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For over a decade, Stern Law has partnered with attorneys nationwide, offering guidance on the legal implications of court proceedings for non-citizens.

The Importance of the Padilla Act

Under the landmark Padilla v. Kentucky ruling, the Supreme Court emphasized the critical role of legal counsel in providing “sound advice about the collateral consequences of conviction.” This decision underscores the obligation to inform defendants, as part of their Sixth Amendment rights, about potential immigration consequences, such as deportation risks associated with plea agreements.
At Stern Law, our mission is clear: to ensure that all immigrants, regardless of how they arrived in the United States, are treated with fairness and equality.

Pioneers in Crimmigration

Our practice specializes in the intersection of criminal defense and immigration law, a field often referred to as “Crimmigration.” This unique approach allows us to represent clients navigating both criminal charges and immigration proceedings. We recognize how legal outcomes profoundly impact an individual’s citizenship status and their future in the U.S., in full alignment with the Padilla Act.

Our Services

Comprehensive Legal Support Services by Stern Law

Colleague-to-Colleague Consult

Our Colleague-to-Colleague Consults offer attorneys a quick and effective way to address legal questions via phone or video chat. These 15–20 minute consultations are designed to help you assess your client’s legal needs and determine the best path forward. Whether it’s clarifying complex cases or discussing potential strategies, this service ensures you’re equipped with the insights needed to make informed decisions.

Basic Assessment for Naturalization

Stern Law provides Basic Assessments to help individuals determine if they meet the requirements for U.S. citizenship. By analyzing family connections and personal circumstances, we identify eligibility criteria for naturalization, streamlining the process for those seeking to become citizens.

Attorney Referral Services

When cases extend beyond an attorney’s practice area, Stern Law can step in to represent clients in matters involving immigration law, criminal defense, or Crimmigration. Our experience ensures that clients receive specialized representation tailored to their unique circumstances.

Co-Counsel Services for Non-Citizen Cases

Non-citizen cases often involve intricate legal challenges. Stern Law frequently serves as co-counsel to provide strategic advice and representation in immigration proceedings. By collaborating with your team, we ensure a comprehensive approach to achieving the best possible outcomes for your clients.

For criminal defense attorneys unfamiliar with immigration law, our Padilla Assessments offer expert guidance. These evaluations provide critical insights into the immigration implications of a client’s legal situation, including:

  • Risks to citizenship status.
  • Impacts on international travel.
  • Potential deportability due to legal proceedings.
    This assessment helps defense counsel comply with the Padilla Act and provide accurate advice to their clients.

Hear From our Clients

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Aleyna Ayhopa
Aleyna AyhopaGoogle reviews
"My experience with Stern Law has been great. My lawyer Christina Champagne and her team have been very attentive from the second she took on my case in 2019. It was a priority of mine to still be able to see my family overseas while waiting for my citizenship and she found ways that worked for me and my situation to make that happen. She then assisted me in obtaining my citizenship with ease. It was worth every penny and I would highly recommend having Christina handle your legal and immigration issues!!"
Priscilla Williams
Priscilla WilliamsGoogle reviews
“My husband needed help on a criminal case and Stern Law was able to give us the best possible outcome. When I first called, they showed that they cared and listened to what I had to say without rushing me off the phone. Christina was our attorney and she was also very caring and explained the process very well. She helped dropped most of the charges and it was a miracle how it happened. I recently made a mistake thinking that our outcome wasn't best from some advise I received from another attorney. But that attorney is who was mistaken. Not Stern Law. Stern Law knows their stuff and I would recommend them to anyone who needs help with immigration/criminal cases”
Michael Pless
Michael PlessGoogle reviews
“They were awesome.. Very nice, professional, fast, attentive and accommodating.. Communication was great. I had a very serious case. My lawyer got my side and told me let her make some phone calls a day later she said, great news. We resolved your case and you have nothing else to worry about. I'm greatly satisfied and appreciative of their service. Don't hesitate.”

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