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16 Aug, 2024 by Jeanne schulte
VERY knowledgeable and professional, with a keen attention to detail. We felt “taken care of” in every step of the will-making process. I highly recommend Philip Gauer, and am so glad that we selected him for our legal needs!
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04 Jul, 2024 by Kristine courtney
I found this office knowledgeable and very easy to work with. I appreciated the careful consideration of detail and the excellent advice when assisting me with my trust, will and accompanying documents.
Corresponding with the office through email was very easy and satisfactory. Philip and Janet were both welcoming and helpful at all times.
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04 May, 2024 by Lisa hampl
Phil is professional, understanding, and knowledgeable. He listens, walks you through the process, and quickly responds.
Janet is always helpful and pleasant. It's nice to work with people who are genuine.
Highly recommend.
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26 Jan, 2022 by Nathan
In my long search for an attorney I came across Mr Zamora. I needed him for a residential, and custody situation. Which he handled very professionally and swiftly. I have returned for an injury case and again he handled it promptly and professionally. Since then I've referred all my family and friends. Mr Zamora made me feel comfortable and confident that he could handle my cases. I was highly satisfied at the outcomes, his was sincere and showed concern to each of my concerns, and offered different options that fit my budget.
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15 Jan, 2023 by Jerry
Kyle was very knowledgeable and extremely helpful in my final arrangements of my will. He was also affordable and completed the task in a timely manner. I felt comfortable discussing my personal matters with him. He was a pleasure to work with.
Jerry
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13 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
She has been a great help to my immigration matters. She is trustworthy and knowledgeable when it comes to immigration matter. I recommend Monica.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Roshini punjabi
I cannot thank Lauren Sabo enough for taking the time to speak with me about my concerns regarding my son’s reading disability. She was incredibly kind, patient, and compassionate, and it was evident from the start that she truly cared about my son’s needs. Her explanations were clear and thoughtful, and she made a complex process feel much more manageable.
What impressed me the most was her genuine dedication to advocating for children with special education needs—not because to gain financial profit, but because she believes in making a difference in this underrepresented group of children. Lauren was so helpful and encouraging, and gave me hope during what has been a challenging time. She even provided resources and practical steps that I can use to better support my son, which I know will be incredibly beneficial on this journey.
It’s rare to find someone who not only has the knowledge and expertise but also the heart to serve. If you are looking for someone who will truly listen and fight for what’s best for your child, I highly recommend Lauren Sabo. She is an incredible resource and advocate.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Allana kirik
Lauren went above and beyond when helping me with my situation. She is very knowledgeable and made me feel like I had someone in my corner. You won't regret retaining her to represent you!
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20 Mar, 2024 by Schreiber- sitz
Lauren Sabo is absolutely amazing. She is incredibly prompt and attentive, and her ability to understand and empathize is truly impressive. I cannot say enough positive things about this lawyer and human being.
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30 Jan, 2024 by Christina littleton
More than thankful for your listening, supporting, and finding paths for families we never knew where possible!
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07 Feb, 2025 by Noor idris
THSES GUYS ARE THE REAL DEAL IF YOUR HAVING ANY LEGAL PROBLEMS THEY’RE YOUR GO TO I PROMISE YOU WONT REGERT IT 👌🏾😄 THANK YOU DON AND BOWEN
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06 Feb, 2025 by Halana miller
04 Feb, 2025 by Bris kolumbus
29 Dec, 2024 by Ivan michetti
I am beyond grateful for the exceptional service provided by Attorney Gus Shihab. My case was unique and very difficult to be resolved, however his high experience and knowledge was the key for my success!. From our very first meeting, it was clear that I was in the hands of a knowledgeable and dedicated professional.
Thanks to their hard work and skill, my case was resolved successfully, and I couldn’t be happier with the result. If you are looking for an attorney who is professional, compassionate, and very effective, I highly recommend Attorney Shihab!.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Hanna alhijazeen
If you are looking for an immigration lawyer who combines expertise, dedication, and a genuine passion for helping his clients, look no further than Mr. Shihab of The Law Firm of Shihab & Associates. From the moment I first contacted his office, I knew I was in the right hands. Mr. Shihab and his team offer not only unparalleled knowledge of immigration law but also a level of professionalism and care that is truly exceptional.
