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25 Jan, 2024 by Deborah stonebarger
My attorney was awesome! He was very smart and skilled. He worked so hard on my behalf. I felt confident the whole time he was representing me, and we had a great outcome. I highly recommend the firm!
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22 Jan, 2024 by Charlie f
Excellent professionals
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15 Jan, 2024 by Ying wang
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28 Mar, 2024 by A. martinez
Matt is a professional. Very pleased with his help throughout a difficult process. Had the chance to work with him twice and the outcomes were stellar. Would definitely recommend.
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01 Mar, 2024 by Paul
If you have Matt as your lawyer, you are in good hands. In my case, he was really insightful, professional, and answered any questions I had with quick response time.
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08 Feb, 2023 by Charles macias
Matthew was great in helping me get out of a jam! Very professional I Would definitely recommend him to anyone.
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01 May, 2024 by Kamili samms
My experience with Ms. Graves and her team was exemplary. They were always available to explain the process and keep me notified of the next steps. I was very pleased with the results of the services provided and felt confident in her ability to effectively negotiate my terms. I would highly recommend The Graves Law Firm for any family law needs.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Brandon backhaus
Facing divorce? Don't know what to do? Terrified of the process? Do yourself a favor and contact The Graves Law Firm in Pasadena. Ms. Graves was there for me each step of my divorce. She was always professional, courteous, and understanding that what I was going through was extremely difficult. There was no judgement. Just solutions. I felt that Ms. Graves and associates were experts in family law. And while we avoided court, I felt Ms. Graves and her team were ready to fight for me. In particular, Ms. Chuvac and Ms. Seminaris became trusted allies. I would recommend and have recommended The Graves Law Firm if you unfortunately find yourself needed someone in your corner in family court.
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09 Jan, 2024 by Sherman peters
The Family Law Practice, the Graves Law firm. Excellent.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Denise ramos
I was super impressed with the services I received. Daniela is honest, knowledgeable, and responsive time is incredibly fast! She is keen to support you and to getting your troubles resolved.
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28 May, 2024 by Beatriz rodriguez
Mrs. Romero was very helpful with all the process. She explained everything clear. She made sure you get all documents necessary she is by your side during the meeting. Overall she is an excellent lawyer. Definitely i will highly recommend her.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Hortencia barraza
During a difficult period, the Law Office of Daniela Romero, APLC, was a true lifesaver for me. Daniela and her team provided a warm and welcoming atmosphere while offering expert guidance. With their kindness and professionalism, they helped me navigate through the bankruptcy process, making it clear and manageable for me. Thanks to their dedication, I was able to start anew, freeing me from the burden of my financial difficulties. I strongly recommend the Law Office of Daniela Romero, APLC, to anyone who needs assistance during tough financial times.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Josh
Kim helped us navigate a challenging immigration situation through various steps. While it was naturally an anxious situation, Kim's calm leadership and deep knowledge and expertise put us all at ease and helped make us feel comfortable for the duration of the process. Kim and her team are great - responsive and caring. I couldn't recommend her enough. Thanks Kim!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Diana
It was a pleasure working with Kim Lu-Ng and her team over the past few years. We received nothing but good news in her hands. Completely recommend her services to everyone needing legal assistance. We are now Green card holders.
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15 Oct, 2016 by Eric brodeur
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31 Aug, 2024 by Lorin phillips
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Counts Law Firm for helping me get Emergency spousal support. I has been a tough 9 months but at least until the next hearing in a couple of months I know I can keep a roof over my head until then. Thank you for your hard work.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Ian rassman
Emhan Counts really let me down as my divorce attorney. I should have checked him out with the CA Bar Association, where I would’ve learned about him. I highly encourage you to go to the bar associations website, and check him out.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Jeannine chavez
This is the best law firm I’ve had the pleasure of hiring. I called multiple firms and no one wanted to take my case. I guess it was to much going on in their eyes. I didn’t even get calls back most of the time. At Counts Law Firm the communication is spot on. They got right to work and Attorney Counts really listened to my mom and I. He is so kind and you feel like you’re one of the family. He didn’t rush us like others did. He made sure to listen to our concerns and by the end of the consultation we had a great plan put together moving forward. Thank you Counts Law Firm, we know we’re in good hands.
