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Heather Lorraine Poole

Immigration Attorney at Pasadena, CA

4.8   43 reviews

also known as Heather Poole, Heather L. Poole

Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 22 years
    State CA
    Acquired 2001
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Heather

Learn Heather’s areas of practice.

1
Practice area
  1. Immigration
    100%
    Complex family immigration & marriage green cards, conditional green card waivers, VAWA -Abused spouses, LGBT cases, parents & children, I-601 and I-212 Waivers (Criminal, Misrepresentation, Prostitution, Unlawful Presence, Overstays), appeals.

    22 years

FAMILY & MARRIAGE IMMIGRATION & DEPORTATION. CERTIFIED SPECIALIST - IMMIGRATION LAW (CA BAR).

Heather L. Poole, Esq. is the Managing Attorney of HEATHER L. POOLE, PC, a U.S. immigration law firm focused on Family and Marriage-based immigration cases and deportation defense.  

HEATHER IS A RECOGNIZED EXPERT.*

Her expertise in immigration law is widely recognized by other immigration lawyers, who she regularly trains on complex immigration topics for the American Immigration Lawyers Association (national & state conferences), Federal Bar Association, Los Angeles County & Orange County Bar Associations, Pasadena Bar Association, and national Continuing Legal Education companies.

She is a frequent speaker on complicated family immigration topics ranging from unlawful presence, misrepresentation and criminal bars to relief to options for conditional green card holders and those wishing to keep a family member in the U.S. She is an internationally published author on complex immigration topics and her articles published by the State Bar of California as well as in Los Angeles Lawyer Magazine, Orange County Lawyer Magazine, The Alaska Bar Rag, and AILA’s Immigration & Nationality Law Handbook and Forms & Fundamentals, among others.  She has been interviewed for stories covered by NBC Today Show, The Dr. Phil Show, and spoken to news and legal journalists on variety of immigration subjects, including being interviewed on consular denial issues for Los Angele's Talk Radio station, KNX 1070. She was the featured immigration lawyer at KFI AM 640 Law Days from 2006-2010, hosted by the #1 nationally syndicated law talk radio show (Handle on the Law) in the U.S.

Heather is recognized by other immigration lawyers as an Expert. She has been repeatedly named a “Super Lawyer” for Excellence in Immigration Law (superlawyers.com) – among the top 5% of immigration lawyers (As voted by other lawyers) in Southern California and she has been named in the “Top Women Attorneys in California” list published in Los Angeles Magazine. Heather also teaches Immigration Law at Fullerton College.

She served on the National Board of Directors for the American Immigration Lawyers Association for five years and served on AILA's USCIS Field Operations Committee for years. 

She is also is the former Chapter Chair of the American Immigration Lawyers Association Southern California Chapter, responsible for legal training of the third largest group of immigration attorneys nationwide. 

HEATHER IS A COMMUNITY LAWYER.

She regularly volunteers her time representing detained asylum seekers at the Adelanto Detention Center for Esperanza’s Immigrant Rights Project and representing Unaccompanied Children in removal proceedings for KIND in Los Angeles.

Heather’s expertise is recognized and sought by community organizations, schools, and the media. She is currently on Neighborhood Legal Services’ (NLS), Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (LAFLA), and San Pedro Community Services Immigration Referral lists as a recommended private immigration attorney. 

Her work with immigrants has been commended by the National Domestic Violence Hotline, Haven House – the country’s oldest domestic violence shelter, and Project Sister, a rape crisis center serving the Inland Empire. She is a long-term volunteer helping survivors obtain restraining orders in family court for the Los Angeles County Bar Association’s Barrister’s Project. She has received these recent awards for her community service:

—    2008 Los Angeles Superior Court’s Volunteer of the Year

—    2013 Public Service Award from the Los Angeles County Bar Association for over 900 hours of pro bono work with domestic violence survivors over the past decade as part of the Barrister’s Domestic Violence Project.

*****

STOP PUTTING YOUR LIFE ON HOLD. CALL TO SET UP YOUR APPOINTMENT WITH ATTORNEY HEATHER TODAY to discuss your case:.

Subscribe to Attorney Heather's video channel on YouTube: youtube/user/attorneyheather

* WARNING TO CONSUMERS: It is illegal and unethical for an immigration attorney to guarantee you an outcome in your case. An attorney can give you an estimate of what they think your chances are based on their experience and your evidence but run away from anyone who guarantees you an outcome! Immigration law is complicated! Remember, if something sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Get another opinion!

We believe that all legal services with an immigration attorney, however small, should be in writing and always get copies of your filings. This is your life and your future!  

