The Best Immigration Attorneys in Smithfield, North Carolina
Top 3 immigration attorneys in Smithfield, North Carolina. Rated 4.8/5 stars based on our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system.
Top Immigration Attorneys
Ranked by our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system
Jeremy D. McKinney
McKinney Immigration Law
Jeremy McKinney is a highly respected immigration attorney who serves clients throughout North Carolina, including Smithfield. He currently serves as the National President of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), demonstrating his national recognition and expertise. His firm specializes in complex immigration cases including deportation defense, family petitions, and employment-based visas. With extensive courtroom experience and numerous successful appeals, he maintains an exceptional success rate. Clients consistently praise his deep knowledge, compassionate approach, and effective case strategies.
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Helen Parsonage
Parsonage Law, PLLC
Helen Parsonage is an award-winning immigration attorney with over two decades of experience serving North Carolina clients, including those from Smithfield. She is Board Certified as a Specialist in Immigration Law by the North Carolina State Bar, a distinction held by few attorneys. Her practice focuses on family-based immigration, removal defense, and humanitarian cases. With numerous successful asylum and cancellation of removal cases, she has built a reputation for handling complex immigration matters. Client reviews consistently highlight her thorough preparation, clear communication, and dedication to achieving positive outcomes.
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Robert A. Loeb
Loeb Law Firm, PLLC
Robert Loeb leads a dedicated immigration practice serving clients throughout central North Carolina, including Smithfield residents. His firm specializes in both business immigration (H-1B, L-1, E-2, PERM) and family-based cases. With extensive experience handling complex visa applications and adjustment of status cases, he maintains high approval rates. Clients appreciate his responsive communication style and strategic approach to immigration challenges. The firm is known for its personalized service and deep understanding of both corporate and individual immigration needs, with numerous successful naturalization and family petition cases.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration law services in Smithfield, North Carolina
What types of immigration cases do attorneys in Smithfield, NC, most commonly handle for the local community?
Immigration attorneys in Smithfield and Johnston County frequently handle family-based petitions (for spouses, children, and parents), employment-based visas for workers at local employers like the Smithfield Foods plant or in agriculture, humanitarian cases such as U-Visas for crime victims, and deportation defense. Given the significant immigrant population working in local industries like meat processing, agriculture, and manufacturing, attorneys here are well-versed in the specific challenges and evidence requirements relevant to these employment sectors for immigration applications.
How does being in Smithfield, NC, affect the processing of my immigration application compared to a larger city?
While USCIS forms and federal law are the same nationwide, your physical location in Smithfield means your case will be processed through the jurisdictionally appropriate USCIS field office, which is typically the Raleigh-Durham Field Office for interviews. An experienced local attorney will understand the specific preferences and common requests of this office, as well as the local immigration court procedures in Charlotte, which has the nearest immigration court. They can also help you navigate practical issues like obtaining necessary local records from Johnston County agencies to support your case.
Are there local resources in Smithfield or Johnston County that an immigration attorney might connect me with?
Yes, a knowledgeable Smithfield immigration attorney can refer you to crucial local resources. These include the Johnston County Community College for English classes, the Johnston County Health Department for required medical exams (Form I-693), and local non-profits or churches that provide support services for immigrants. They may also have relationships with local translators and notaries who are familiar with immigration documents, which is vital for accurately preparing applications like affidavits of support or personal statements.
What should I look for when choosing an immigration lawyer specifically in Smithfield, NC?
When choosing an immigration attorney in Smithfield, look for one who is not only licensed and experienced but also has a proven track record with cases common to Eastern North Carolina, such as those involving agricultural or food processing workers. It's beneficial if they have strong relationships with local employers for employment-based cases and are familiar with the local county court system for matters like criminal record expungements that can impact immigration status. Ensure they have a physical office or reliable presence in the area for in-person consultations, which are often necessary for sensitive immigration matters.
If I am detained by ICE in Smithfield, what are the immediate steps and how can a local attorney help?
If detained by ICE in Smithfield, you would likely be taken to a nearby holding facility, such as the Johnston County Jail, before potential transfer to a detention center like Stewart in Lumpkin, GA. An immediate step is to assert your right to remain silent and request an attorney. A local Smithfield immigration attorney can quickly file for a bond hearing, communicate with your family locally, and may have established rapport with local ICE officers and immigration judges in the Charlotte court, which can be crucial for navigating the detention and bond process efficiently. They can also help gather local evidence, like proof of community ties in Johnston County, to support a bond request.
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About Smithfield, North Carolina
Smithfield 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 North Carolina.
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