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16 Jan, 2025 by Tuan nguyen
My case is extremely complicated, with a history of 20 years. It is a black hole. I sought out the best lawyer in New Jersey and a couple of recommended lawyers with real-life proven records, but they either denied or hesitated to take on my case. McKinney Law Group transformed my case into a success wonder. His superior knowledge, case-handling professionalism, and calm and well-prepared demeanor made my case so simple and straightforward. I do not feel like I have an interview at all. It is merely a conversation getting to know about us. He outlined the entire process and what-if scenarios, instilled the confidence with questions and answers tailored to our case and accompanied us throughout the interviews.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Hermila ruiz
Ella es muy amable mikki..ella me hecho la mano con mi visa U..
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12 Nov, 2024 by Dan hoslo
We hired Chris McKinney firm to help with the green card application process for my wife. Chris is very knowledgeable, accurate and concise. Chris and his staff patiently answered and addressed all our questions and concerns. He is a sincere and skillful lawyer who will help addressing any immigration matters. We successfully obtained the green card in six months. I highly recommend him without any reservation. Thank you very much Chris. Dan H.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Cesar
Erika Jurado-Graham y su Equipo muy profecionales en sus trabajos y supper Amables.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Hugo
Mi proceso fue como exactamente como la abogada me dijo el día de mi entrevista, sin rodeos y falsos argumentos me indicó el proceso y los tiempos que se llevaría, y así fue, en Febrero se mandó mi petición y hoy septiembre 04 tengo mi residencia! Mi opinión es que la abogada y su grupo de trabajo fue honesto y profesional. Recomiendo a su firma para tu caso de inmigración.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Puedo decir con toda confianza y gratitud el buen sevicio y atencion que la abogada Erika Jurado y sus asistentes en especial la Srita: Paloma, prestando atencion e interes en mi caso respondiendo todas mis dudas e inquietudes. Muy agradecida con Dios por poner personas que ayudan aparte de hacer su trabajo. Mi gradecimiento y bendiciones
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06 Feb, 2024 by Dr.shama sharma
My most sincere thanks for Top and best of the best very Professional,brilliant absolutely phenomenal international recognized personality Ms.Rekha Sharma Crawford. Rekha ma'am jee, I admire your excellent representation to brought my
brother in USA with Green Card.
Words will never explain the gratitude I have in my heart. All starts in the sky are not enough to rating your ability and your priceless work. Rekha ma'am jee you're ROCK STAR Immigration attorney. I'm feeling, I am in a dream. You fought for me and made it happened. Your excellent representation gave a life to my 23 old dead family petition. I have no words to explain how thankful I am.
Rekha sharma crawford law firm is truly a blessing for those individuals, whom stuck in a bad situation just like me. Ms.Rekha Sharma Crawford were with me on my every step. She is very beautiful with very kind, soft and beautiful heart. I never met a polite and decent lady like Ms.Rekha ma'am. She is a Real gem. Many many thanks and blessings to Rekha ma'am jee.
Rekha ma'am jee I don't know how I say you thank you.
Thank you so so much.
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05 Apr, 2023 by Dr shama sharma
I have never give a review to anyone, but the purpose of this review to help those individuals whom spending lots of money attorney to attorney and looking for a solid transparent immigration lawyer to help them, I had a bad situation before I spoke to Rekha ma'am. Every attorney told me NO HOPE in my case, file a new petition. I have had a 23 year old case has been closed by immigration. I saw Rekha Ma'am on several TV talk shows talking about immigration, that's how I found Rekha ma'am just like guardian angel, I made a appointment I was very nervous to call Ms. Rekha because she is a globally recognized immigration personality. I was not in good shape, when I called Rekha ma'am she was so kind, caring and went beyond her requirements and responsibilities in order to help me to collect the pieces of my life, make me strong and brave which situation I'm going through, I asked Rekha ma'am to help me to file a new family petition, but she suggested me to gave a try to reinstated the closed dead petition. In her work, she is very honest, give you clear and solid information , super fast, Ms. Rekha sent the reinstate request to the immigration on the same day I had an appointment with her. I didn't know how to download files, her staff is so generous to do everything for me. the level of efforts excellence, She is very intelligent, super responsive. I have no words to describes Ms. Rekha ma'am. Sharma-Crawford law firm is the best of the best very Professional and very well organized law firm
Thank you Rekha ma'am jee with lots of blessings, God bless you what you're doing for all hopeless people just like me,
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13 May, 2022 by Francisco ayuso
Thanks to Mrs Sharma-crawford and her hard work i was able to obtain my visa u,after it was denied. Rheka work so hard until it was done . Words can't not explain how thankful I am.
