Navigating the United States immigration system can feel overwhelming, confusing, and intimidating, especially when your family, your career, or your future is on the line. Whether you're applying for a visa, facing deportation proceedings, or seeking to become a U.S. citizen, the process involves complex rules, frequent delays, and high stakes.
At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, we proudly serve individuals and families across Cleveland, Ohio, and throughout Independence, Columbus, and Oxford, Ohio, by offering comprehensive and compassionate immigration legal services. We understand the anxiety that comes with immigration matters, and our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way.
How Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez Helps
At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, we understand that immigration is not just a legal issue, it’s deeply personal. For many families and individuals in Cleveland, Ohio, and throughout Independence, Columbus, and Oxford, immigration is about seeking safety, stability, and opportunity. Our immigration attorneys are committed to guiding you through the legal process with clarity, care, and determination.
Here are the key areas where our Cleveland immigration lawyers provide vital legal support:
1. Asylum
Our team helps individuals who fear persecution in their home countries due to their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Asylum seekers must file their applications within one year of arriving in the U.S., and the process can be rigorous. We assist clients with completing and submitting Form I-589, preparing for credible fear interviews, gathering country condition evidence, and building a persuasive narrative. In Cleveland, where immigration cases are often scrutinized closely, having a strong legal team can make the difference between protection and removal.
2. Citizenship & Naturalization
Becoming a U.S. citizen is a proud moment for many immigrants. We assist lawful permanent residents throughout Cleveland, Ohio, in determining their eligibility for naturalization and completing Form N-400. Our attorneys provide support for every step, from studying for the civics and English tests to preparing for USCIS interviews and resolving any legal obstacles such as prior convictions or travel-related issues.
3. Visas
- Family-sponsored visas for spouses, children, parents, and siblings
- Student visas (F-1) for academic programs in Ohio universities
- Work visas such as H-1B (specialty occupations), L-1 (intra-company transferees), O (extraordinary ability), and TN (for Canadian and Mexican professionals under NAFTA)
- Fiancé(e) visas (K-1) for couples planning to marry in the U.S.
- Visitor visas (B-1/B-2) for business or tourism
We ensure that visa applications are complete, accurate, and supported by strong documentation to prevent costly delays or denials.
4. Green Cards / Permanent Resident Cards
Obtaining a green card is a significant step toward permanent residency. Our Cleveland green card attorneys help clients apply through various pathways, including family-based sponsorship, employment, asylum, and special immigrant categories. We assist with adjustment of status for those already in the U.S. and consular processing for applicants abroad. If you’ve received a Request for Evidence (RFE), we respond thoroughly to protect your eligibility.
5. Employment Eligibility & Work Authorization
Working legally in the U.S. requires the right documentation.
We help individuals apply for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) and advise employers in Cleveland, Ohio, on I-9 compliance and lawful hiring practices. For foreign nationals adjusting their status or applying for asylum, we help obtain or renew work permits so they can legally support themselves and their families.
6. Deportation Defense & Removal Proceedings
- Cancellation of removal
- Asylum, withholding of removal, or protection under the Convention Against Torture
- Adjustment of status
- Waivers of inadmissibility
We aggressively challenge the government’s case and protect your right to stay in the U.S.
7. Criminal Defense for Immigrants
A criminal conviction can threaten your immigration status, even for minor offenses.
Our firm offers integrated defense for immigrants facing criminal charges, ensuring that any plea deal or court outcome does not accidentally trigger deportation. We advise on immigration-safe resolutions, work closely with public defenders and prosecutors, and pursue post-conviction relief when necessary.
8. Immigration Appeals
- The Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA)
- USCIS Administrative Appeals Office
- Federal Circuit Courts
We thoroughly review the case record, identify legal errors, and present compelling arguments to overturn unjust decisions.
9. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
10. Waivers of Inadmissibility
If you are deemed “inadmissible” due to unlawful presence, prior deportation, fraud, or certain crimes, you may still be eligible for relief. We prepare and submit hardship waivers (such as I-601, I-601A, and I-212), demonstrating the severe impact that denial would have on your qualifying U.S. citizen or permanent resident family members.
