Keeping Families Together
-Adriana N.
-D H.
-Rino M.An Immigration Lawyer with a Proven Track Record of Success
We’ve successfully handled thousands of immigration cases
(Proudly serving Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Tennessee)
Chicago Immigration Lawyer — Representing Our Clients’ Best Interests in Immigration and Related Matters
American immigration is a complex subject that involves a wide array of issues. For instance, we all hear about deportations and unlawful entries in the media daily. However, this area of the law is far broader than most people recognize. Do you need help defending yourself from being deported? Are you seeking asylum from another country? In these circumstances and many others, an experienced immigration attorney with a proven track record of success can help you navigate through a challenging process.
At Gilliam Law, we handle everything from visa applications to representation in immigration court. We understand how important these issues are. For some, temporary entry into the country might be the only way to see loved ones after years. For others, fighting back against government agencies may be the only option to avoid having their lives uprooted. When you work with our devoted legal team, you’ll have a dedicated advocate fighting to secure a favorable outcome.
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How May We Help You?
Regardless of what political opinion is prevalent at any given time, everyone deserves experienced legal representation when dealing with important matters. At Gilliam Law, we offer a variety of immigration services. These include:
Why Do You Need a Lawyer for Your Immigration Case?
Elder Law &
MassHealth
Estate Planning
People in America — even those without lawful presence — enjoy a variety of rights. The right to legal representation is one of these rights, but there’s also no requirement that individuals hire an attorney. With so much information available online — including most of the forms a person needs to come to America — is it really necessary to work with an immigration lawyer? If you speak to most legal professionals, they’d advise you to seek legal counsel.
That’s because immigration issues are typically complex and high-stakes. The threat of deportation can impact families in many ways. Similarly, simple mistakes when seeking adjustment of status can result in delays and visa denials. Some simple oversight examples include failure to pull immigration records under Freedom of Information Act, failure to consult an immigration attorney before taking a plea deal, failure to understand/spot issues that can effect the outcome of your immigration status or case. And what if someone is being persecuted for their race or religion? A simple oversight could leave them in a dangerous situation. Some immigration is considered short term. Perhaps you just want to visit for a week to see family and attend a vacation.
While some areas of immigration may be more simple, navigating the complex interplay between criminal law and immigration status is crucial, especially for individuals who are not U.S. citizens. Engaging with the criminal justice system can have profound implications on one’s immigration situation. It’s essential to recognize that a resolution in criminal court, which might appear favorable, can lead to severe immigration consequences.
These repercussions might range from ineligibility to renew visas, DACA ineligibility, or complications re-entering the U.S. with a Green Card. Solomon’s experience lies in his deep understanding of these complexities. It equips him to effectively collaborate with your Criminal Attorney, ensuring that your criminal case is managed with a keen awareness of your immigration goals and requirements.
In this, and far more scenarios, having a legal professional on your side may dictate whether you reach a positive resolution. Don’t risk your future — or even your vacation plans — by trying to handle complex legal matters on your own.
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Why Do You Need a Lawyer for Your Immigration Case?
Client Success Stories
Can You Stay in America on a Non-Immigrant Visa?
Can You Stay in America on a Non-Immigrant Visa?
When you’re facing a family-based immigrant visa case, it’s more than just a process; it’s about your family’s future and the chance to build a better life together. The stakes are incredibly high, as the outcome can mean the joy of creating a new life together or the heartache of prolonged separation. If you’re confronting a deportation case, the situation is even more critical. It involves the real possibility of being torn from your life here, away from family, friends, and the life you’ve built, which can be overwhelmingly stressful and uncertain.
That’s where we can help. As your immigration law firm, we’re here to guide you through every step of the complex legal maze of family-based immigration and deportation defense. Our experience is your resource to ensure that every legal detail is meticulously managed, aiming to secure the best possible outcome for you and your family. When it comes to deportation defense, having skilled representation is crucial. Many deporation cases end up in complex litigation in immigration courts. We’re here to stand up for your rights, passionately advocating for you and your family, and guide you through this complex maze and explain the situation you are in. It involves the real possibility of being torn from your life here, away from family, friends, and the life you’ve built.