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20 May, 2024 by Dirk
Leon and his team are extremely knowledgeable, efficient, and ethical beyond reproach. We experienced Leon and his team as honest, helpful and always on top of their game. We at no stage felt like a number or that they were only in it for their fees. Our interests were at all times put first.
Given Leon’s years of experience in his field he is very much in tune with the anxieties experienced by his clients during the immigration process and he never left us feeling insecure. Our enquiries were answered promptly and professionally. W can without reservation endorse this firm.
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26 Nov, 2022 by Milne
I highly recommend Leon Versfeld!
I hired Leon to apply for an EB1 green card as a specialist in my field. I had lots of anxiety about it being approved as it's one of the most difficult green cards to obtain, however it was approved in 7 weeks.
After becoming a permanent resident, my life and my business were never better and for 5 years I was counting the days to be able to apply for naturalization.
I hired Leon again to apply for Naturalization.
I am now a US Citizen! A lifelong dream!
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14 Oct, 2022 by Allen
Leon and his team have helped me with an L1 visa (as a one man business, I might add) and renewals of this visa since 2015, for a minor investment in processing and renewal fees, which over the entire period cost less than $100 000. My new renewed visa has just been issued and valid for another 2 years. So from 2015 till end of 2024 (total of 9 years), the investment is well worth it. Leon and his team are professional, thorough, and understanding. I highly recommend using them to navigate, what can otherwise be, a complicated process, where the correct guidance can be lacking from others. I am a fan of Leon and his team!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Taylor botts
24 Sep, 2024 by Tonya flegler
I knew my son was facing a very serious charge, I paid 20,000 for representation that I feel a public defender could have done. I felt like he absolutely did not fight for my son at all, whatever the prosecutor said , is what it was. My son has never been in any type of trouble, and any time I would mention anything with his case that I looked up on my own he would say oh that doesn’t apply to his case. My son was never showed any evidence that they supposedly had against him. Communication with the attorney was not the best, he would respond when it was convenient. I was told after the case was over, if you ever have any questions feel free to reach out, I did and never heard back from him. I guess after getting his money, his job was done…. Don’t say reach out with questions if you know you’re not going to keep your word. He had me believing the whole time he would do all he could to help my son, he still got screwed in the end.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Bryan manion
My case involved several delays that were likely not directly anyone's fault, up to and, very literally, including the weather. In the end, Mr. Christie was able to get me a better result than I expected. I'm a free man. I thank him for his efforts and recommend hiring him.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Danielle hernandez
We are from Texas. While visiting KC my husband received a speeding ticket and missed the deadline to plead or pay. Called Mr Kane’s office and he had it dismissed in less than 24hours without my husband having to make a trip for court. Price was very reasonable as well! 10/10 highly recommended!
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28 Jan, 2025 by Chris lyon
I received a speeding ticket on the highway, so I contacted Kane Law Office. I spoke with Shannon the paralegal on the phone. She was very professional, and was able to answer a lot of my questions and really make me feel at ease about this! I was updated on my case progress by both Shannon and Brandon Kane. Was very impressed with how quickly everything was taking care of!!!! Great people I would highly recommend!!!! Thankyou Kane Law Office
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22 Jan, 2025 by Gabe monroy
Great experience and fast communication. Would highly recommend.
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28 Apr, 2019 by Swas
Had great and professional representation from Jonathan regarding my application for immigration change of status
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12 Jul, 2018 by Michelle wilshusen
I hired Kathleen Irish to fix my immigration issue. This woman is very compassionate and understanding with my financial situation. All she cares is to get your legal status situated and be reunited with your family! I love this woman and will always recommend her! Thank you so much for all your hardwork!
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01 Jan, 2016 by Karina
Our experience with Mrs. Martinez was definitely stress free. This entire office if dedicated to truly helping others. From the first phone call to the last letter, they are with you. Honest, dependable, genuine. What I loved about Andrea, she honestly got to know our family. I truly felt part of the process. Also our expenditures were given to us from the beginning, no hidden fees, no lies. Please don't wait another day, left wondering what your process could be. Call now for a consultation, you wont regret it! This group is truly authentic.