11. Consular Processing
For those seeking immigrant visas from outside the U.S., consular processing can be lengthy and bureaucratic. We coordinate with U.S. embassies and consulates, complete the DS-260, help prepare for interviews, and respond to follow-up requests to ensure you receive your visa as efficiently as possible.
Key Requirements for Gaining U.S. Citizenship
Becoming a United States citizen is a deeply personal and life-changing accomplishment for immigrants in Cleveland, Ohio, and across the country. U.S. citizenship not only provides legal security and full constitutional rights, but it also offers the chance to vote in federal elections, hold a U.S. passport, and help reunite family members through immigration sponsorship.
At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, we guide individuals and families in Cleveland, Independence, Columbus, and Oxford, Ohio, through every step of the naturalization process. Whether you’ve had your green card for several years or are just beginning to explore your options, our team ensures that your application is complete, accurate, and submitted on time.
What Are the Benefits of Becoming a U.S. Citizen?
Citizenship grants you more than just peace of mind. As a U.S. citizen, you gain:
- The right to vote in federal, state, and local elections
- Protection from deportation or removal, even if you’re later convicted of certain crimes
- Eligibility for federal jobs and benefits
- The ability to travel freely with a U.S. passport
- The right to petition for immediate family members to receive permanent residency
- Access to student financial aid and government grants
These privileges can significantly improve your personal and professional life and they’re well worth pursuing.
Eligibility Requirements for U.S. Citizenship
To apply for citizenship through naturalization, applicants in Cleveland, Ohio, and elsewhere must meet specific legal requirements outlined by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These requirements vary slightly depending on your immigration background but generally include the following:
1. Permanent Residency (Green Card Holder Status)
You must have held lawful permanent resident status (a green card) for:
- At least 5 years, or
- 3 years if you are married to and living with a U.S. citizen
During this time, you must not have abandoned your U.S. residency, which typically means avoiding prolonged trips abroad without prior approval.
2. Continuous Physical Presence
Applicants must have:
- Resided continuously in the U.S. for the required period prior to filing (usually 5 years)
- Been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of that required time
- Lived for at least 3 months in the state or USCIS district where the application is filed, such as Cleveland, Ohio, or surrounding areas like Independence, Columbus, or Oxford
Extended absences from the U.S., even with a green card, can disrupt your eligibility. We help clients assess their travel history and, if necessary, file for a reentry permit or waiver before applying.
3. English Language Proficiency
USCIS requires applicants to demonstrate a basic ability to:
These skills are evaluated during the naturalization interview. However, some applicants may qualify for an exemption based on age and the number of years they’ve held a green card.
4. Knowledge of U.S. Civics
Applicants must pass a civics exam that covers basic U.S. history and government topics. USCIS provides study materials and sample questions in advance. During the interview, you’ll be asked up to 10 questions, and you must answer at least 6 correctly to pass.
Our immigration attorneys in Cleveland, Ohio, can help you prepare by offering guidance and access to educational resources to ensure you feel confident on test day.
5. Good Moral Character
USCIS evaluates your conduct during the statutory period (usually 5 or 3 years) and sometimes before. You may be found ineligible if you have:
- A criminal record, including certain misdemeanors or felonies
- Failed to pay taxes
- Committed immigration fraud
- Been involved in domestic violence, substance abuse, or theft
However, not all mistakes are disqualifying, and we help clients in Cleveland and surrounding areas explain past issues, provide evidence of rehabilitation, and present their case in the best possible light.
6. Oath of Allegiance
Finally, successful applicants must attend a naturalization ceremony where they:
- Swear loyalty to the United States
- Renounce allegiance to other nations
- Promise to uphold the Constitution and laws of the U.S.
This is often the most emotional and celebratory step in the entire journey, an experience that we’re honored to help our clients in Cleveland, Ohio, achieve.
How Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez Can Help With Naturalization
Our attorneys assist with every part of the citizenship process, including:
- Filing Form N-400 and compiling supporting documents
- Preparing for interviews and the English/civics test
- Requesting waivers or accommodations for language or disability
- Advising on criminal issues that may impact eligibility
- Responding to USCIS delays or requests for additional evidence
We know how important this milestone is and how frustrating it can be when your future is tied up in bureaucracy or paperwork errors. That’s why individuals and families across Cleveland, Independence, Columbus, and Oxford, Ohio, trust Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez to guide them with skill and compassion.
Common Challenges Immigrants Face When Coming to the U.S.
For many immigrants in Cleveland, Ohio and across the country, the decision to come to the United States is driven by hope for safety, opportunity, and a better life. But the immigration journey is often filled with obstacles that can delay or derail the process entirely. At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, our attorneys understand how frustrating, emotional, and legally complex this path can be. That’s why we’re here to help individuals and families in Cleveland, Independence, Columbus, Oxford, and throughout Ohio overcome the most common barriers to U.S. immigration.
1. Complex Legal Requirements
The U.S. immigration system is governed by a labyrinth of federal laws, policies, and forms. From deciphering visa categories to submitting applications through USCIS or consular offices, the paperwork can be overwhelming. A small error on a form, a missing document, or an incorrect fee can result in delays or even denials. Many immigrants don’t realize until it’s too late that even truthful answers can be used against them if not properly framed or documented.
Our immigration attorneys in Cleveland, Ohio, are here to prevent those mistakes. We guide clients through every step of the process, ensuring that all documentation is accurate, complete, and submitted on time.
2. Language and Communication Barriers
Immigration forms, interviews, and legal correspondence are typically conducted in English, which can be a significant challenge for non-native speakers. Misunderstandings at USCIS interviews or court hearings can result in denials or missed opportunities for relief. That’s why Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez offers legal support in multiple languages, including Spanish, Thai, Laotian, and Russian. This multilingual capability allows us to serve immigrant communities across Cleveland, Ohio, and beyond with clarity and confidence.
3. Long Wait Times and Delays
Even when applications are correctly filed, wait times can stretch for months or even years, especially for green card processing, family-based petitions, and asylum applications. Delays are often caused by bureaucratic backlogs, staffing shortages, or geopolitical factors beyond the applicant’s control. The uncertainty during this waiting period can cause significant stress, especially when loved ones are separated by borders.
Our legal team monitors case progress, follows up with USCIS or the National Visa Center as needed, and helps clients in Cleveland and surrounding areas understand what to expect every step of the way.
4. Fear of Deportation or Removal
Immigrants facing deportation proceedings experience some of the harshest challenges, especially those who have built lives and families in the U.S. for years. Even a minor criminal charge or visa overstay can trigger removal. Many individuals do not realize they may be eligible for relief such as asylum, cancellation of removal, or adjustment of status.
As seasoned deportation defense attorneys in Cleveland, Ohio, we represent clients in immigration court and fight to keep families together.
5. Financial Burdens
The costs associated with immigration, application fees, medical exams, legal fees, and translation services can be daunting. Without proper guidance, families may waste thousands of dollars on ineffective or unnecessary filings. Our firm works with clients to provide transparent pricing and flat-fee options whenever possible so they can plan ahead without hidden surprises.
Immigrating to the U.S. is a dream for many, but it comes with real hurdles. At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, we’re here to remove as many obstacles as possible so our clients in Cleveland, Independence, Columbus, and Oxford, Ohio, can focus on building their future, not battling red tape.
What to Look for in a Cleveland Immigration Lawyer
Choosing the right immigration attorney is one of the most important decisions you will make as you pursue legal status, citizenship, or relief from removal. Whether you are applying for a green card, defending yourself in immigration court, or petitioning for a family member to join you in the United States, having a qualified legal advocate by your side can dramatically affect the outcome of your case.
At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, our immigration attorneys in Cleveland, Ohio, provide not only legal guidance but also the peace of mind you need to move forward confidently. Here's what to look for when hiring an immigration lawyer and how our firm meets and exceeds those standards for clients in Cleveland, Independence, Columbus, and Oxford, Ohio, and beyond.
1. Focused Experience in U.S. Immigration Law
Immigration law is extraordinarily complex and constantly evolving. Your attorney should not only understand federal statutes but also be familiar with local court practices, agency trends, and procedural rules affecting clients throughout Cleveland, Ohio and the surrounding region.