Meet Our Attorney
Solomon D. Gilliam
Solomon Gilliam, Esq. is a distinguished immigration attorney known for his unwavering commitment to justice and tireless advocacy for immigrants and their families. With over two decades of experience, Solomon has garnered recognition as a “Top Ranking Attorney” by the American Association of Attorney Advocates and his firm has been acclaimed as the “Top Law Firm for Immigration Law” by Americas Best Advocates. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Solomon offers comprehensive legal representation nationwide and internationally, guiding clients through complex immigration processes with expertise and compassion.
Beyond accolades, Solomon prioritizes his clients’ rights and dignity, approaching each case with empathy and determination. Actively engaged in advocacy work, he volunteers with community organizations and champions legislative reforms for fair treatment of immigrants. A sought-after speaker and thought leader, Solomon shares insights at seminars, staying ahead of immigration law developments to provide top-tier representation. Solomon Gilliam, Esq., is committed to helping immigrants achieve their dreams, both in the United States and beyond. For exceptional legal guidance grounded in integrity and expertise, clients trust Solomon Gilliam.
Do You Need a Family Member for Lawful Residency in America?
One of the easiest ways to get a green card, citizenship, or even a visa is to have a family member already in the country. When your relatives are lawful residents, they can petition the government for a green card on your behalf. However, what happens to people who don’t have these familial connections? Are they just out of luck?
Absolutely not. There are various ways to secure lawful presence in America. Such options include:
- Employment-based green cards
- Investor visas
- Asylum or refugee status
- Diversity Visa lottery
- Special immigrant visas
- U.S. citizen spouses
- Non-immigrant employment sponsorship
- Military service
If you can secure a green card, you typically will need to be in the country continuously for five years before applying for citizenship. Fortunately, this is true regardless of whether you have family in America. Of course, none of these processes are simple. That’s why you should consider working with an immigration lawyer in Chicago.
Do You Need a Family Member for Lawful Residency in America?
Why Choose Us?
When you search for Chicago immigration attorneys online, there’s no shortage of law firms available. Whether you need help in a removal case, are seeking political asylum, or simply want to bring a loved one to visit — there are many great choices in and around our city. However, we truly believe that Gilliam Law may be the right choice for you. Here’s why:
Extensive Experience
While there are plenty of great immigration attorneys in Chicago, you'd be hard-pressed to find many with more than a decade of experience. That's exactly what Attorney Solomon Gilliam offers. This experience has spanned multiple immigration law firms, and before that, he worked in criminal defense and gained experience that still serves many of his clients.
Local Experience
After graduating high school, Attorney Solomon Gilliam moved to Chicago. That's where he spent the next 20 years of his life. While immigration is often a federal issue, it often takes place on a local level (e.g., courts, law enforcement, etc.). You want an attorney who knows the judges, prosecutors, authorities, and other professionals who may be involved in your case.
Varied Experience
Legal and local experience are vital when choosing an attorney. However, it's also important to work with a lawyer who's experienced in all aspects of immigration law. Whether you could use help applying for a visitor visa or need a criminal defense attorney to avoid immigration penalties, the professionals at Gilliam Law have the experience to get the job done.
More Options for You
Far too many law firms offer one set of services, and if their clients don't need them, they don't have many other options. At Gilliam Law, we understand that not everyone needs the same level of service. Do you only need general guidance? If so, we offer online services. Our online portal ensures that updates to your case are convenient and easily accessible to you every step of the way.
National Work
Immigration cases can touch every corner of the country. Many of our clients live in Chicago, but they have family down south or out west. The legal professionals at Gilliam Law have appeared in courts throughout the country, ranging from Seattle to Buffalo and all the way down to Houston. No matter where your case takes us, we're there to assist.
Free Case Evaluation
Far too many people avoid seeking legal counsel because they worry about high costs. This is an American tragedy and a serious indictment of the legal system. At Gilliam Law, we offer Free Case Evaluation. This means you can learn more about your situation without having to break the bank.