Navigating the complexities of immigration law can be incredibly overwhelming, but Mr. Shihab’s calm, clear, and strategic approach made all the difference. He took the time to thoroughly explain every step of the process, answered all of my questions (no matter how small), and provided honest and realistic expectations. His deep understanding of the intricacies of immigration law, combined with his strategic thinking, gave me confidence throughout the entire process.
What sets Mr. Shihab apart is his genuine commitment to his clients. He doesn’t just treat you like a case number; he treats you with respect, compassion, and understanding. It’s evident that he truly cares about his clients’ futures, and he goes above and beyond to ensure the best possible outcome. He is not only a brilliant lawyer but also a compassionate advocate who truly understands the stakes involved.
Thanks to Mr. Shihab and his dedicated team, my immigration journey was a success. I couldn’t be more grateful for the tireless efforts, exceptional service, and successful result they delivered. If you are seeking an immigration attorney who will fight for your rights and ensure the best possible outcome, Mr. Shihab is, without question, the one to trust. He is, without a doubt, the best in the field.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Matt richardson
Amy was a consummate professional in her representation of me in my divorce. She provided excellent advice and never had a single lapse of any kind over the year-long period in which she represented me. She helped to put me in the best position to succeed on fair and equitable terms. I am completely satisfied with her work.
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29 Dec, 2024 by Ivan michetti
I am beyond grateful for the exceptional service provided by Attorney Gus Shihab. My case was unique and very difficult to be resolved, however his high experience and knowledge was the key for my success!. From our very first meeting, it was clear that I was in the hands of a knowledgeable and dedicated professional.
Thanks to their hard work and skill, my case was resolved successfully, and I couldn’t be happier with the result. If you are looking for an attorney who is professional, compassionate, and very effective, I highly recommend Attorney Shihab!.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Hanna alhijazeen
If you are looking for an immigration lawyer who combines expertise, dedication, and a genuine passion for helping his clients, look no further than Mr. Shihab of The Law Firm of Shihab & Associates. From the moment I first contacted his office, I knew I was in the right hands. Mr. Shihab and his team offer not only unparalleled knowledge of immigration law but also a level of professionalism and care that is truly exceptional.
Navigating the complexities of immigration law can be incredibly overwhelming, but Mr. Shihab’s calm, clear, and strategic approach made all the difference. He took the time to thoroughly explain every step of the process, answered all of my questions (no matter how small), and provided honest and realistic expectations. His deep understanding of the intricacies of immigration law, combined with his strategic thinking, gave me confidence throughout the entire process.
What sets Mr. Shihab apart is his genuine commitment to his clients. He doesn’t just treat you like a case number; he treats you with respect, compassion, and understanding. It’s evident that he truly cares about his clients’ futures, and he goes above and beyond to ensure the best possible outcome. He is not only a brilliant lawyer but also a compassionate advocate who truly understands the stakes involved.
Thanks to Mr. Shihab and his dedicated team, my immigration journey was a success. I couldn’t be more grateful for the tireless efforts, exceptional service, and successful result they delivered. If you are seeking an immigration attorney who will fight for your rights and ensure the best possible outcome, Mr. Shihab is, without question, the one to trust. He is, without a doubt, the best in the field.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Matt richardson
Amy was a consummate professional in her representation of me in my divorce. She provided excellent advice and never had a single lapse of any kind over the year-long period in which she represented me. She helped to put me in the best position to succeed on fair and equitable terms. I am completely satisfied with her work.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Weston hijazi
Me and my husband worked with Ms.Orsolya Hilt and I cannot recommend her enough. She was responsive, persistent, and trustworthy all good qualities for anyone and especially for a lawyer. I feel that this process can be very confusing especially for two people who have never done it before and having someone you can trust to guide you through the process is absolutely invaluable and also why I am highly recommending her.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Rola
Great lawyer, she is on top of everything. Orsolya is knowledgable and has amazing Communication skills, she keeps contact with client’s updating them with everything.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Virlimberg torrez
Hoy 23 de agosto de 2024 vine a consultar sobre mi estatus migratorio sobre el parole me ayudó a entender que camino tenía que seguir
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13 Jan, 2025 by Eric gibbs
Sally doesn’t mess around. She listens, learns, and applies subjectivity to defense of people who may have been wronged. I would highly recommend SRD to anyone in the area.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Pamela giles
They are so unprofessional they didn't even get a hold of my Witness. We had to track the Witness down ourselves. They closed our case before we found the witness. They're so unprofessional I wouldn't recommend them to nobody. Also, they never return calls. Don't waste your time with these attorneys. My daughter was also in the car. She had a different attorney and they are negotiating her pay right now as were speaking.