 

 

Photos and videos

Tips to Understanding Family Immigration with Immigration Attorney Heather L. Poole.
Tips for Understanding the Green Card Process with Immigration Attorney Heather L. Poole
The Immigration Consequences of Divorce with Immigration Attorney Heather L. Poole
Options for Conditional Green Card Holders with Immigration Attorney Heather L. Poole
View more

Contact Heather

HEATHER L POOLE PC
225 S Lake Avenue
Suite 300
Pasadena, CA, 91101

Reviews

4.8 / 5.0
  43 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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Posted by anonymous | November 3, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Experienced and Professional Layer
Heather is a very good lawyer. I hired her for my Vawa based green card petition. She was always approachable and reached out immediately whenever she received any communication on my case. The whole process was smooth with assistance from Heather and her staff. I will certainly recommend her for any family immigration matters.
Posted by Ana | October 24, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
SUPER LAWYER
Atty. Heather Poole is indeed a SUPER LAWYER. She have represented my case in a very efficient manner where she kept track with the timeline of my application and prompt me through email from time to time about the progress. It was such a great experience to have a well verse Immigration Lawyer who would never hesitate to answer any queries in relevant to my Immigration case. Thank you so much Atty. Heather Poole and More power to you and your fellow Lawyers and to the whole staffs working with you. Thank you and Be safe always.
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Posted by Artur | July 25, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Clear and concise
I talked with Heather in order to get a sense of the next steps / strategy. She was happy to take a call (consultation, no charge) and followed up after the call with some clarifications. When the time comes for my next step, I will contact her.
Posted by Musa | March 10, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Slam Dunk-Terminator Attorney
I live in Chicago, I consulted Heather about my case on the phone. She and Her team collected my info days ago and got prepared for it and kept updated me about timing everyday. When the time came, Heather called me, asked me questions, every single detail about my case, She is trial attorney, the top ones, the ones who love to sue the government:)) She is the one who want to terminate your case ASAP with the best succes, not make you wait for 7-15 years like other lawyers, even AV rated ones. Thats why she is SUPER LAWYER ! Go to her !
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Posted by Aida | July 2, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommended emigration attorney
We had a very difficult immigration case, the process took almost 5 years, but we succeeded thanks to Heather. She was 1. Knowledgeable -specializes in Immigration Law 2. Strategic -she had a good plan and vision on how to approach the case. 3. Supportive -always had an encouraging word 4. Responsive -timely responses to my inquiries 5. Honest -she was candid about how long it would take and how much money it would cost. There were no surprises or stressful negotiations over money. We had a difficult case. Heather generated a plan and then methodically executed it on our behalf. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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Posted by Josalyn | January 27, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
C-1 Visa, Naturalization, parents Petition
Heather help our whole family, at first we taught our case is hopeless and we just have to give up but heather help us and give us positive result and win our case, First she help my husband to naturalized to be a US citizen. Second she work on my case that is C1 visa entry it's kinda hard we taught I have to go back to my country and I cant go back anymore here in the states but she fight for my case and win it without leaving the states, she always have positive result now I already have my permanent residency and just waiting for day that I can be a US citizen. Third my husband's petition to his father is been approved too and his dad is on his way to come here in the states and stay with us for good he has his permanent residency and soon he can be naturalized to become a US citizen. Our whole family is grateful and blessed to know heather and her team they never give up on us and be with us until the we have positive and win our cases. Will definitely recommended heather and the whole team, god bless you, your whole family and the whole team in the firm.
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Posted by Maria | December 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I-751 Removing Conditions of Perm. Resid. — Thank you for being part of my journey!
My I-751 (Removing Conditions of the Green Card) case has been approved all thanks to my attorney alone! Heather L. Poole is an outstanding specialist — the very best, knowledgeable, experienced, humane and responsive I’ve met in the past five years (after changing a number of lawyers in LA). I can never say or thank her enough for what she has done for me as my case was nearly hopeless, pending for 4+ years, besides I had little to no additional documents to provide for my PFE response. She stepped in at the very last minute when my case was badly messed up by previous lawyers I had unfortunately hired and she simply saved it all. Moreover, she found and added grounds for an additional (back up) case which my previous lawyers simply missed all together. I felt in the safest hands from the day one I hired Ms. Poole as it was obvious that she knew what she was doing, having such impressive immigration experience and being honest with me from the day one. She was always accessible for all my questions and concerns. Besides being a gorgeous person inside out, she genuinely and deeply cares about people she chooses to represent: once she takes your case, she will fight for you to the victorious happy end! I will only recommend Ms. Heather L. Poole from today on as she is truly credible and experienced and has the highest ratings for a reason. Simply the BEST in great LA area! You will be forever in my kindest prayers, a special person in my life, be blessed always!
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Posted by anonymous | September 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
SHE CAN WIN DIFFICULT CASES IF SHE WON MINE. SHE IS A BRILLIANT IMMIGRATION LAWYER.
