Martin Valko

Martin Valko

5.0
Rating: 9.4

Licensed for 22 years

Immigration Lawyer at Dallas, TX
Practice Areas: Immigration

10670 N. Central Expressway, Suite 300, Dallas, TX

About Martin

Biography

Practice Areas

1

Practice Area

Immigration 100%

22 years

100%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer


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Licenses

Licensed in District of Columbia for 21 years

State: District of Columbia

Acquired: 2004

Good Standing

No misconduct found

Licensed in Texas for 22 years

State: Texas

Acquired: 2003

Eligible to Practice in Texas

No misconduct found

Location

Chavez & Valko, LLP

10670 N. Central Expressway, Suite 300, Dallas, TX, 75231

Chavez & Valko LLP

5555 Bridge Street, Suite 100, Forth Worth, TX, 76112

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Martin Valko's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

241 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (241) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 1 - 5 of 34 reviews | Compassion

Posted by Yeini | July 10, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Immigration

The Best Immigration Lawyers!

My parents and I had a wonderful experience with the lawyers at Chavez and Valko. When we first began the process we had the pleasure of consulting with Mr. Valko and he explained to us what our options were and how the process would work. Jennifer Burton and Thelma Trevino were assigned to our case ...and they were the ones that helped me become a citizen and my parents become permanent residents. They are very helpful and are there to answer any question or concern that you may have. It is great to have lawyers that are involved in your case and follow you every step of the way. We couldn’t be happier with our experience! As you are going through the immigration process you tend to get very nervous, but both Jennifer and Thelma made us feel comfortable because we could rely on them. I would definitely recommend them to everyone I know. Chavez and Valko really do take care of you and have your best interest in mind. Can’t say enough about them!

Posted by Elida | March 22, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Immigration

Outstanding Work Ethic

Outstanding work ethic at Chavez & Valko and their legal team, I found the legal representation I was looking for. From our first consultation, back in 2014, lawyers are very knowledgeable in their field but also answer all our questions we had. Their honesty and transparency is what made us decide u...s to start my parents permanent residency case with USCIS. Erika Castro & Thelma Trevino are talented, honest, caring and experienced paralegals. They showed their best at all times,keeping us well inform of the case progress, they were available on a daily basis and responded directly to our questions promptly and professionally. I'm always treated like I am family. I would recommend and referred Chavez & Valko to family and friends. Words cannot describe how thankful we are to the firm for taking our case I will always be your most grateful client.

Posted by HEF | June 19, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Immigration

Awesome, Unmatched

I hope my experience provides comfort for those deciding whether or not to choose Martin Valko and his firm Chavez and Valko to represent them regarding their immigration issues. There is no better law firm than Chavez and Valko. I'm a US citizen who was lucky enough to fall in love with my won...derful wife who happens to be an immigrant. We married, had a child and then faced a critical life changing issue involving her ability to become a permanent USA resident. We searched the internet for help and landed upon Chavez and Valko. From our first meeting, we knew we came to the right place. Martin Valko gave us honest advice and realistic expectations; followed by a orderly plan to achieve our goal. After he developed a strategy, he delegated the case to his highly professional and expert staff of attorneys; in my case attorney Jennifer and assistant Erika. Jennifer and Erika exceeded all expectations, in a significant way. They were available, day or night to answer any questions. Jennifer and Erika were always by our side, every inch of the way, including up to the USCIS interview. The USCIS official stated that the documentation Chavez and Valko submitted was most organized ever seen. USCIS approved our application in 15 minutes! Martin, Jennifer, Erika and the entire Chavez and Valko team were awesome in every way possible - the very best! There are many positive characteristics about Chavez and Valko including their proven expertise in immigration law and superior professionalism that includes straightforward interaction with their clients; however, as impressive is their sincere, caring attitude. It's obvious that they love what they do - helping people. All of these virtues are hard to find, but we found them with the Chavez and Valko team. HEF June 2017

Posted by Araceli | March 29, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Immigration

Most ethical attorney I have ever met

I did my research on several attorneys; my main concern was a just price and a very transparent process. Also I needed someone who would be very careful on following up with my case because getting my residency was a priority. In most of the law firms I went to, the consultation was all done through ...a paralegal, it was very hard to get to talk with an attorney. I was completely sold on Mr. Valko because he was the first attorney that was very personal, I met him first before his team of paralegals. He took the time to receive me and hear about my case, that quality of service was definitely what I was looking for. The process went very smoothly: he was very very ethical and very good at keeping me posted and updated on my process. He was always available to answer my questions. I like that he is very detail oriented and ethical, and that made me feel very secure about how the outcome of my case would be. I strongly recommend him and his team because of the quality of service I received.