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21 Aug, 2024 by A dav
Sally was an absolutely amazing lawyer from start to finish. She was very knowledgeable, thorough and went to bat for me!! I came to her scared and unraveling about the case. Not one time did she make me feel as if I was a nuisance or overwhelming!! I appreciated her advocacy for me and her determination to make sure things worked out in fair just manner!! I would recommend her a million times over!! Her staff is just as great and welcoming. Just a great experience all around with Sally!!
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06 Oct, 2024 by Bea n
Fake as hell. Stay away
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21 Oct, 2023 by D h
A $4400 debt cost me close to 10,000 RIDICULOUS NEVER again!!! STAY AWAY from this firm
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17 Sep, 2022 by Rasheedat idowu
She is not a good attorney .we have three cases with her .No result no progress
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21 Dec, 2024 by A arshad
I wish there were a way to give 0 star , this new guy at office have 0 knowledge about immigration,
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26 Nov, 2024 by Joel nunez
23 Nov, 2024 by Abdullah mahmood
Mr. Rateb was really helpful guiding us through the I-485 process.
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21 Dec, 2024 by A arshad
I wish there were a way to give 0 star , this new guy at office have 0 knowledge about immigration,
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26 Nov, 2024 by Joel nunez
23 Nov, 2024 by Abdullah mahmood
Mr. Rateb was really helpful guiding us through the I-485 process.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Eva valdez
tube la dicha de conocerlo asen 9 anos y me llevo los casos de mis hijos de emigracion y me siento tan feliz ya salio la residencia de mi hijo ahora vamos ,por la de mi hija dr. Jason muy buena persona de corazon noble exelente persona gracias mil gracias y vamos a seguir por la siguiente
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04 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Impossible to get updates on cases. You leave messages over and over with no response. Takes your money quickly then doesn't deliver. Stay away!
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22 Apr, 2011 by Raja
Do not go by the looks, he may look young or inexperienced but actually he is a gem of an attorney. He will make you feel real comfortable and never in a hurry. I had an immigration issue which was first of its kind and he did a great job so far.
He used his knowledge to get few things done which many lawyers who are handling the similar case did not think of or didn't do it. His approach towards my case not only saved me money in difficult times but also relieved most of my mental stress.
I am glad I found Jason for my case and did refer to my friends who are equally happy with his help. He is so down to earth and I was surprised to learn that he even gave rides to the clients in emergencies. He is very empathetic and thinks from clients perspective too.
I wish and pretty positive about Jason becoming one of the famous Attorneys in Columbus in near future. I am sure no one will regret hiring or taking his advice. Jason you are awesome!!!!
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22 Nov, 2024 by James evans
Miss Williams was wondering to deal with very helpful she provided all the information that I needed to correct my mistakes also I can not stress enough on how awful some people are to work with on the phones these days as many of you already but Miss Williams was a pleasure to speak with very polite she allowed me to explain myself and honestly one of the nicest phones I’ve had all week I was more than happy to pay my debt immediately. If you use this firm I hope you ask for miss Williams
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19 Aug, 2024 by Vssugakookie *
I was in an automobile accident in April of this year. My car was rear ended with me and my two children in inside. My two children were not injured by very much shaken. I on the other hand injured my shoulder pretty badly. After a visit to the ER I contacted R.M.B the very next day the that the accidnt happened and got Sarina Mitchell as my representative. She was very efficent and quick in her responses. I was treated so well and professionally! I had never been in this type of situation before and didnt even know what the first steps were but she walked me through and explained every process. Not only did she get me a settlement within 6 months after my accident, following many doctors appointments and physical therapy, but she was also able to get me well over what i had thought id receive! If i ever encounter another incident like that (knock on wood that never happens again) i know exactly who to call and ask for!
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24 Jul, 2024 by Mike redding
Will update later.
