The Best Immigration Attorneys in Wales, Massachusetts
Top 3 immigration attorneys in Wales, Massachusetts. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system.
Top Immigration Attorneys
Ranked by our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system
James J. O'Rourke
Law Office of James J. O'Rourke
James J. O'Rourke is a highly respected immigration attorney with over 25 years of experience exclusively in immigration law. He is known for his exceptional success rates in family-based petitions and deportation defense cases, with a track record of achieving favorable outcomes in complex asylum and naturalization matters. Clients consistently praise his personalized approach, deep knowledge of USCIS procedures, and commitment to client communication. He maintains an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell and is actively involved in the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), reflecting his strong bar standing and expertise in New England immigration law.
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Michael G. Pappas
Law Offices of Michael G. Pappas
Michael G. Pappas has built a robust immigration practice over 20 years, specializing in employment-based visas and business immigration for corporations and individuals. His firm demonstrates high success rates in H-1B, L-1, and EB-1 visa applications, with clients noting his strategic approach to overcoming RFEs and consular processing challenges. With a focus on client satisfaction, he offers comprehensive services from initial consultation to case resolution, supported by his membership in AILA and consistent positive reviews for his responsiveness and legal acumen in Western Massachusetts.
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Usama Shihab
Shihab & Associates, Co., LPA
Usama Shihab leads a nationally recognized immigration law firm with a strong presence in Massachusetts, serving clients across the state including Wales. With over 15 years of experience, the firm excels in a wide range of immigration matters, particularly in employment-based visas and family sponsorship, boasting high approval rates and efficient case handling. Clients highlight the firm's multilingual support, thorough documentation preparation, and success in appealing denied cases. The firm is highly rated for its client-centered approach, with Usama Shihab being an active member of AILA and maintaining a reputation for integrity and results-driven representation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration law services in Wales, Massachusetts
What types of immigration cases do attorneys in Wales, MA, commonly handle for local residents?
Immigration attorneys serving Wales, MA, and the surrounding Hampden County area frequently handle family-based petitions (I-130), adjustment of status (I-485), naturalization (N-400), and humanitarian cases like U visas for victims of crime or VAWA petitions. Given the rural nature of Wales, attorneys often assist with employment-based visas for professionals working in nearby Springfield or Hartford, as well as issues related to maintaining status for international students at local colleges. They are also experienced with removal defense, which may involve representation before the Boston Immigration Court, the jurisdiction covering Massachusetts.
How can I find a reputable immigration lawyer near Wales, MA, and what should I look for?
Residents of Wales, MA, can start by consulting the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) directory, which filters attorneys by location and specialty. It's advisable to seek lawyers with experience in the specific area of immigration law relevant to your case, whether it's family, employment, or asylum. Look for attorneys familiar with the procedural nuances of the USCIS Boston Field Office and the local USCIS Application Support Center in Springfield. Checking reviews, seeking referrals from local community organizations in nearby towns like Monson or Palmer, and verifying their standing with the Massachusetts Board of Bar Overseers are crucial steps.
Are there any local resources or community organizations in the Wales, MA, area that assist with immigration matters?
While Wales itself is a small town, residents can access resources in nearby population centers. Organizations like the Irish International Immigrant Center in Boston offer remote services, and the Springfield Office of the New American Integration Program provides state-level support and referrals. Local public libraries, such as the Wales Public Library, may offer informational workshops or know-your-rights sessions. For direct legal assistance, non-profit organizations like the Political Asylum/Immigration Representation (PAIR) Project in Boston serve the entire state, including Hampden County, often through pro bono or low-cost services.
What is the typical process and timeline for filing for marriage-based green card adjustment of status from Wales, MA?
The process begins by filing forms I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) concurrently to the USCIS Chicago Lockbox. As a Wales resident, your case will be processed by the USCIS National Benefits Center, and your interview will likely be scheduled at the Boston Field Office, approximately a 90-minute drive. Current processing times can vary from 12 to 24 months. Your attorney will help you gather necessary documents, prepare for the interview, and navigate any requests for evidence (RFEs), which are common hurdles in the process.
If I'm facing deportation proceedings in Wales, MA, which immigration court has jurisdiction, and what are my options?
If you receive a Notice to Appear (NTA) while living in Wales, MA, your case will fall under the jurisdiction of the Boston Immigration Court, which handles all removal proceedings for Massachusetts. It is critical to obtain legal representation immediately. An experienced immigration attorney can explore defenses such as cancellation of removal, asylum, or adjustment of status. They can also file motions and represent you at hearings, which may be conducted via video or require travel to Boston. Given the severe consequences, seeking a qualified lawyer familiar with the Boston court's judges and procedures is essential for building the strongest possible case.
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About Wales, Massachusetts
Wales 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 Massachusetts.
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