Des Plaines sits just northwest of Chicago, bordering O’Hare International Airport, and is one of the more internationally diverse communities in Cook County. Roughly a third of its residents were born outside the United States, and for many families, professionals, and businesses here, immigration is a part of life.
Based in Chicago, Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C. provides immigration legal services to individuals, families, and businesses throughout Chicagoland. Whether you are applying for a visa, defending against removal proceedings, appealing a decision, or pursuing U.S. citizenship, our attorneys help clients understand their options and protect their rights.
Why Des Plaines and Cook County Residents Should Choose Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C.
We have represented clients across Chicagoland for over three decades, with extensive experience before the Chicago Immigration Court, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), and the federal courts.
Immigration law is federal, but local experience matters: our familiarity with nearby offices and courts helps clients make informed decisions. We prioritize accessible legal services, providing straightforward explanations and compassionate support for every case.
Des Plaines’ Unique Immigrant Population
Des Plaines is home to a diverse immigrant population that contributes to its cultural and economic vitality. Located in Cook County, just northwest of Chicago, Des Plaines attracts families, professionals, and international travelers drawn by its proximity to the city and major employment opportunities.
With approximately 34% of the population born abroad, many residents trace roots to Mexico, Poland, India, and South Korea, among others. To serve this community, the firm offers bilingual Spanish-language services and additional translation assistance.
Immigration Services for Des Plaines and Cook County
Given the current enforcement climate, timely and informed legal counsel can be essential. Our skilled attorneys offer extensive legal services across a variety of needs.
Employment-Based Immigration Services
We assist foreign nationals and employers with complex requirements involving eligibility, sponsorship, documentation, and compliance with federal regulations.
Our services include:
- H-1B visas: Work authorization for skilled professionals
- PERM labor certification: Process for employers to demonstrate the need for global talent
- EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 green cards: Permanent residency options based on employment and qualifications
- L-1 visas: Visa for employees transferring within multinational companies
- O-1 visas: Non-immigrant status for individuals with exceptional skills in their field
Our firm works with businesses, professionals, skilled workers, executives, researchers, and other individuals seeking employment-based immigration benefits.
Family-Based Immigration Services
Keeping families together is one of our firm’s primary missions. Family-based immigration options may allow eligible U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to petition for certain relatives to obtain legal status.
Our firm assists clients with:
Immediate Relative Visas
- IR-1 / CR-1 Visa: For spouses of U.S. citizens
- IR-2 Visa: For unmarried children under 21 of U.S. citizens
- IR-5 Visa: For parents of U.S. citizens, if the citizen is 21 or over
Family-Preference Visas
- F1 Visa (First Preference): For unmarried sons and daughters (21 and older) of U.S. citizens
- F2A Visa: For spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of lawful permanent residents
- F2B Visa: For unmarried sons and daughters (21 and older) of lawful permanent residents
- F3 Visa: For married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens
- F4 Visa: For siblings of U.S. citizens, if the citizen is 21 or older
Fiancé(e) Visa
- K-1 Visa: For fiancé(e)s of U.S. citizens; requires marriage within 90 days of entry
Deportation and Removal Defense Services
Removal proceedings at the Chicago Immigration Court are critical matters. The court operates adversarially, with government lawyers advocating for deportation. Cases follow strict judicial timelines, and missing even one hearing can lead to an automatic removal order issued in absentia.
Our attorneys have substantial experience representing individuals in complex removal proceedings and offer a range of defense strategies.
- Cancellation of Removal: For long-term residents facing hardship if removed.
- Asylum and Withholding of Removal: Protection for those fearing persecution in their home country
- Adjustment of Status in Court: For individuals seeking residency during proceedings
- Voluntary Departure: Leaving the U.S. to maintain future benefit eligibility
- Bond Hearings: Securing release for detained clients
Removal cases can move quickly, so immediate legal advice is strongly recommended. Our lawyers have substantial experience representing individuals before the Chicago Immigration Court and related immigration tribunals.
Appeals and Federal Litigation Services
An unfavorable immigration decision does not always mean that legal options have been exhausted; it may be possible to seek review through administrative appeals or federal court proceedings.
- Appeals to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA): A legal process for challenging unfavorable immigration decisions made by lower courts or immigration agencies
- Motions to Reopen or Reconsider: Requests asking an immigration court or agency to review a prior decision based on new evidence, changed circumstances, or legal error.
- Federal Court Litigation: Engaging the federal court system to address immigration issues, often involving constitutional claims or challenges to agency actions.
Appeals and federal litigation often involve strict filing deadlines and technical legal requirements. Prompt action is often essential to secure your rights and to ensure your opportunities for review.
Naturalization and U.S. Citizenship Services
Becoming a U.S. citizen is an important milestone. Citizenship may provide benefits such as voting rights, eligibility for certain government positions, the ability to petition for additional family members, and protection from removal in most circumstances.
Our firm assists clients with:
- Naturalization Applications: Submitting formal requests for U.S. citizenship based on residency and other qualifying factors
- Citizenship Eligibility Evaluations: Assessing an applicant’s qualifications to ensure they meet naturalization requirements
- Responses to Requests for Evidence (RFEs): Providing additional documentation or information requested by immigration authorities to support a citizenship application
- Citizenship Interview Preparation: Guiding applicants through the interview process to ensure they are well prepared to answer interview questions about their application and background
Frequently Asked Questions: Immigration Law in Des Plaines, IL
An NTA is a formal document initiating removal proceedings. After carefully reviewing the notice and noting hearing dates, consult with an experienced immigration lawyer as soon as possible.
The timeline varies depending on court scheduling, case complexity, and changes in immigration policies. Some matters can take months, while others can remain pending for years.
While legal representation is not required, many applicants choose to work with an attorney to help avoid delays, address eligibility concerns, and ensure that required documentation is properly prepared and submitted.
Yes. Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C. offers bilingual Spanish-language services to help clients communicate effectively and better understand their legal options.
Immigration law is primarily federal law, so the same federal statuses generally apply nationwide. However, local court procedures, agency practices, and regional factors can affect how cases are processed.
Contact Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C.
If you are seeking immigration legal services in Des Plaines, Cook County, or the greater Chicago area, Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C. is prepared to help you evaluate your options and pursue your immigration goals.
Whether you need assistance with employment-based immigration, family petitions, deportation defense, appeals, federal litigation, citizenship, or naturalization, our team is committed to providing clear guidance and responsive representation.
Call 312.444.1940 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation with an experienced immigration attorney serving Des Plaines and Chicagoland.
