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The Best Immigration Attorneys in Lafferty, Ohio

Top 3 immigration attorneys in Lafferty, Ohio. Rated 4.8/5 stars based on our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system.

3
Top Attorneys
4.8/5
Avg Rating
390
Total Reviews
27
Avg Years

Top Immigration Attorneys

Ranked by our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system

1

Margaret W. Wong

Margaret W. Wong & Associates

★★★★☆
4.8/5

Margaret W. Wong is a nationally acclaimed immigration attorney with over 35 years of dedicated practice. She has successfully handled thousands of complex cases, including high-profile asylum and deportation defense matters, with a remarkable success rate. Clients consistently praise her compassionate approach and legal expertise, noting her ability to navigate difficult immigration scenarios. She is a frequent commentator on immigration issues and maintains an excellent standing with the Ohio State Bar Association, with numerous awards for her contributions to immigration law.

Experience:35 years
Reviews:120 reviews
3150 Chester Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114

Practice Areas:

Family-Based ImmigrationEmployment VisasCitizenship & NaturalizationDeportation DefenseAsylumBusiness Immigration
2

Usama Shihab

Shihab & Associates, Co., LPA

★★★★☆
4.9/5

Usama Shihab leads a firm exclusively focused on immigration law, boasting over 20 years of experience and a track record of success in employment-based visas, family petitions, and naturalization cases. The firm is known for its client-centered approach, with high satisfaction rates reflected in numerous positive reviews for their responsiveness and results. Shihab is recognized for his deep legal knowledge and active involvement in immigration advocacy, holding a strong standing with the Ohio bar and achieving favorable outcomes in complex deportation defenses.

Experience:20 years
Reviews:180 reviews
65 E State St, Columbus, OH 43215

Practice Areas:

Family-Based ImmigrationEmployment VisasCitizenship & NaturalizationDeportation DefenseAsylumBusiness Immigration
3

David W. Leopold

David W. Leopold, PLLC

★★★★☆
4.7/5

David W. Leopold is a highly respected immigration attorney with 25 years of experience, specializing in deportation defense, asylum, and business immigration. He has represented clients in landmark cases and is known for his strategic litigation and high success rates. Clients frequently commend his dedication and ability to achieve positive results in challenging situations. Leopold maintains an exemplary bar standing and is a sought-after speaker on immigration law, with a reputation for thorough, ethical representation and strong client satisfaction.

Experience:25 years
Reviews:90 reviews
1301 East 9th St, Cleveland, OH 44114

Practice Areas:

Family-Based ImmigrationEmployment VisasCitizenship & NaturalizationDeportation DefenseAsylumBusiness Immigration

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about immigration law services in Lafferty, Ohio

What types of immigration cases do attorneys in the Lafferty, Ohio area typically handle?

Immigration attorneys serving Lafferty and Belmont County commonly handle family-based petitions (I-130), adjustment of status, naturalization (N-400), and humanitarian cases like asylum or VAWA. Given the region's proximity to industrial and energy sectors, they also frequently assist with employment-based visas for workers at local plants or through the Ohio Utica Shale region. Representation for individuals facing removal proceedings at the Cleveland Immigration Court is another critical service area.

How can I find a reputable immigration lawyer near Lafferty, OH?

Start by checking the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) directory for attorneys practicing in Eastern Ohio. You can also seek referrals from local community organizations in nearby St. Clairsville or Martins Ferry, or contact the Ohio State Bar Association's lawyer referral service. It's crucial to verify an attorney's license with the Supreme Court of Ohio and read client reviews specific to their experience with Ohio immigration cases.

Are there any local resources or community organizations in Belmont County that assist immigrants?

While Lafferty itself is small, residents can access broader Belmont County resources. The Ohio Hispanic Coalition may offer outreach services, and Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Steubenville provides immigration legal assistance and counseling. For immediate needs, the Belmont County Department of Job and Family Services can offer guidance on state benefits eligibility. Local public libraries in St. Clairsville often have information on community support groups.

What should I expect during my first consultation with an immigration attorney in this area?

Your first consultation with a local Ohio attorney will typically involve a review of your immigration history, current status, and goals. Be prepared to discuss any prior applications, encounters with immigration officials, or criminal history. The attorney will explain relevant Ohio-specific factors, such as processing times at the Cleveland USCIS Field Office, and outline a strategy, fees, and next steps tailored to your situation in Belmont County.

I'm applying for citizenship; how does living in rural Lafferty, OH affect the naturalization process?

Living in Lafferty means your application will be processed through the USCIS Cleveland Field Office, which handles interviews and biometrics for Eastern Ohio. You'll need to travel there for your appointment. The civics test and English language requirements are federal, but a local attorney can help you prepare, especially regarding demonstrating continuous residence and good moral character within your specific Ohio community. They can also advise on any local court records needed for your application.

Finding the Right Immigration Attorney in Lafferty, Ohio

If you are navigating the complex U.S. immigration system from Lafferty, Ohio, you may feel isolated. Belmont County is a tight-knit community, but specialized immigration legal services are not as abundant here as in major metropolitan areas. This makes finding a knowledgeable and accessible immigration attorney a critical first step. An immigration attorney is a lawyer licensed to practice law who specializes in the rules, regulations, and procedures governing visas, green cards, citizenship, and deportation defense. They are your advocate and guide through a process that is often confusing and high-stakes.

For residents of Lafferty and the surrounding Ohio Valley, your search will likely extend beyond the village limits. Many qualified immigration attorneys serve the region from offices in nearby St. Clairsville, Wheeling, or even Steubenville. The key is to find one who is responsive and willing to serve clients in our rural area, perhaps through a combination of in-person consultations and secure remote meetings. When researching attorneys, verify their credentials with the Ohio State Bar Association and specifically look for membership in the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA). This membership indicates a dedicated focus on immigration law and a commitment to ongoing education in this rapidly changing field.

Your initial consultation is your opportunity to assess if the attorney is the right fit for you and your case. Come prepared with a clear summary of your situation and any relevant documents you have. A reputable attorney will listen carefully, explain your potential options in understandable terms, and provide a straightforward fee structure. Be wary of anyone who guarantees specific outcomes or pressures you to sign an agreement immediately. Immigration law has no guarantees, and a trustworthy lawyer will be honest about the challenges and timelines involved.

Local context matters. An attorney familiar with Ohio’s Eastern District court procedures or one who has experience with cases processed through the Cleveland or Pittsburgh USCIS field offices can be advantageous. Furthermore, a lawyer practicing in this region may have a better understanding of the unique circumstances facing families and employers in our local economy, from agricultural workers to those in the energy sector. They can help connect you with local resources, such as trusted translators or community organizations, that can provide additional support.

Ultimately, securing competent legal representation is one of the most important decisions you can make in your immigration journey. It is an investment in your future and your family's stability. While the search from a small community like Lafferty requires some extra effort, taking the time to find a dedicated immigration attorney who you trust can make all the difference in achieving a successful outcome. Start your search with careful research, ask thorough questions, and choose an advocate who demonstrates both expertise and a genuine commitment to your case.

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About Lafferty, Ohio

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