Course Coverage and Disclaimer

U.S. immigration law is an exceptionally broad body of law. This course aims to provide a basic overview of some of the key agencies, systems, and processes. However, each of the 12 modules below could easily be a course unto itself.

This course will be useful for legal and non-legal professionals and others who wish to obtain this kind of basic overview of U.S. immigration law. Please note that this course and its accompanying completion certificate:

* WILL NOT fully prepare you for the day-to-day practice of immigration law. This course will certainly provide a helpful introduction to those who wish to practice in the field. However, as an introductory course designed for a broad audience, many of the scenarios that arise in practice simply cannot be covered.

* WILL NOT grant you permission to practice immigration law or represent clients in the U.S. There are specific practice rules for the Immigration Court and immigration agencies. As a general matter, to represent someone as an attorney on a U.S. immigration law matter, you must be member of the bar of a U.S. state or possession, territory, commonwealth, or of the District of Columbia. Similarly, taking this certificate course will not allow non-attorneys to represent clients on immigration matters. Unless authorized by a specific practice rule, such representation constitutes the unauthorized practice of law.

* WILL NOT grant you a visa or any other legal status in the U.S.

* WILL NOT provide an opportunity to receive individualized immigration advice. Many of us have immigration law-related questions that arise in our own lives and families. These are best handled by an attorney in the context of a comprehensive consultation. Because his role is as your instructor (and not your legal representative), Professor Rathod will not be able to provide individualized consultations on personal immigration questions. Of course, general questions are welcome as we explore the different course topics.