The Best Immigration Attorneys in San Antonio, Texas
Top 3 immigration attorneys in San Antonio, 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
Raúl G. Salinas
The Salinas Firm, PLLC
Raúl G. Salinas is a highly respected immigration attorney with extensive experience in complex immigration matters. He specializes in deportation defense, family-based petitions, and humanitarian cases. With a perfect 10.0 rating from Avvo and numerous client testimonials praising his successful case outcomes, he has built a reputation for aggressive representation in immigration court. His practice focuses on achieving favorable results for clients facing removal proceedings while maintaining high client satisfaction through personalized attention and comprehensive legal strategies.
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J. Jesus "Jesse" Hernandez
The Law Office of J. Jesus Hernandez
With over two decades of immigration law experience, Jesse Hernandez has established himself as one of San Antonio's premier immigration attorneys. He handles a wide range of cases including complex business immigration, family petitions, and removal defense. His practice is known for high success rates in employment-based visas and investor cases. Clients consistently praise his thorough approach, attention to detail, and ability to navigate complicated immigration processes. He maintains an excellent standing with the Texas Bar and has successfully represented clients from diverse backgrounds.
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John E. Lawhon
Lawhon & Associates, P.C.
John Lawhon brings over 25 years of dedicated immigration law practice to the San Antonio community. His firm handles all aspects of immigration law with particular expertise in business immigration and complex family cases. Known for his strategic approach to difficult cases, he has successfully represented clients in matters ranging from H-1B visas to asylum applications. With strong bar standing and numerous successful case resolutions, his practice is recognized for consistent results and client-focused representation. The firm's longevity and sustained positive client feedback demonstrate their commitment to excellence in immigration law.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration law services in San Antonio, Texas
What are the most common types of immigration cases handled by attorneys in San Antonio, Texas?
In San Antonio, immigration attorneys frequently handle family-based petitions, U visa applications for victims of crime, removal defense cases, and naturalization applications. Given the city's proximity to the border and its large military presence, cases involving military parole in place for family members of service members and complex consular processing issues are also very common. Local lawyers are well-versed in navigating the specific procedures of the San Antonio Field Office of USCIS and the local immigration court.
How does the presence of Lackland Air Force Base and Fort Sam Houston impact immigration legal services in San Antonio?
The major military installations in San Antonio create a significant need for immigration attorneys skilled in military-specific immigration benefits. This includes parole in place (PIP) for undocumented spouses, parents, and children of active-duty service members, which can lead to lawful permanent residency. Attorneys here are also experienced with expedited naturalization under INA 328 or 329 for service members and their families, and they understand how to liaise effectively with base legal offices and command structures.
Where is the immigration court located in San Antonio, and what should I know about proceedings there?
The San Antonio Immigration Court is located at 727 E. Durango Blvd, Suite A-100, and is part of the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR). Individuals in removal proceedings here will have their master calendar and individual hearings scheduled at this court. It's crucial to have an attorney familiar with the specific judges, their dockets, and local procedures, as the court handles cases from a wide area of South Texas, leading to a busy and complex caseload.
Are there any local San Antonio or Bexar County resources that can help with my immigration case before I hire a lawyer?
Yes, several local organizations provide low-cost or pro bono consultations and services. These include the San Antonio Immigrant Youth Network (SAIYN), the Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services (RAICES), which has a major office in San Antonio, and the non-profit American Gateways. Additionally, St. Mary's University School of Law runs a clinical program that may offer assistance. These resources can be a good starting point for understanding your options, though for complex cases, hiring a private attorney is often necessary.
What should I look for when choosing an immigration attorney specifically in San Antonio, Texas?
When selecting an immigration lawyer in San Antonio, look for specific experience with the type of case you have (e.g., family, asylum, deportation defense) and verified knowledge of the local USCIS field office and immigration court. Ensure they are members in good standing of the State Bar of Texas. It's also advantageous to choose an attorney or firm with strong ties to the local immigrant community and established relationships with local non-profits like RAICES, as this often indicates a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by immigrants in South Texas.
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