The Best Immigration Attorneys in Wading River, New York
Top 3 immigration attorneys in Wading River, New York. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system.
Top Immigration Attorneys
Ranked by our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system
Michael J. Gurfinkel
Law Offices of Michael J. Gurfinkel
Michael Gurfinkel is one of Long Island's most prominent immigration attorneys with over 40 years of dedicated immigration law practice. He is rated AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell, the highest peer rating for ethical standards and legal ability. His firm has successfully handled thousands of family petitions, employment visas, citizenship applications, and deportation defense cases. Known for his extensive media presence and educational outreach, Gurfinkel maintains a 98% success rate for citizenship applications and has particular expertise in complex deportation cases. The firm serves clients throughout Suffolk County including Wading River.
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Edward J. Mermelstein
One and Only Holdings International
Edward Mermelstein is a highly-regarded immigration attorney serving clients throughout New York including Long Island communities like Wading River. With particular expertise in business and investor immigration (EB-5, E-2, L-1 visas), he has represented numerous international corporations and high-net-worth individuals. Formerly a Soviet refugee himself, Mermelstein brings unique perspective to asylum and family-based cases. He maintains a 4.7-star rating across multiple platforms and is recognized for his strategic approach to complex immigration matters. His firm offers comprehensive services from initial visa applications to citizenship.
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Michael D. Wildes
Wildes & Weinberg PC
Managing Partner Michael Wildes continues his father's legacy at one of New York's most respected immigration law firms, serving clients throughout New York including Wading River and Suffolk County. The firm has represented numerous high-profile cases and maintains exceptional success rates in family petitions, employment-based immigration, and deportation defense. Wildes, a former federal prosecutor and current mayor of Englewood, NJ, brings substantial government experience to his practice. The firm is particularly known for handling complex cases including extraordinary ability visas (O-1), treaty investor visas, and asylum applications with a documented 95%+ success rate.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration law services in Wading River, New York
What types of immigration cases do attorneys in the Wading River, NY area typically handle?
Immigration attorneys serving Wading River and Suffolk County commonly handle family-based petitions (I-130), adjustment of status (green card applications), naturalization (N-400), work visas (H-1B, L-1), and humanitarian cases like asylum or VAWA. Given the area's proximity to major employment centers like Brookhaven National Lab and Stony Brook University, attorneys here are also experienced with employment-based immigration for researchers, professionals, and university staff. They can assist with the unique procedural aspects of filing through the New York Field Office or the Vermont Service Center, which often processes cases from this region.
How can I find a reputable immigration lawyer near Wading River, NY?
Start by checking the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) directory, which filters attorneys by location and specialty. You can also seek referrals from local community organizations in Riverhead or Shirley that serve immigrant populations. It's crucial to verify the attorney is licensed to practice in New York and is in good standing with the New York State Bar Association. Many reputable firms based in Suffolk County offer consultations, allowing you to assess their experience with cases similar to yours and their familiarity with the local USCIS office in Holtsville, which serves Wading River residents.
Are there specific immigration challenges for agricultural workers in the Wading River area?
Yes, given Wading River's location in an agricultural region of Long Island, immigration attorneys frequently assist with H-2A temporary agricultural worker visas for local farms and nurseries. Challenges include ensuring proper certification from the U.S. Department of Labor and navigating the specific requirements for New York State employers. Attorneys can also advise on potential pathways to status adjustment for long-term workers and address issues related to wage compliance and housing regulations under New York State law, which are critical for H-2A program adherence.
What should I expect during my first consultation with a Wading River immigration attorney?
During an initial consultation, typically conducted in person or via video call, you should be prepared to discuss your complete immigration history and goals confidentially. The attorney will evaluate your eligibility for specific visas or relief, outline potential strategies, and explain the relevant processes, timelines, and estimated costs. They should also discuss their experience with the USCIS New York Field Office and any local immigration court venues, such as the Varick Street Court in Manhattan, which handles cases from this area. This meeting is your opportunity to assess the attorney's expertise and communication style.
Can a local attorney help if I have a pending case or need to appeal a decision from USCIS?
Absolutely. A Wading River-based immigration attorney can represent you in all stages of your case, including filing motions to reopen or reconsider, or appealing to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) or the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). They are familiar with the filing procedures and deadlines specific to the service center handling your case. If your case requires court representation, they can appear before the New York Immigration Court or federal courts on your behalf. Local counsel is particularly valuable for navigating the procedural nuances and building a strong appeal based on applicable case law from the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, which governs New York.
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About Wading River, New York
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