Figeroux gives legal advice for families and seniors. Plus, we have to vote on November 3rd like our life depends on it because it does. This is the battle for the soul of the nation, our present and the future of our children. We have to end this nightmare of the Trump’s presidency. We have to vote Biden-Harris.
Eyes Wide Shut
What does the phrase “eyes wide shut” really mean? It seems to be a contradiction. It could mean that a person refuses to see something in plain view, because of preconceived notions of what this something should look like or what they would like it to be. And this frequently happens to naïve people. It also doesn't only apply to naive individuals as the definition is very much a play of words. It applies to those who choose to enter into or take on something and all the while are fully aware of the perils or dubious outcomes that may lie right before them. It sometimes can be an ignorance to the obvious and not listening to intuition. Are your eyes wide shut or are your eyes wide open?
Green Card Slavery & Hope for the Future
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Intimate partner violence is especially horrible for immigrants who depend on their spouses for immigration benefits. We call it Green Card Slavery. Thanks to VAWA (the Violence Against Women's Act) which is gender neutral and was sponsored by then Senator Joe Biden, there is hope through the Spousal Abuse Petition. This law shows the character of Biden coming up with a solution for women, immigrant women who benefit the most. Attorney Brian Figeroux speaks on this, as well as children who are abandoned in the U.S., the orphan petition and other immigration issues.
Empathy
Empathy is defined as understanding and sharing the feelings of another. Attorney Brian Figeroux talks about being empathetic in helping clients with their legal issues.
Naive, Stupid or Victim?
There is a foreclosure crisis in Brooklyn, amplified by the pandemic. Brooklyn is known as the foreclosure capital. Added to the issue, persons are losing their homes to deed theft and deed fraud. A part of the deed fraud, persons are signing their deeds for loans and money and even before short sales. Are persons, naive, stupid or victims of predators?
Helping with COVID-19 Non-health Devastations
In NYC's first wave of the pandemic, we were unprepared. A lot of people died people died and a lot of people lost their jobs. Attorney Brian Figeroux delves into the issues and offers assistance.
Penny Smart and Dollar Foolish
We are living in unprecedented times: Pandemic, financial stress, racism and social injustice. In these times, now more than ever, you need the right attorney. Trump is trying to destroy immigrants. Your Green Card is your biggest investment. Don't fool around. Get the right information from the right attorney to make the right decision for yourself and your family. The lawyer you hire does make a difference. Don’t be penny smart and dollar foolish.
Jumaane Williams for Mayor of NYC
Attorney Brian Figeroux explains why he is the best candidate. Mr Figeroux also discusses the pressing legal issues facing our community.
After the Elections
Now that we have had the Democratic primaries, what are the expectations of our leaders in the community as we move forward? What are the problems? Attorney Brian Figeroux discusses Immigration: VAWA, Fraud and Advance Parole as well as Deed Transfer and Deed Fraud in the community.
Importance of Voting in the June 23 Primary Elections!
Attorney Brian Figeroux discusses the legal issues of bankruptcy and divorce. Guests: Congresswoman Yvette Clarke representing the 9th District in Brooklyn and Assemblywoman Diana Richardson representing the 43rd District in Brooklyn speak about the issues and the importance of voting in the Primary on June 23.
Pride and Hope for the Future
Attorney Brian Figeroux speaks about a demonstration that he attended recently where our youth made emotional, informative and solution-oriented presentations. He felt very proud of our youth and the hope they gave for the future. Legal issues discussed: personal injury and bonafide marriages as it relates to immigration.
“IF THERE IS NO STRUGGLE, THERE IS NO PROGRESS”
Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did and it never will. Find out just what any people will quietly submit to and you have found out the exact measure of injustice and wrong which will be imposed upon them, and these will continue till they are resisted with either words or blows, or with both. The limits of tyrants are prescribed by the endurance of those whom they oppress. - Frederick Douglass, August 3, 1857
What are our demands? Attorney Brian Figeroux answers.
Legal Issues During the Pandemic
What are some of the most pressing issues during the COVID-19 pandemic? Listen to understand your rights and get the right information to make the right decision for yourself and your family. Plus, LaborRadio speaks with Donald Nesbit, Executive VP Local 372.
NYC Re-opens on May 15. Black & Brown People Are Dying; We Have No Leadership and a Conversation with the Mighty Sparrow.
