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03 Sep, 2016 by Mirjana
We hired Grace for a marriage related issue with green card. She was very helpful and reassuring in the time when we were most nervous and needed the support as well as professional help. She gave her best to find the specific information within the law and from specific experts in other areas as well when it was needed. Furthermore, even tough our case was specific and situation requested some extra consultation and research from her side, she prepared us for every possible situation that could happen, and with no extra charge from the one we agreed upon during our first interview.
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19 May, 2016 by Cindy
Grace is not only an extremely professional and smart lawyer, she is also very caring and patience when explaining the legal implications of a case. She worked my immigration case to obtain a TN visa and it was successfully approved. I tried another lawyer before her and the treatment wasn't great, I even felt discouraged for a while, but after meeting Grace I not only felt confident on the strength of my case, but also on its success. I wouldn't look for anyone else, Grace is from now my go-to legal advisor and I'm incredibly happy to continue to work with her in the future.
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26 Nov, 2013 by Roe
Grace is an excellent immigration attorney. She is knowledgeable and compassionate. She provides excellent customer service by caring about your case and personally answering your phone calls. Her fees are more than reasonable in that she does what it takes to finish the job. She simply cares about your case and that is her bottom line. Thank you for your superb service. You have made a tremendous difference.
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22 May, 2024 by Robert
I had a billing dispute with a well known rental car company. It was over a pre-existing crack in the windshield of a rental vehicle. Despite my notification to them and assurance from their representative that I would not be charged, they billed me for the damage. Through a legal benefit provided by my workplace, I hired Justin to handle this issue.
Justin was exceptionally professional, knowledgeable, and thorough. He wrote a very well-crafted demand letter citing relevant California statutes and case law. His expertise and attention to detail were instrumental in getting the rental car company to drop the claim entirely.
Thanks to Justin, I avoided an unjust charge and a lot of stress. I highly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled and effective attorney.
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03 Aug, 2021 by Keith
Justin is an amazing attorney who not only cares about the "BIG TECH" but little matters too. He is assisting my father in getting his passport renewed as the Chinese Consulate has been delayed. Justin took our phone call at 5PM and spoke to my father in Mandarin, assuring him he would help us so he can return to China. Justin is a true, caring man and a Great Attorney! Being a retired Sheriff in Santa Clara County I have met hundreds of Attornies and Counsel. You quickly see who is in the LAW BUSINESS for the RIGHT REASON! Thank you JUSTIN...which means JUSTICE!
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21 Jul, 2021 by Jon
Justin resolved my corporate and contract matter thoroughly and effectively. He reached a positive outcome for my issue effectively and elegantly.
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29 Aug, 2017 by Juan
Mrs. Raemi was a tremendous help to my family and we are very greatful for her and her services , throughout the year she managed to successfully help with the process of getting an asylum, following with the process of gaining residency in the US. No matter what she stood by our side to make sure we were all well accomadated ,without her this wouldn't have been possible , she has great knowledge and takes passion and pride in her business which made our visit with her comforting and effortless.Up till today she stil mananges to reach out and make sure all is well ,she has recently continued to be of assistance to my extended family and we couldn't thank her anymore she took us under her wing when nobody else would and for that we appreciate all she has done and continues to do for families from all over .
Thankyou very much Mrs Raemi
Best Regard: Familia Ayala
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24 Jul, 2015 by Siyi (lois)
Ms. Raemi Neils helped me with my H1-B application and I got it. I really appreciate her professional work and help. She is awesome!
You may doubt her experiences based on her age, but I want to tell you, that's totally WRONG! Don't judge an excellent beautiful lawyer by her age, but by her knowledge and wisdom. Reami is the one who changed my assumption and opinion for a young lawyer after our first conversation, even thought she only worked as a licensed lawyer for 4 years, her professorial analyses and adjustments may make you feel she has stayed in this field for 40 years. Before I went to her, I talked with another lawyer who has been worked in this field for 35 years, but he was not confident about my case because my sponsored company is not very big. But after my boss and I talked with Raemi about my case, she agreed with my employer that I was the best fit for this job. Definitely she was very confident on my case, and she is RIGHT! I appreciate that she didn't give up my case and helped me.
