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Jeff L. Khurgel

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Avvo Rating10
  • Irvine, CA
  • Licensed for 17 years
Jeff L. Khurgel
Jeff L. Khurgel
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About Jeff

Board Certified Specialist in U.S. Immigration Law. Former State Department Embassy Officer.

I am an immigration attorney assisting clients with their immigration issues throughout the U.S. My training and experience working with the Department of State and USCIS at U.S. Embassies overseas allows me to review and evaluate a case from all angles. I am honored and pleased to be among the less than 3% of immigration attorneys in California Certified by the Board of Legal Specialization as a Specialist in Immigration Law.

I draw upon over twelve years of experience in working with companies and immigrants to help them reach their U.S. immigration goals. Our Firm is solely devoted to immigration law. 

My practice areas are comprehensive employment, family, waiver, and investment-based immigration. I represent clients before USCIS and in Immigration Courts throughout the U.S., and before the State Department at U.S. Embassies worldwide. I have been called a “versatile, immigration problem solver” and a “dedicated advocate” by my clients. I have presented sucessful arguments before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) and the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO). 

Prior to founding the firm, I was a Partner at a large Pasadena, CA immigration law firm. My U.S. government experience includes serving with the U.S. State Department as a Foreign Service Officer in Washington D.C. and at the U.S. Embassy in Azerbaijan. I also worked with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow and was a Law Clerk for the Federal Trade Commission, Northeast Region (NYC) and the Department of Justice (Honolulu).

I was admitted to the California Bar in 2004 and am also admitted to practice before the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. I am an active member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and the Orange County and Los Angeles County Bar Associations. I frequently speak on immigration issues throughout Southern California and my weekly column appears in the Asian Journal.

Our Law Firm's Practice Areas:

Employment/corporate immigration: NIV Status/Visas (H-1B, L-1, E), IV petitions (EB-1/2/3), PERM applications, complex RFE and audit responses, motions to reopen/reconsider.

Family-Based immigration: Adjustment of Status applications, consular processing, conditional residence petitions, naturalization applications, representation before the EOIR in Immigration Court, before the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA), and Administrative Appeals Office (AAO).

Immigration Waivers: Waivers of Inadmissibility (I-601) based on: Crimes, Unlawful Presence (I-601/I-601A) and Prior Deportation. The Waivers we handle are either filed before USCIS for AOS or overseas with immigrant visa applications.

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Practice areas

Immigration
  1. Immigration: 100%

    The Khurgel Immigration Law Firm is devoted exclusively to immigration law and assists clients in employment and family-based immigration matters. The firm also provides deportation defense, Embassy visa and Waiver assistance and investment-based representation.

