The Best Immigration Attorneys in Florida, New York
Top 3 immigration attorneys in Florida, New York. Rated 4.8/5 stars based on our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system.
Top Immigration Attorneys
Ranked by our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system
Michael J. Wildes
Wildes & Weinberg, P.C.
Michael J. Wildes is a highly respected immigration attorney and former federal prosecutor with over 25 years of experience. His firm, Wildes & Weinberg, has a proven track record of success in complex immigration cases, including high-profile family-based petitions, employment visas, and deportation defense. Client reviews consistently praise his expertise, responsiveness, and high approval rates for visas and naturalization. He is admitted to the New York Bar and maintains an excellent standing, with numerous accolades in immigration law.
Practice Areas:
Catherine L. Haight
Haight Law Group, P.C.
Catherine L. Haight leads a boutique immigration law firm with nearly two decades of experience, specializing in family-based and business immigration. She is known for her personalized approach and high success rates in visa applications, adjustments of status, and naturalization cases. Client feedback highlights her dedication, clear communication, and ability to navigate complex legal issues. Admitted to the New York Bar, she has built a strong reputation for client satisfaction and ethical practice.
Practice Areas:
Joshua L. Goldstein
The Law Offices of Joshua L. Goldstein
Joshua L. Goldstein has over 20 years of immigration law experience, focusing on family-based cases, employment visas, and deportation defense. His practice is noted for high client satisfaction and successful outcomes in naturalization and asylum cases. Reviews often mention his thoroughness, accessibility, and effective representation in challenging immigration matters. He is a member of the New York Bar with a commitment to staying current on immigration laws, ensuring reliable counsel for clients across New York State.
Practice Areas:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration law services in Florida, New York
What are the most common immigration cases handled by attorneys in Florida versus New York?
In Florida, attorneys frequently handle family-based petitions, investor visas (E-2 and EB-5), and humanitarian cases like asylum and Temporary Protected Status (TPS), reflecting the state's large immigrant communities from Latin America and the Caribbean. In New York, attorneys commonly work on employment-based visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1), asylum applications, and complex deportation defense cases, leveraging the city's status as a global business and cultural hub. Both states see high volumes of adjustment of status and naturalization applications, but the specific focus areas differ based on local demographics and economic drivers.
How does the immigration court backlog differ between Florida and New York, and how does it affect my case?
The immigration court backlog is severe in both states but manifests differently. In Florida, the Miami Immigration Court has one of the longest wait times in the nation, often stretching hearings for master calendar hearings or individual hearings several years into the future. In New York, the New York City Immigration Court also faces extreme delays, but the volume and diversity of cases can lead to different procedural challenges. An experienced local attorney in either state can navigate these delays by proactively filing motions, seeking administrative closure where appropriate, and ensuring all paperwork is flawless to avoid unnecessary postponements.
Are there specific state or local resources in Florida or New York that can assist with my immigration case?
Yes, both states offer unique resources. In New York, the New York State Office for New Americans (ONA) provides free legal consultations and navigation services, and many city-funded organizations offer robust support. In Florida, while there is no statewide equivalent to ONA, non-profit organizations like the Florida Immigrant Coalition (FLIC) and several county-specific legal aid societies provide critical assistance. A knowledgeable local attorney will be integrated into these networks and can refer you to trusted community resources for additional support, such as language assistance or social services.
For an employment-based green card, how do the processes differ if my job is in Florida versus New York?
The core federal process (PERM labor certification, I-140 petition, I-485 adjustment) is identical, but local nuances exist. In New York, attorneys often deal with a high concentration of tech, finance, and academic employers, requiring familiarity with specialized industries and potentially higher prevailing wage challenges in the New York City metropolitan area. In Florida, common scenarios involve hospitality, healthcare, agriculture, and real estate development, particularly for EB-5 investor visas. An attorney licensed in the respective state will understand the specific USCIS service center trends and local Department of Labor office procedures that can impact processing times and requests for evidence.
If I am facing deportation, what are the key differences in seeking relief in Florida compared to New York?
The strategic approach can differ based on jurisdictional precedents and judge demographics. In Florida, the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals governs, and its rulings on asylum, cancellation of removal, and other forms of relief set the legal landscape; courts may see more cases from Central America and the Caribbean. In New York, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals sets precedent, and its jurisprudence is often considered more favorable for certain asylum claims and prosecutorial discretion. A local deportation defense attorney will have critical knowledge of the tendencies of individual immigration judges in courts like Miami, Orlando, or New York City, which is invaluable for case strategy and preparing clients.
Finding Pro Bono Immigration Lawyers Near Me in Florida, New York
If you are searching for 'pro bono immigration lawyers near me' in Florida, New York, you are likely facing significant legal challenges without the financial resources to hire private counsel. Florida, a small village in Orange County, New York, is part of a region with a diverse immigrant community, and finding trustworthy, free legal assistance is crucial. Pro bono, meaning 'for the public good,' refers to legal services provided voluntarily and without charge. In immigration matters, where the stakes are incredibly high, securing competent pro bono representation can make the difference between remaining in the United States or facing deportation.
Understanding where to look is the first step. While Florida, NY itself is a small village, you should expand your search to the broader Orange County and Hudson Valley region. A primary resource is the New York State Office for New Americans (ONA). This state-funded program partners with non-profit organizations across New York to provide free, confidential immigration legal services. You can contact the ONA hotline at 1-800-566-7636 to be connected with a provider in your area. Another essential organization is the Legal Aid Society of Orange County, which may offer immigration assistance or can provide referrals to specialized pro bono programs.
It is also vital to connect with non-profit organizations dedicated to immigrant rights. While not all have physical offices in Florida, they serve the region. Organizations like Catholic Charities Community Services, which has offices in nearby areas like Newburgh or Middletown, often have immigration attorneys and accredited representatives on staff who provide pro bono or low-cost services based on income eligibility. Similarly, the Worker Justice Center of New York, with a focus on farmworkers and low-wage workers, offers immigration legal aid and serves the agricultural communities in Orange County.
When seeking pro bono help, be prepared. These organizations often have limited resources and high demand. You will likely need to demonstrate financial need. Gather all relevant documents, such as passports, birth certificates, any immigration paperwork (like Notices to Appear from immigration court), and proof of income. Be patient and persistent when calling; you may need to leave messages or call back. Always verify the credentials of anyone offering legal advice. In immigration law, only attorneys or accredited representatives recognized by the U.S. Department of Justice’s Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) can legally represent you before USCIS or in immigration court.
Remember, time is often critical in immigration cases, especially if you have a court date. Do not wait to begin your search. Start with the ONA hotline and the local Legal Aid Society. While finding a pro bono lawyer in Florida, New York requires effort, these dedicated professionals and organizations exist to help community members navigate the complex immigration system and fight for their right to remain with their families.
Nearby Cities
Explore immigration attorneys in cities near Florida
About Florida, New York
Florida 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 New York.
Local Expertise
Attorneys familiar with Florida community and local immigration law needs.
Trusted Representation
Licensed and experienced attorneys with proven success records in Florida.
Personalized Service
Customized legal strategies and dedicated support for clients and families.