Just trying to find a lawyer to listen to you and not write you off, or don't care to Hear you out. These are the best lawyers hands down!! From start to finish!!
From that first text to now has been point on.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Matt richardson
Amy was a consummate professional in her representation of me in my divorce. She provided excellent advice and never had a single lapse of any kind over the year-long period in which she represented me. She helped to put me in the best position to succeed on fair and equitable terms. I am completely satisfied with her work.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Victoria lópez jiménez
05 Sep, 2024 by Jesse lee
29 Jun, 2024 by Samir espinoza
02 Feb, 2024 by Vee hottle
06 Aug, 2023 by Melissa cavanagh
23 Apr, 2024 by Darrell
Hate it
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27 Jun, 2020 by Jennifer mitchell
We were treated with great respect and compassion. Calls were answered and returned. All were quite knowledgeable and efficient.
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14 Oct, 2019 by Susan harris
11 Oct, 2023 by Haley
Mark has been our attorney through my husbands immigration process. He is communicative, thorough, and made the process as stress free as possible for us. I would recommend him for anyone looking for a fantastic immigration attorney!
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27 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
I am reviewing this lawyer on Asylum application, so if you’re looking for another kind of advice, read the other reviews. With my asylum application, he took everything I gave him and submitted it as it is. He didn’t do any research or add news articles. He gave us wrong information about changing the address. One family member asked him if they move to another state, will that move their asylum application to another asylum office? He said NO, as long as you filed here with your family members, you are going to interview with them. USCIS has sent us different interview dates at the Chicago office except for that family member who changed the address. When we went there and explained to them that our lawyer has told us to do that and it would not move the case to another office. We also explained that the family member lives with us more than 50% of the year, they refused to interview the family member. They told us that your lawyer has given you wrong information, and that interviewing this family member is not possible even if they change their address at the office. As long as the family member is over 21 of age, he/she needs to file separately, and there’s no way that this member is tied to the family. I later learned that you have to support your asylum application with news articles that show the country conditions. Mark did not put one news article in our asylum application. The only additional item he put (other than the evidence we provided) is the human right report of my country. Another family member has applied for asylum in another country and he has won. It is the same case I was filing here except that it was well prepared and supported with evidence and news articles. Now, I am facing removal proceedings at immigration court all because my case was not well prepared. I am now talking to many lawyers and deciding which one I am going to hire. It was my mistake that I didn’t do a lot of research about lawyers and went to the first lawyer I knew in the USA. You should always do your research about who you’re going to hire because it is detrimental to your case.
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12 Jul, 2019 by Joseph
In the present political environment, issues of immigration are no longer straightforward. Notwithstanding the legitimacy of your claim, it could be complicated. Therefore, it makes a lot of sense to consult an immigration attorney. I did, and I have now realized it was a best decision I ever took. A friend directed me to contact Mark Nesbit’s office when I began my green card application. The result proved to be more than satisfactory. Mark is a professional par excellence. Quite affable, straightforward, tactful, and understanding. When dealing with him, make sure you place value on time and punctuality. Count on Mark for a positive determination of your case!!
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26 Dec, 2024 by Jeremiah poole
Sometimes in life we make poor choices and end up having the consequences of those choices follow us in our lives. The consequences can be far greater than just going to jail or fines. I have had to face these consequences and it has followed me into my new life. Meade law Group has been fighting on my behalf to give me a true new start in life. We are still in the process, although saying that… they have already changed some of what was following me. With their help and strategies I am 3 misdemeanors less and on my way to having a completely clean record. Since the beginning they have been very forward with me and have kept in touch with me guiding me through the process. It’s taken a bit longer than I anticipated but when you are fighting for something as important as the rest of your life… Patience is definitely required. Meade Law Group is incredibly professional and Heidi has been great to work with. In fact all the Ladies that have contacted me have been incredibly sweet and helpful. I’m looking forward to the end of this process and believe I will finally have the new beginning I’ve longed for, for so long.
Thank you Meade Law Group I highly recommend your council and Work!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Towtruck guitar life
He is an amazing attorney I thought my wife was over and I explained my case to him and he reassured me about everything he was very clear. Me and darren kept contact thow the hole case i was cleared of the Allegations that were not true and. With the amazing help that darren attorney The allegations were drunk. II 100%.