My case was beyond difficult I moved here on K1 Visa to a very manipulative abusive evil, man. I got my conditional green card and left before the 2 years were over I actually left after months, due to all sorts of abuse, which was unbearable, I talked to one lawyer who told me he cannot take my case chances might be zero, I was referred to another one and she said prove of a bonfide marriage was not too strong I got confused! I got Heather poole's contacts and searched for her online, and after seeing all her wonderful reviews, the fact that she is known to win difficult cases I never looked for any other lawyers I immediately called her, She will book an interview with you and she will take notes as you talk, She will keenly listen to you and will advise you on the best waiver for your case, Mine was an extreme cruelty waiver. Minutes after meeting heather I felt at peace from within, I knew she was the one, Proving a bon fide marriage on my case through the obvious bank accounts, joint lease and joint property, credit cards, bills on my name and such was very tricky on my side I had non of those because my husband never wished me well, so he made sure im not advantaged in that way, and the fact that our marriage was very short lived, due to his manipulative, abusive mean attitude, my case was a very difficult one to speak the truth, Heather never hestitated to tell me it will be a difficult case to win, but she never said "I will not represent you" which was unbelievable after having talked to other 2 lawyers before meeting her who said it was difficult. Despite Heather mentioning the difficulty of my case, I trusted her and never gave up, never lost hope, and despite everybody telling me to pack and leave, I still felt she was the one. Heather is so brilliant that she will advise you on the least things that you can ever think of, that could work as prove of you and your spouse having as joined accounts. She and her entire team will work together to get your case documented to the best of their ability, they will communicate instantly with you. She will asign your case to one of her team members who will take it and deal with all your witnesses and declarations, they will do such an amazing job by calling everybody by phone, You as her client will definately have to put a lot of work into it too and with your cooperation and listening to their advices it will work well. They instantly reply to your emails sometimes they can be busy but I loved their services. Heather will take you to the green card interview, I received my greencard for 10 years in less than 3 weeks I did not believe it, as much as I believed in her my case was a hard one to win and she told me that till the last day.I would have not preferred anybody else and I'd recommend her 100
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Posted by Tee Cee | November 28, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Qualified and Competent Attorney
Do you want to have a knowledgeable professional handling your immigration matter? If you have an easy or (like me) a challenging immigration case and want an Attorney recognized as a "super lawyer" in the field of immigration, then look no further than Attorney Heather Poole. I had a challenging immigration case that was complicated after I switched attorneys. I was so frustrated that at one point I contemplated just packing my bags and going back to my home country. I am a colored male that was seeking to establish permanent residency at the time that immigrants were most concerned. I thought the likelihood of me overcoming the odds were almost impossible. As I mentioned I am a male, and my immigration case that Attorney Heather handled was a VAWA case, this act was initially enacted to protect women who were victims of domestic abuse. So in early 2017 before filing as I mentioned, I thought that surely, I had zero chances of a 1. Filing as a colored immigrant and 2. Filing under an act that thought exclusivly related to women. I did some research and came across Attorney Heather, from our first consultation I felt at ease, no, she did not make any guarantees, but she kept it real and assured me that she would do everything in her power to help me. There are a few occasions where Attorney Heather may be busy attending to other clients. However, she always got back to me in a short time. Additionally, she has a competent Team that includes ( in my case) a second senior attorney that was assigned to my case, so whenever I needed answers, there was always someone to address my concerns. All communications from USCIS were promptly sent to me at no additional cost; overall my experience was excellent. Frankly, a little under 2 years ago I was at my wits end thinking I had no options, other Attorneys told me as much as well, thanks to Attorney Heather, I was able to get my EAD which allowed me the time to focus and finish my Masters Degree, I am now pursuing a career in law. All of this became possible because I made a good decision in hiring the best, I hired Attorney Heather Poole. The first phase of my journey was recently completed when I got officially became a Legal Permanent Resident. I have nothing but praises for Attorney Heather, if I remember :) I shall revisit this post in 3 years when Attorney Heather helps to apply for my Citizenship. Thank you, Attorney Heather!
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Posted by anonymous | October 31, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing immigration attorney!
Heather helped me with removing conditions on my 2 year green card (divorce waiver) without an interview! My case was a bit tricky because I was married a short period of time (2 years); I filed for divorce very shortly after receiving my conditional green card; and I didn't have much photo evidence because I didn't backup my phone properly. Heather was very thorough in explaining the process and potential evidence that I could be using...some of which I would've never thought of to use as proof of a real marriage. Melissa from her firm also did a great job helping me gather necessary proof/documentation, including reaching out to my witnesses to draft the affidavits. I really don't think I would've gotten this approval (especially one without going through an interview!) if I didn't hire Heather. I'm extremely pleased with the outcome as well as the entire process of working with her. Highly recommend!
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Posted by Darko | October 24, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Good review
Iam very please with the work of Heather . She was committed from the beginning to the end with the case. Very happy how the case was handeled and the outcome .
Posted by Kirk | July 27, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Loyal, passionate lawyer!
We hired Heather to help us with a 10-year bar extreme hardship waiver legal case and spousal visa since my wife overstayed her visa. I was concerned since I didn't have many medical issues that could create a case for extreme hardship. We worked with Heather and she helped us create a strong case. She did it in an honest way and was patient with us as we gathered information. She does make you work, the list of documents is long and you need to put in your time and effort to help yourself, but it was her guidance that helped us get the hardship waiver and eventually the green card. We consulted with 4 other lawyers and I called 25+ lawyers asking if they would take our case. We chose Heather because of her track record and she was straight forward about our situation and odds of approval. She was more money then some other lawyers, but we felt that they money spent would be gained when my wife was legal and able to work. I recommend Heather to anyone, she is an excellent lawyer.
