The Werner Law Group

09/01/2026

Settling past-due accounts can help resolve severe delinquencies, but timing and debt size matter. Before negotiating with creditors or hiring a settlement firm, know your rights under federal credit reporting guidelines to protect your financial recovery.

Learn how debt settlement can impact your credit score and discover strategies to minimize negative effects on your financial health.

09/01/2026

🚨 STOP SCROLLING — this is a BIG immigration update for sponsors and joint sponsors.

If you are sponsoring someone for a green card, or helping as a joint sponsor, USCIS may now take a closer look at your financial picture than before.

As of August 31, 2026, USCIS requires the new 08/24/26 edition of Form I-864, and there is no grace period for the old version.

Here’s the part getting everyone’s attention:

✅ The new I-864 allows USCIS to request information from consumer reporting agencies

✅ That means USCIS may look beyond just the income listed on the form

✅ If you have a credit freeze or security freeze, it could create problems or delays if USCIS cannot access the information it needs

⚠️ Important: This does NOT mean USCIS announced a minimum credit score, and it does NOT mean debt, a mortgage, or a lower score automatically disqualifies a sponsor.

But it does mean this form deserves extra attention right now — especially if you are relying on a joint sponsor or getting ready to file a family-based immigration case.

If your I-864 was prepared before August 31 but has not been filed yet, make sure you are using the new edition before submitting anything.

*stay tuned for our post about a millionaire who was just denied an adjustment of status he filed himself for his wife and two step children*

Questions about an Affidavit of Support, adjustment of status, joint sponsor, or family-based case?

📞 361-LAW-7000
The Werner Law Group, PLLC

08/31/2026

Involved in a multi-vehicle accident? Comparative negligence rules determine how fault is divided and how much compensation you can recover. Learn how pure vs. modified fault laws impact auto crash claims.

Comparative negligence is a principle of tort law commonly used to assign blame and award monetary damages to injured parties in auto accidents.

08/31/2026

Huge news for small business owners! FinCEN has permanently ended the beneficial ownership reporting requirements under the Corporate Transparency Act for U.S. companies. See how this regulatory rollback impacts your business here.

https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sb0603

08/30/2026

We’re proud to celebrate Leslie A. Werner and the recognition she has earned from her peers and the legal community in 2026. These honors are humbling, and they reflect years of hard work, continued learning, and a commitment to serving every client with skill, integrity, and care. We’re incredibly grateful to the colleagues, clients, and community who have trusted Leslie and The Werner Law Group along the way.

08/28/2026

A bankruptcy discharge gives you a fresh start, but rebuilding your credit takes proactive steps. From checking credit reports for discharged account errors to opening secured credit tools, taking control helps restore long-term stability.

https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/how-to-recover-from-bankruptcy/?

Recovering from bankruptcy takes time. Learn how to rebuild credit, manage money and create a stronger financial foundation.

08/27/2026

A living will ensures your preferences for emergency medical care are clearly documented if you become unable to communicate. Setting up your advance directives early protects your wishes and eases the burden on loved ones. Learn what to include: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/advance-care-planning/preparing-living-will

08/26/2026

After a vehicle collision, understanding your rights regarding compensation for medical expenses and lost earnings can impact your overall recovery. Knowing when a claim involves complex issues like permanent injury or disputed fault helps protect your financial well-being.

Expert accident resources built on real first responder experience from firefighters and paramedics.

08/25/2026

Are you responsible for a deceased family member's debts? Unless you co-signed or shared the account, debts are generally paid from the estate—not your personal funds. Learn how to protect your rights when debt collectors call.

When a loved one dies, you may learn about debts they owed before they died. You may not recognize these debts. If you are a surviving spouse or family member, you may even wonder if that debt now belongs to you. This is a very common experience among survivors.

08/25/2026

A living trust keeps your assets out of probate court, but a will is still essential to appoint guardians for minor children. Pairing a trust with a backup "pour-over" will gives you complete protection. Learn the key differences between wills and trusts here.

https://www.willmaker.com/learn/living-trusts/trust-vs-will-do-you-need-both.html