Meredith also has significant experience with the PERM process for lawful permanent residence and manages the firm’s EB-5 practice.
When she’s not working, Meredith enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, reading and watching movies
Best Immigration Lawyers in Charlotte NC
D. Brad Collins
Immigration Lawyer
Brad Collins is a trial attorney dedicated to representing injured people and their families. As a Partner at the Roberts Law Firm, P.A., Brad works hard to obtain the best possible outcome for the firm’s clients. Brad is dedicated to getting his clients the medical treatment and compensation they deserve. He understands every client has a unique situation requiring individualized attention and action. Brad previously worked for a prestigious North Carolina defense law firm representing large multi-national employers and insurance companies in Workers’ Compensation cases before the N.C. Industrial Commission as well as companies in Federal and North Carolina State Courts. His previous experience representing employers and insurance companies gives him and the Roberts Law Firm clients a significant advantage to obtain justice, fair results and settlements for injured workers and their families.
Brad is committed to his clients, profession and community. He has served on the Board of Directors of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Gaston for over 10 years, including in the roles as President and Vice President. He also a formerly served on the Board of Directors for the United Arts Council of Gaston County. Brad is married to Shelley Collins and they have a young daughter and a young son that keep them busy and constantly entertained.
Krista Stallard
Immigration Lawyer
Krista has spent the last twelve years practicing primarily family law, assisting clients with separation, divorce, custody, child and spousal support, and property distribution. She is trained in the practice of collaborative divorce and is an NCDRC certified family financial mediator. Krista also assists with probate/estate administration matters.
While attending law school, Krista worked as a research assistant for the school’s Director of Legal Writing and spent time as an educator in the Mecklenburg County Family Court Self Serve Center and as a case reviewer for the North Carolina Center on Actual Innocence. She was a member of the Law Review, Order of the Crown, and Order of the Scribe. Krista graduated 5th in her class, magna cum laude.
Following graduation, Krista conducted legal research for a consulting company and practiced for a few years at a small firm in Matthews.
Krista was born and raised in Dayton, Ohio but has called the Carolinas home for over 25 years. Following her graduation from Penn State University, Krista lived briefly in Cincinnati before moving to the Charlotte area. She worked in information technology at one of the city’s big banks for several years before embarking upon a legal career. In her spare time, Krista enjoys domestic and international travel, snow skiing, spending time on the lake, and watching her husband and son play ice hockey.
Meredith W. Barnette
Immigration Lawyer
Meredith W. Barnette has always been fascinated by the history of the United States as a melting pot, in which seemingly everyone has a different background and story.
That interest in learning about other people’s experiences led her to the field of immigration law. Meredith has practiced U.S. Immigration Law since 2006 and was an immigration paralegal before becoming an attorney.
She represents employers and employees in a variety of industries including, but not limited to, manufacturing, information technology, medicine and academia. She has extensive experience in the preparation of nonimmigrant visa petitions as well as extraordinary ability, outstanding researcher and multinational executive and manager immigrant petitions.
Dinh Tran
Immigration Lawyer
Dinh Tran is the founding member of QCI Law and a North Carolina Board Certified Specialist in Immigration Law.
Dinh was born in Vietnam and grew up in Warsaw, Poland. He earned his Juris Doctor from Mercer University’s Walter F. George School of Law, completed several internships at prominent law firms in Hanoi, Vietnam, and holds license to practice law in both North Carolina and Georgia.
His legal practice is dedicated exclusively to immigration law. Dinh’s multifaceted approach to legal practice has afforded him the opportunity to further his expertise in various areas of immigration and nationality laws. He has successfully represented businesses and individual clients, including:
Temporary work visas for professionals (H-1B), intracompany transferees (L-1), NAFTA professionals from Mexico and Canada (TN), treaty investors (E-2), professional athletes (P-1), religious workers (R-1) Family-based green card petitions via adjustment of status with USCIS or consular processing with an Embassy or Consulate Petitions for employment-based permanent residence, including national interest waiver (EB-2 NIW), labor certification (PERM), religious worker (EB-4), multinational manager or executive (EB-1) cases Defending respondents in removal proceedings in immigration court through applications for asylum, withholding of removal, cancellation of removal, and waivers of inadmissibility/deportability; requests for release on bond Applications for citizenship, removal of conditions on residence, waivers of inadmissibility, employment authorization documents, humanitarian parole, etc.
Kelli Y. Allen
Immigration Lawyer
Kelli Allen is a lifelong native of North Carolina. Kelli was previously the founder and director of a non-profit animal rescue which found new adoptive homes for over 1200 abused, neglected, and abandoned dogs.
Kelli’s philosophy is that each client should be treated with dignity and respect, and endeavors to provide personalized service. Kelli understands that while there are many common issues, each case is different and must be fully examined to determine the best course of action. She seeks to educate each individual and will explain the pertinent law, options, and procedures, regarding immigration and elder law, enabling each client to make an informed decision about his or her case.