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Posted by anonymous | June 6, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Lawyer
We contacted Heather for my husband's immigration case. After consulting with many lawyers, I found Heather and read her reviews, went over her youtube videos etc. We decided to consult her. I have never met a lawyer who is as thorough and detail oriented like Heather. Her consultation fees are a little bit higher than other lawyers but it's worth. After talking to her over the phone with her twice, we finally decided to hire attorney Heather for our case. I must say this was one of the best decisions we made. Though it was 10 years bar waiver case, she asked us a huge list of documents to prove hardship. She was very specific about documentation. She checks all the paperwork thoroughly. After about 2 years, my husband got his green card and this was a huge relief for us. I can't say enough thank you to Heather for this. She is best at what she does, but do not expect to talk directly to Heather after you sign the contract. Her legal assistants work with you and Heather would oversee the work. Sometimes we had to send multiple emails to know the status of our case. I guess they have too much on their plate, but at the end, the outcome made it all worth. I would recommend Attorney Heather.
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Posted by Saeef | May 31, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
She can win with a very limited amount of evidences.
I will not start telling that my case was a difficult one. Heather is used to win difficult cases and that's where her greatness is. I found her through AVVO, read her reviews, called her for consultation, listened and felt confident. Right after I hired her, the case strategy she described, the pieces of evidences she was asking for - I felt my case is in safe hand. She knows very well how an apparently silly piece of evidence (like a letter, a facebook post, a bank doc) can pull off a case. Subject matter expert, very sharp and brilliant. If your case has any merit, you won't regret hiring her. I followed few negative reviews in this account and giving my input. 1) Contacting Attorney. Contact the attorney who is handling your case while Heather will be the main advisor. In my case, it was Melissa Wong who herself is a very brilliant, friendly, responsive attorney. 2) Missing expiration date of current immigration doc. It happened to me also. My green card expired, I had to change job, but my case was not submitted yet, so no Notice of Action I had that could work as extension of my GC. Heather resolved the issue by my contacting my employer then explaining why my permanent residency is still valid. I suggest Heather's firm use an excel spread sheet to track the expiration and latest possible filing date of their clients. I wish all the good luck to this excellent lawyer.
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Posted by anonymous | January 29, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Greatest Immigration Lawyer!
I was in removal proceedings 6 years ago and Heather was a ray of hope for me. My case was next to impossible and the lawyers Ive consulted (3 famous lawyers) said that there was no way out of it and I should start packing my bags and settle my affairs. I was devastated and searched desperately for someone who will listen to me. Heather was referred by a friend and she was very knowledgeable and straightforward. She told me the facts and did not give me false hopes. She is very knowledgeable about the law and knows what she is doing. She is definitely a lawyer you can trust. We won the case and I got my waiver granted!
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Posted by anonymous | January 26, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
THE MOST COMPETENT, KNOWLEDGEABLE, EXPERIENCED, IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY IN THE USA
Here is my history. I was married to a US Citizen for almost 3 years, I entered the US through Mexico and when I got married, I knew I had no chance to change my Status. Had been here for 30 years, never had an encounter with the Police or Immigration. I just wanted a family and to be happy. When I first met my wife, she was really sweet and we were very happy or so, I thought!! After our wedding, she completely changed and her abuse became worse by the day, I was abused mentally, physically, sexually and financially, ALWAYS threating me with Deportation if I didn't do as she said. She cheated on me and the situation was so bad, we finally got separated, still, the threats were constant. I have obeyed the Law, and having this burden over me, was driving me insane. She filed for a Divorce and we got finally divorced. My Attorney recommend me to look for a good Immigration Lawyer to see if they could help me, I had never heard of this possibility. So, I did a lot of research, interviewed a couple of Lawyers, but, I didn't feel they were experienced enough, then I landed on Heather's website and decided to pay the Consultation Fee, because I knew if she wouldn't take my case, I would just let it go. We were on the phone for over an hour, she was asking a lot of questions and finally decided to take my case. Well, I have to say, Heather is one Extraordinary Attorney and obviously has a Staff of people working for her, who are in constant communication with her. Whenever I called, they answered my questions, they guided me, every step of the way, they presented my case to USCIS in a way in which they had no reason to ask for anything else. The process is long, but, these cases are hard to prove, so, you must be patient, believe me, these people know what they are doing. When I finally had my 485 Interview, I finally got to meet Heather, who is a really nice person, good hearted and very compassionate. Our interview lasted less than 20 mins and it was approved. I can't thank her enough, nor, will I ever forget all the effort Heather and her team made to make this happen. IF, you need an Expert Immigration Lawyer, look no further!!! I give Heather a 5 Star Rating, because, she deserves it.
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Posted by Mark | January 4, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Fantastic - I highly recommend Heather
We hired Heather Poole to help with my wife's permanent residency (Green Card) application and I am very grateful we did. First of all, she was the only attorney of the 3 we interviewed to understand and disclose recent immigration law changes that could affect our application. Then, based on these changes, she strongly recommended a specific course of action over all others. Next, she brought in another attorney in her firm who had more experience with our specific and unique circumstances. At all times it was easy to communicate with her and her staff. And in the end we were able to get my wife's Visa done in a much shorter amount of time than was expected. Based on our experience both my wife and I give Heather and her firm the highest rating possible.