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05 Apr, 2016 by Elena
I hired Mr. Nelson right after he told me I could file for an adjustment of status during the same month I was notified of being selected for further processing for a diversity visa, also commonly known as green card lottery. I signed a retainer that described the filing of adjustment of status and paid half of the retainer. Shortly after, I realized something was wrong. The only email communication I got from Mr. Nelson was "we can file right away" which happened after what was advertised as a free phone consultation. After that email only the paralegal Tonette started communicating with me and she simply emailed the forms I already downloaded online on my own and asked me to translate in English my birth certificate and provided me with the contact info of a very pricey notarized translation agency. I started talking with a pro bono attorney and ended up consulting with more attorneys and everyone at that point told me to run as fast as I could. Not only my birth certificate was already in English (proof that my documents were not even carefully reviewed) but also the regulations of adjusting status in the US through the diversity visa clearly state that adjustment cannot be filed before the fiscal year starts which cant be October 1st. So I could not file in May as Mr. Nelson falsely promised. Mr. Nelson said that my Visa lottery number was a very low number and therefore I could file in May instead of October but that is simply a lie. Any immigration attorney who knows the laws and regulations can confirm that. The other attorney I consulted with told me clearly that Nelson would have jeopardized my chances to get my adjustment approved if he sent my application in May. Another issue that came up was the fact that no adjustment of status could have ever been filed unless my student Visa was kept alive and in active status, obviously. If there is no status, no adjustment of status can be processed. When I brought up the topic to Mr.Nelson he said that keeping my F1 Visa valid and in status was not part of the agreement and was not in fact included in the agreement and in the amount of money included in the retainer. After complaining a lot, he emailed back saying that he constructed my email as an indication to stop working on my case, except he never started working on it, at all. Nothing was done other than the paralegal sending me the forms to fill out on my own and telling to translate my birth certificate which was already in English, and even if it wasn't translate in English all it needed was a simple free declaration from a friend speaking the language, no certified nor notary service was necessary to translate a birth certificate for adjustment of status. I was left with absolutely nothing in the worst situation possible and Mr. Nelson did nothing described in the agreement I signed. I asked for money back in every possible thinkable way. I even filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau and the complaint is now public record available on the BBB website and the case is #411053 under the BBB of the Counties of Los Angeles, Santa Clara, San Benito, Santa Cruz, and Monterey. Mr. Nelson replied that he worked a lot on my case and he deserved half of the retainer, which is a fat lie. He also said that normally he would refund me but due to my behavior he won't but I didn't misbehave with him nor anyone else at his office. He then apologized and admitted I didn't get anything of the things I was supposed to get but still refused to refund me. I filed for free mediation with the Department of Consumer Affairs of Los Angeles but he refused to participate which says a lot about his character. He never presented me with my specific rights to arbitrate the fee and lastly he clearly emailed me that he will never refund unless a court orders him too. I must sue him to get my money back.
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15 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I used Nelson & Associates for my difficult case and a series of challenging situations with immigration. Atty. Nelson is very knowledgeable and finally got my case resolved and now I got my GC. His paralegal Tonette was very helpful until the end. She was always on top of my case and always made prompt follow ups with USCIS. She is very particular with details which made dealing with immigration requests easier to answer because there were no surprises. Choosing Nelson and Associates is one of the best decisions I made here in America. Highly recommended!
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16 Nov, 2013 by Arthur and parvin
After being denied our I-130 - we went to Nelson & Associates for help. They were so wonderful and helpful that our case was processed very quickly and we now have our green card in hand! The USCIS agent we interviewed with mentioned that our attorney did an excellent job organizing our documents and making sure we had everything in order... it made everything happen so smoothly! I recommend Attorney Nelson to anyone seeking advice or even representation going through the immigration process.
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15 Oct, 2016 by Eric brodeur
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19 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
It was not worth my time or money as soonest we walked in his office he looked at our disabled child and said no this is not going to work! Who says that he was no help and very rude!! He just robbed our money and walked out on us. Wouldn't recommend him to anyone!! We paid for his service to only walk in and right out. Disappointed
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02 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Lo unico que puedo decir es que por culpa de este maldito viejo mi hija tiene problemas con migracion hace mas de 15 años nos hiso que mandaramos a pedir una partida de nasimiento falsa con otra fecha para enseñarla en la corte de la migracion y ahora ya no sabemos que hacer por que mi hija no puede arreglar lo unico que hiso este viejo es darnos los papeles y dejarnos tiradas
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19 Apr, 2018 by Jorge
We hired Mr. Talleda for all of my immigration matters since 2000. They helped me with my waiver and consular processing. Helped me with my Naturalization. Then with my mothers residence. This office has an cool vibe. Very nice and efficient staff. Definitely would recommend to friends and family! Another plus they offer payment plans at no interest.
