The Best Immigration Attorneys in Columbia, Illinois
Top 3 immigration attorneys in Columbia, 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
Jim Hacking
Hacking Law Practice, LLC
Jim Hacking is a highly respected immigration attorney with over two decades of experience, serving clients throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area including Columbia, IL. He hosts a popular immigration law podcast and maintains a perfect 10.0 rating on Avvo. His practice focuses on complex family-based cases, deportation defense, and employment visas with a proven track record of successful outcomes. The firm is known for its responsive client service and deep expertise in all aspects of U.S. immigration law.
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Susan Weishar
Weishar Immigration Law Firm
Susan Weishar leads a dedicated immigration practice serving the Greater St. Louis region including Columbia, IL clients. With extensive experience in both family and employment-based immigration, she has built a reputation for handling complex cases with exceptional success rates. The firm specializes in marriage-based green cards, H-1B visas, and naturalization applications. Weishar maintains an Avvo Superb rating and is recognized for her meticulous case preparation and high client satisfaction scores.
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John J. Junkunc
Junkunc Law Office
John Junkunc operates a well-established local practice directly in Columbia, IL, bringing over 25 years of immigration law experience to the community. As one of the few immigration specialists actually based in Monroe County, he provides personalized service for family petitions, employment visas, and naturalization cases. His long track record and deep local connections make him a trusted resource for Columbia area residents. The firm maintains excellent client relationships and has successfully handled hundreds of immigration cases throughout Southern Illinois and the St. Louis metro region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration law services in Columbia, Illinois
What types of immigration cases do attorneys in Columbia, IL typically handle?
Immigration attorneys in Columbia, IL commonly assist with family-based petitions, employment-based visas, naturalization applications, and deportation defense. Given Columbia's proximity to St. Louis and its diverse immigrant community, many lawyers also handle cases involving adjustment of status, DACA renewals, and waivers. They are familiar with both federal immigration laws and how local USCIS field offices in Missouri and Illinois process applications.
How can I find a reputable immigration lawyer in Columbia, IL?
You can start by checking the Illinois State Bar Association's lawyer finder tool or the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) directory, which filters attorneys by location and specialty. Local resources like the Columbia Public Library may have referrals, and community organizations in the Metro East area often maintain lists of trusted immigration attorneys. Always verify an attorney's credentials and read client reviews before scheduling a consultation.
What should I expect during an initial consultation with a Columbia immigration attorney?
During an initial consultation, typically offered at a flat fee or sometimes free, the attorney will review your immigration history, documents, and goals to assess your case's viability. They will explain relevant immigration options, potential challenges specific to your situation, and outline their legal strategy. This meeting also allows you to evaluate the attorney's expertise and comfort level with cases similar to yours in the Columbia and greater St. Louis region.
Are there any local resources in Columbia that support immigrants with legal needs?
While Columbia itself has limited direct immigration legal services, nearby organizations like the Immigration Law Project in St. Louis and the Latin American Coalition in nearby counties offer support, referrals, and sometimes pro bono assistance. The Columbia Community Unit School District #4 may also provide resources for immigrant families. For more complex cases, local attorneys often collaborate with these regional organizations to ensure comprehensive support.
How much does it cost to hire an immigration lawyer in Columbia, IL?
Costs vary based on case complexity—simple filings like DACA renewals may cost a few hundred dollars, while family-based petitions or removal defense can range from $2,000 to $7,000 or more. Many Columbia attorneys offer payment plans and will provide a detailed fee agreement upfront. It's important to discuss all potential costs, including USCIS filing fees and any additional expenses, during your initial consultation.
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About Columbia, Illinois
Columbia residents and their families deserve experienced, knowledgeable legal representation when navigating immigration law. Our featured attorneys specialize in immigration law, visa applications, and citizenship services with personalized legal strategies in Illinois.
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