Murphy Law Firm, PC

08/20/2026

We are honored to share that Theodore (Ted) J. Murphy has been recognized by Best Lawyers® for his work in immigration law in 2027, continuing a distinction he has received every year since 2018. He was also named a Best Lawyers® “Lawyer of the Year” in 2021.

Ted’s approach to immigration law is grounded in experience, preparation, and clear legal guidance. He works with individuals and families to understand their options, make informed decisions, and navigate each stage of the immigration process.

Immigration matters are often complicated and uncertain. Ted and the Murphy Law Firm team remain committed to providing knowledgeable, thoughtful representation to the families and communities they serve.

We are proud to recognize this continued professional distinction and thank our clients and community for their trust in Theodore Murphy and Murphy Law Firm. https://www.murphy-law-firm.com

07/28/2026

U.S. Asylum processing rules have changed and are effective immediately.

Beginning July 28, 2026 Asylum Officers at United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can refer asylum applications straight to the Immigration Courts without an interview at the Asylum Office.

This change will impact asylum applications filed more than one year after entry to the United States. Unaccompanied children are not subject to the one-year asylum filing time bar and will not be referred without an interview. The new rule only affects individuals who have not yet been scheduled for an interview and does not impact USCIS interviews for individuals who maintain a lawful basis to remain in the United States.

The Federal Register announcement is provided here.

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/07/28/2026-15190/affirmative-asylum-referrals-without-interview

There are currently more than 1.4 million asylum applications pending with USCIS. The new rule may funnel 500,000 of these to the Immigration Court immediately. There are an additional 2.4 million asylum applications currently pending with the Immigration Courts.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is amending its regulations to permit U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to refer certain affirmative asylum applications to the Department of Justice (DOJ) Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) without interview. USCIS still...