The Best Immigration Attorneys in New Orleans, Louisiana
Top 3 immigration attorneys in New Orleans, Louisiana. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system.
Top Immigration Attorneys
Ranked by our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system
David Ware
Ware Immigration
David Ware is a highly regarded immigration attorney with over two decades of experience, known for his exceptional success rates in complex immigration cases, including family-based petitions, employment visas, and deportation defense. He maintains a perfect AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell and has been recognized by Super Lawyers for multiple years. Clients consistently praise his thorough approach, personalized service, and high approval rates across various immigration matters, with a particular focus on business immigration and asylum cases.
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Stephen J. O'Brien
O'Brien Law Firm
Stephen J. O'Brien has built a strong reputation for his expertise in deportation defense and asylum cases, with a track record of successful outcomes in federal immigration courts. He is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and has been practicing immigration law exclusively for over 20 years. Client reviews highlight his compassionate representation, strategic case management, and high client satisfaction, particularly in family-based immigration and naturalization processes.
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Christopher K. Airhart
Airhart Law Firm
Christopher K. Airhart is an experienced immigration attorney focused on providing comprehensive legal services with an emphasis on employment-based visas and family sponsorship cases. He is known for his diligent representation and has successfully handled numerous H-1B, L-1, and investor visa applications. With active membership in AILA and a commitment to client-centered practice, he maintains high approval rates and positive client feedback, particularly for his responsiveness and expertise in business immigration matters.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration law services in New Orleans, Louisiana
What types of immigration cases do New Orleans attorneys commonly handle?
Immigration attorneys in New Orleans frequently handle cases involving family-based petitions, employment-based visas for the oil and gas and hospitality industries, humanitarian relief such as asylum and VAWA, and deportation defense. Given the city's port and diverse economy, they also assist with maritime worker visas and investor visas for businesses in the tourism sector. Navigating the specific procedures at the local USCIS field office is a key part of their practice.
How can I find a reputable and affordable immigration lawyer in New Orleans?
You can start by seeking referrals from local community organizations like the New Orleans Workers' Center for Racial Justice or Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans, which often have legal service programs. The Louisiana State Bar Association's lawyer referral service is another reliable resource. For affordability, inquire about sliding scale fees or pro bono services, as many firms and non-profits in the city offer these options to assist the immigrant community.
What should I do if I am detained by ICE in the New Orleans area?
If you are detained by ICE in New Orleans, you will likely be held at the St. Charles Parish Correctional Center in nearby Killona, LA, or the LaSalle ICE Processing Center in Jena. It is critical to immediately exercise your right to remain silent and request to speak with an immigration attorney. Contact the New Orleans Immigration and Refugee Rights Task Force or a local detention project for a referral to a lawyer who can file for a bond hearing and represent you in immigration court, which for this region is typically the Oakdale Immigration Court.
Are there any local New Orleans resources that can help me prepare for my citizenship test?
Yes, several local organizations in New Orleans offer citizenship classes and resources to help you prepare for the naturalization test. The New Orleans Public Library system often hosts free citizenship preparation workshops, and organizations like the Hispanic Apostolate of New Orleans provide dedicated courses covering U.S. history, government, and the English language requirement. These resources are invaluable for building confidence before your interview at the local USCIS office in Metairie.
How does the local New Orleans court system interact with my immigration status for criminal charges?
Any interaction with the New Orleans criminal justice system, such as the Orleans Parish Criminal District Court or Municipal Court, can have severe consequences for your immigration status. Even minor offenses can trigger deportation proceedings. It is essential to hire an immigration attorney who is familiar with Louisiana criminal law and can work with your criminal defense lawyer. They can often negotiate for alternative dispositions or plea agreements that minimize immigration consequences, a practice often called 'crimmigration' defense.
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About New Orleans, Louisiana
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