Posted by Daniel | March 15, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Immigration

Chavez & Valko LLP

I would like go highly recommend the law firm of Chavez & Valko for any immigration matter. Particularly at this time, it is extremely important to be in the hands of experts you can trust. I had no idea who to turn to and from the very first time I called the office to set up the initial appointme...nt, I was treated with great professionalism and a sincere desire to help. I could not have been in better hands. Working with Mr. Valko and his assistant Erika Castro, I felt that I was with experts who took the greatest care to ensure that the petition for my spouse had a successful outcome. Communication was great, they were so thorough in their explanations and always followed through to make sure there were no delays with my case. I will be forever grateful for their help. I am now happily reunited with my spouse. Mr. Valko you are a true professional who displays great integrity and knowledge. Erika Castro, you are a shining star, so dedicated, knowledgeable and prompt. I can't thank both of you enough for your patience and care.

See All Client Reviews

Martin Valko's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Martin
Omar Alexander Salas headshot
Omar Salas

Immigration lawyer | Oct 17

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"Martin Valko is passionate about Immigration Law. He has built a practice based on customer service and never giving up. This mindset can be seen in the many complex cases that Martin has handled. I endorse Martin Valko."

Danny Dustin Russell headshot
Danny Russell

Immigration lawyer | Aug 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Geoffrey Emerson Schorr headshot
Geoffrey Schorr

Immigration lawyer | Jan 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I highly recommend Martin and the legal services his firm provides. I have known Martin for several years and have found him to be very passionate about the rights of his clients. Whenever I need advice or information regarding immigration issues, I always think to call Martin. I would recommend any friend, family member or client to Martin for legal help with immigration matters, unconditionally."

Barry Sorrels headshot
Barry Sorrels

Immigration lawyer | Jan 18

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Top Notch immigration attorney."

Holden W. Green headshot
Holden Green

Business lawyer | Aug 22

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Lori Ashmore Peters headshot
Lori Peters

Immigration lawyer | Jun 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Martin for many years. He is a highly professional and exceptional attorney. I would undoubtedly recommend him for any immigration matter."

Anthrea Nikolopoulos headshot
Anthrea Nikolopoulos

Immigration lawyer | Jul 03

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have first-hand knowledge of the competence that Martin brings to the table in the area of immigration law. He is constantly keeping himself abreast of the compex issues in this area of law which no doubt translates to superior quality for the client. I would have no reservations in endorsing Martin to anyone in need of quality legal representation."

Michael Sheppard Sands headshot
Michael Sands

Immigration lawyer | Jun 30

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Martin is a very talented attorney with an ability to be strategically creative in obtaining positive results for his clients. Martin is result oriented in a cost effective manner and is very passionate in representing his clients."

Hutton Wesley Sentell headshot
Hutton Sentell

Immigration lawyer | Apr 27

Relationship: Co-worker

"I wholeheartedly endorse Martin's work as an immigration attorney. When it comes to navigating through the immigration laws and addressing a client's immigration issues, Martin is top notch!"

Gary Clayton Frost Jr. headshot
Gary Frost

Immigration lawyer | Apr 07

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Martin is a smart and persistent lawyer. He knows the law and doesn’t takes “no” for an answer. I know he cares about his clients because he celebrates their victories and is upset on the rare occasion a successful outcome cannot be reached."

Gary Michael Ashmore headshot
Gary Ashmore

Immigration lawyer | Mar 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. I have known Martin for many years and have worked with him on many cases. Martin is always professional and his knowledge of immigration is exceptional. I would recommend Martin to anyone who has an immigration need."

Nicolas Chavez headshot
Nicolas Chavez

Immigration lawyer | Aug 10

Relationship: Co-worker

"Martin has a "can-do" mentality with anything he faces. This is evident in his career and the many testimonials from his clients whom he has served."

View All Endorsements
Omar Alexander Salas headshot
Omar Salas

Immigration lawyer

Hutton Wesley Sentell headshot
Hutton Sentell

Personal injury lawyer

Geoffrey Emerson Schorr headshot
Geoffrey Schorr

Personal injury lawyer

Stephanie Luce Ola headshot
Stephanie Ola

Criminal defense lawyer

Jeffrey Albert Yates headshot
Jeffrey Yates

Litigation lawyer

Barry Sorrels headshot
Barry Sorrels

Criminal defense lawyer

Lori Ashmore Peters headshot
Lori Peters

Probate lawyer

Michael Sheppard Sands headshot
Michael Sands

Litigation lawyer

Anthrea Nikolopoulos headshot
Anthrea Nikolopoulos

Litigation lawyer

Gary Michael Ashmore headshot
Gary Ashmore

Probate lawyer

Nicolas Chavez headshot
Nicolas Chavez

Immigration lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.4 (Superb)