Reami is very efficient. I met her in Feb, and we had only one and half month to prepare all the required documents for the H1-B application, and we made it. I like the way that she sent all the required information with me and be cleared with me what I have to prepare. She shared all the update information and documents with me all the time. We had all the paper work done by April 1.
Also, I really enjoy working with her because she is a very good communicator. She is very good at replying emails and answering questions, and I enjoy all the conversations with her via phone, email or meet in person, plus, she is very organized and logical. She made me feel that I had been taken cared of.
She is very trustful and reliable. If you choose her, you will feel that you are in good hand. I can't tell you more how I appreciate Raemi's help, but I definitely recommend her to my friends, colleagues and everyone else who might need her professional help.
Thank you Raemi! You are the best! I would like to be your reference case any time you need!
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22 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
We hired Raemi when our brother was facing deportation. This was an especially difficult option, as he does not speak Spanish and has lived in the U.S. since he was 3 years old. Needless to say, our entire family was extremely distraught. Raemi went above and beyond, compiling more than was needed for his case. When it was time for his trial, the judge granted his release very quickly, based on the excellent evidence and testimonials compiled by Raemi. She is an incredible lawyer who genuinely cares for people.
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09 Sep, 2015 by Andyas
We had the pleasure of working with Andy for some immigration work relating to permanent residence. He made such a daunting task easy to understand and complete. He was always courteous, positive and very accommodating to our many and sometimes demanding needs. What I appreciate the most was how easy it is to reach him even outside office visits and appointments to answer our many questions and put us at ease.
I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend Andy Le for any law work you might need that fit into his scope of work. You will not be disappointed.
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28 Aug, 2015 by Tina
I spoke with Andy on multiple occasions regarding completely different advice. One was for someone that received a DUI and another for a person legally separating with kids involved. Although I know him personally, he was very professional, as he always is. He never gave the impression that "possibly" could happen but more of the statistics to what the outcome may be and that every case is different and special on its own. He is absolutely the go-to-person for any legal matter. I trust his advice 100%. He is also very friendly and attentive to any legal questions you may have.
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06 May, 2015 by Van
Andy is one of the most competent lawyers I've met. He helped me sort out my legal problems (immigration and family issues) and followed up to make sure everything was resolved!
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20 Sep, 2021 by Sara
She is very helpful, very compassionate and very personable. Communication with her is very easy and smooth and clear which is rare with most lawyers.
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23 Jun, 2013 by Ingrid and elder blanco
Sarah was there since the beginning, she became a part of our family right away. She made us feel comfortable around her and was trustworthy. Sarah always kept us informed with everything and did her best work with our case. She does not only see you as her client but as part of her family, she understands what you are going through and helps you get through it .We can definitely recommend her without any regret.
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07 Aug, 2012 by Michelle
Sarah wasn't given much time to prepare for my court date but still accepted my case and handled it in a timely manner and extremely professionally. She even executed an outline during her vacation! I felt very comfortable with her despite my difficulty telling my story. She was extremely patient and very kind. Every time I remember Sarah and what she did for me my heart melts. I highly recommend Ms.Haselup!
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04 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Michelle provided phenomenal legal services and support through my national interest waiver petition ( it was a very stressful process due to a previous negative result with different lawyers). Michelle and her group very ably navigated the process and helped me obtain an approval. Throughout this process, Michelle remained very available for all my questions, and was calm, logical and reassuring. Michelle would be my first choice if ever anyone requires an attorney for complex immigration issues that need a lot of back and forth communication with the legal team.
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05 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Michelle was extremely helpful throughout the long process that lead me to interact with her. She was always quick to respond to my questions and clear when explaining what I needed to get done as well as the next steps and expectations.
