The Best Immigration Attorneys in Galveston, Texas
Top 3 immigration attorneys in Galveston, Texas. Rated 4.8/5 stars based on our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system.
Top Immigration Attorneys
Ranked by our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system
The Law Firm of Shihab & Associates
The Law Firm of Shihab & Associates
With over 28 years of experience, this firm is highly regarded for its expertise in complex immigration cases, including family-based petitions, employment visas, and deportation defense. They boast a high case success rate, particularly in EB-5 investor visas and H-1B applications, and maintain excellent client satisfaction with numerous positive reviews highlighting their responsiveness and thorough legal strategies. The firm is led by attorneys with strong bar standing and active involvement in national immigration law associations, ensuring up-to-date knowledge and effective representation for clients in Galveston and beyond.
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The Chawla Law Firm
The Chawla Law Firm
This firm has built a strong reputation over 19 years for aggressive and successful deportation defense and asylum cases, with high approval rates and compassionate client care. Specializing in family-based immigration and citizenship matters, they are known for their personalized approach and deep legal expertise, resulting in consistently high client satisfaction scores. The principal attorney, Manpreet K. Chawla, maintains excellent bar standing and is recognized for her dedication to immigrant rights, making this a top choice for Galveston residents seeking reliable immigration services.
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The Law Office of James A. Goudreau
The Law Office of James A. Goudreau
With 14 years of focused practice, this office excels in employment-based immigration, including H-1B, L-1, and TN visas, achieving high success rates for corporate and individual clients. James A. Goudreau is praised for his meticulous case preparation and strong client communication, leading to outstanding satisfaction reviews and a track record of efficient visa processing. His firm is well-regarded for its expertise in business immigration law and family petitions, with solid bar standing and a commitment to serving the Galveston area through comprehensive legal support.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration law services in Galveston, Texas
What types of immigration cases do attorneys in Galveston, Texas, commonly handle?
Immigration attorneys in Galveston frequently handle cases specific to the Gulf Coast region, including maritime and port worker visas (like H-2A/B for seasonal seafood processing), family-based petitions for mixed-status families, and humanitarian cases such as asylum or U-visas for victims of crime. Given Galveston's proximity to the Port of Galveston and its role as a cruise terminal, attorneys also have experience with crew member (D-visa) issues and deportation defense for individuals encountering CBP at the port. They are well-versed in navigating the Houston USCIS Field Office, which has jurisdiction over Galveston County.
How can I find a reputable and affordable immigration lawyer in Galveston?
Start by checking the State Bar of Texas's lawyer referral service or the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) directory for attorneys practicing in the Galveston area. Local non-profits like the Galveston County Food Bank or Catholic Charities of Galveston-Houston may offer low-cost immigration legal clinics or referrals. It's also advisable to consult with the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), as they may have resources for healthcare professionals on work visas. Always verify an attorney's Texas bar license and read client reviews specific to their Galveston practice.
Are there specific immigration challenges for maritime or port workers in Galveston?
Yes, maritime and port workers in Galveston face unique immigration challenges due to the city's active seaport and cruise industry. Common issues include obtaining and renewing C1/D crewman visas, addressing visa overstays for ship crew, and navigating the complex regulations for longshoremen and other port laborers. An experienced Galveston immigration attorney can help with compliance, defend against inadmissibility issues at the Port of Galveston, and assist with applications for temporary work visas tied to specific maritime employers in the region.
What should I do if I am detained by ICE in Galveston County?
If detained by ICE in Galveston County, you will likely be held at the Galveston County Jail or transferred to a regional detention center. It is critical to immediately request to speak with an immigration attorney and to not sign any documents without legal counsel. Contact a local Galveston immigration lawyer who can file for a bond hearing at the Houston Immigration Court, which has jurisdiction. These attorneys are familiar with the local judges and ICE prosecutors, which can be advantageous in building a defense strategy specific to the Southern District of Texas.
Can a Galveston-based attorney help with employment-based green cards for the healthcare or tourism industries?
Absolutely. Galveston immigration attorneys regularly assist professionals at major local employers like the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) with EB-2/EB-3 green card petitions, particularly for nurses, physicians, and researchers. They also help tourism and hospitality workers at Galveston's many hotels, restaurants, and cruise lines with PERM labor certifications and temporary visas. An attorney familiar with Galveston's economic landscape can effectively liaise with these employers and navigate the specific requirements of the Texas Workforce Commission and federal agencies.
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About Galveston, Texas
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