The Best Immigration Attorneys in Chatham, Illinois
Top 3 immigration attorneys in Chatham, Illinois. Rated 4.8/5 stars based on our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system.
Top Immigration Attorneys
Ranked by our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system
Johnson & Vines Immigration Attorneys
Johnson & Vines Immigration Attorneys
Johnson & Vines is one of Central Illinois' most respected immigration law firms, located just 15 minutes from Chatham in Springfield. The firm has built an exceptional reputation for handling complex immigration cases with a 95%+ success rate in family-based petitions and naturalization applications. Founding attorneys have over 15 years of specialized immigration experience and maintain perfect standing with the Illinois Bar Association. Clients consistently praise their responsive communication, thorough case preparation, and successful outcomes in deportation defense and employment visa matters.
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Seth S. Lacey
Lacey Law Office
Seth S. Lacey operates a dedicated immigration practice serving Chatham and the greater Springfield area with exceptional client satisfaction ratings. With over 12 years focused exclusively on immigration law, he has developed particular expertise in family-based cases and removal defense, maintaining an impressive success rate in asylum and cancellation of removal cases. His practice is noted for personalized attention and strategic case management. Licensed in Illinois and admitted to practice before the Executive Office for Immigration Review, he consistently receives 5-star reviews for his compassionate yet effective representation.
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Mark A. Mattingly
The Mattingly Law Office, P.C.
Mark A. Mattingly brings 18 years of comprehensive immigration law experience to clients in Chatham and Central Illinois. His practice excels in business immigration, including H-1B, L-1, and EB-1 visas, while also maintaining strong family immigration and naturalization departments. With an established track record of successful corporate client representations and individual cases, his firm is known for meticulous document preparation and strategic visa planning. Clients consistently highlight his deep knowledge of immigration law, accessibility, and successful navigation of complex USCIS processes. The practice maintains perfect standing with the Illinois State Bar.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration law services in Chatham, Illinois
What types of immigration cases do attorneys in Chatham, IL typically handle?
Immigration attorneys in Chatham, Illinois, commonly assist with family-based petitions, such as sponsoring spouses or relatives, as well as employment-based visas for professionals working with local employers like Memorial Health System or Horace Mann. They also handle humanitarian cases, including asylum and U-visas, and provide representation for individuals facing removal proceedings in the Chicago Immigration Court, which has jurisdiction over Illinois residents.
How can I find a reputable immigration lawyer in Chatham, IL?
You can start by checking the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) directory for attorneys practicing in or near Chatham, or seek referrals from local community organizations such as the Springfield Immigrant Advocacy Network. Additionally, the Illinois State Bar Association offers a lawyer finder tool, and reading client reviews on platforms like Avvo can help you evaluate an attorney's reputation and experience with cases similar to yours.
Are there any low-cost or pro bono immigration legal services available in Chatham?
Yes, residents of Chatham can access low-cost services through organizations like the Immigration Project in nearby Bloomington, which serves central Illinois, or the Prairie State Legal Services, which may offer assistance based on income eligibility. Some local attorneys in Sangamon County also provide pro bono consultations or sliding-scale fees, so it's advisable to inquire directly with law firms about available options.
What should I bring to my first consultation with an immigration attorney in Chatham?
For your initial meeting, bring any relevant documents, such as your passport, visa, I-94 record, birth certificate, marriage certificates, prior immigration applications, and any correspondence from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or immigration courts. If you have a criminal history, bring court dispositions, as this can significantly impact your case. Having these documents organized will help the attorney assess your situation accurately and provide tailored advice.
How long does it typically take to process a family-based green card application in Chatham, IL?
Processing times for family-based green cards vary depending on the specific category and USCIS service center handling the case, but generally range from 1 to 2 years. Factors such as backlogs at the National Benefits Center or the local USCIS field office in Chicago can affect timelines. An experienced immigration attorney in Chatham can help streamline the process by ensuring all forms are correctly filed and monitoring your case for any updates or requests for evidence.
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About Chatham, Illinois
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