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TRANSFORMING PEOPLE’S LIVES JUNE/JULY 2026
8880 Cal Center Drive #190 Sacramento, CA 95826 ranchodlaw.com
916-613-3553
From Fried Flat Bread (Puri) to Paperwork PROTECTING FAMILIES FROM BEING TORN APART
Whenever I visit my family, the smell of delicious food greets me. Our family get-togethers always center around a big meal that may include spicy green beans, chana (chickpeas), and Indian style minced chicken. On really special occasions, my aunt makes puri, a deep-fried bread that’s well worth breaking my healthy eating streak for. As tasty as those dishes are, some passed down through multiple generations, it’s the shared stories, memories, and time together that make that time so special. For many immigrant families, nothing is as important as staying together, but when they are facing deportation because of their status, the situation can be incredibly stressful and scary. July is Family Reunion Month, and at Ranchod Law, our core purpose is to help families stay together. By creating compelling cases for green cards or
waivers, we aim to show the true impact of being forced to separate loving families across sometimes hundreds of miles. Keeping families intact is exactly why we do what we do.
We have to show that story of hardship and how important it is for these families to stay together. Being able to make a difference in these families’ lives is really meaningful to us; it’s our driving force. This is far more than just a job. Just knowing we can help to prevent that separation is incredibly rewarding. We work hard to get their waivers or green cards approved because it could be the difference between them staying and having to return to their home country. I’m lucky enough that I get to see my family quite often. Most of them are in the Pacific Northwest, and the majority of our vacations involve going out to see them. Food is really big in our culture, and I look forward to my mom’s or my aunt’s cooking every visit. We have so many memories of my grandmother, who loved to cook incredible food. Some of the dishes we still enjoy were passed down directly from her. We might play games, and we definitely like to catch up and share stories. It’s especially nice to pass that torch down to my son, in a way, through these visits. Hearing our family’s stories firsthand connects him more deeply and teaches him about me and how I grew up. Family is one of the most important parts of life, and we want every family we help to enjoy being together without the fear that it will be taken away. If you or a loved one faces struggles with their status, contact us. We know just how much the bond of family really means.
The biggest concern we hear from families we help is the fear of being
forced apart from their loved ones. They have a lot at stake. If they are separated from their family members here, not only are they missing out on cherished time with their children or spouses, but they may also be unable to return because of whatever is happening in the law here. Sometimes, people here in the U.S. come from really dangerous areas in their home countries. Returning forces them right back into the environment they wanted to leave in the first place.
If you want to stay up to date on immigration news, visit our YouTube channel at YouTube.com/ @TheGreenCardLawyer.
The main way we help keep families together is through green cards, visas, or various types of waivers. Though getting a marriage green card is often the easiest way to obtain residency, it can be a sometimes complex process. When someone is ineligible for status due to overstaying a visa or entering the country without documents, waivers can help them remain with their families in the U.S.
–Kaushik Ranchod
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Ranchod Law Group • ranchodlaw.com
AND THE LAW IS RACING TO CATCH UP Deepfakes Are Here
The TAKE IT DOWN Act One of the most significant federal measures to address deepfakes arrived in 2025 with the passage of the TAKE IT DOWN Act. This legislation directly targets non-consensual intimate imagery, including AI-generated images or videos of an individual designed to appear real. Under the law, distributing or threatening to distribute manipulated intimate media without permission is considered a criminal offense. The law also requires online platforms to respond quickly when victims report this type of content. Once notified, a platform must remove the material within 48 hours and take steps to prevent further circulation. Individuals who violate the law may face substantial penalties, including potential prison sentences. Consumer Fraud and the FTC Act The Federal Trade Commission Act (FTC Act) prohibits unfair or misleading business practices. If a company exaggerates what its AI technology can do or uses synthetic media to trick consumers, the Federal Trade Commission may step in. Deepfake scams are already becoming more sophisticated. In some reported cases, criminals have used AI-generated audio or video that imitates a trusted colleague or executive to convince someone to transfer large sums of money. When synthetic media is used to trick people for financial gain, it may fall under the purview of fraud enforcement. Why These Laws Matter The rapid rise of AI has opened the door to remarkable innovation, but it has also created new avenues for harm. Deepfakes can be used to manipulate public opinion, commit fraud, or damage someone’s personal or professional reputation. As we establish clearer rules around consent, deception, and digital manipulation, lawmakers are beginning to define how AI-generated media should be handled in the legal system. Next Steps Additional laws at both the federal and state levels are expected to address rising challenges such as political deepfakes, identity theft, and intellectual property concerns. For individuals and businesses alike, staying informed about these changes is becoming increasingly important. Synthetic media may be new territory, but the legal system is quickly catching up and working to ensure that powerful technology is used responsibly and never at the expense of someone’s well-being.
Is it real, or is it AI?
Years ago, the idea of artificial intelligence (AI) creating convincing videos of real people sounded like science fiction. Today, it’s reality. With just a few clicks, sophisticated AI tools can generate images, voices, or videos that look so authentic they can fool even careful viewers. While this technology can be used for harmless fun or creative projects, it also raises serious concerns. Deepfakes can be used to impersonate, spread misinformation, damage reputations, or create explicit images without consent. As the technology advances, lawmakers across the United States are moving quickly to put guardrails in place. Federal Laws Addressing Deepfakes Deepfake legislation is evolving rapidly to keep pace with advances in AI. The primary goal is to prevent misuse while still allowing for legitimate innovation. However, there are countless risks involved, including:
• Financial scams
• Defamation and misinformation
• Election interference
• Non-consensual explicit imagery
As lawmakers define when synthetic media crosses the line from creative expression into deception or harm, we get closer to protecting both people and institutions.