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21 Oct, 2014 by Louie dlf
I have been on J-1 for 6 years, O-1 for 8 years then transitioned to H-1 and finally to permanent resident status- from start to finish the process took 20 years. Throughout this journey I have gone through three law firms but none have given me the level of service as they have. Michelle keeps in touch regularly and is incredibly thorough. She is very professional and stays cool even when i feel frustrated. I highly recommend Michelle and her Law firm.
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02 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Been dealing with richard since 2013, was reccomend by a close friend, best immigration lawyer in California in my opinion, helped from the starting with filling papers and tall us me and my wife, exactly what we need documents and pics of when I got married in 2014, got married and received permanent resident card within 4 months, was very happy, in 2016 he helped me again get my permanent resident card for 10 years the final one, theres a 2 year like probation to see if everything is ok helped us file papers and was at the appt. With immigration also first time and this time, received permanent resident within 4 months , lost my card in august 2017 richard again , filled out papers for me and card was at my home within 6 months, very happy with richard rapresenting me, prices are very reasonable and he his a straight forward person will leave no details out, this coming April I will be alligiable for citizen, will be using richard again, maybe the last time but will always reccomend if you need a Visa or just something simple like replacing a card, papers or anything to do with immigration, having richard at your side makes feel at ease, dont want to feel anxious for months thinking I filed something wrong, cause if you only get a letter wrong they might expand time of months if not years, thank you richard see you in april.
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08 Mar, 2015 by Anthony
He did an excellent job on our adjustment of status case with my wife. He has a nice style about him, hes trustworthy and his rates are reasonable. He's everything a lawyer should be.
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29 Jan, 2015 by Sue
I feel very fortunate to have Richard to represented my immigration case. He is very knowledgable and mentored me to take each step patiently. He also introduced me his network of lawyers who are wonderful human beings as well for my business. I not only appreciate him as a lawyer which solid professionalism but also appreciate his as a genuine person as a whole. He is the best immigration lawyer you can ask for.
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23 Mar, 2021 by Reyna
Alison Dixon is one of the most professional, detail oriented and compassionate attorneys I have the pleasure of working with. I would recommend her to anyone seeking legal representation on Immigration Defense matters.
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12 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Alison is a great Lawyer, I hired her to take my brothers case and did an awesome job, very intelligent and knowledgeable very wise person and sure knows what she is doing. She did a great job representing my brother while facing a deportation, she made him stay here and know thanks to her wonderful help he is a citizen. Also hired her about four years ago to take my mothers case due to the amazing. Job she did previously we were all very satisfied, and would defenetly recommend her she is absolutely the best.
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18 May, 2012 by Binny singh
Best lawyer i have ever met.
Alison is very helpful and friendly person. I would recommend to anyone who is looking for a legal help.
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13 Apr, 2012 by Stephen
I would highly recommend Jody Santiago to anybody that has an Immigration matter on their hands no matter how challenging or simple your case may be. Jody took on my fairly complicated Green Card Abandonment case , in which most of the 5 other lawyers I consulted with were not nearly as optimistic and helpful as Jody Santiago.
When we first had our consultation , I could tell she had that motivation, and stamina to go the extra mile to win our case, as we did!
My gratitude and appreciation for all the work that Jody Santiago put towards winning back my Green Card is infinite.
Many blessings and respect to you Jody!
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09 Dec, 2010 by Anonymous
Jody represented my husband at his deportation proceedings. She was able to get him cancellation of removal- despite his numerous convictions. She handed the case as though it was her own. She was very easy to reach and even visited my husband in Deportation Detention. Thanks to her, my kids have there dad back and we are reunited as a family.
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27 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
Jody filed the removal of conditions for my green card and filed my naturalization application. She was really easy to work with and made the process easy for me. She is hard working and honest, and I would recommend her to anyone.
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13 Jul, 2016 by Jessica
Melissa was an enormous help in helping me to navigate the waters of immigration visa. She was always quick to respond to my questions, helpful in providing the most up to date information and helpful in translating technical paperwork with me. I couldn't have done it without her!
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23 May, 2016 by Sj
Working with Melissa was a boon! I could bank on her knowledge, her timely responses and above all her integrity. She is a very considerate and sincere professional. What I also appreciate is how she think ahead as a strategic partner and offers guidance with the big picture in mind!