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Posted by anonymous | October 26, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Heather Poole- Superstar lawyer (Hire her only if you want to get it done right without wasting money on other lawyers).
I recently received my green card with the help of Heather Poole's Law firm. I had a pretty unique and complicated conditional green card through marriage and had to end the marriage in a short duration with very little living together because of the psychological torture with strong financial abuse and full control on my life from my spouse that scared me to death. Next i had to find an competent immigration lawyer which is a daunting task. I wasted lot of money on lawyers but wanted a competent one because i knew my case was very weak as there was no physical abuse or stereotypical evidence of abuse, i hired one lawyer but he said that i have a weak case and chances are not very positive. Then I searched on internet and through forums came to know that Heather has handled a similar case as mine. I had a phone consultation with Heather and was relieving. She was very honest and explained my options. She never rushed into the phone conversation and took the time to understand my case. Given her expertise in immigration law and the reviews I've read online made me decide to choose her firm. She assigned my case to Att. Melissa Wong though she was overlooking the case at each step. Melissa is incredibly pleasant, knowledgeable, professional and was always very prompt in answering my questions throughout the immigration process,I received continuous feedback on my case. A Wow Experience as she used to answer my questions even over the weekend. If you want the best and not waste time on uncompetent lawyers, the Law Offices of Heather Poole is it! From day one, they took care of me and my immigration needs. Heather documented my 751 waiver case in such a way that no attorney could do that great job especially in my case where there is very little proof of living together and shorter duration of marriage. She kept in contact with me about the progress of my case, made no errors whatsoever, and were the friendliest people. they help me get the solution as soon as they can whenever i call or email them. Immigration issues can be tricky but you can be sure that with Heather Poole you have the very best on your side. If you need an immigration attorney, look no further than the firm of Heather Poole! They worked hard for my case. I successfully obtained my GC in 10 months ! Amazing !! Guess what I did not have to go through an interview as well and this is because of the strong documentation and the out of the box thinking that Heather is gifted by God. She got a faster way of approval in short duration with less round of asking questions back from USCIS because of the heavy documentation. I rate them as an “A” plus" law office. I want to share to others to go to this office for their immigration problems…..No regrets!!!! If you've got a tough case...she's your best bet!!!. You cannot go wrong with this amazing team! I can't think of anyone more capable than Heather Poole in the area of immigration law. Thank you very much Heather and Melissa for your great work. Keep up the good health so that you may continue to help people like us who can save their status and get their peace of mind back.
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Posted by Osman | October 9, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Experienced and Dedicated! Highly Recommend
I have contacted Heather after a year of an abusive relationship with my US citizen spouse. I searched for successful VAWA cases and all pointed to her. The thing is, I am a male, from a Muslim country, I was getting abused by my wife and I didn’t apply for the green card yet — and I didn’t have any hope of having a green card. Not only Heather and Melissa listened to my story, but understood the facts and organized my immigration case while I was in a state of depression and was not able to clearly communicate. They worked hard for my case and succeed. Today, I have a green card, have a great job and I am a respected member of my community. This wouldn’t be possible without Heather Poole and Melissa Wong’s experience and dedication.
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Posted by anonymous | September 15, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Knowledgeable, Trustworthy and Compassionate Person
I highly recommend attorney Heather Poole, she is doing amazing job of supporting the women who are struggling with their abusive relationship. She really cares and guides them to fight for their rights legally. Heather is not only passionate about her job; she truly wants to help the people in trouble. I was struck in my abusive and controlling married life and was not sure how to safely get out of the mess. I did find attorney Heather through internet and was able to quickly set up client intake call with her. Heather listened to me carefully during my phone call, towards end of the call she explained me the available options and also told me which option would best fit into my case. With her knowledge and experience, she quickly sent me the list of documents that I need to start collecting. Then I started working with her staff and shared all the necessary documents electronically. Heather was easily accessible via email for all your important questions, her staff was also very helpful and supportive from start to finish. I spoke to Heather over the phone only couple of times during the entire process. I didn’t meet her in person till date but did get my 10 years GC extension without interview. She exactly knew what are the key evidences needed for my case and also did thorough documentation work. Without her presence and guidance i would have left the country long back, she was real moral support during my hard times. She made a long lasting impression and will not forget her in my life.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Managing Attorney
  • HEATHER L POOLE PC Immigration Lawyers
  • 2018 - Present
  • Adjunct Professor - Immigration Law
  • Fullerton College
  • 2007 - Present
  • Adjunct Professor - Immigration Law for Paralegals
  • Cerritos College
  • 2016 - 2018
  • Managing Partner, Family & Removal Group
  • Stone Grzegorek & Gonzalez LLP - Immigration Law
  • 2015 - 2018
  • Supervising Attorney, Legal Assistance Project
  • Los Angeles Commission on Assaults Against Women
  • 2002 - 2008
  • Attorney at Law
  • HEATHER L. POOLE, PC, Professional Law Corporation
  • 2001 - 2015
  • Attorney at Law
  • Bernard P Wolfsdorf, APLC
  • 2000 - 2001
View all work experience

