Sherry Neal Featured in AILA Law Journal for Analysis of USCIS Signature Scrutiny and Compliance Risks

CHICAGO, June 4, 2026 – Sherry Neal, Partner at Corporate Immigration Partners, P.C., the exclusive U.S. affiliate law firm of Envoy Global, has been featured in the latest issue of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), AILA Law Journal, where she shared her insights into evolving U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) policies and procedures. 

Neal’s article, “USCIS and the Scrutiny of Signatures,” examines the agency’s focus on how immigration benefit requests, how they are executed and submitted and the growing compliance risks associated with technical deficiencies. 

The publication comes at a pivotal time, as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued an interim final rule, effective July 10, 2026, granting USCIS explicit authority to deny petitions containing invalid signatures. Under the updated regulation, petitioners will generally no longer have the opportunity to cure deficient signatures after submission, except in limited cases such as applications for certificates of citizenship. 

“A signature is critical to validating both the identity of the signer and their intent,” said Neal. “By signing a benefit request, the petitioner certifies under penalty of perjury that they know the contents of the filing, have reviewed and approved it and confirm that the information provided is true and correct.” 

Neal’s article explores the historical evolution of USCIS signature policies, highlighting inconsistencies between regulation, policy guidance and operational practice. She also examines how current interpretations can create confusion, particularly as business processes have shifted toward digital and remote environments. 

About Sherry Neal

Sherry Neal, a seasoned immigration attorney, dedicated the last two decades of her legal career exclusively to immigration law. With a diverse background initially covering estate planning, probate, and domestic relations law, she now focuses on representing various entities, from Fortune 500 companies to non-profits and healthcare organizations. Sherry offers expertise in employment immigration strategy, processing and compliance, benefiting both organizations and their staff.

As an active member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), she has held leadership roles like Chair of the Ohio Chapter and served on the Board of Governors and Healthcare Committee. Additionally, Sherry’s articles on immigration law have been published in local, national and international books and magazines. A sought-after speaker, she frequently presents at conferences hosted by legal bar associations, trade organizations and employment groups. 

About AILA Law Journal  

The AILA Law Journal is a leading publication within the immigration law community, showcasing insights from practitioners on key legal developments. Neal’s contribution reflects her deep experience advising employers on complex immigration matters and her commitment to helping clients navigate an increasingly technical regulatory landscape. 

The article is available to preview through the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA).

About Envoy Global

Envoy Global is the leading corporate immigration services provider committed to delivering a better way for companies to manage global immigration. We bring together smart, friendly legal teams and smart, friendly technology to make immigration easier for companies and the global talent they depend on. From securing visas and work authorizations, to supporting business travelers and remote workers, to providing strategic guidance that keeps programs running efficiently, Envoy Global is ready to help you win the race for global talent.