Immigration Voices: Coming out of the Shadows with the U Visa

"Probably the most gratifying element of practicing immigration law is watching clients flourish.  Obtaining immigration benefits, especially lawful permanent residency, often unleashes a wave of innovation and creativity.  Less often, it produces a humanitarian "pay it forward" moment.  This is the story of today's guest blogger, Protima Pandey.  Many years ago, I represented a technology company that asked me to help Protima's husband obtain an H-1B visa and a green card, and obtain H-4 dependent visa status and lawful permanent residence for her as well.  Unbeknownst to me, she had chosen law as a career, and with the work permit that pending green card status afforded, she began a stint as a lawyer in private practice.  Soon after obtaining residency, she followed her dream and became a public interest immigration lawyer. Today, she is  a Staff Attorney with Bay Area Legal Aid, helping the impoverished, abused and desperate obtain redress and immigration benefits.  Protima is helping "pay it forward" by telling us the  story of "Tanya" and "Rose," whose names are changed to honor their privacy.  Protima's is only one of example of how the forthcoming final rule on H-4 spousal employment authorization will benefit America.  I am pleased to report, moreover, that Protima is very happy in her work; you could be happy too." - Angelo A. Paparelli, Dec. 15, 2014.