Suggest using Darren. He helped me out out of a really bad area. And he brought Justice. And showing I was innocent and everything. He is an amazing attorney. He did an amazing job. If I'm ever in a situation I need his help again, he's the one who I'm calling.
And thank you again, Darren, and you're entire team that. Help me out. And got me out of the c*** that I was facing.
On the allegation that was not true show I give him a 1000% Thank you.
Mead, lawn. I hope you have an amazing New Year
Have a great day.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Tome spears
Follow up to my last review- I was contacted by an attorney and he was awesome! He listened to situation and assured me if they are not able to assist me they will point me in the right direction to get the kind of attorney needed for me and my situation.
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01 Jan, 2025 by Bb pp
From day one, he was sharp, professional, and absolutely no-nonsense about getting the best possible outcome. He didn’t sugarcoat anything but somehow made the legal process feel less daunting. His stern demeanor in the courtroom was matched only by his personable nature outside of it, which made me feel like I was not just a client, but a priority.
If you’re looking for a family attorney who’s equal parts pit bull and people person, look no further than Attorney Hank Sonderman. He helped me win sole custody of my daughter, and I couldn’t be more grateful—or impressed. Thank you, again!
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28 Dec, 2024 by Wanda hudson
Attorney Hank provided exceptional representation for my son in his custody case. He understands the law and has a strong presence in the courtroom. He is very professional and knowledgeable and was genuinely committed to reaching a favorable outcome for my son. He was always available to answer questions and he fought for what was best for my granddaughter. We LOVE Hank Sonderman and HIGHLY recommend him.
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24 Dec, 2024 by Bailey mackey
09 Dec, 2024 by Jerimy bell
Been my law firm for 6 years now and they are the best and care the most
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06 Dec, 2024 by Monica barnes
I did not have a great experience with Gregory Williams. Just finalized my probate case after 3 years after the the loss of my mom. He was not a good legal counsel and the only thing he did on my behalf was file the paperwork and set up zoom calls. I could have done all this on my own. My sister and I had our own attorney's because we could not agree on things but when it came to Gregory fighting for me he was never able to come through there was always an excuse. My sister took everything out of our mom's house and never did he discuss with me because I was also co-executor I could remove things as well it was excuse after excuse. In the end my sister's attorney was the winner. I felt like Gregory was only concerned about the $$$ and definitely did not look out for my best interest. With that being said I ended up with nothing BUT attorney fee's. I had to pay for his attorney fee's and his new law firm which he moved there toward end of 2023 and their expenses were more than Gregory and had never spoke with anyone there or agreed to their fees since initially started out with Gregory. What I received from my experience is that moving forward this will NEVER happen to my two daughters. Attorney's care nothing about your loss or your grief. At least this law firm. He never had my back for me! Every request I asked for never honored always dismissed. Gregory ended up being more expensive than my sister's attorney and he did more on this probate than Gregory!! Just a joke overall!
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11 May, 2024 by Taylor kay rose simmons
Great
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22 Nov, 2024 by Robert lewis iv
HANDS DOWN the most professional atmosphere! They make you feel like family instead of just a client. Mrs. Brown was absolutely amazing in ALL aspects! Highly recommend for any legal matters. I would definitely give a 10/10 stars if possible.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Nicole f
I enlisted Chanda to help me negotiate a severance agreement with my former employer. On our consultation call, she was forthright, even taking time to suggest steps I could take first without the need to pay for her services. Once I decided to move forward with the firm's services, she was prompt, honest, and made what could have been a very stressful process as painless as possible for me. We ultimately reached a quick, satisfactory conclusion to the negotiations. I recommend Walton and Brown to anyone with a need for assistance with employment or labor issues.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Chris venson
26 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Professional but not very knowledgeable in Immigration intricacies. If you have a straight forward case, than they will take care of you, but if you have complications, look else where.
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29 Jun, 2024 by Samir espinoza
02 Feb, 2024 by Vee hottle
06 Aug, 2023 by Melissa cavanagh
23 Apr, 2024 by Darrell
Hate it
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27 Jun, 2020 by Jennifer mitchell
We were treated with great respect and compassion. Calls were answered and returned. All were quite knowledgeable and efficient.