The coronavirus has a disproportionate impact on minority populations because of the underlying medical conditions that have historically "plagued" these communities. Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, upper respiratory illnesses, and hypertension to name a few. We have no leadership. Our elected officials have failed us, badly. Plus, a conversation with the Mighty Sparrow, forever Calypso King of the World.
Mourning the Dead - Fighting for the Living
We hope you and your family are doing and staying well. We are grateful to you, our audience tuning in every week. These are difficult and unprecedented times, and we will get through it; with our faith, hope, and together. We have bid farewell to many, some known in the community, some unknown. All are precious and will be missed. Those we lost are not just COVID-19 numbers; they are persons we loved, cherished, admired, and contributed to our community. They made us proud as sons and daughters of Caribbean soil.
As our Caribbean stars have passed on, we will continue to remember and keep them in our hearts; and, our thoughts and prayers are with their families and loved ones.
As the pandemic rages on, life doesn’t stop, and we still have many issues. Some are the same, and some now require more urgency. This is ASK THE LAWYER. You have questions, we’ve got the answers. Attorney Brian Figeroux answers the questions on the most pressing issues.
ASK THE LAWYER: Coronavirus Special
We know that there is a lot of information about the Coronavirus out there, including rumors. Attorney Brian Figeroux explains the legal implications and gives an update to what is happening in the legal arena regarding the shut down of the various courts.
ASK THE LAWYER: Sexual harassment by housing providers is illegal under the Fair Housing Act and other federal laws.
The Fair Housing Act and other federal laws prohibit sexual harassment. These laws also prohibit harassment because of race, color, religion, national origin, familial status, or disability. Learn about sexual harassment in housing and your legal rights.
ASK THE LAWYER: There are many people in our community that own a home. They also have additional properties in Florida, Atlanta, the Caribbean and Africa.
There are many people in our community that own a home. They also have additional properties in Florida, Atlanta, the Caribbean and Africa. Attorney Brian Figeroux explains how the Wills & Estate Planning Division of the Law Firm of Figeroux and Associates can help.
ASK THE LAWYER: The Trump administration is attacking immigrants on all fronts. How does that impact undocumented persons if the coronavirus comes to the U.S.?
The Trump administration is attacking immigrants on all fronts. How does that impact undocumented persons if the coronavirus comes to the U.S.?
ASK THE LAWYER: In 2020, the Trump administration has upped its war against immigrants.
In 2020, the Trump administration has upped its war against immigrants. How are our elected officials in New York State protecting immigrants? Attorney, Brian Figeroux explains. Plus, Bernie Sanders got the endorsement of the Mayor of New York, Bill de Blasio. It's Bernie Sanders for President!
ASK THE LAWYER: Attorney Brian Figeroux discusses what are your options for legalization in America.
Attorney Brian Figeroux discusses what are your options for legalization in America.
ASK THE LAWYER: Trump continues his war on immigrants with his harsh policies.
Trump continues his war on immigrants with his harsh policies. He recently had a victory in the Supreme Court where he is increasing the requirements for approved petitions to further prove that the petitioner can support the beneficiary. Trump is also preventing women from coming to the United States.
Attorney Brian Figeroux discusses the impact for approved petitioners and the legal justifications of preventing pregnant women who plan to travel to the U.S.
ASK THE LAWYER: Trump's New Travel Ban
President Trump plans to widen his controversial travel ban that prohibits nearly all people from seven countries to the U.S. for immigration purposes.The list of countries include Nigeria, Sudan, Tanzania, Eritrea, Myanmar, Kyrgyzstan and Belarus. Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa. Attorney Brian Figeroux shares his legal thoughts on the issue.
ASK THE LAWYER: There is been an increase in deed theft in our community...
There is been an increase in deed theft in our community. Elected officials are scrambling to help these people. Attorney Brian Figeroux explains why he believes that elected officials are to be blamed.
ASK THE LAWYER: Visitors to the U.S from the Caribbean. Africa and Latin America on visitors' visas are being detained...
Visitors to the U.S from the Caribbean. Africa and Latin America on visitors' visas are being detained, returned to their home countries with their visitors visa revoked and banned for five years. Attorney Brian Figeroux discusses this issue and provides advice.
ASK THE LAWYER: Welcome 2020! A new decade! What's done is done and as you look back...
Welcome 2020! A new decade! What's done is done and as you look back to the last year and the decade, learn from the past and we wish for brighter future in light of those lessons learned. Happy New Year 2020! Listen to hear our 2020 wishes for you!