I highly recommend Melissa (her firm is Atlas immigration law) to anyone.
cheers,
SJ
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08 Feb, 2021 by Jawad
She is the best lawyer ever I have seen, when I had question at anytime of day and night, she was responding me so fast, she knew all rule about my case and never faced with any problem regarding my case, always answering with best wishes and smile, I really don’t know how to describe her goodness, I wish her all the best with her most beautiful family.
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26 Jan, 2021 by Shukur
A true honest lawyer who helps you to get whatever you need done. Yes, she helps from heart. She knows all regulations and rules. Her consultations and guidance helped me to solve my problems.
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18 Jun, 2016 by Erion
Hills and her staff are very professional and polite. They got my labor certification, EB2 petition, and I485 adjustment or permanent residence approved in a record time of 12 months from start to finish. I'm extremely satisfied.
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12 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Ms. Nattiv not only took time to answer all of my questions thoroughly, but she provided me with different immigration alternatives regarding my case (that other attorneys did not even consider!) I would highly recommend her!
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27 Jun, 2018 by Juan
Dan was recommended to us by a family member who spoke very highly of him.
I scheduled an appointment with him; he was very professional and he really knows immigration laws.
He kept us in the loop on what was going on with our case. Even after we made final payment and he gave us the packet, things changed and he called me to get me up to speed on what was going on.. he was able to get some more paperwork together to ensure we did not have any issues when traveling to Juarez..
That just goes to tell you that he really cares about his customers and the work he does for them.
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15 Sep, 2017 by Mary
We hired Dan for a second immigration interview. We didn't get the lawyer earlier on and we should have hired him from the beginning! We talked to a lot of lawyers before he was recommended to us by another lawyer. The consultation was thorough, he was organized with his questions, he gave us a lot of information and he was very professional. We liked that he was no-nonsense and confident about our case. When we came back for the prep interview, he gave us tips and information that would prove to be very valuable during the interview. During the 2nd and 3rd interview (we did both on the same day), having him there to guide and support us made me more confident in answering questions. He would interject when we went to a different direction with our answers. When we were told that I was approved for the green card, I knew we made the right decision in hiring a lawyer. It was a pleasure working with him!
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26 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
This is just an update to my previous review. I was very happy that the appeal prepared by Ron has been successful, and the original denial decision made by the California Service Center has been overturned by the Administrative Appeals Office. Ronald continued his support even after completing his job, and later helped with additional documents for a moderate fee. Some of his ideas and suggestions did not work out as he believed and suggested, but the major outcome of this difficult case was in my favor. I highly recommend him.
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14 Apr, 2010 by Anonymous
I used Ron Wada’s service very recently. He advised me and provided practical help in rather complicated employment-based non-immigrant visa petition, which has been mishandled by other officials before his involvement. Ron Wada started his very intensive help already at the point of petition denial. He was guiding me in gathering additional crucial evidence and prepared very strong appeal argumentation. The result of the appeal is still unknown. Yet, even at this point, I would like to express him my gratitude. I believe that he is specialists of very high qualification with large practical experience. I have found him very responsible and devoted to help me (as his client), and I also have heard positive replies from his former customers. I’m going to update this review if my appeal (or new petition) is approved.
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06 Feb, 2012 by Gary
I have used Ms. Jameossanaie as my attorney over the past year and have been extremely impressed as a client. She has a tremendous legal knowledge and has handled my case with the utmost professionalism and care. She is very passionate about what she does and her style is that she will get the job done, no matter the difficulty of the situation. I would highly recommend her as one of Houston's premier family law attorney's.
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06 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
Seemed genuinely concerned for my best interest. Trustworthy and knowledgeable. Would highly recommend.