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14 Oct, 2019 by Susan harris
23 Apr, 2024 by Darrell
Hate it
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27 Jun, 2020 by Jennifer mitchell
We were treated with great respect and compassion. Calls were answered and returned. All were quite knowledgeable and efficient.
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14 Oct, 2019 by Susan harris
05 Jun, 2024 by Kadra noor
03 Feb, 2024 by Serenity mirabito
David Abromowitz was the lawyer I hired to help set up my IV Hydration and Vitamin Infusion business. He charged me quadruple what was discussed (quoted me 3.5-5K - charged me over 20K and I paid a final amount of OVER 12k - astronomical amount) and took 3 times as long to complete the job. Three other nurses in my coaching group (NursePreneurs) had similar experiences with him and another nurse, coincidentally, came forward today from a different IV Hydration/Vitamin Infusion business reporting the same story. RNs - be warned! He is dishonest and will overcharge you! I notified the BBB but his response was "I'm sorry she didn't understand". You and I both know the truth, Mr. Abromowitz. You were intentionally dishonest. It's people like you that give lawyers a bad name. All these RNs trusted you, I trusted you. Despite your lawyerly response to this review - you and I know the truth.
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26 Aug, 2023 by Clyde days
Very unprofessional. I paid Jessica $350; all she did was eat her breakfast, and she gave me some paperwork. She was too rude even to answer any questions and never answered my calls after the original consultation . She then claimed to have sent me several emails and demanded that I answer her (her way to get rid of me as a client) to sever her services; at this point, I realized it was best to cut my losses and get a lawyer who cared. Please don't waste your time with this one; she is a high-priced waste of your time.
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17 Jun, 2022 by Olukayode aluko
22 Dec, 2020 by Jeremy davis
Strictly giving them a 1 star because they employ a lying politician in Larry Obhof. I wouldn't touch them with a 10 foot pole.
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17 Nov, 2019 by Belinda russell
I love the view from their atrium!!
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FAQs
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What an Immigration Lawyer Can Do for You
An immigration lawyer specializes in helping individuals, families, and businesses navigate the complex immigration process. These lawyers provide legal guidance on various immigration matters, such as obtaining visas, gaining permanent residency (green cards), applying for citizenship, and defending clients in deportation or removal proceedings. Immigration lawyers also assist with employment-based immigration, asylum applications, and resolving issues related to visas or immigration status.
Whether you're trying to immigrate to the U.S., facing deportation, or sponsoring an employee or family member for a visa, an immigration lawyer can help you understand your legal options and navigate the often complicated legal system.
When Should I Hire an Immigration Lawyer?
Hiring an immigration lawyer is beneficial in many situations where you are dealing with U.S. immigration laws, whether for personal or business reasons. Common reasons to hire an immigration lawyer include:
- Visa applications: If you need assistance applying for a visa, whether it's a work visa (H-1B), student visa (F-1), or tourist visa (B-1/B-2), a lawyer can help ensure the application is properly completed and submitted.
- Green card applications: If you're seeking permanent residency, an immigration lawyer can guide you through the process, whether through family sponsorship, employment, or the Diversity Visa (lottery) program.
- Deportation or removal defense: If you’re facing deportation or removal from the U.S., a lawyer can defend your case in immigration court and seek to prevent removal.
- Asylum applications: If you’re seeking asylum due to persecution or fear of persecution in your home country, a lawyer can help you prepare a strong case and file for asylum.
- Family reunification: If you're a U.S. citizen or permanent resident looking to bring family members to the U.S., a lawyer can assist with the family sponsorship process.
- Citizenship and naturalization: If you're ready to apply for U.S. citizenship, a lawyer can help you navigate the naturalization process and ensure you meet all the requirements.
- Business immigration: If you're an employer seeking to hire foreign workers, a lawyer can assist with employment-based visas, labor certification, and compliance with immigration regulations.
- Special immigration categories: Immigration lawyers also handle complex cases, such as visas for victims of human trafficking (T visa), crime victims (U visa), or those seeking Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
Hiring an immigration lawyer early in the process can help you avoid delays, errors, and possible denials due to incomplete or incorrect applications.
What Does an Immigration Lawyer Do?
An immigration lawyer provides a wide range of services to help clients with their immigration needs, whether personal or business-related. Their tasks often include:
- Assisting with visa applications: Helping clients fill out and submit visa applications, ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate.