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21 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
We were very lucky to have Andrea Martinez as our attorney. I got my status adjusted with no problems, everything was done very professional and we were very pleased with everything, and for sure i recommend her to anyone who has an immigration related problem. Thank you.
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03 Dec, 2014 by Ivy
My husband and I hired Andrea as our immigration lawyer in July 2014, and I received my green card in November 2014. Without Andrea's professional advice and help, my immigration process wouldn't be so easy and completed so successfully! We are very happy that we made the right choice by hiring Andrea to represent us. I enthusiastically recommend her without any reservation.
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22 Jul, 2014 by Bryan
Mr. Bloom was very easy to work with and helped us accomplish what we wanted to do in a timely and very affordable manner. I would highly recommend his services.
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19 Jul, 2014 by Timothy
Excellent and affordable legal services for my wife and family! Chris is attentive and able to answer a wide variety of questions. He is family oriented, friendly and easy to work with. He accommodated our needs and worked quickly to finish a large amount of documents for us. He prepared Wills/Living Wills and Trusts for us and helped us in the early stages of our auto accident insurance litigation. He went out of his way to get us what we needed and will continue getting our business! 5 STARS!
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17 Jul, 2014 by Jason
Chris, did a great job in helping me make a legal decision that involved my insurance company and an outstanding payment that they were collecting on. I have used Chris for a number of years for specific advise such as how to register an LLC online to more general advise and just some who is a "quallified listener". He has helped me make business decisions that have helped me propel my service business forward.
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29 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
After years of frustration and even being deceived from a horrible lawyer, I found Genevra and I could not be any happier with her representation. My case was very difficult, 2 previous AOS packages 1 denied, 1 rejected, I was under proceedings, etc. I came to her mid-case, asking for help to answer the RFEs on my 3rd attempt. I am in deep luck. Genevra and her staff are extremely knowledgeable and helpful. The moment I read the package she prepared on my behalf and sent out to USCIS, I was in tears. She speaks out exactly what I wanted to say but wasn't able to; she addresses every single RFE with concrete details that cannot be disputed. Very soon after, my case was approved without any more RFE. Even now that she is no longer representing me, she still spares time to help out with my other questions - with the same zeal and knowledge as if I was still her client. From a desperate individual without any job or school prospect, I am now doing great in school and looking forwards to the best future, all thanks to Genevra and her wonderful staffs.
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15 Mar, 2023 by Ryan reno
I would highly recommend Leon Davis to represent you in any matter. Leon is very personable, knowledgeable, detail oriented and easy to contact. He took on my case and fought hard to resolve the matter with a tremendous outcome. Without having Leon on my side, I am certain my outcome would have taken a turn for the worst. Again, Leon is a great guy/lawyer and I would not have anyone else represent me if needed in the future.
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01 Mar, 2023 by Noah morse
From the very beginning Mr. Davis treated me with the utmost respect, like I was a person, regardless of my charges. He was appointed to me the first time and because of how could he was I hired him again. He exceeded expectations every time and for that I’m forever grateful. HIRE HIM!
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30 Sep, 2021 by Kim shukeat
4.2
10 Reviews
4.5
186 Reviews
15 Jan, 2025 by Bailey fynmore
Wonderful law firm. They have exceeded my expectations every time. We recently had a consultation with Lucy Betteridge. She was incredibly kind and patient with us about everything. She shared excellent knowledge and helped with all we needed. Looking forward to working with her. Highly recommend!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Eloy torres
18 Nov, 2024 by Cristobal perez
My buen servicio y muy Buena comunicacion Todo a tiempo Todo Bien organisado yo
lo recomiendo
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15 Aug, 2024 by Angel r. martinez
awesome job, highly recommend to anyone needing legal service.
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04 Oct, 2023 by Holly neri
16 Aug, 2023 by Manny martin
Not your attorney for immigration needs
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08 Feb, 2022 by Angela scott
18 Nov, 2020 by Matt clark
21 Jan, 2020 by Jeffrey dance
23 Jan, 2025 by Keith prinkey
This place is scandalous. I called to merely get information. I was transferred to a female lawyer who told me to tell her about my case. She didn’t even let me finish before she cut me off to say they won’t take the case. She also confirmed they handle little to no malpractice cases so I asked why they appear at the top when searching malpractice lawyers. I told her, if you don’t handle malpractice then that is misrepresentation of services. She really got upset and hung up on me for merely making a comment.
She also confirmed they only take cases where they KNOW a settlement is coming.