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06 Oct, 2022 by Simran
She is best attorney.she helped me alot in my asylum case and finally my case was granted.she always answered my all questions.she is not only attorney ,also ur best friend with having a lot of positive energy.her way she talk with her clients is so nice and sweet.whenever i fell that i need her help she appeared herself at that moment .i fell myself so lucky that she helped me.so calm,so nice ,so sweet way of talking and her great personality make her best attorney.i was nothing without her and she always show me right path.she still help me whenever i have any question.she is my first and last attorney and my best friend.I want to say more but i dont have words to explain her personality and how great she is.
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24 Jan, 2015 by Salvador
Cara Jobson, has done an outstanding job with both my husband and my mothers case. Before coming with her, we had no hope since other attorneys would tell us they couldn't help us. She is a there when I call ready to help.
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27 Feb, 2020 by Dayvena
I wish to take this opportunity to thank Atty. Jean Tinsay whose meticulous documentation and thorough review has given me a path to citizenship. I could not have asked for a better immigration lawyer to guide me from Step 1 until interview. It took less than 6 months for my Green Card to arrive! Go look her up!
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23 May, 2018 by Virgilio
Thank you so much Atty. Jean for the petition of my Wife & Son. It's my honor and proud that you are my laywer. You help me a lot. God bless & more power.
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29 Dec, 2019 by Jose espinal
They are the best. I recommend all lawyer
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08 Oct, 2019 by Ariel green andersson
The team at Jewell, Stewart and Pratt made our transition from Czech Republic to California go remarkably well. A large amount of paperwork, all very clear and thorough and timing was exactly what they told us and better. Claire, Monique and Mable made a great combo and we highly recommend hiring them when you are looking for results beyond the basics, special requests and international managing of affairs across borders, oceans and mountains of red tape. In 1st moments we thought to do it on our own. Then, realized there were some surprises along the way and that our team got results we were not able to get on our own and we didn’t want any mistakes during an already stressful period of change. This was the best investment in our future we made, by far. No regrets. No surprises. Professional and straight forward. Exactly what you need when moving yourself and family to U.S. Crossing the border with confidence is the best gift you can give yourself.11 minutes at the airport border crossing/special room, amazing. Do yourself a favor and relax into a professional team who knows what’s needed, so you don’t.
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13 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Sharon Dulberg was very professional attorney. She helped us expedite our case and she used to respond in a timely manner
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18 Apr, 2016 by Hussam al lami
For any Immigrant/ Refugee/Asylum Call fast and make an appointment with her, without any doubt she is the best..
me and my family was scared,desperate and felt like we was at the end of the world, So I called Sharon's Office and took an appointment to see her,
so we went to see her and we talked to her and I directly knew that she is the one that I can put our life in her hands and feel safe.
she is a great honest professional person and run a super professional crew that are highly dedicated and love to help.
she fought for me and did much much more than any attorney supposed to do for their clients.
Choosing Sharon Dulberg to represent me was the best decision I had ever made in my life.. Thank you For everything.لكل عربي يرى كلامي , فاني انصحك بشدة ان توكل شارون لان والله هي الافضل
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28 Mar, 2011 by Aa
Courtney handled my wife’s case. She is very knowledgeable and expert in immigration matters. From the beginning she told us that the case will be won, and that was the outcome, we got my wife’s GC in less than a week after the interview. She is an expert in criminal immigration and appeals. I would recommend her to everyone.
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13 Aug, 2014 by Shagahyegh cyrous
She is one of the best lawyer we ever had. She is so nice, friendly, professional and responsible. I've searched a lot about different lawyers but she is one of the best. I really recommend her. She could easily handle the cases that no one could.
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20 Jun, 2014 by Josephine
I bless the day I found this lawyer.....I had been refered to her by a friend at a point in my stay in the united states when i felt all hopes were lost....She exhibited a great sense of professionalism in handing my asylum case...I succeeded and the whole process was so fast.Not only is she smart and organized in handling the case. ....she is also honest and so kind hearted....I would recommend her to anyone who really needs to succeed...your success is just a phone call away. ..CALL HER NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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02 Jun, 2015 by Lea fontelar
A warmest thanks for all of your hard work and outstanding services. Deeply appreciate all of your effort to make it a great success. I know how hard you have been working on my status. Thank you very much for the guidance and patience. ..