Education

  • California St Polytechnic Univ
  • undergraduate
  • N/A
  • New York Law School
  • law
  • N/A

Legal Cases

  • Man Removes Condition on Green Card Despite Quick Marital Break Up
  • APPROVED without interview.
  • Mexican national obtains Green Card Despite Illegal Entry Using Unique Documents
  • APPROVED.
  • 10 Year Bar Waiver Approved in Moscow
  • APPROVED.
View all legal cases

Associations

  • American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • National CIS Field Operations Liaison Committee Member
  • 2015 - 2017
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Elected Director, National Board of Governors
  • 2015 - 2018
  • So Ca Chapter, American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Chair
  • 2014 - 2015
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Director (So Ca Chapter Chair), National Board of Governors
  • 2014 - 2014
  • So Ca Chapter, American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Vice Chair
  • 2013 - 2014
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • National CIS Benefit Center Liaison Committee
  • 2013 - 2015
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Director (for New Member Division), National Board of Governors
  • 2013 - 2013
  • So Ca Chapter, American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Treasurer
  • 2012 - 2013
  • So Ca Chapter, American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Secretary
  • 2011 - 2012
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • National Publications Board Committee Member
  • 2011 - 2012
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Vice Chair & National NMD Newsletter Editor, New Member Division
  • 2011 - 2012
  • Los Angeles County Bar Association, Immigration Law Section
  • Executive Board Member
  • 2010 - 2011
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • National Liaison, New Member Division
  • 2009 - 2013
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association (Southern California chapter)
  • New Member Division Chair
  • 2006 - 2008
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association (Southern California chapter)
  • Pro Bono Liaison
  • 2004 - 2005
View all associations

