The Best Immigration Attorneys in Shelby, Ohio
Top 3 immigration attorneys in Shelby, Ohio. Rated 4.8/5 stars based on our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system.
Top Immigration Attorneys
Ranked by our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system
Richard A. Koblentz
Koblentz Immigration Law
Richard Koblentz is a highly respected immigration attorney with over 25 years of experience, serving clients throughout Ohio including Shelby and Richland County. He is AV Preeminent rated by Martindale-Hubbell and recognized as a Super Lawyer. His firm handles complex immigration cases including deportation defense, family petitions, and employment-based visas with exceptional success rates. Clients consistently praise his thorough approach, responsiveness, and successful outcomes in challenging immigration matters. He is admitted to practice in Ohio and multiple federal courts.
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Margaret W. Wong
Margaret W. Wong & Associates, LLC
Margaret W. Wong is a nationally recognized immigration attorney with over four decades of experience, serving clients throughout Ohio including the Shelby area. She has been featured in national media and has an outstanding track record of successful deportation defense and complex immigration cases. Her firm handles all aspects of immigration law with particular expertise in asylum cases and family-based immigration. With numerous awards and recognition, including being named one of America's Best Lawyers, she maintains a 98% success rate in deportation cases and has helped thousands achieve legal status.
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David W. Leopold
Ulmer & Berne LLP
David W. Leopold is a preeminent immigration attorney at Ulmer & Berne, serving clients throughout Ohio including the Shelby region. With over 30 years of experience, he is past president of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and regularly appears as an immigration expert on national news networks. He specializes in business immigration, employment visas, and complex deportation defense cases. Leopold is recognized for his strategic approach to immigration law and has successfully handled numerous high-profile cases. His firm provides comprehensive immigration services with a focus on corporate clients and individual cases alike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration law services in Shelby, Ohio
What types of immigration cases do attorneys in Shelby, Ohio typically handle?
Immigration attorneys in Shelby and the surrounding Richland County area commonly assist with family-based petitions (such as for spouses, children, and parents), employment-based visas, naturalization (U.S. citizenship), deportation defense, and DACA renewals. Given Shelby's proximity to agricultural and manufacturing industries, attorneys also frequently handle cases related to seasonal and skilled worker visas. They are well-versed in navigating both the Cleveland and Detroit USCIS field office jurisdictions that serve Ohio residents.
How can I find a reputable immigration lawyer near Shelby, OH?
Start by checking the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) directory, which lists vetted attorneys by location. You can also seek referrals from local community organizations in Mansfield or the Richland County area, such as the Hispanic Alliance or legal aid clinics. It's advisable to schedule consultations with a few attorneys to discuss your specific case, their experience with similar situations, and their familiarity with the local immigration court in Cleveland, which has jurisdiction over Shelby.
What should I bring to my first consultation with a Shelby immigration attorney?
You should bring all relevant documents, including your passport, I-94 arrival/departure record, any prior immigration applications or notices (like from USCIS, ICE, or the immigration court), birth certificates, marriage certificates, and any criminal records, if applicable. For Shelby residents, it's also helpful to bring proof of local residence, such as utility bills or a lease, as this can be important for establishing jurisdiction and community ties in any court proceedings.
Are there any low-cost or free immigration legal services available in the Shelby area?
Yes, while Shelby itself is a smaller city, residents can access pro bono or low-cost services through organizations in nearby Mansfield and Cleveland. The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland serves Richland County and may assist with certain immigration matters. Additionally, community centers and churches in the region sometimes host legal clinics. It's important to inquire directly about income eligibility and the specific types of cases they handle, as resources can be limited.
How does living in Shelby, Ohio, affect my application for U.S. citizenship (naturalization)?
Living in Shelby means your application will be processed through the USCIS Detroit Field Office, which handles naturalization interviews for Ohio residents outside of Cincinnati and Cleveland. The main practical effects are the location for your biometrics appointment (often in Cleveland) and your final interview. A local attorney can help you prepare for the interview, ensure you meet the continuous residence requirements, and guide you through the specific procedures and potential timelines associated with this jurisdiction.
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About Shelby, Ohio
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