At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, immigration law is all we do. Our practice is exclusively devoted to immigration matters, meaning our attorneys stay current on USCIS policy updates, EOIR court procedures, asylum eligibility changes, and visa bulletin adjustments. This singular focus allows us to spot issues before they arise and tailor strategies that give you the best chance at success.
2. Extensive Knowledge of USCIS, EOIR, and Consular Processing
Whether you're applying for citizenship, defending against deportation, or trying to bring a loved one to the U.S., immigration involves multiple agencies, often simultaneously. Your attorney must know how to work efficiently with:
- USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services)
- EOIR (Executive Office for Immigration Review/Immigration Courts)
- DOS (U.S. Department of State and overseas consulates)
Our immigration attorneys in Cleveland, Ohio, have extensive experience navigating all of these systems. We prepare meticulous applications, attend court hearings, and correspond with U.S. embassies and consulates abroad for clients seeking immigrant visas through consular processing.
3. Multilingual Communication and Cultural Sensitivity
Clear communication is critical in any legal matter, but especially in immigration, where missed deadlines or misunderstood instructions can lead to devastating consequences. Our team at Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez includes staff fluent in Spanish, Thai, Laotian, Russian, and other languages. This allows us to serve clients across a wide range of backgrounds with accuracy, empathy, and respect.
We provide dedicated services for:
- Thai/Laotian Immigration – Whether you are seeking a temporary visa, asylum, or green card, we offer culturally informed support and direct communication in your native language.
- Russian Immigration – With fluent Russian speakers on staff, we ensure that clients understand every stage of their immigration case and are empowered to make informed decisions.
- Middle Eastern Immigration – For individuals fleeing persecution or seeking asylum from countries in the Middle East, we provide skilled representation grounded in a deep understanding of regional challenges.
- South American Immigration – Spanish-speaking clients make up a large part of our immigration practice. One of our attorneys is fluent in Spanish and able to assist clients from across Latin America with petitions, waivers, removal defense, and more.
We proudly serve immigrant communities not only in Cleveland, Ohio, but throughout the state and the U.S., including clients in Independence, Columbus, Oxford, and even internationally. Whether your case involves humanitarian relief, employment-based immigration, or family reunification, our multilingual team ensures that nothing gets lost in translation.
4. A Proven Track Record in Complex Immigration Matters
Successful immigration lawyers demonstrate a history of results in a wide range of cases, from asylum applications and DACA renewals to green card sponsorship and deportation defense. At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, we are proud of our reputation as tireless advocates for our clients.
Our legal team has helped thousands of individuals and families across Cleveland, Ohio, obtain lawful permanent residence, avoid deportation, and gain U.S. citizenship. We have successfully litigated appeals, responded to Requests for Evidence (RFEs), and resolved consular delays that might have derailed our clients’ future.
Whether your case is routine or highly complex, we fight for you with the same intensity and commitment we would offer our own family members.
5. Compassionate and Accessible Legal Service
Immigration is not just a legal process; it’s a human one. You deserve an attorney who treats your story with the dignity and attention it deserves. We understand the stress that comes with immigration delays, uncertainty about family separation, and fear of removal. That’s why we make ourselves available to our clients, respond promptly to calls and emails, and provide updates every step of the way.
When you work with Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, you are more than a case file; you are part of a legal team that believes in your right to build a future in this country. Whether you're located in Cleveland, Independence, Columbus, or Oxford, Ohio, you’ll find our team ready to listen, advise, and advocate with professionalism and heart.
Contact Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez Today to Speak With a Trusted Immigration Attorney
If you're dealing with immigration issues in Cleveland, Ohio, don’t go through it alone. Whether you’re pursuing U.S. citizenship, facing removal, or seeking a visa, the process is too important to leave to chance.
At Bartell, Georgalas & Juarez, we proudly serve the Greater Cleveland area and offer legal support throughout Independence, Columbus, and Oxford, Ohio. With decades of experience and a reputation for compassionate, results-driven service, we’re ready to help you build a better future.
