Mandamus is a powerful tool, but it is not a magic wand. This episode explains what mandamus lawsuits cannot do so you can set realistic expectations and make informed decisions about litigation.

Understanding the limitations of mandamus helps you evaluate whether it is right for your situation. In this episode, we cover why mandamus compels a decision but cannot guarantee approval, why courts cannot order the agency to approve your application, how mandamus cannot change eligibility requirements or fix substantive case weaknesses, discretionary decisions and what mandamus can and cannot address, visa bulletin backlogs and why mandamus does not speed up priority date waiting, security checks and when they justify delay versus when they do not, consular nonreviewability and the limitations for U.S. embassy and consulate cases, why mandamus cannot recover monetary damages for harm caused by the delay, how mandamus cannot change immigration law or agency policy, applicant-caused delays and why you must fulfill your obligations first, and the value of mandamus despite these limitations in providing certainty over indefinite limbo.

This is legal education, not legal advice. Every case is different. Consult a qualified immigration attorney about your specific situation.

Learn more at mandamuslawyers.com/podcast