The Best Immigration Attorneys in Carbondale, Illinois
Top 3 immigration attorneys in Carbondale, Illinois. Rated 4.5/5 stars based on our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system.
Top Immigration Attorneys
Ranked by our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system
J. Kevin McCall
The Law Office of J. Kevin McCall
J. Kevin McCall is a highly respected immigration attorney based in Carbondale with over 28 years of experience specializing in complex immigration cases. He has a strong track record of success in family-based petitions, employment visas, and deportation defense, with numerous clients praising his personalized approach and high approval rates. Admitted to the Illinois Bar and various federal courts, McCall is known for his deep knowledge of immigration law and commitment to client satisfaction, often handling cases for Southern Illinois University students and local businesses.
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Kevin L. Riddle
The Law Office of Kevin L. Riddle
Kevin L. Riddle is a top-rated immigration attorney serving the Carbondale area from nearby Marion, with 23 years of dedicated practice in immigration law. He excels in deportation defense, asylum cases, and business immigration, boasting a high success rate in visa approvals and naturalization applications. Clients frequently highlight his responsiveness, expertise, and compassionate representation. Riddle is an active member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and maintains an excellent standing with the Illinois Bar, making him a trusted choice for regional immigration needs.
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Matthew L. Kolb
Kolb & Associates
Matthew L. Kolb is a renowned immigration attorney based in St. Louis, serving clients in Carbondale and across southern Illinois with over 25 years of experience. He leads Kolb & Associates, a firm specializing in all aspects of immigration law, including high-stakes deportation defense and employment-based visas. Kolb has a proven record of successful asylum cases and family reunifications, with clients commending his strategic approach and high client satisfaction. He is a member of AILA and the Missouri and Illinois Bars, ensuring comprehensive legal support for the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration law services in Carbondale, Illinois
What types of immigration cases do attorneys in Carbondale, IL typically handle?
Immigration attorneys in Carbondale frequently assist with cases involving Southern Illinois University (SIU) students and scholars, such as F-1 visa applications, Optional Practical Training (OPT), and J-1 exchange visitor issues. They also handle family-based petitions, employment-based visas for local industries like healthcare and education, and removal defense matters that may be heard at the Chicago Immigration Court, which has jurisdiction over Illinois residents.
How can I find a reputable immigration lawyer in Carbondale?
You can start by checking with the Illinois State Bar Association's lawyer finder tool, which allows you to filter for attorneys in the Carbondale area who specialize in immigration law. Additionally, the SIU School of Law may have clinics or can provide referrals to local practitioners. It's also wise to look for attorneys who are members of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), as this indicates a specific focus and ongoing education in immigration law.
Are there any low-cost or pro bono immigration legal services available in Carbondale?
Yes, the Immigration Project, a non-profit organization based in Bloomington-Normal, often serves clients in Southern Illinois, including Carbondale, and may provide low-cost or pro bono assistance depending on eligibility and case type. Additionally, the SIU School of Law may run clinical programs that offer free legal services to the community under the supervision of licensed attorneys. It's recommended to contact these organizations directly to inquire about their current services and intake procedures.
What should I bring to my first consultation with a Carbondale immigration attorney?
You should bring any and all immigration-related documents, such as your passport, I-94 arrival/departure record, visa stamps, any prior applications or petitions filed with USCIS, and any correspondence from immigration authorities. If you have a criminal history, bring certified disposition records from the court. For employment or student cases, bring relevant forms like I-20s or employment letters. Having this documentation organized will help the attorney in Carbondale provide you with the most accurate advice specific to your situation.
How does being in a university town like Carbondale affect my immigration case?
Being in Carbondale, home to Southern Illinois University, can be beneficial as local attorneys are highly experienced with student and scholar visas (F-1, J-1), STEM OPT extensions, and academic-related employment visas like the H-1B for university staff. The attorneys are familiar with the specific challenges and opportunities that arise in a university setting and can leverage relationships with the SIU International Programs office to help ensure your paperwork and status are properly maintained according to both university and federal regulations.
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About Carbondale, Illinois
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