Straight Forward Pricing
No Hidden Fees EVER
Our law firm provides you with easy-to-understand quotes, broken down by attorney fees and immigration filing fees so you know what your money is going toward.
Flexible Payment Options
Everyone has a different set of circumstances when embarking on their immigration case. We offer flexible payment plans to fit your budget and needs.
Best in Class Customer Service
At Gilliam Law, our team goes above and beyond to communicate updates to clients and answer questions. Clients are also set up on our portal for secure upload of documentation and access to their information.
Why Is the Immigration Process So Complicated?
Immigrating to the United States can be a complex and challenging process for several reasons. First, the U.S. has a diverse and extensive immigration system with numerous visa categories, each with its own eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and legal procedures. This complexity can make it difficult for individuals to navigate the system effectively, especially without professional guidance.
Second, the U.S. prioritizes family reunification and employment-based immigration. This means those who lack immediate family connections or employment sponsorship may have difficulty finding a pathway to legal status. Additionally, there are annual quotas for many immigration categories. This creates significant waiting periods for some visa types.
When you add stringent background checks and scrutiny due to national security concerns, it’s clear why immigration is so complicated — even without the addition of political and social dynamics. However, you should never let such issues hinder you from your plans or goals. If you’re hoping to legally enter America, our Chicago immigration attorney may be able to help.
Latest Articles & Insights
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Navigating Family-Based Immigration: Sponsorship and Affidavits of Support
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Contact a Chicago Immigration Lawyer Today
Far too many people see immigration as a one-dimensional issue. In reality, this area of the law involves everything from the application process for temporary visits to legal defense during deportation proceedings. Regardless of the specific circumstances of your situation, having an immigration attorney by your side can prove invaluable. Legal expertise can go a long way in these cases, so risking a potentially adverse outcome is never advisable or necessary.
At Gilliam Law, we’re committed to providing experienced legal assistance to our clients. Our law office is conveniently located and easily accessible from anywhere in the city. We’re less than 3 miles from McKinley Park and just over 8 miles from Chicago City Hall. Those coming from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) also have a short trip — less than 5 miles from the terminals. No matter where you are, a Chicago immigration lawyer at Gilliam Law is ready to assist with all your needs.
Contact us today at (866) 511-3422 to book your case evaluation. Our legal team is ready to advocate tirelessly on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re dealing with immigration issues, it’s important to seek legal counsel. There’s no internet resource available that can give you personalized advice. And since Gilliam Law offers a Case Analysis, you have nothing to lose by reaching out. However, the answers to the following general questions may prove helpful in certain situations:
Can a friend sponsor an immigrant for a green card or citizenship?
Can any employer sponsor a work visa on my behalf?
Employer-based visas are a great way to establish legal residency and a lawful presence. However, only certain employers will meet the qualifications to sponsor a worker. Make sure to discuss your situation with a Chicago immigration attorney.
What should I do when facing deportation proceedings?
This is a simple answer: exercise your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney. Once the deportation process starts, you're up against the federal government. Do not risk incriminating yourself, and make sure to immediately reach out to a legal professional.
I feel like I'm facing persecution. What should I do?
Immigration is a hot-button issue in America. We've all seen how a simple signature from a newly elected individual can completely upend the lives of immigrants. If you feel you're being wrongfully persecuted — or if you're trying to escape persecution by coming to America — reach out to an immigration law firm for assistance.
Does my ethnicity matter when it comes to immigration?
Does family-based immigration require an immediate relative?
Many people believe that family-based immigration requires an immediate family member. Fortunately, this is far from the truth. Do you have a sibling, fiancee, unmarried child, or other relatives who typically aren't considered part of your immediate family? You may be able to petition on their behalf.
Can my spouse get a green card?
Not only is it typically possible to get the spouse of a citizen or green card holder their own green card, but it actually takes less time than most people seeking lawful permanent residency.
Does military service grant American citizenship?
Many people believe that serving in the Armed Forces grants immediate citizenship. This is not true, but it certainly does simplify the process. From shortened residency requirements to waived fees, the naturalization process is made easier for those who serve honorably.
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