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26 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Fernando and his team are very professional. They helped me solve my immigration situation by applying for asylum. Communication was proper and timely.
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31 Oct, 2018 by Rashmitha prem kumar reddy
She is an excellent lawyer who helped us alot regarding our case. Oath taking lady and fights for real problems so humble so honest kind and no more word to tell about her.
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26 Jun, 2019 by Varinder
I hired attorney Pavan Dhillon to complete my Parent’s Canadian Immigration application last year. Unfortunately, the application wasn’t selected in the lottery and we had to continue to wait.
As soon as information about the new system (switching from a lottery to first-to-submit) was released, Pavan was proactive and ensured that we had all of the information required to increase our chances of being selected in the 2019.
We consider ourselves extremely lucky to have Pavan advise us through the process as it is with her guidance that we received an Invitation to Apply. As a busy professional, she kept me on track and made sure we knew what documents to gather well in advance. She explained the process clearly and she was always available to answer our questions.
She bends over backwards for her clients and I would highly recommend Pavan if you are looking for a Canadian Immigration attorney!
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18 Oct, 2012 by Augustine
cythia scribe is a very outstanding attorney in the area of immigration and very humble in
dealing with issues of his clients again she fights for his client with passion.i will recomend her to any immigration matter.
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06 Sep, 2013 by Derek
A little over a year ago, we were seeking immigration representation. Our US electronics company was selling a majority of our business to a foreign corporation specializing in custom automated machinery and metal parts. We needed to transfer an engineering manager from Asia to the US to lead our expanding team designing, selling, installing, and servicing this high tech manufacturing equipment. This business expansion could not be accomplished without the transferring manager`s technical expertise here in the US.
The problem: our US based company had under $400,000 in annual sales and only one W-2 salaried employee. After contacting immigration attorney after immigration attorney, including top rated business immigration specialists, we were given little hope. And then we met Michael.
Michael asked very probing questions, studied our business plan and supporting documentation, determined our new manager qualified for the L-1A and EB-1C visas, and presented our extremely complicated case including around 800 pages of evidence so eloquently in his writings that the merits of the case popped out and were obvious.
While preparing said documentation, the applicant`s wife developed a very serious medical condition which required she either travel very soon or she would not be able to fly for 5 months, a delay which would have devastating impact on our newly expanding business. Michael was determined to rapidly complete the application. He worked from 9AM in the morning to past 1AM at night, day after day, including Thanksgiving, until it was filed.
Michael successfully obtained the L-1A visa a few weeks after submitting the application and the EB-1C based green card less than 3 months after filing the application for our firm`s new General Manager.
Today, our company has three full time W-2 employees and a number of technical sales experts across the country. We have installed hundreds of thousands of dollars of our manufacturing equipment, bringing manufacturing jobs back to the USA. We have patents pending for our unique technologies. And all of this was possible because of Michael.
It is difficult to convey the gratitude we feel to this extremely insightful, relentless, results oriented, honest, good-hearted, pleasant man.
If your business is seeking representation to temporarily or permanently transfer an international manager to the US, and you want an attorney superbly knowledgeable and published in Bender`s Immigration Bulletin for his works in this specialized niche of immigration law, who cares enough to make this kind of herculean effort, I recommend them
Sincerely,
Derek
PPM Inc
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04 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Judith helped my wife and I to get us a green card through our marriage.
Judith was recommend by some of our friends and was up for the job. We really appreciated her availability, professionalism and her optimism. She was really good at explaining everything we would have questions for and she was also very reassuring. When tights deadlines came up for my travels, she has always been very responsive. We would have no objection recommending Judith as an immigration lawyer.
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14 May, 2010 by Anonymous
Erin has helped many of my close friends and has always been strait foward with me. Always keept me informed, always made me feel comfertable, and even had toys for my little one to play with while we were talking. If you are looking for a Great laywer who will fight for you and your family she is the one to contact. Very trustworthy, very kind, very easy to talk to, and she is biligual which is a plus in my books.
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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:
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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.