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20 May, 2022 by Ashley baker
I would highly recommend the McDonald Law Firm. My father was hesitant to hire an attorney. He had A LOT of questions about the process, and they were very patient and responsive.
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17 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I know many lawyers who never charged any clients for reviewing their case documents before taking the case. But Grace Change charges a few thousand dollars for reviewing a potential client case documents. Not recommend.
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13 Jun, 2014 by Carol
It's a long story. How should I start. It's a painful and long story. My child's father was working overseas for 4 years. He was having affair with another girl who didn't know he was married with a child. They went to Japan for vacation. I didn't know about this until I couldn't find him for a week when he said he was at work. I stayed with my parents who help me take care of my son. I had difficult pregnancy and unexpected C-section and some complications. He was calling me failed mom and fat. He complained that I spent too much money on the CHILD. I was stupid and I didn't spend any money on myself. I'm a saver and a busy mom. I didn't have time for myself. He cancelled our joint credit card and served me with divorce paper one month after he came back from Asia. He took our house and took my stuff and jewelry and antiques..... after he got the U.S. citizenship. He was trying to kidnap our child to Asia. He was trying to take away my physical custody. He came me so much problems with visitation and late child and spousal support payments...He was always late during the visitation and left early. It was only 4 hours a week. He missed 8 times visitation. He called the child stupid. He didn't care about the child. He didn't want to pay. Grace MADE HIM PAY. Grace helped me a lot. Today I finally signed all the court papers. I got a good settlement with good child support. My child is not even 3 years old. He will be paying for a long time. The bad thing is father refused to pay for the child's college even though I proposed that he only pays if the child can't get financial aid and scholarships. He refused and he said he doesn't care about college education. He wouldn't put our child as a beneficiary on his life insurance (not even for 50%). I tried to save the marriage for our child for one year. I had to let him go because he is not caring about our child. His parents and he took me sign off my name on the deed one day without my prior consent. I was a nice person. The case is very complicated. I'm glad Grace could help me go though the most difficult part of my life. She is very knowledgeable and very professional. She is very efficient when she works. No drama. She always told me during the case that I was the boss because I hired her. She always wanted to hear what I wanted at different stages of the case. let's admit: couples change their minds all the time. As a lawyer, she made sure I didn't settle because of pressure, she made sure that I knew what I really want from the divorce, she made sure that I understand all the consequences of everything I do or say during the divorce. She is very protective and honest. She is straight forward, nothing hidden. Fees are very reasonable consider the amount of work being done. I did interview many top lawyers in Los Angeles County and Orange County because my ex filed in OC which was the wrong jurisdiction. Like everyone else: I want great lawyer to represent me and doesn't charge too much. I finally came back to Grace because she knows what I want, she would help me to get what I want: JUSTICE! The most important thing: she cares! Now I finally got what I want. I'm ready to move on and focus on myself and my child. Even after we closed the case, she still inform the client about the possible future problems and what to do when the clients run into these problems. She warned me for lots of things. I do have a small child with my ex. I didn't pay her until one year later when the case was closed. She gave me a big discount. She was very good in front of the judge when we went to the hearings. She made the other lawyer looked 'stupid', 'unprofessional', and 'unprepared'... I don't really want to use these words. The other lawyer was working hard, but not hard enough like Grace. She is a tough woman. I've see many happy customers during my one year experience with Grace. Staffs are nice too.
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03 Dec, 2012 by Anonymous
JP Velasco was hired by Visionary Tax enterprise, who I hired to perform tax help. JP was paid a fee to take my case from Visioinary and is the power of Attorney on record. After working with me for the last year, we get to the end of my case (Offer in Compromise) and appearently VTE went out of business and JP tells me that he is no longer obligated to represent me in this case. I am a single father of 3 and the IRS has now Levied my accounts right before Christmas. I know that anyone with high business ethics, would not leave me in this last hour to get ran over by the IRS and follow thru wtih the obligations he was paid to resolve. I would not hire this attorney, find someone else to represent you for your case.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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