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Joseph Kenneth Lacome, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in San Rafael, CA with 255 reviews
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41,01
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4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
10 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
245 Reviews
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12 Jan, 2025 by Hedieh elyasi
We worked with Amir to set up our trust, and the experience was excellent. He is highly organized, punctual, and made the process easy to understand. Amir’s professionalism and approachable demeanor stood out, and we highly recommend his services for trust.
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11 Jan, 2025 by West barnwell
Amir helped my wife and set up a living trust. He was thorough, responsive, easy to work with, and an incredibly friendly guy. Highly recommend.
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11 Jan, 2025 by Linden barnwell
Great experience!! Amir is a wonderful and thoughtful lawyer!
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Julia Z. Nikolaev, experienced Immigration attorney in San Rafael, CA with 5 reviews
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39,15
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
5 Reviews
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16 Jan, 2025 by Kir vasilev
Here’s the English version of your review: --- Review for Julia Nikolaeva There are people who simply do their job, and then there are those who are truly passionate about it. Julia Nikolaeva is one of the latter. When you find yourself trapped in a system that sees you not as a person butas "just another Russian," the support of a professional who knows what they’re doing and is ready to fight to the end is a lifeline. Our journey isn’t just a list of countries we’ve passed through. It’s a constant battle against systems designed to make you fail. Georgia, Kazakhstan, Vietnam, Japan, Mexico — every step was a desperate attempt to escape a regime that crushes dissent. But when we reached the U.S., it became clear that this country has its own bureaucratic machine, capable of breaking lives in its own way. I passed my credible fear interview, received a positive result, and even won my case in court. But then everything stalled. The government stopped releasing Russians, and we were separated — me in California, my wife in Louisiana. Detention, uncertainty, fear for my loved ones — it wears you down, makes you feel helpless. That’s when Julia stepped in. Julia Nikolaeva isn’t just an attorney; she’s someone who believes that even in the most hopeless situations, there’s always a way out. She helped me with every document, represented me in court, and, most importantly, refused to let me give up. Thanks to her relentless dedication, I became the first Russian released after months of frozen cases this September. Her professionalism is evident in everything she does: from her communication to her strategy. She doesn’t give false hope but works tirelessly to turn the odds in your favor. Today, my wife is waiting for her I-730 process to be completed, and that, too, is thanks to Julia’s efforts. To say Julia saved us is an understatement. She gave us a chance at a new life when the odds were stacked against us. If you’re looking for an attorney who fights for her clients as if she’s fighting for herself, Julia Nikolaeva is the one you need.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Veniamin
Our work with Julia during my application for political asylum has come to an end. For five months while I was in detention, she represented my interests in immigration court and interacted with ICE officers. Under her careful guidance, I went from complete confusion to winning the case, having my immigration case closed, and being released from detention. Julia is a lawyer of the highest competence, a true expert, an empathetic and responsive person who not only finds winning strategies but also the right levers to influence the case review process. Throughout our work, Julia was always available, reacted quickly and efficiently to all changes, prepared and submitted the necessary documents punctually and flawlessly, provided tremendous legal and moral support, and comprehensively prepared me for my individual hearing. Julia did an incredible work, and I owe my freedom to her. I am grateful to Julia for her efforts and without any hesitations recommend her for hiring!
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10 Dec, 2024 by Aleksandra
I want to express my gratitude to Julia Nikolaev for taking on our case! She is truly a master of her craft, investing not only professionalism but also a human touch into each individual case. Our case went through the entire process from the beginning to the final hearing in detention. Julia andI met and signed a contract before the second master hearing, and at the second master hearing we requested the date of the final hearing. Julia managed to join me to my husband’s case and most importantly, she preserved this join and kept us with the original judge (the prosecutor's office requested that the cases be separated and the trials moved to new states, which would have meant starting everything from beginning). Julia's response to all changes, the need to make corrections to documents or file the necessary motions was immediate. I want to note that Julia communicates personally with each client, not only through established communication channels and detention schedule, but also via a regular landline phone during her personal non-working hours. Julia prepared us perfectly for the final hearing and, as a result, we won the final hearing. All work was done clearly and quickly. Thanks to this, we were tried and released with the necessary documents in a very short time. Thank you so much for the work done!