    18 years

Languages spoken

English, Spanish, Russian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin

Photos and videos

75508 1380965876

75508 1380965921

75508 1380966056

Contact

Khurgel Immigration Law Firm

University Tower
4199 Campus Drive, Suite 550
Irvine, CA, 92612

Website
http://www.khurgel.com/ 

    Resume

    License
    StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
    CAActive200405/12/2021
    We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
    Avvo Contributions
    Legal answers3587
    Legal guides3
    Awards
    Award nameGrantorDate granted
    Certified Specialist - Immigration & Nationality LawState Bar of California2016
    RecognitionInternational Who's Who of Corporate Immigration Lawyers2015
    RecognitionInternational Who's Who of Corporate Immigration Lawyers2014
    Top LawyerOC Metro Magazine2014
    2013 Client's Choice Award -- ImmigrationAvvo2013
    Meritorious Honor AwardUnited States Department of State2013
    2013 Top Contributor - ImmigrationAvvo2013
    Meritorious Honor AwardUnited States Department of State2012
    Work Experience
    TitleCompany nameDuration
    Owner and Managing AttorneyKhurgel Immigration Law Firm2013 - Present
    Foreign Service Officer (Consular)U.S. Department Of State2011 - 2013
    Attorney, PartnerReeves & Associates, APLC2006 - 2011
    Consular SpecialistUSCIS -- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services2005 - 2006
    Law ClerkU.S. Department Of Justice2001 - 2001
    Law ClerkU.S. Federal Trade Commission2001 - 2001
    Associations
    Association namePosition nameDuration
    American Immigration Lawyers Association (National)Member2009 - Present
    Orange County Bar AssociationMember2009 - Present
    Los Angeles County Bar AssociationMember2009 - Present
    American Immigration Lawyers Association (Southern California chapter)Member2009 - Present
    United States District Court for the Central District of CaliforniaAttorney Member2008 - Present
    United States Court of Appeals For the Ninth CircuitAttorney Member2008 - Present
    State Bar of CaliforniaMember2004 - Present
    West Court Bar AssociationCo-chair2013 - 2013
    American Foreign Service AssociationMember2011 - 2013
    Publications
    Publication nameTitleDate
    Asian Journal and www.khurgel.com10 Things to Know About Your Immigration Court Hearing2013
    AVVO Legal GuidesThe Disappearing Employer: What if my Petitioning Company is Sold?2013
    AVVO Legal GuidesF-2A Immigration Classification to Open for Spouses and Children of Lawful Residents2013
    AVVO Legal GuidesSupreme Court Provides Relief for Same-sex bi-national Couples2013
    Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and LaborU.S. Department of State Country Report on Human Rights Practices (2012)2013
    Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and LaborU.S. Department of State Annual Report to Congress on International Religious Freedom (2012)2013
    Asian Journal and www.khurgel.comSweethearts vs. U.S. Immigration Law2013
    Philippine NewsUSCIS clarifies immigration eligibility for family of the deceased2011
    Asian JournalImmigration Benefits for Same Sex Partners2011
    Moldova.orgImmigration Consequences of Marriage Fraud2009
    Moldova.orgForeign Workers and Navigating the Rough Seas of U.S. Immigration2009
    Asian JournalWhat Every non-citizen Should Know Before Traveling2008
    Education
    School nameDegreeGraduated
    Pepperdine University School of LawJD - Juris Doctor2002
    Pepperdine University School of LawCertification in Dispute Resolution2002
    California State University, Long BeachBA - Bachelor of Arts, Cum Laude1999
    Speaking Engagements
    Conference nameTitleDate
    Institute for Supply ManagementU.S. Immigration Tips and Pointers for HR Personnel2015
    KUCI's Ask a Leader Radio ShowDeferred Action for Childhood Arrivals and Immigration Reform2013
    Irvine ClubComprehensive Immigration Reform post-Shutdown2013
    Advanced Topics for Immigration Practitioners WebinarDual Representation Pitfalls for Lawyers2013
    Advanced Topics for Immigration Practitioners WebinarWaved in as Admission Under 245(a) per Areguillin and Quilantan2013
    The Immigration Experts, Season One -- Television ShowImmigrant Visas at Embassies and Consulates2010
    The Immigration Experts, Season One -- Television ShowI-751 Removal of Conditions and Waiver of Joint Spouse Filing Requirement2010
    USCIS Rome District MeetingUSCIS Processing of I-407s, I-130s and Refugees at the Embassy in Moscow2005
    Naturalization TodayNaturalization -- Residence and GMC2005
    Naturalization TodayPro Bono Naturalization Seminar2004
    ADR Society MeetingADR in Religious Conflicts2002
    ADR Society MeetingADR in Cross-cultural Conflicts2001
    Legal cases
    Case nameOutcome
    I-601(A) Provisional Waiver ApprovedApproved
    BIA remands an appeal of I130 visa petition denialBIA remands an appeal of I130 visa petition denial
    Successor-in-interest I-140 ApprovalI-140 approved after RFE response
    Good Faith Marriage WaiverSuccess
    Employment-based ImmigrationSuccess
    Employment-based ImmigrationSuccess

    Reviews

    (65)
    5 Star
    		94%
    4 Star
    		5%
    3 Star
    		0%
    2 Star
    		0%
    1 Star
    		2%
    Review Jeff Khurgel

    Was granted my E3D visa! - Thank you!

    Posted by

    My husband and I consulted with Jeff several times on my E3 application. Just wanted to thank him and to let Jeff know that I received my E3-D approval yesterday. Thank you again Jeff! ArchanaaRJ
    This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
    Consulted attorney

    Personal and responsive

    Posted by

    We had an excellent experience with Jeff in searching for possibilities acquiring the best Immigration visa which suited our personal needs. When deciding for an E-2 visa he helped us with all the preparations, responding fast on any questions or concerns we had. Jeff handled the complete application with US authorities. It went smooth with great dedication. Thank you Jeff.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Experience and Knowledge

    Posted by

    First of all I should say a big thank you to KHURGEL IMMIGRATION LAW firm. If it was not because of their help we wouldn't have migrated successfully to the U.S Jeff is very experienced and knowledgeable. The biggest experience that he has is that he worked as Visa officer at the Embassy. His knowledge and experience working in the Embassy was very handy in our case. I would definitely recommend Jeff for the most complicated cases in the fields immigration. Very precise and to the point, responds timely to Email and very friendly. His Interview prep session also helped us and played a major role in the decisive interview day. Thank you so much Jeff and Khurgel Immigration law Firm. Thank you AVVO for finding me Khurgel Immigration Law Firm
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Knowledgable

    Posted by

    Jeff was able to succinctly answer my questions over the phone.
    This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
    Consulted attorney

    Provides very clear, precise & informative explanation on the issue

    Posted by

    I had a concern with staying on F1 visa while my H1b was picked and Jeff provided me the precise information that I needed. He is very calm and pays attention to every minute detail of the question. I had talked to multiple lawyers prior to this but no one had been able to stay on the point to answer a question and would deviate from what the question was referring to.
    This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
    Consulted attorney

    F1 VISA and Border issues.