Honors and Awards

  • Super Lawyer
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2021
  • Top Attorneys
  • Pasadena Magazine
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  • 2014
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  • 2013
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  • 2012
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  • Super Lawyer: Rising Star
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  • 2011
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  • Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2010
  • Los Angeles County Volunteer of the Year
  • Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors
  • 2009
  • Super Lawyer: Rising Star
  • Law & Politics Magazine
  • 2009
  • Volunteer of the Year - Domestic Violence Project
  • LA County Bar Association
  • 2008
  • Haven House (Domestic Violence Shelter)
  • Commendation
  • 2006
  • Distinguished Alumna
  • California State Polytechnic University Pomona
  • 2006
  • Commendation
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline
  • 2005
  • Super Lawyer: Rising Star
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2005
View all awards

Publications

  • Immigration Practice Pointers, 2018 ed, American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Preparing and Ethically Advocating for Your Clients at Challenging DOS and USCIS Interviews
  • 2018
  • AILA Immigration Practice Pointers 2018-2019
  • Complicated Affidavit of Support Issues
  • 2018
  • Removal Track, American Immigration Lawyers Association Midyear Conference Materials
  • Structuring the Role of the Paralegal and Working with Attorneys New to Immigration Law: Tools, Training, and Supervision
  • 2017
  • AILA Immigration Practice Pointers 2016-2017
  • Saving the Green Card When Problems Involving Marriage Arise
  • 2017
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association Webcast Materials
  • Is it Truly Safe to Travel? Arrabally’s Impact so Far on the Unlawful Presence Bars
  • 2016
  • 2017 Interactive Waivers Workshop Handbook, American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Waivers For INA §212(A)(9)(C) Unlawful Presence After Prior Immigration Violations
  • 2016
  • Waivers Conference Handbook, American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Waivers for Violence Against Women Act Self-Petitioners
  • 2016
  • Immigration Practice Pointers: Tips for Handling Complex Cases (2016-2017 ed.), American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Tips for Helping Your Client Save Their Green Card When Their Marriage is On the Rocks, Has Fallen Apart, Lacks Joint Documentation, or No Longer Exists
  • 2016
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association California Chapters Annual Conference Handbook,
  • Waiver Update
  • 2015
  • Immigration Practice Pointers: Tips for Handling Complex Cases (2015-2015 ed.), American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Complicated Affidavit of Support Issues
  • 2015
  • 28th Annual California Chapters Handbook, American Immigration Lawyers Assn.
  • Strategic Considerations and Case Law Changes Impacting Where & When to File Your Waiver
  • 2015
  • Immigration Practice Pointer, American Immigration Lawyers Association National Benefit Center Liaison Committee
  • Practice Tips for Arguing Financial Hardship in I-601A Waiver Cases
  • 2014
  • Immigration Practice Pointers: Tips for Handling Complex Cases (2014 – 2015 ed.), American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Advanced Affidavit of Support Issues
  • 2014
  • Annual AILA California Chapters Conference Handbook
  • Working with Potential ‘Reason to Believe’ Determinations” [in I-601 Unlawful Presence Provisional Waiver Cases]
  • 2013
  • California International Law Journal, State Bar of California
  • Long-Awaited Immigration Policy Shift on Unlawful Presence Waivers Benefits U.S. Citizens Facing Long Separation From their Immigrant Loved Ones
  • 2013
  • Immigration Practice Pointers: Tips for Handling Complex Cases (2012 – 2013 ed.), American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Notices of Intent to Deny and Requests for Further Evidence in Family Cases
  • 2013
  • AILA California Chapters Conference Handbook
  • The ‘Challenging’ Client Relationship – Working with Uncooperative, Disabled, Criminally Accused, or Deportable Immigration Clients
  • 2012
  • Riverside Lawyer, Riverside County (CA) Bar Association
  • California’s Expansive Criminal Law Provisions Protecting Elders Assist Immigrant Victims of Abuse
  • 2012
  • The Alaska Bar Rag, Alaska State Bar Association
  • It's Been an Emotionally Trying Year of Uncertainty and Confusion for U.S. Citizens Married to Undocumented Immigrants" (article on developments in I-601 Waivers)
  • 2012
  • Forms & Fundamentals, 2011 Ed., American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Annotations to Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence"
  • 2011
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association - California Chapters Conference Handbook
  • Modern Marriage Issues Before USCIS and on Appeal
  • 2011
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Continuing Legal Education Webinar
  • Considerations for Attorneys Working with Immigrant Clients
  • 2020
  • Continuing Legal Education Seminar/Attorney Training
  • An Analysis of the New Public Charge Rule: What can we expect from the new Public Charge Rules?
  • 2019
  • Continuing Legal Education Event/Attorney Training
  • The Tricky World of I-601 Waivers
  • 2019
  • American Inns of Court Family Law Division, Los Angeles
  • Intersection Between Family & Immigration Law
  • 2019
  • Surplus Line Association of California Educational Seminar
  • Immigration Issues and Liability Exposures
  • 2018
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association Southern California Annual Winter CLE Conference
  • Immigration Options for Victims: VAWA, Us, and T Visas
  • 2018
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association Annual Conference
  • Advocacy and Ethics in Client Interviews Before DOS and USCIS
  • 2018
  • San Gabriel Valley Bar Association Monthly Continuing Legal Education Meeting
  • Trump: The First 120 Days: Impact on Immigration
  • 2017
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association Interactive Waivers Conference
  • Cutting Edge Topics in Inadmissibility: How to Find Inadmissibility Issues and Understanding What Cannot Be Waived in the Immigrant Waiver Context
  • 2017
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association Annual Conference
  • Family Immigration 101
  • 2017
  • Live Webcast, American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Evaluating Extreme Hardship: Overview of the New USCIS Guidance
  • 2016
  • Immigrants List Spring CLE
  • Waivers at the Consulate
  • 2016
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association Waiver Conference
  • Waivers for INA 212(A)(9)(C) Unlawful Presence After Prior Immigration Violations
  • 2016
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association Midyear Conference
  • Practice Management for Removal Practitioners
  • 2016
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association Live Webcast
  • The Unlawful Presence Bars – Analysis and Remedies
  • 2016
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association California Chapters Annual Conference
  • Waiver Update
  • 2016
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association Annual Conference
  • It’s Complicated: Filing Removal of Conditions in Difficult Circumstances
  • 2016
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association, Live Audio Seminar
  • I-601A Filing Developments
  • 2015
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association Annual Conference
  • Complicated Affidavit of Support Issues
  • 2015
  • MyLawCLE.com Webinar
  • Immigration 101: Family & Employment-Based Visas
  • 2014
  • Federal Bar Association Immigration Section Annual Conference
  • Income Tax and Aliens: Tax Issues in Immigration
  • 2014
  • Crisis of Counsel: Redoubling Efforts to Address Representation Gaps Facing Immigrant Children and Adults Conference
  • Next Steps towards Addressing Gaps in Representation
  • 2014
  • Annual California Chapters Conference, American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Provisional and Traditional Unlawful Presence Waivers (I-601s and I-601a)
  • 2014
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association Annual Conference
  • Advanced Affidavit of Support Issues
  • 2014
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association Annual California Chapters Conference
  • Advanced Family Immigration
  • 2014
  • MyLawCLE Live Teleseminar
  • Solving Unlawful Presence Immigration Problems for Employees & Family
  • 2013
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association, Live Audio Seminar (Internet)
  • Representing and Defending Marriage Fraud Cases