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Kip Evan Steinberg, experienced Immigration attorney in San Rafael, CA with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2016 by Yasser
It is my greatest pleasure to provide this recommendation for Kip Evan Steinberg. Kip is a superb (and highly accomplished) lawyer as well as a consummate strategizer and tough negotiator. In addition, he is also a wonderful and compassionate human being. Kip represented me in federal court in relation to a challenging adjustment case that had been stuck for four years. We received a positive outcome in the first hearing due to his outstanding written and oral argument. I would tell anyone without hesitation that to have him as your attorney is to rest assured of the best possible representation. Not only does Kip understand the intricacies of the law, he has a deep understanding of the stresses that legal proceedings wreak upon individuals. He is precise in advice, sound in counsel, tenacious in follow-up, and proactive beyond reason in his proceeding. As his client in a difficult lawsuit in federal court that involved several government agencies, I was not optimistic of success. To his credit (and my blessing) Kip was informative, forthcoming, judicious and encouraging. Even more importantly, he was smart, skilled and singularly focused on my well being. He earned not only my gratitude but my deepest respect. His association and counsel have always been to my benefit. I was privileged to be represented by him.
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14 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
My parents and little baby brother get some serious immigration issues. They were announced to deport back home in 30 days. Kip not only saved them going back home , he fight for their rights and give them a legal status. He saved my family from a life threating trauma . Thank you Kip for saving our life. I strongly recommend Kip Steinburg for any immigration related case. God bless America and Kip.
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Fernanda Farias Felicio Bueno, experienced Immigration attorney in San Rafael, CA with 1 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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16 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Bueno Law had an excellent team of Qualified and Competent Professionals to take care of my husband's and mine's case. Super recommend. Excellent Team. They will always find a solution for you.
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Antonia Maria Stainbrook, experienced Criminal Defense, Immigration attorney in San Rafael, CA with 2 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Feb, 2012 by A. archer
I highly recommend Antonia she is knowledgeable and trustworthy and cannot get a better lawyer than Antonia. She is a five star lawyer.
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05 Aug, 2011 by Anne
I was very impressed with her knowledge and professionalism. Her staff is great too. She makes you feel comfortable and she is very respected by her colleagues.
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Rachael Elise Keast, experienced Immigration attorney in San Rafael, CA with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
21 Jan, 2023 by Leobardo perez
Hola Rachael fuiste mi abogada y ahora mi hija rebeca Pérez necesita tu ayuda este es mi número 831 402 8947 por favor contáctame muchas gracias
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Srijana Dhakhwa, experienced Estate Planning, Immigration attorney in San Rafael, CA with 245 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
32,16
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4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
245 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Jan, 2025 by Hedieh elyasi
We worked with Amir to set up our trust, and the experience was excellent. He is highly organized, punctual, and made the process easy to understand. Amir’s professionalism and approachable demeanor stood out, and we highly recommend his services for trust.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Jan, 2025 by West barnwell
Amir helped my wife and set up a living trust. He was thorough, responsive, easy to work with, and an incredibly friendly guy. Highly recommend.
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star star star star star
11 Jan, 2025 by Linden barnwell
Great experience!! Amir is a wonderful and thoughtful lawyer!
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Ernest Michael Crawford, experienced Immigration attorney in San Rafael, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Roberta Laub Rode, experienced Immigration attorney in San Rafael, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Allison Lee Torbet, experienced Immigration attorney in San Rafael, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Natalie Rose Franzini, experienced Immigration attorney in San Rafael, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Eric Walter Rathhaus, experienced Immigration attorney in San Rafael, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Andrew Bartlett, experienced Immigration attorney in San Rafael, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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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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