The Best Immigration Attorneys in Independence, Missouri
Top 3 immigration attorneys in Independence, Missouri. Rated 4.9/5 stars based on our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system.
Top Immigration Attorneys
Ranked by our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system
Kristina M. Petros
The Petros Law Firm, LLC
Kristina Petros is a highly respected immigration attorney with over 15 years of experience exclusively in immigration law. She has built a strong reputation for handling complex family-based immigration cases, deportation defense, and asylum applications with exceptional success rates. Fluent in Spanish and Russian, she serves a diverse clientele throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area. Recognized for her compassionate approach and aggressive courtroom advocacy, she maintains a perfect 5.0 rating from clients who praise her attention to detail and successful case outcomes. She is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and Missouri Bar.
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Michael Sharma-Crawford
Sharma-Crawford, P.C.
Michael Sharma-Crawford leads a premier immigration law firm serving the greater Kansas City area, including Independence. With over two decades of experience, he specializes in complex business immigration and deportation defense cases, with numerous successful appellate arguments before the Board of Immigration Appeals. His firm is known for handling high-stakes removal cases and employment-based visa applications for corporations and individuals. Rated 4.9 stars across multiple platforms, clients consistently praise his strategic thinking and successful outcomes in difficult immigration matters. He is a frequent speaker on immigration law topics and maintains active membership in the American Immigration Lawyers Association.
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Sarah G. Goshgarian
Goshgarian & Associates, LLC
Sarah Goshgarian has established herself as a leading immigration attorney serving the Independence and Kansas City regions. With extensive experience in family-based petitions, citizenship applications, and humanitarian cases including asylum and VAWA, she has achieved remarkable success rates for her clients. Fluent in Spanish, she effectively serves the local immigrant community. Clients consistently rate her highly for her thorough preparation, clear communication, and compassionate representation. Her practice focuses exclusively on immigration law, and she is an active member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association with a proven track record of successful case resolutions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration law services in Independence, Missouri
What types of immigration cases do attorneys in Independence, MO, commonly handle?
Immigration attorneys in Independence, Missouri, frequently assist with family-based petitions (such as for spouses, children, and parents), employment-based visas, naturalization (U.S. citizenship), and deportation defense. Given the city's proximity to Kansas City, many also handle cases involving individuals detained at the nearby Kansas City Immigration Court. They are well-versed in navigating the specific procedural requirements of the USCIS Lee's Summit Field Office, which serves the region.
How can I find a reputable and affordable immigration lawyer in Independence?
Start by seeking referrals from local community organizations like the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City or Catholic Charities of Kansas City-St. Joseph, which serve the Independence area. You can also verify an attorney's standing with The Missouri Bar and check for membership in the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA). Many Independence attorneys offer initial consultations, and some work with non-profits to provide sliding-scale fees based on income to ensure accessibility.
Are there specific immigration resources or support services available in Independence for immigrants?
Yes, while Independence itself has a smaller network than Kansas City, key local resources include the Independence School District's English Language Learner programs and community centers that may host legal clinics. For direct legal aid, residents often access services from the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association's Lawyer Referral Service or the Migrant Farmworkers Project, which serves Western Missouri. The Mid-Continent Public Library in Independence also provides access to legal information databases.
What should I expect during the U.S. citizenship (naturalization) process with a local Independence attorney?
An Independence-based immigration attorney will guide you through the entire N-400 application process, which includes ensuring you meet the continuous residence and physical presence requirements, preparing you for the civics and English tests, and representing you at your interview, which is typically held at the USCIS Lee's Summit Field Office. They will also help you address any potential issues, such as past criminal records or extended trips abroad, that are common concerns for applicants in the Greater Kansas City area.
If I am facing deportation (removal proceedings), what immediate steps should I take in the Independence area?
If you receive a Notice to Appear (NTA), it is critical to contact an immigration attorney in Independence immediately. Your case will likely be heard at the Kansas City Immigration Court, and missing a hearing results in an automatic removal order. A local attorney can file the necessary motions, explore relief options like cancellation of removal or asylum, and may help if you are detained at the nearby Platte County Jail or other regional facilities used by ICE. Acting quickly is essential to protect your rights.
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