  • 2013
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) Annual Conference,
  • Notices of Intent to Deny and Requests for Further Evidence in Family Cases
  • 2013
  • Women's Herstory Annual Celebration, Moreno Valley College
  • My Path to Immigration Law
  • 2012
  • Offered by LawReviewCLE.com
  • Immigration 101" Continuing Legal Education Seminar
  • 2012
  • National Domestic Violence Awareness Month
  • Legal Options for Survivors of Domestic Violence
  • 2012
  • Lunch with the Expert
  • No More Sails Into the Sunset - Resurrecting, Converting or Ditching the Joint 751
  • 2012
  • Annual California Chapters Conference
  • Client Representation in Immigration Practice
  • 2012
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association National Conference, "Taste of Nashville" Dinner with the Experts
  • The Evolving World of I-601 Waivers: Tips for Preparing Your Client & Your Case
  • 2012
  • Project Sister Rape Crisis Center Hotline Advocate Training
  • Working with Immigrant Victims of Crime and Abuse
  • 2011
  • National Conference, Federal Bar Association Immigration Section
  • "VAWA Adjustment: Updates and Emerging Issues" Panel, Moderator
  • 2011
  • CLE Event, Beverly Hills Bar Association, Immigration Law Section
  • Making Hardship Easy: Understanding the Grounds of Inadmissibility and Preparing Successful Waivers
  • 2011
  • Annual Conference, Federal Bar Association Immigration Law Section
  • "US CIS Interviews & Tips on Presenting Complicated I-130/I-485/I-754 & Naturalization Cases"
  • 2011
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association National Annual Conference
  • "I-751 and Waivers: Removing the Conditions on Residency" Fundamentals Panel
  • 2011
  • Quarterly Advocate Trainings
  • Immigration Options for Abused Immigrants
  • 2010
  • New Members Division Training
  • “VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) Basics”, (August 2010);
  • 2010
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association (Southern California chapter)
  • VAWA Basics" for the Immigration Attorney
  • 2010
  • Spring Training for Haven House
  • The Legal Aspects of Domestic Violence: Immigration Law & Restraining Orders
  • 2009
  • Los Angeles County Volunteer of the Year Award Ceremony
  • Los Angeles County Volunteer of the Year Award Ceremony
  • 2009
  • ESL students, friends and family, El Monte Rosemead Adult School, El Monte, California
  • Understanding the Route to Permanent Residency and Legal Status
  • 2009
  • Commission on the Status of Women
  • Immigration Options for Abused Immigrants
  • 2009
  • Tabling at El Monte Rosemead Adult School as part of the 2008 Community Resource Fair
  • One on One with Attorney Heather
  • 2008
  • Shephard's Door Domestic Violence Resource Center's 2008 National Domestic Violence Awareness Month Event
  • Immigration Options for Victims of Domestic Violence
  • 2008
  • ESL students, friends and family at El Monte Rosemead Adult School
  • Understanding the Route to Permanent Residency and Legal Status
  • 2008
  • Winter Training for Haven House October 6, 2007
  • The Legal Aspects of Domestic Violence: Immigration Law
  • 2007
  • Winter Training for Haven House March 24, 2007
  • The Legal Aspects of Domestic Violence: Immigration Law
  • 2007
  • Immigration Section
  • U.S. Citizenship via Naturalization: Avoiding Denials, Heartbreak and Deportation Triggers"
  • 2007
  • Free consultations on citizenship cases to community members in attendance November 10, 2007
  • Community Citizenship Clinic
  • 2007
  • Free consultations on citizenship cases to community members in attendance March 24, 2007
  • Community Citizenship Clinic
  • 2007
  • Free consultations on citizenship cases to community members in attendance January 27, 2007
  • Community Citizenship Clinic
  • 2007
  • Free consultations on citizenship cases to community members in attendance April 28, 2007
  • Community Citizenship Clinic
  • 2007
  • ESL students, friends and family at El Monte Rosemead Adult School February 2, 2007
  • Understanding the Route to Permanent Residency and Legal Status
  • 2007
  • ESL students, friends and family at El Monte Rosemead Adult School August 7, 2007
  • Understanding the Route to Permanent Residency and Legal Status
  • 2007
  • ESL students, friends and family at El Monte Rosemead Adult School
  • Understanding the Route to Permanent Residency and Legal Status
  • 2007
  • Association's Family Law Section
  • The Foreign Affair; Updates on the Immigration Consequences of Marriage, Divorce, and Custody
  • 2007
  • Annual Conference on Domestic Violence
  • The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and the Immigrant Population
  • 2007
  • Training for Project Sister's (the Inland Empire's only rape and sexual assault agency) hotline advocates
  • Human Rights Problems in Our Own Backyard: Legal Options Available to Abused Immigrants
  • 2006
  • Training for Attorneys of Peace Over Violence's
  • Immigration Options under Violence Against Women Act
  • 2006
  • Private venue/training for Glendale Episcopal Church
  • Human Rights Problems in Our Own Backyard: The Lives and Options Available to Abused Immigrants
  • 2006
  • Fall Training conducted by Attorney Heather L. Poole
  • The Legal Aspects of Domestic Violence: Immigration Law
  • 2006
  • Discovering PCC Day
  • Routes to Permanent Residency & Citizenship: Understanding the U.S. Immigration System
  • 2006
  • CLE Training, Legal Assistance Project
  • Options for Abused Immigrants
  • 2006
  • 2006 Distinguished Alumni for Cal Poly Pomona's College of Letters, Arts & Social Sciences
  • Distinguished Alumni Award Dinner
  • 2006
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (10)
Given (6)
Endorse Heather
Immigration Attorney | May 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Immigration Attorney | Aug 12
Relationship: Co-worker
"Heather is not only an asset to the practice of US immigration law, but a passionate and tireless advocate for her clients. As one of her former client review states, she is the "green card guru." I fondly think of her as the immigration Wonder Woman. I proudly endorse Attorney Heather Poole."
Immigration Attorney | Mar 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Heather Poole is a leader in Southern California's immigration law community. Her expertise benefits not only her clients but her colleagues in this challenging area of law. She is also a warm, dedicated person who brings true caring to her work!"
Immigration Attorney | Aug 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Heather is a knowledgeable, enthusiastic and personable attorney! I highly recommend her and she is our go-to referral for Immigration cases."
Immigration Attorney | Aug 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse this lawyer. Heather Poole is an excellent immigration attorney in the Pasadena area. I met Heather through the Los Angeles County Bar Association Domestic Violence volunteer program a few years ago. She is very knowledgeable in immigration law, is compassionate, and strongly advocates for her clients."
Immigration Attorney | Dec 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Heather is the go-to expert in the areas of waivers, consular processing, VAWA, U visa and related matters. I highly endorse her!"
Immigration Attorney | Jun 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"When you see Heather's list of accomplishments, it's hard to believe she's not "of a certain age." Her passion and knowledge are tough to beat - if I had friends or family in need of help in California, I would send them her way."
Immigration Attorney | Feb 13
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Heather Poole takes outstanding care of her clients. Her integrity is unwaivering and her advocacy for her clients is zealous in the best sense of that term. I endorse this lawyer."
Immigration Attorney | Oct 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"As a fellow immigration attorney, I have the utmost respect for Heather's work. She is not only compassionate and hard-working, but really knows the law and is successful in what she does. She is known as one of the best attorneys in LA for her work in VAWA cases and hardship waivers, and I agree that when you need an advocate on your side, Heather is someone you should consider."
Immigration Attorney | Feb 23
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Heather is passionate about what she does, and at the outset (after a thorough interview) determines if she is able to provide the desired results (or not). Consequently, if she agrees to provide the legal services, they will be provided and the chances are excellent that the result will be successful."
View more endorsements

Avvo Contributions

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Pasadena Immigration Lawyer Heather Lorraine Poole
Heather Lorraine Poole
Immigration Attorney
Pasadena, CA
Licensed for 22 years
Free Consultation
Virtual consultation available