I’m more concerned with the level of disrespect from this office. Even their receptionist was ignorant. What kind of law office is rude to people?
Lawyers are NOT allowed to misrepresent their services or mislead people in any way. Those google results are more than misleading, it says ‘we handle these type of cases’ when I’m reality they do not. As a software developer myself I know this was done on purpose. I know exactly what is needed to appear in google search results. They would not appear in malpractice results if they did not put it in their title or headers on their pages. They clearly have malpractice somewhere with in their website either in a title element or headers. Google literally scrapes the pages for such data lol.
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19 Dec, 2024 by W c
Angela receptionist very rude and did not have a feeling of understanding and compassion with speaking with her. She seems to not like her job in customer service.
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28 Nov, 2024 by Jeff chapman
Carl Mueller was excellent. He stood up to the work comp insurance and got both surgeries I needed. I was always able to contact him with questions or problems that had arisen any time during the 2 years. He fought and and I received the monetary damages I deserved. I would recommend Edelman & Thompson to anyone.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Keith prinkey
This place is scandalous. I called to merely get information. I was transferred to a female lawyer who told me to tell her about my case. She didn’t even let me finish before she cut me off to say they won’t take the case. She also confirmed they handle little to no malpractice cases so I asked why they appear at the top when searching malpractice lawyers. I told her, if you don’t handle malpractice then that is misrepresentation of services. She really got upset and hung up on me for merely making a comment.
She also confirmed they only take cases where they KNOW a settlement is coming.
I’m more concerned with the level of disrespect from this office. Even their receptionist was ignorant. What kind of law office is rude to people?
Lawyers are NOT allowed to misrepresent their services or mislead people in any way. Those google results are more than misleading, it says ‘we handle these type of cases’ when I’m reality they do not. As a software developer myself I know this was done on purpose. I know exactly what is needed to appear in google search results. They would not appear in malpractice results if they did not put it in their title or headers on their pages. They clearly have malpractice somewhere with in their website either in a title element or headers. Google literally scrapes the pages for such data lol.
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19 Dec, 2024 by W c
Angela receptionist very rude and did not have a feeling of understanding and compassion with speaking with her. She seems to not like her job in customer service.
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28 Nov, 2024 by Jeff chapman
Carl Mueller was excellent. He stood up to the work comp insurance and got both surgeries I needed. I was always able to contact him with questions or problems that had arisen any time during the 2 years. He fought and and I received the monetary damages I deserved. I would recommend Edelman & Thompson to anyone.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Joey ford
Luke updated our estate planning documents and also worked with our 18 year-old son to get powers of attorney and will documents created now that he is an adult. Luke made it very easy for all of us even though we own a business and had a bit more complex situation. Pricing was fair and process was painless. He took care of everything he could and provided specific instructions for things that we need to do. I highly recommend Luke Finocchario Estate Planning.
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24 Jan, 2024 by James williams
13 Jan, 2024 by Sarah kessler
Mr. Finocchario was so knowledgeable and patient with all our questions. He made a difficult process manageable. Thank you!
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15 Jan, 2025 by Bailey fynmore
Wonderful law firm. They have exceeded my expectations every time. We recently had a consultation with Lucy Betteridge. She was incredibly kind and patient with us about everything. She shared excellent knowledge and helped with all we needed. Looking forward to working with her. Highly recommend!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Eloy torres
18 Nov, 2024 by Cristobal perez
My buen servicio y muy Buena comunicacion Todo a tiempo Todo Bien organisado yo
lo recomiendo
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19 Dec, 2024 by Mike schott
⭐️⭐️⭐️⁷
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07 Dec, 2024 by Jacque voss
I just read the review from Mindy and it seems that she might have some issues that shes not wanting others to know. I've had nothing but positive and professional experiences with him and his law firm always. I've known him and he's represented me for the last 10 years. Times have changed and cash app is used by businesses everywhere. Im not sure what this girl has up her sleeve but if she was tape recording it seems she was trying to set something up! Matt is a very good attorney and gets you results... Looks like he was being nice and gave you a discount if he only got $400. Especially on a house call! Sorry, it just bothered me when i read this bc she's attacking his character and Matt is very compassionate and cares about his clients!