- Filing for green cards and permanent residency: Guiding clients through the process of applying for a green card, including family-based, employment-based, or other forms of residency.
- Defending against deportation or removal: Representing clients in immigration court who are facing deportation and working to prevent removal from the U.S.
- Preparing asylum cases: Assisting clients in applying for asylum based on fear of persecution in their home country due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
- Handling citizenship applications: Helping lawful permanent residents apply for naturalization and ensuring they meet all the legal requirements for U.S. citizenship.
- Employment-based immigration: Assisting employers with the process of sponsoring foreign workers for temporary or permanent visas, including H-1B, L-1, and EB-1 through EB-5 visas.
- Representation in immigration interviews: Preparing clients for immigration interviews and attending interviews at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offices.
- Appealing denied applications: If a visa, green card, or citizenship application is denied, a lawyer can file appeals or motions to reopen or reconsider the case.
How Are Immigration Lawyers Paid?
Immigration lawyers generally charge for their services based on the type of immigration case and the complexity of the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many immigration lawyers charge a flat fee for specific services, such as preparing a visa application, green card petition, or citizenship application. Flat fees help clients know upfront what the legal costs will be for a particular service.
- Hourly rate: For more complex cases, such as deportation defense or appeals, some lawyers charge by the hour. Hourly rates vary depending on the lawyer's experience and the complexity of the case.
- Retainer: For ongoing immigration matters, some clients may need to pay a retainer, which is an upfront payment billed against as the lawyer works on the case.
- Pro bono or sliding scale: Some immigration lawyers or nonprofit organizations may offer free or low-cost services for clients with limited financial means, particularly in asylum or humanitarian cases.
It’s essential to discuss the fee structure with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand the costs and payment arrangements.
How Much Does an Immigration Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an immigration lawyer varies based on the type of legal service required, the lawyer's experience, and the complexity of the case. General cost estimates include:
- Visa applications: For help with visa applications (e.g., H-1B, L-1, F-1), legal fees may range from $2,000 to $7,500, depending on the complexity and the type of visa.
- Green card applications: Fees for family-based or employment-based green card applications typically range from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the case.
- Deportation defense: For defending clients in removal proceedings, costs can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case and how long the case takes.
- Asylum cases: Asylum applications may range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on whether the case is defensive (in removal proceedings) or affirmative (not in removal proceedings).
- Citizenship applications: Legal fees for filing a naturalization application usually range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the client’s immigration history.
- Business immigration services: Fees for assisting businesses with employment-based visas (such as H-1B or EB-5 visas) often range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of costs and fee arrangements before proceeding with legal services.
Top Questions to Ask an Immigration Lawyer
Before hiring an immigration lawyer, it's essential to ask questions to ensure they have the experience and expertise to handle your case effectively. Important questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with immigration cases like mine?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s family-based immigration, employment visas, or asylum. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee, hourly rate, or retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of your case and the potential outcomes, including any challenges you might face. -
How long will the process take?
Immigration cases can take time, so ask how long it may take to process your application or resolve your legal issue. -
Will you handle my case personally?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of your case. Make sure you know who will be working on your case directly. -
What documents do I need to provide?
Ask the lawyer about the documentation required to support your case, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or employment contracts.
How to Check the Credibility of an Immigration Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable immigration lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Check their state bar status: Confirm with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no disciplinary actions against them.
- Look for specific immigration law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in immigration law and have experience handling cases like yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients who can speak to their ability to handle immigration cases.
- Check for industry affiliations: Membership in organizations like the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) can indicate the lawyer’s expertise and commitment to immigration law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with an immigration lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Passport and immigration documents: Bring your passport, visa, and any documents related to your current immigration status.
- Family documents: If you're applying for a family-based visa or green card, bring marriage certificates, birth certificates, and proof of family relationships.
- Employment information: For employment-based visas, provide your employment contract, offer letter, or other documentation of your job.
- Criminal records (if applicable): If you have any criminal history, bring copies of court records and other relevant documents.
- Timeline of events: Provide a clear timeline of any prior immigration applications, visas, or issues with immigration authorities.
- List of questions: Prepare any questions you have about your immigration case, the process, costs, and the likelihood of success.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer understand your case more effectively and get the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.
