Amelia Jean Cardenas

I represent foreign nationals seeking to live and work in the United States and the businesses that want to employ them. Whether advising multinational corporations, small businesses, or individual investors, my guiding principle is empathy: I take the time to understand my clients’ unique industries, interests, and goals. The insights I gain lead to tailored, strategic advice and advocacy.

I have experience with a broad range of immigration petitions, applications, and processes. I have helped multinational corporations transfer key employees to the U.S. both temporarily and permanently, I have successfully petitioned for employment authorization for degreed professionals and top artists and entertainers, and with my help, foreign investors have been able to start new businesses in the U.S. and acquire permanent residence.

As a former trial lawyer with experience litigating in federal court, developing corporate compliance programs, and conducting internal investigations, I also bring a unique perspective to immigration-related government enforcement actions. I am comfortable negotiating with government officers and am prepared to take cases to court if necessary.

In addition to my client work, I have made pro bono service and community involvement key features of my practice. I provide pro bono legal representation for clients referred by the Dallas Volunteer Attorney Program and the Human Rights Initiative and usually have at least one pro bono case on my docket. I am also a proud product of the Dallas public schools and am passionate about improving the educational pipeline.  I am a member of the Dallas Association of Young Lawyers Leadership Class of 2016, a program designed to inspire and educate the future leaders of Dallas.

I am  also a small business owner and am intimately aware of the challenges my entrepreneurial clients face in starting new businesses.  I founded a publication company focused on children’s books that develop character.  Its first release, The Spirit Post, is a Christmas-themed book and toy that encourages children to do acts of kindness.