Immigration Law

Normally, clients select their Immigration attorneys only on the basis of their language or their ethnicity. Spanish clients with Immigration problems go to Spanish attorneys; Chinese clients look for the Chinese attorneys, and so on. But language proficiency alone or the ability to fill out USCIS forms is not the best way to select an Immigration attorney.

As a general practitioner, I have to admit that Immigration Law is probably one of the most intricate and difficult practices. A practicing Immigration Attorney has to be always attentive to the changes in the body of the law and the decisions of the administrative agencies and federal courts, especially those in his Circuit, in order to serve his clients well. Grandfather clauses, remnants of old legislations, federal decisions and administrative interpretations by the Board of Immigration Appeals may serve as the basis for an immigrant’s application for relief.

Unlike other courts, Immigration Courts are courts of very limited authority and there are only a few instances where the judges can exercise discretion. Knowledge of the statutes, regulations and practices guiding the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services is essential in order to service the clients.

When a client comes to me with an Immigration problem, I am usually able to assist and guide the client. When the case requires more knowledge and experience in the handling of a very specific problem, I have a referral list of attorneys that only do Immigration work. Cases that I normally handle personally are political asylum cases, adjustment of status applications and defenses to deportation. Cases that I normally refer out are some labor certification cases and all non-resident visas.