The Best Immigration Attorneys in Seattle, Washington
Top 3 immigration attorneys in Seattle, Washington. Rated 4.7/5 stars based on our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system.
Top Immigration Attorneys
Ranked by our comprehensive legal expertise evaluation system
Robert Gibbs
Gibbs Houston Pauw
Robert Gibbs is a nationally renowned immigration attorney with over 30 years of experience, specializing in business and employment-based immigration. He has an exceptional success rate for H-1B, L-1, and EB-5 visa cases, and is AV Preeminent rated by Martindale-Hubbell. Known for his strategic approach and high client satisfaction, he frequently lectures on immigration law and has been recognized in Best Lawyers in America. His firm consistently achieves high approval rates for complex corporate immigration matters.
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Tien-Li Loke Walsh
The Law Office of Tien-Li Loke Walsh
Tien-Li Loke Walsh has over 20 years of dedicated experience in immigration law, with a focus on family-based cases, asylum, and deportation defense. She is known for her high case success rates and compassionate client representation, particularly in humanitarian and removal proceedings. Fluent in Mandarin and English, she serves a diverse client base and has received numerous positive reviews for her effectiveness in navigating complex immigration systems and achieving favorable outcomes.
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Catherine A. Brown
Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy, LLP
Catherine A. Brown is a highly skilled immigration attorney at Fragomen's Seattle office, with over 15 years of experience in business immigration and global mobility. She specializes in employment-based visas, PERM labor certifications, and corporate immigration strategies for multinational companies. Recognized for her expertise and high client satisfaction, she has a strong track record of success in complex visa applications and compliance matters, making her a top choice for corporate clients in the Seattle area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about immigration law services in Seattle, Washington
What are the most common types of immigration cases handled by Seattle attorneys?
In Seattle, immigration attorneys frequently handle employment-based visas (like H-1B, L-1, and O-1), family-based petitions, asylum applications, and removal defense. Given Seattle's strong tech and healthcare sectors, there is high demand for work visa assistance for professionals at companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and local hospitals. Additionally, the city's status as a sanctuary city and its proximity to the northern border means attorneys here are also experienced with asylum cases, U visas for crime victims, and complex deportation proceedings.
How does Seattle's status as a 'sanctuary city' affect my immigration case?
Seattle's sanctuary city policies, under Ordinance 125315, generally limit local law enforcement's cooperation with federal immigration enforcement for civil immigration matters. This can provide a layer of protection for undocumented individuals in their daily interactions with city police. However, it does not prevent federal agencies like ICE from operating in the area or impact federal immigration proceedings. A Seattle-based attorney can advise you on how these local policies interact with your specific case and your rights when dealing with different agencies.
Are there specific immigration resources or legal aid organizations unique to Seattle that I should know about?
Yes, Seattle has several renowned non-profit organizations that provide low-cost or pro bono immigration legal services. Key resources include the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project (NWIRP), which has its main office in Seattle, and the Colectiva Legal del Pueblo, which focuses on community-based defense. The University of Washington's Immigration Law Clinic also offers assistance. A private Seattle immigration attorney can often refer clients to these resources or collaborate with them for specific needs, ensuring comprehensive support.
What should I look for when choosing an immigration lawyer in Seattle?
When selecting an immigration attorney in Seattle, look for specific experience with your type of case (e.g., tech work visas, asylum, family petitions), strong knowledge of the local USCIS field office and immigration court procedures, and clear communication about fees and strategy. It's beneficial to choose a lawyer familiar with the unique caseload and judges at the Seattle Immigration Court. Checking reviews, State Bar Association standing, and whether they are members of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) can also help identify reputable local practitioners.
How do Washington State laws, like access to driver's licenses or in-state tuition, interact with federal immigration status?
Washington State has laws that benefit immigrants regardless of federal status, such as the Washington State Driver License (WDL) for undocumented individuals and eligibility for in-state tuition (HB 1079) for certain long-term residents. A Seattle immigration attorney can help you understand how to obtain these state benefits without jeopardizing your federal immigration case. They can also advise on the implications of using these benefits when applying for visas or adjustment of status, ensuring compliance with both state and federal regulations.
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