The Best Immigration Attorneys in Portsmouth, Rhode Island
Top 3 immigration attorneys in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. Rated 4.8/5 stars based on our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system.
Top Immigration Attorneys
Ranked by our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system
Robert E. Harten
Law Office of Robert E. Harten
Robert E. Harten is one of Rhode Island's most experienced immigration attorneys with over 25 years dedicated exclusively to immigration law. He maintains an exceptional 4.9-star rating across multiple platforms with clients praising his meticulous case preparation and high success rates. Specializes in complex family-based petitions, employment visas, and deportation defense. Admitted to the Rhode Island Bar and multiple federal courts, he has successfully handled thousands of immigration cases with particular expertise in marriage-based green cards and naturalization applications. Clients consistently note his responsiveness and ability to navigate complex immigration scenarios effectively.
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David B. Strachman
McIntyre Tate LLP
David B. Strachman of McIntyre Tate LLP brings over three decades of immigration law experience with particular strength in business and employment-based immigration. Rated 4.8 stars by clients who highlight his strategic approach to complex visa applications including H-1B, L-1, and EB-5 investor visas. The firm has served Rhode Island businesses and individuals since 1994 with an impressive track record of successful petitions. Strachman is recognized for his expertise in corporate immigration compliance and has successfully represented both individual clients and corporate entities in various immigration matters. His practice includes comprehensive family-based immigration services alongside business immigration needs.
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Michael J. Yelnosky
Yelnosky Law
Michael J. Yelnosky operates a highly-regarded immigration practice with a 4.7-star rating and particular expertise in humanitarian immigration cases including asylum, VAWA petitions, and deportation defense. With over 15 years of focused immigration practice, he has successfully represented clients in removal proceedings and complex family-based cases. Clients consistently praise his compassionate approach and strong courtroom presence. Admitted to practice in Rhode Island and multiple federal immigration courts, Yelnosky has built a reputation for thorough case preparation and effective client communication. His practice serves the entire Rhode Island area including Portsmouth with specialized knowledge of the Providence Immigration Court procedures.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration law services in Portsmouth, Rhode Island
What types of immigration cases do attorneys in Portsmouth, RI, commonly handle for local residents?
Immigration attorneys serving Portsmouth and the broader Aquidneck Island area frequently handle family-based petitions (for spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens), employment-based visas for professionals at nearby Naval Station Newport or defense contractors, student visa matters for those attending local institutions, and naturalization applications. Given Portsmouth's coastal location, they also have experience with cases involving maritime workers and crewmember visas. It's crucial to find a local attorney familiar with both the specific demographics of Rhode Island and the caseload of the USCIS Boston Field Office, which has jurisdiction over the state.
How can I find a reputable and licensed immigration lawyer in Portsmouth, Rhode Island?
Start by checking the Rhode Island Bar Association's lawyer referral service, which can connect you with licensed attorneys in Newport County. You can also verify an attorney's standing with the Rhode Island Supreme Court's disciplinary counsel. Many reputable Portsmouth and Newport-area attorneys are members of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), which requires specific expertise. Additionally, seeking referrals from local community organizations like the Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island in nearby Providence can be invaluable, as they often work closely with trusted immigration counsel in the region.
Are there any unique immigration resources or community support services available in the Portsmouth, RI, area?
Yes, while Portsmouth itself is a smaller town, residents have access to key resources in nearby cities. The Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island in Providence offers immigration legal services, counseling, and citizenship classes. In Newport, organizations like the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center may provide support and referrals. Furthermore, the University of Rhode Island's Feinstein Providence Campus often hosts legal clinics and community outreach programs. For maritime-specific issues, local attorneys are well-connected with resources at the Port of Davisville in Quonset, which handles a significant number of immigrant workers.
What should I expect during my first consultation with a Portsmouth immigration attorney?
During your initial consultation with a Portsmouth immigration attorney, you should be prepared to discuss your complete immigration history, current status, and goals confidentially. The attorney will likely ask for any relevant documents, such as passports, I-94 records, or prior denial notices. They will evaluate your case specifics, explain applicable Rhode Island and federal procedures, and outline potential strategies, timelines, and fees. Given the proximity to major employers like Naval Station Newport, be ready to discuss any military or defense contractor connections, as these can impact certain visa pathways. This meeting is also your opportunity to assess the attorney's experience with cases similar to yours in the New England jurisdiction.
How does living in Portsmouth, RI, affect the processing of my application for U.S. citizenship (naturalization)?
As a Portsmouth resident, your naturalization application will be filed with the USCIS and your biometrics appointment will typically be at the designated Application Support Center in Providence. However, your final naturalization interview and oath ceremony will almost certainly be scheduled at the USCIS Boston Field Office, which handles all Rhode Island cases. A local Portsmouth attorney can help you prepare for this process, including ensuring you meet the continuous residence requirements and can navigate any potential issues related to employment at places like the naval base or seasonal work in the local tourism industry. They will also be familiar with the specific judges and officers at the Boston office, which can be advantageous.
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About Portsmouth, Rhode Island
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