The Best Immigration Attorneys in Rochester, New York
Top 3 immigration attorneys in Rochester, 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
Rosanna Berardi, Esq.
Law Office of Rosanna Berardi
Rosanna Berardi is a highly respected immigration attorney with over two decades of experience, serving clients throughout Western New York including Rochester. She specializes in complex business immigration cases including H-1B visas, L-1 transfers, EB-1 extraordinary ability petitions, and PERM labor certifications. With a 95%+ success rate for employment-based petitions, she has been recognized by Super Lawyers and maintains an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell. Her firm is known for personalized attention and successful outcomes in family-based cases and deportation defense.
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Matthew L. Kolken, Esq.
Kolken & Kolken, PLLC
Matthew Kolken is a nationally recognized immigration attorney specializing in deportation defense and complex removal cases. Serving the Rochester area from his Buffalo practice, he has successfully handled thousands of immigration cases including asylum claims, cancellation of removal, and federal court appeals. Known for his aggressive courtroom advocacy, he has been featured in national media outlets and maintains a remarkable success rate in deportation proceedings. His firm offers comprehensive immigration services with particular expertise in humanitarian cases and appellate work.
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Andrew F. Wilson, Esq.
Immigration Law Center of Andrew F. Wilson
Andrew Wilson operates a dedicated Rochester-based immigration practice with extensive experience in both family and employment-based immigration matters. His firm has successfully processed hundreds of green card applications, citizenship petitions, and work visa cases. Specializing in marriage-based adjustments, fiancé visas, and employment-based permanent residency, he maintains strong relationships with local employers and immigrant communities. With a client-focused approach and high approval rates, his practice is well-regarded for handling complex immigration matters with personalized attention and thorough case preparation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration law services in Rochester, New York
What types of immigration cases do attorneys in Rochester, NY, commonly handle?
Immigration attorneys in Rochester frequently handle a wide range of cases, including family-based petitions (sponsoring spouses, children, or parents), employment-based visas for professionals at institutions like the University of Rochester or Rochester Regional Health, asylum applications, and deportation defense. Given the city's significant immigrant communities and its status as a refugee resettlement area, lawyers here also have extensive experience with humanitarian cases like U visas for crime victims and Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS).
How can I find a reputable and affordable immigration lawyer in Rochester?
Start by checking the New York State Bar Association's lawyer referral service or the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) directory for vetted attorneys in the Rochester area. For lower-cost options, consider contacting the Legal Aid Society of Rochester or the Volunteer Legal Services Project, which may offer pro bono or sliding-scale services. Additionally, local community organizations like the Catholic Family Center's New Americans Program can provide trusted referrals to experienced immigration practitioners.
Are there specific immigration challenges unique to living in Rochester, NY?
Yes, a key challenge is the jurisdiction of the Buffalo Immigration Court, which handles all removal proceedings for Rochester residents, requiring your attorney to be familiar with that specific court's procedures and judges. Furthermore, navigating New York State-specific benefits and documentation, such as driver's licenses for undocumented individuals under the Green Light Law, is a common local issue. Rochester's harsh winters can also impact travel to mandatory biometrics appointments at the USCIS Application Support Center in Buffalo.
What should I expect during my first consultation with a Rochester immigration attorney?
During your initial consultation, typically conducted in-person or via video call, the attorney will review your specific situation, immigration history, and goals to assess your legal options. You should bring all relevant documents, such as passports, prior immigration paperwork, and any court notices. The lawyer will explain potential strategies, timelines, fees, and how they can assist with filings that may need to be submitted to USCIS service centers or the Buffalo court. This meeting is confidential and crucial for building your case strategy.
Can a Rochester immigration attorney help me with employment-based visas if I work for a local university or hospital?
Absolutely. Rochester immigration lawyers routinely assist professionals at major employers like the University of Rochester, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), and the Rochester Regional Health system with visas such as H-1B for specialty occupations, O-1 for individuals with extraordinary ability, and TN status for Canadian and Mexican professionals. They understand the specific documentation and Labor Condition Application (LCA) requirements for these institutions and can navigate the process from petition to permanent residency (green card) through employment.
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