Nelson Smith LLP - Portland, OR

The Highest Caliber Immigration Attorneys

Proven Expertise in Complex Cases

Nelson Smith LLP is a distinguished boutique law firm located in the historic Goose Hollow neighborhood of Portland. Founded by partners Philip Smith and Nicole Nelson, the firm focuses exclusively on U.S. immigration and naturalization law. Since its inception in 2006, Nelson Smith LLP has earned a reputation as the go-to firm for complex and difficult immigration matters. The attorneys are not only practitioners but also thought leaders in the field, frequently serving as mentors to other lawyers and holding leadership positions within the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA). Their practice is built on a foundation of deep legal knowledge, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to their clients. Whether representing a Fortune 500 company in transferring an executive or defending an individual from deportation, Nelson Smith LLP brings the same level of rigor and dedication to every case.

Specialized Practice Areas

The firm offers a comprehensive suite of services, with particular expertise in:

• Employment-Based Immigration: Assisting employers and employees with H-1B visas, L-1 intracompany transfers, O-1 extraordinary ability visas, and PERM labor certifications.
• Federal Litigation: A rare specialty among immigration firms, Nelson Smith LLP aggressively litigates cases in federal court, challenging unlawful delays (mandamus) and denials by USCIS.
• Removal Defense: Providing expert defense in Immigration Court for asylum seekers and long-term residents facing deportation.
• Family Immigration: Handling complex marriage petitions, fiancée visas, and waivers of inadmissibility.

A Client-Focused Approach

Nelson Smith LLP understands that the immigration process is high-stakes and often stressful. They prioritize clear communication and honest assessments, ensuring that clients understand their options and the potential risks involved. The firm's attorneys are known for their responsiveness and their ability to devise creative solutions to seemingly impossible legal problems. With a team that includes bilingual staff and partners recognized by Super Lawyers, Nelson Smith LLP offers the sophisticated legal representation typically found in large corporate firms, but with the personalized attention of a boutique practice.