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01 Dec, 2024 by Josue padilla
Positive experience. Easy to reach and talk to. I would consider Matt O’Connor. A trustworthy lawyer.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Esperanza deleon
05 Jan, 2024 by Thomas arnspiger
Great representation. My chapter 7 was taken care of by Mr. Sader. It was easy and painless. Upfront cost is a bit daunting, but if you can afford it, this is the way to go. Highly recommend.
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10 Dec, 2023 by Monica williams
They are patient, kind and most of all through!
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17 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
I have used this office before and received really good information and friendly service from Rekha Sharma-Crawford. We decided to drop our other lawyer (from a different office) and use this office instead. When we got partnered with Lucy Betteridge we didn’t feel as comfortable with the way she spoke and acted due to her not keeping good eye contact and using lots of filler words like so and ummm for roughly 8 minutes with no new information that Rekha didn’t already cover with us, it seemed more like she was stringing us along for as long as possible to just make a quick buck. She sounded a little scared brained and also looked very unkempt. It may have been an off day for her but it was a bad first impression. On top of that we are required to submit I list of things we want to discuss during our consultation and paperwork for them to review prior. When she did not bring up any of the questions we submitted or any of the paperwork we submitted I requested if we could resume our meeting with another lawyer in the office. She then proceeded to get very defensive and say that we were insulting her and started to insult us next. She was informing me of her fee/retainer saying they don’t review documents and suggested that I couldn’t afford it. When I stated I could and would pay the amount she said but I would just feel more comfortable with someone else’s service and asked if she could arrange that for use she got even more rude saying she doesn’t work for us and we can do it ourselves but good luck with another lawyer in the office before hanging up on me. I then called the office phone and spoke to the receptionist asking for the rest of our consultation to be done by another lawyer. She placed me on hold and I was informed that Lucy said we were not a good fit for the office and black listed us. Lucy’s lack of professionalism was unbelievable. As a lawyer I believe she would be used to getting asked hard questions and have to respond in a professional manner. I guess when no one is around to keep her accountable for her actions she can do and say whatever she likes without repercussions from her employers.
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17 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
I have used this office before and received really good information and friendly service from Rekha Sharma-Crawford. We decided to drop our other lawyer (from a different office) and use this office instead. When we got partnered with Lucy Betteridge we didn’t feel as comfortable with the way she spoke and acted due to her not keeping good eye contact and using lots of filler words like so and ummm for roughly 8 minutes with no new information that Rekha didn’t already cover with us, it seemed more like she was stringing us along for as long as possible to just make a quick buck. She sounded a little scared brained and also looked very unkempt. It may have been an off day for her but it was a bad first impression. On top of that we are required to submit I list of things we want to discuss during our consultation and paperwork for them to review prior. When she did not bring up any of the questions we submitted or any of the paperwork we submitted I requested if we could resume our meeting with another lawyer in the office. She then proceeded to get very defensive and say that we were insulting her and started to insult us next. She was informing me of her fee/retainer saying they don’t review documents and suggested that I couldn’t afford it. When I stated I could and would pay the amount she said but I would just feel more comfortable with someone else’s service and asked if she could arrange that for use she got even more rude saying she doesn’t work for us and we can do it ourselves but good luck with another lawyer in the office before hanging up on me. I then called the office phone and spoke to the receptionist asking for the rest of our consultation to be done by another lawyer. She placed me on hold and I was informed that Lucy said we were not a good fit for the office and black listed us. Lucy’s lack of professionalism was unbelievable. As a lawyer I believe she would be used to getting asked hard questions and have to respond in a professional manner. I guess when no one is around to keep her accountable for her actions she can do and say whatever she likes without repercussions from her employers.
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26 Dec, 2019 by Erika g.
Lucy is the most humane and compassionate person I've known. She goes above and beyond her duties as an attorney to help other people. She cares about those around her and has the greatest disposition. Lucy is talented, zealous and aggressive when needed. We are all lucky to have known her these past few years. I highly recommend her!
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22 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Ronald Nguyen took advantage of me when I visited his office for only a few hours. He assured me he could handle my case and provide everything needed to complete it. I believed his lie and agreed to let him handle my case and signed a contract to let him handle the case. The next time we met he demanded $2,000 up front and had completely changed personality also completely chainging what he assured me initally basically telling me my case was dead in the water and he could not assure what he initally did. I quickly made it clear I didn't want to pursue this any further and he still demanded thousands of dollars for 0 work done. He did not provide me any helpful documents or consultation that was benefical to my case. After my case is resolved I will be filing the appropiate charges against Ronald Nguyen.
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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.