Education
- J.D., Summa Cum Laude, Charlotte School of Law
- B.S., Criminal Justice- University of North Carolina Charlotte
Memberships & Associations
- Member of the North Carolina State Bar
- North Carolina Bar Association
- Mecklenburg County Bar Association
- National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys NAELA
- ElderCounsel
- American Immigration Lawyer’s Association
- Elder Law Answers
- National Association for Community Mediation
- HG.org
Edgar Jimenez
Immigration Lawyer
Edgar Jimenez is an attorney at the Charlotte office that specializes in immigration and workers’ compensation law. Edgar is a native of Atlanta, Georgia, and a first-generation immigrant. He has first-hand knowledge of the struggles that immigrants encounter. He is fluent in both Spanish and English. When Edgar is not at the office, he enjoys mountain biking, spending time with his cat, Kiki, and exploring the restaurant scene.
Education
University of Georgia, B.A.- Criminal Justice, Criminal Justice Honor Society, 2013
North Carolina Central University School of Law, J.D., Moot Court, 2017 and 2018
Professional & Bar Association Membership
North Carolina State Bar
District of Columbia Bar
North Carolina Bar Association
Mecklenburg County Bar Association
Having the best immigration lawyer in Charlotte, NC, can provide significant advantages for individuals navigating the complex and often challenging immigration process. Immigration lawyers are legal experts who specialize in immigration law and can offer invaluable assistance to immigrants seeking visas, green cards, citizenship, or relief from deportation. Below are some of the advantages of having the best immigration lawyer in Charlotte, NC:
Legal Expertise: Immigration law is highly complex and subject to frequent changes. A skilled immigration lawyer possesses in-depth knowledge of the law, regulations, and procedures, ensuring that you receive accurate and up-to-date guidance.
Personalized Guidance: Your immigration lawyer can assess your unique circumstances and goals, providing tailored advice and solutions that best suit your needs.
Navigating Complex Procedures: The immigration process involves numerous forms, documents, and deadlines. An attorney can help you complete paperwork correctly and submit applications on time, reducing the risk of delays or denials.
Protection from Mistakes: Simple errors on immigration forms can lead to significant delays or even visa denials. An experienced attorney can review your documentation to minimize the risk of costly mistakes.
Support in Court Proceedings: If your case goes to immigration court, having a skilled attorney by your side can be crucial. They can present a strong legal defense and advocate on your behalf.
Understanding Options: The best immigration attorneys are well-versed in various visa categories, green card options, and paths to citizenship. They can explore all available avenues to achieve your immigration goals.
Deportation Defense: If you are facing deportation or removal proceedings, an attorney can develop a strong defense strategy and represent you in court to fight against deportation.
Communication with Authorities: Your attorney can communicate with immigration authorities on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you understand the status of your case.
Avoiding Scams: Many immigrants are vulnerable to immigration scams. A reputable attorney can help you avoid fraudulent schemes and protect your legal rights.
Peace of Mind: Immigration matters can be stressful and emotionally challenging. Having a trusted attorney can provide peace of mind, knowing that you have professional support throughout the process.
Expedited Processing: In some cases, immigration lawyers can help expedite certain immigration processes, reducing waiting times.
Family Reunification: Immigration attorneys can assist with family-based immigration petitions, helping loved ones reunite in the United States.
Employment-Based Immigration: For individuals seeking work-related visas or green cards, an attorney can navigate the complexities of employment-based immigration.
Asylum and Refugee Claims: If you are seeking asylum or refugee status, an attorney can guide you through the asylum application process and represent you in asylum hearings.
Citizenship Assistance: Attorneys can assist permanent residents in applying for U.S. citizenship, ensuring that you meet all eligibility requirements.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
What is the cost of hiring an immigration lawyer in Charlotte, NC?
The cost of hiring an immigration lawyer can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the services required. Many lawyers offer initial consultations to discuss your case and provide fee estimates.
How long does the immigration process take with the help of an attorney?
The processing times for immigration cases can vary widely. An attorney can help expedite certain processes, but overall timelines depend on the specific immigration category and government processing times.
Can an immigration attorney help with undocumented immigration issues?
Yes, immigration lawyers can provide guidance and legal representation for individuals facing undocumented immigration issues, such as seeking relief from deportation or exploring pathways to legal status.
What should I bring to my initial consultation with an immigration attorney?
It’s advisable to bring any relevant documents, such as passports, visas, immigration forms, and any correspondence from immigration authorities, to your initial consultation.
Is legal aid available for immigration cases in Charlotte, NC?
Yes, legal aid and pro bono services may be available to individuals who cannot afford private legal representation. You can explore options for legal aid and find more information on the USA.gov Legal Aid page here.
Having the best immigration lawyer in Charlotte, NC, can significantly improve your chances of a successful immigration journey and provide invaluable support throughout the complex process. It’s important to choose an attorney who is experienced, reputable, and dedicated to your specific immigration needs.