“With just a few clicks, AI can create videos so realistic they can fool even careful viewers.”
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Ranchod Law Group • ranchodlaw.com
TAKE A BREAK
For years, parents have relied on one classic trick. You say the opposite of what you mean, hoping your child takes the bait. “I bet you can’t eat all your broccoli …” Cue the determined chomping and, ideally, an empty plate. But if that strategy suddenly stopped working and your child is now giving you the “Nice try” stare, you’re not alone. According to parenting coach and Montessori expert Ankita B. Chandak, there’s a good reason your clever tactics are falling flat. Around age 8, many children begin developing what’s called “ theory of mind. ” In simple terms, they become skilled at picking up on other people’s intentions. Meaning they learn exactly what you’re doing. When you casually suggest they definitely shouldn’t tidy up, they can see the strings attached. And instead of feeling motivated, they may feel underestimated. So, what works better once your child catches on? Chandak suggests shifting from mind games to meaningful communication. To start, focus on clarity. Instead of hinting, try being direct. Explain the expectation and invite them to think it through. “You have a test next week and need to study. What’s your plan?” That simple question turns a command into a conversation. Next, invite collaboration. Giving children some ownership, like choosing whether to tackle homework before or after dinner, offers autonomy without sacrificing structure. You’re still guiding the outcome, but they get a say in how it unfolds. Finally, ask for ideas. When mornings feel chaotic or bedtime drags on, bring them into the problem-solving process. Children are often more cooperative when they feel heard. Asking “How can we make this smoother?” goes much further than a frustrated reminder. The magic is mutual respect, not manipulation. When parents acknowledge their child’s growing awareness and intelligence, it builds trust. Kids develop stronger decision-making skills, feel valued, and are more likely to follow through. And there’s a bonus here as well. When you stop trying to outwit your child, they stop trying to outmaneuver you. What replaces the power struggle is partnership. It turns out that the smartest move in parenting isn’t being one step ahead; it’s walking alongside your kids. CAUGHT IN YOUR OWN PARENTING TRICK? When Reverse Psychology Backfires
COCONUT SHRIMP CURRY
Ingredients
• 2 tbsp butter • 1 1/2 lbs jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined • 1 medium onion, diced • 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped • 1 tbsp yellow curry powder • 1 (13.5 oz) can coconut milk • 2 tbsp honey, plus more to taste • 1/4 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
• Juice of 1 lime • 12 basil leaves,
chopped, plus more for serving
• Hot sauce (optional) • Cooked basmati rice, for serving
Directions 1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter.
2. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes, turning halfway, then transfer to a plate. 3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, then stir in curry powder and cook 2 minutes more. 4. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in coconut milk, honey, salt, and lime juice, and cook until gently bubbling. 5. Return shrimp to the skillet and simmer 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly. Stir in basil and add hot sauce if desired. 6. Serve over rice with extra basil.
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Ranchod Law Group • ranchodlaw.com
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
Representing Clients Throughout the 50 States SACRAMENTO
8880 Cal Center Drive, #190 Sacramento, CA 95826
916-613-3553 916-220-3137 (Español)
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
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When Home Isn’t Guaranteed
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Deepfakes Are Changing the Legal Landscape
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Coconut Shrimp Curry
Raising Smart Kids Means Ditching Mind Games
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Can Your Pup Be Your Dependent?
One Woman’s Quest to Get Her Dog Recognized as a Dependent CANINE VS. TAX CODE
Finnegan Mary Reynolds, an 8-year-old golden retriever, might be the first dog to officially qualify for tax breaks. Her owner, Amanda Reynolds of New York City, recently filed a lawsuit against the IRS, arguing that her pup should get the same tax breaks as a human child. Before you scoff, this claim is far more convincing than you might assume. According to Reynolds, Finnegan is more than just property. She is a fully dependent family member, with annual care costs topping $5,000. From food and grooming to vet visits, daycare, and even transportation, Reynolds handles it all. And under Section 152 of the tax code, she contends, Finnegan already ticks every “dependent” box, including being financially reliant, living in the same home, and earning zero income. The only hiccup? The IRS hasn’t updated the definition to include four-legged furballs. The lawsuit also leans on heavy-hitting constitutional arguments, citing the Equal Protection Clause and the Fifth Amendment’s Takings Clause. Reynolds argues that excluding pets from tax relief is unfair and essentially penalizes responsible pet owners. She points out the quirky inconsistency: Service animals can qualify for deductions as medical expenses, but beloved companion animals (who can incur similar costs) get nothing.
As a New York state-licensed lawyer, Reynolds is representing herself in the case and not holding back. She argues, “For all intents and purposes, Finnegan is like a daughter, and is definitely a ‘dependent.’” While the IRS hasn’t responded yet, the case is already sparking debates about modern families, legal definitions, and how far our tax code should go to acknowledge furry family members.
Whether Finnegan walks away with a tax deduction or just more belly rubs, one thing’s clear: Americans’ relationships with pets are evolving, and maybe it’s time our laws caught up. After all, someone has to pay for all those vet bills, gourmet treats, and squeaky toys.
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Ranchod Law Group • ranchodlaw.com
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