Ilona Bray

Ilona Bray

J.D. · University of Washington School of Law

Ilona Bray, J.D. is an award-winning author and legal editor at Nolo, specializing in real estate, immigration law and nonprofit fundraising. 

Educational background. Ilona received her law degree and a Master's degree in East Asian (Chinese) Studies from the University of Washington. She is a member of the Washington State Bar. Her undergraduate degree is from Bryn Mawr College, where she majored in philosophy. She actually viewed law school as an extension of her philosophy studies, with its focus on ethics, fundamental rights, and how people can get along in society—of particular concern to her as the daughter of a WWII refugee. 

Working background. Ilona has practiced law in corporate and nonprofit settings as well as in solo practice, where she represented immigrant clients seeking asylum, family-based visas, and more. She has also volunteered extensively, including a six-month fellowship at Northwest Immigrant Rights Project in Seattle and a six-month internship at Amnesty International in London. She is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers' Association (AILA), the National Association of Real Estate Editors (NAREE), and the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP). 

Working at Nolo. Ilona started at Nolo in 2000 as a legal editor. Since then, she has not only continued to edit other writers' books and online articles, but also has taken an active role in planning and authoring new Nolo books. Many of these have become consistent Nolo bestsellers and award-winners, among them Effective Fundraising for Nonprofits, Nolo's Essential Guide to Buying Your First Home, and Selling Your House.  Ilona particularly enjoys interviewing people and weaving their stories into her books. She also won the 2012 "Best Blog" award from the National Association of Real Estate Editors (NAREE). 

Spare time. (What spare time?) Ilona enjoys swimming, gardening (though she's still looking for a vegetable the squirrels won't eat every last morsel of), cooking gluten- and sugar-free meals, and writing children's books.

Articles by Ilona Bray

What Crimes Make Immigrants Inadmissible to the U.S.?
A summary list of crimes that make a person inadmissible (unable to get into the U.S.) under immigration laws.
How to Adjust Status (to Permanent Resident) After Marriage to a U.S. Citizen
An overview on eligibility for a green card after marriage, necessary forms, documents, how to survive the interview, and much more.
What You Need to File I-485 for Adjustment of Status
If you're adjusting status (to a permanent U.S. resident, or green card holder) you'll need to complete USCIS form I-485 and select the appropriate forms and documents to accompany it.
Can the Child of an Undocumented Immigrant Become a U.S. Citizen?
Children of undocumented (illegal) immigrants who were born in the United States become U.S. citizens automatically.
Preparing I-864 Affidavit of Support Forms: Which One Must I Use?
When sponsoring a family member for U.S. immigration, you might need to file an I-864 Affidavit of Support to show that they won't become a public charge.
"Sponsors" and "Household Members" Pledging Support on USCIS Form I-864A
Sponsors may include household members to help meet the financial requirements to sponsor an immigrant for a green card. Here’s how it works.
What Is the Public Charge Rule?
How do immigration officials predict someone's future financial situation when making visa decisions?
When Your Conditional Residence Can Be Revoked
A conditional green card is valid for only two years, and can be cancelled for any of various violations, or for failure to submit Form I-751 on time.
What It Takes to Win Asylum in the U.S.: A Review of Key Legal Provisions
A plain-English explanation of the U.S. immigration laws concerning asylum and what you'll need to do to win a case.
What Does a U.S. Green Card Get You?
A "green card" is just an identification card given to people who've been granted permanent resident status in the United States.
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