Work Experience

2010 - Present

Honorary Consul to the State of Texas, Foreign Ministry of the Slovak Republic

2007 - Present

Managing Partner, Chavez & Valko, LLP

2005 - 2007

Associate Attorney, Law Offices of Joseph E. Ashmore, PC

2004 - 2005

Shareholder, Law Office of Martin Valko

2002 - 2003

Associate Attorney, Vial, Hamilton, Koch & Knox, LLP

2001 - 2003

Law Clerk and Associate Attorney, Vial, Hamilton, Koch & Knox, LLP

Associations

2015 - Present

National Czech and Slovak Museum & Library

Board Member

2010 - Present

Consular Corps fo Dallas/Fort Worth

Vice Dean

2009 - Present

World Affairs Council

Member

2009 - Present

Greater Dallas Chamber of Commerce

Member

2005 - Present

American Immigration Lawyers Association

Member

2014 - 2015

American Immigration Lawyers Association

Cmte Member, AILA National SCOPS Liaison Committee

2013 - 2013

American Immigration Lawyers Association

Cmte Member, AILA National Field Operations Liaison Committee

Sample of Legal Cases

Appellate win for Prevailing Wage Determination at BALCA

Employer won the appeal at BALCA

See More Legal Cases

Education

2005

Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia

Bachelor of Law

2004

Southern Methodist University, Dedman School of Law

Master of Laws

2002

Oklahoma City University School of Law

Juris Doctor

1997

University of Mary Hardin-Baylor

BS - Bachelor of Science

Speaking Engagements

2019

Southern Methodist University Cox School of Business

International Students in the Workplace

2019

Northwest Dallas Business Association Presentation

Employer Workplace Compliance Overview

2017

Southern Methodist University International Student and Scholar Services H-1B and Beyond - Visa Options for Undergraduate and Graduate Students

2017

1st Annual CIL Immigration Law Conference

Law Firm Management, Marketing and Best Practices

2016

Southern Methodist University International Student and Scholar Services H-1B Specialy Occupation Visas for International Graduate Students

2016

Southern Methodist University International Student and Scholar Services H-1B Specialy Occupation Visas for International Undergraduate Students

2016

SMU Cox School of Business Accounting Department Advisory Board

Employer Strategies in H-1B and Immigrant Visa Processes for DFW Metroplex Accounting Firms

2015

Southern Methodist University International Student and Scholar Services H-1B Specialy Occupation Visas for International Graduate Students

2015

Southern Methodist University International Student and Scholar Services H-1B Specialy Occupation Visas for Foreign Students

2015

American Board of Trial Advocates at the UNT Law School in Dallas

Speaker, Immigration law and Classroom issues for Educators at the Teacher's Law School

2014

Southern Methodist University International Student and Scholar Services H-1B Specialy Occupation Visas for Foreign Students

2014

Southern Methodist University International Student and Scholar Services H-1B Specialy Occupation Visas for Foreign Students

2014

Mexican Consulate General in Dallas, TX

Speaker, Presidential Executive Action (DACA II, DAPA)

2014

DFW-LINC Leading International Networking Clinic Alternatives to H-1B Classification for Graduating Students

2013

Southern Methodist University International Student and Scholar Services H-1B Information Session at SMU

2011

University of Texas CLE

Waivers of Inadmissibility (I-601; I-212)

2011

Human Resources Seminar (Part 2) Temporary and Permanent Work Visas

2011

AILA AILA Spring 2011 Texas Chapter Conference Conference Co-chair

2011

35th Annual UTCLE Immigration Law Conference Speaker, Waivers of Inadmissibility (I-601; I-212)

2010

Career Panel & Networking Series Immigration Law

2009

The Fort Worth Breakfast Club

"Overview of the Immigration Laws"

2009

AILA Fall 2009 Texas/Oklahoma/New Mexico Chapter Conference Advanced Topics in Conditional Permanent Residence (I-751)

2008

Presenter, "Know Your Rights" Videoseminar for respondents

Relief in removal proceedings

2008

Federal, State, and Immigration Consequences of Family Violence Convictions Federal, State, and Immigration Consequences of Family Violence Convictions

2008

Employment-based Immigration Employers' Ethical Obligations

2007

New "No-Match" Regulations: Employers on "Constructive" Notice that Employee May be Working Illegally and How To Avoid P Federal Compliance - I-9 and E-Verify

Publications

2011

University of Texas Conference on Immigration and Nationality Law Extreme Lawyering: Filing Waivers at Home and at Consulate Abroad

2010

Texas Bar Journal Texas People

2009

American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) Texas Chapter Fall Conference Advanced Topics in Conditional Permanent Residence (I-751)

2008

Languages

Russian

Spanish

Slovak

Czech

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