The Best Immigration Attorneys in Oakland, California
Top 3 immigration attorneys in Oakland, California. Rated 4.8/5 stars based on our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system.
Top Immigration Attorneys
Ranked by our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system
Robert B. Jobe
Law Office of Robert B. Jobe
Robert B. Jobe is one of the most respected immigration attorneys in the Bay Area, specializing in complex deportation defense and asylum cases. With over three decades of experience, he has successfully handled numerous high-profile immigration cases and has argued before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. Recognized as a "Super Lawyer" for immigration law, he focuses on removal defense, asylum, and appellate litigation. His firm serves Oakland clients with exceptional success rates in difficult immigration matters and maintains an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
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Manpreet (Monica) S. Ahluwalia
The Ahluwalia Firm, P.C.
Manpreet S. Ahluwalia leads a highly-rated Oakland-based immigration firm specializing in employment-based and business immigration matters. With extensive experience in H-1B visas, L-1 visas, EB-1 extraordinary ability petitions, and PERM labor certifications, she serves both corporate clients and individuals. The firm has successfully handled thousands of immigration cases and is known for its personalized approach to family-based immigration and naturalization cases. Clients consistently praise her responsiveness and expertise in complex business immigration matters.
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Yakov Berd & Klauss
Berd & Klauss, PLLC
Berd & Klauss is a highly-regarded immigration law firm serving the entire Bay Area, including Oakland clients. With over two decades of experience, the firm handles a comprehensive range of immigration matters including family sponsorship, employment visas, deportation defense, and asylum cases. The attorneys have successfully represented clients in complex removal proceedings and have extensive experience with waivers and appeals. The firm maintains excellent client satisfaction ratings and is known for its strategic approach to challenging immigration cases, with particular expertise in marriage-based green cards and hardship waivers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration law services in Oakland, California
What types of immigration cases do Oakland attorneys commonly handle?
Oakland immigration attorneys frequently handle a wide range of cases including family-based petitions, asylum applications for those fleeing persecution, DACA renewals, U-visas for crime victims, and deportation defense. Given Oakland's diverse immigrant population and sanctuary city policies, many lawyers also specialize in removal defense before the San Francisco Immigration Court, which has jurisdiction over Oakland cases. They are well-versed in California-specific benefits and protections that may complement federal immigration applications.
How can I find affordable or free immigration legal help in Oakland?
Several organizations in Oakland provide low-cost or pro bono immigration services, including the East Bay Community Law Center, the Centro Legal de la Raza, and the Asian Pacific Islander Legal Outreach. These non-profits offer sliding scale fees based on income and often have clinics for initial consultations. Additionally, the Alameda County Bar Association's Lawyer Referral Service can connect you with attorneys who may offer payment plans for their services.
What should I look for when choosing an immigration lawyer in Oakland?
When selecting an immigration attorney in Oakland, verify their credentials with the California State Bar and look for memberships in professional organizations like AILA (American Immigration Lawyers Association). It's important to choose a lawyer with specific experience in your type of case, whether it's asylum, family petitions, or business immigration. Many reputable Oakland attorneys offer initial consultations to discuss your situation, their strategy, and fees, allowing you to assess their expertise and compatibility with your needs.
Are there any local Oakland policies that protect immigrants during their legal process?
Yes, Oakland has strong sanctuary city policies that limit cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities (ICE). The Oakland Police Department generally does not inquire about immigration status or honor ICE detainer requests without a judicial warrant. Additionally, the city provides resources through the Oakland Unified School District and public libraries to help immigrants access legal information and know their rights, creating a more supportive environment while navigating the immigration system.
How does living in Oakland impact my eligibility for certain immigration benefits?
While immigration law is federal, your location in Oakland can impact your case in several ways. The jurisdiction for most immigration court cases is the San Francisco Immigration Court, which has its own procedural nuances and backlog. Oakland's high cost of living may be considered in affidavits of support for family-based petitions. Furthermore, California state laws provide additional protections and benefits, such as access to driver's licenses regardless of status and state-funded legal services, which can support your overall immigration strategy while residing in Oakland.
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