Immigration law determines whether a person is an alien, the rights, duties, and obligations associated with being an alien in the United States, and how aliens gain residence or citizenship within the United States. It also provides the means by which certain aliens can become legally naturalized citizens with full rights of citizenship. Immigration law serves as a gatekeeper for the border of the nation, determining who may enter, how long they may stay, and when they must leave. Immigration lawyers represent persons seeking temporary and permanent residency (green cards) status in the U.S., those interested in obtaining U.S. citizenship through a process called naturalization, and clients facing deportation and removal. Immigration attorneys may also represent businesses seeking to secure temporary visa status for foreign employees.
Detroit Lakes is a city in the U.S. state of Minnesota and the county seat of Becker County. The city's population was estimated at 8,131 in 2008 by the United States Census Bureau. Its unofficial population during summer months is much higher due to seasonal residents and tourists. From 1990 to 2000, the city experienced approximately 11% population growth. U.S. Routes 10 and 59, and Minnesota State Highway 34 serve as the primary arterial routes through the city. Detroit Lakes is located 45 miles east of the Fargo-Moorhead ND-MN statistical metropolitan area. The nearest major metropolitan area with a population over 300,000 is Minneapolis-St. Paul, which is approximately 205 miles southeast of Detroit Lakes. Detroit Lakes is a regional summer and winter recreation destination, attracting large amounts of tourists and seasonal residents each year. Its economy is fueled by seasonal population increases, with tourism being the area's chief industry along with agriculture.