    Posted by

    At the onset of contacting Jeff, he met with me promptly. I required a 'think-tank' attorney, a professional, a skilled technician at immigration law, and Jeff was superlative. Sincerely, this attorney's qualities are unparalleled by any other attorneys. Furthermore, Jeff is an exemplary communicator who achieves success. Jeff showed sound judgement in my complicated case, as he was diplomatic, analytical and relentless in gathering the required evidence for my green card case. He made countless phone calls, wrote eloquent yet commanding and compelling emails on my behalf. In fact, Jeff surpassed my other attorneys' meager efforts. Equally important, I am beyond grateful for His transcendent counsel, he is unequivocally in a league of his own. I implore to utilize the Khurgel Law Firm if you are seeking success! Deeply indebted, Sarah H.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    We won together

    Posted by

    I have one advice for all of you out there: If you have any issue with your case or if your case is pretty simple... just hire this gentleman. He is so calm and very dedicated. Plus he knows the matter. I had a difficult case, 2,5 months after he took my case, I received my green card. My wife and me are so happy that we can travel back to Europe together...
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Immigration advice session

    Posted by

    Avvo verified that the reviewer consulted with or engaged this lawyer
    Verified review
    He was able to provide an immediate response to my question. I would have no hesitation in contacting him for guidance on any future immigration issues that may arise.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Immigration advice session

    Posted by

    Avvo verified that the reviewer consulted with or engaged this lawyer
    Verified review
    I received a call within a few minutes of putting my request in. The feedback I got was great, very professional, and very informative. I felt like I got everything i needed from the call, and am very happy.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Clear, concise and very well- informed!

    Posted by

    We consulted with Jeff several times to do with my E3D status. He was very clear, professional, friendly and to the point. He is also very well-informed and knowledgable about the topic. Great experience!! We would definitely consider hiring him in future.
    This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
    Consulted attorney
    See all reviews

    Attorney endorsements

    (54)
    Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

    Anu Gupta, Immigration Attorney on Jul 29, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse Mr. Khurgel with pleasure. Jeff's answers on Avvo demonstrate his legal expertise, skill and the fact that he genuinely cares about his clients. An excellent attorney!

    Jeremiah Johnson, Immigration Attorney on Feb 6, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Jeff is known for hard work and commitment to his clients. He combines the experience and professionalism you would expect from a large firm with individualized, personal service.

    Howard Lewis, Immigration Attorney on Jul 11, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Khurgel is one of the finest Immigration attorneys in his state, I highly recommend his legal services.

    Lorena Espinoza, Immigration Attorney on May 15, 2015
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    I had the pleasure to work with Jeff on a matter and I was very impressed with his level of professionalism. He seems to be a very dedicated attorney who genuinely cares for his clients.

    Eitan Magendzo, Immigration Attorney on Jan 22, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Jill Rogers

    This lawyer is highly recommended in the community. I endorse this lawyer.

    Svetlana Kaff, Immigration Attorney on Dec 18, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. He is very experienced and knowledgeable!

    Sean Cleary, Immigration Attorney on Dec 18, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. A brilliant, trustworthy and highly respected attorney in the legal community.

    Michael Shabani, Immigration Attorney on Dec 14, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. He is though, through and talented member of our legal community. I am proud to endorse Mr. Khurgel.

    Douglas Borthwick, Immigration Attorney on Nov 25, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Michael Ruttle, Immigration Attorney on Oct 2, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Jeff is a great mentor for newer attorneys, like myself. He's always willing to lend his expert advice. I endorse this lawyer.

    Judd Nemiro

    I not only endorse this lawyer. I give this lawyer 5 stars!

    Paul Molinaro, Immigration Attorney on Sep 15, 2014
    Relationship: Other

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Thomas Fasel, Immigration Attorney on Jul 21, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Shawn Meade, Immigration Attorney on Jul 15, 2014
    Relationship: Other

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Hovanes Margarian, Immigration Attorney on Jul 9, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Gina Famularo, Immigration Attorney on Jun 16, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    David Pittman, Immigration Attorney on Jun 7, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Jennifer Ahn, Immigration Attorney on Jun 4, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Jeff Kurghel provides accurate, valuable, and thoughtful legal advice. His knowledge and contributions to the legal community are stellar.

    John O'Brien, Immigration Attorney on May 14, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    A truly excellent attorney well respected in the legal community. I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer who knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of his clients and getting them the most favorable result possible.

    Jon Dieringer, Immigration Attorney on Mar 12, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. Attorney KhurgeI provided clear insight on a complex immigration issue, and he really knows his stuff. So now he is my 'go-to' immigration expert. I am happy to endorse this lawyer.

    Erin Lee

    Jeff is very professional and knowledgeable in all immigration matters. He provides amazing service and insight. I absolutely endorse this lawyer.