Michael Gurfinkel Law Office

For many individuals and families across California, especially those within the diverse communities of San Francisco, the complexities of U.S. immigration law can present significant challenges. From seeking a green card to navigating visa applications or even facing deportation, the journey through the immigration system requires precise legal guidance and dedicated advocacy. This is precisely where the Michael Gurfinkel Law Office steps in, offering specialized immigration legal services to help clients achieve their "American Dream."

Michael Gurfinkel Law Office is a prominent and well-known legal practice with a strong focus on immigration law. While the provided reviews highlight some negative experiences regarding consultation practices, broader public information indicates that Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel has over 35 years of experience in the field and is particularly recognized within the Filipino community due to his long-running television show, "Citizen Pinoy," and his column "Immigration Corner." His personal mission is to help people legalize their status, reunite families, and achieve their immigration goals. The firm prides itself on taking on cases that others might deem "hopeless" or "impossible," striving to provide solutions through hard work, determination, and extensive experience in immigration, litigation, and negotiation. For Californians seeking to navigate the intricate path to legal status or family reunification, the Michael Gurfinkel Law Office aims to be a dedicated resource.

The Michael Gurfinkel Law Office is strategically located in the heart of San Francisco, offering convenient access for clients throughout the city and the broader Bay Area. The firm's office is situated at 966 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA. This central address places it within a busy and well-connected part of downtown San Francisco.

The Mission Street location benefits significantly from San Francisco's robust public transportation network. Numerous Muni bus lines operate in the immediate vicinity, with stops just a short walk from the office. For those utilizing the city's extensive metro system, the nearby Powell Street BART and Muni Metro station is within a reasonable walking distance, providing excellent connectivity for individuals commuting from other parts of San Francisco, the East Bay, and the Peninsula. This makes it feasible for clients to reach the office without the typical stresses of navigating urban traffic and finding parking. While street parking can be competitive in this urban environment, several commercial parking garages are available in the surrounding blocks, offering options for those who prefer to drive. The firm also has other offices, including one in Glendale, CA, which further broadens their reach within California. The strategic placement of the San Francisco office underscores their commitment to being available and reachable for individuals seeking expert immigration assistance in California.

The Michael Gurfinkel Law Office specializes primarily in immigration law, offering a comprehensive range of services designed to help individuals and families navigate the complex U.S. immigration system. Their expertise covers various aspects of immigration, from family and employment-based petitions to removal defense.

• Family-Based Petitions: Assisting U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents in petitioning for their relatives to obtain green cards and legal status, including spouses, children, parents, and siblings. This covers applications like Adjustment of Status.
• Employment-Based Petitions: Guiding foreign nationals and U.S. employers through the process of obtaining visas and green cards based on employment, including various visa categories and permanent residency applications.
• Non-Immigrant Visas: Providing assistance with obtaining temporary visas for various purposes, such as tourist visas, student visas, work visas (e.g., H-1B), and others.
• Removal Defense (Deportation Defense): Representing individuals facing deportation or removal proceedings, working to prevent their removal from the U.S. and explore options like Cancellation of Removal.
• Adjustment of Status: Helping eligible individuals apply for lawful permanent resident status (green card) while remaining in the United States.
• Waivers: Assisting clients in applying for various waivers of inadmissibility, which can overcome certain grounds that would otherwise prevent them from obtaining a visa or green card.
• Legal Consultation: Offering legal advice to individuals regarding their immigration options and specific case strategies.
• Denial Reconsideration: Assisting clients whose applications or petitions have been denied, exploring avenues for appeal or reconsideration.
• Citizenship and Naturalization: Guiding eligible lawful permanent residents through the process of becoming U.S. citizens.

The Michael Gurfinkel Law Office possesses several notable features and highlights that underscore its distinct presence and specialization within the field of immigration law, particularly for the Filipino community in California and beyond.

• Decades of Immigration Law Experience: Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel has over 35 years of experience practicing immigration law. This extensive tenure indicates a deep understanding of the intricacies and constant changes within U.S. immigration policy.
• Authoritative Media Presence: Mr. Gurfinkel is widely recognized as the host of the popular weekly immigration show "Citizen Pinoy" on ABS-CBN's "The Filipino Channel" (TFC), broadcast globally, and also writes a weekly column, "Immigration Corner." This significant media presence demonstrates his commitment to public service by educating the immigrant community and offering vital news and insights.
• Specialization in "Difficult" or "Impossible" Cases: The firm highlights its pride in taking on cases that other attorneys might consider "hopeless" or "impossible," showcasing a determined and persistent approach to complex immigration challenges.
• Client-Centered Mission: A core mission of the firm and Atty. Gurfinkel is to help people legalize their status, reunite families, and enable them to live the "American Dream," which resonates deeply with the immigrant community.
• Multiple Office Locations: In addition to San Francisco, the firm maintains offices in Glendale, CA (serving the greater Los Angeles area), New York, and even Makati City, Philippines, demonstrating a wide reach to serve a diverse client base.
• Licensed in California and New York: Atty. Gurfinkel is licensed to practice immigration law throughout the U.S. and is an active member of the State Bars of California and New York, further solidifying his authority and capability.
• Team of Attorneys: The firm has a team of attorneys, including Michael J. Gurfinkel, Marat Kleiner, and Steven Ogden, indicating a collaborative approach to handling cases.

In the legal field, particularly for specialized practices like immigration law, "promotions" often take the form of specific consultation policies rather than traditional discounts. For Michael Gurfinkel Law Office, the available information suggests a structured approach to initial consultations.

Based on reviews and public information, Michael Gurfinkel Law Office offers in-person consultations. While a specific price for these consultations (e.g., $350 mentioned in a past review) may apply, it is important to directly verify the current fee. However, the firm emphasizes that consultations are "By Appointment only" and can be reserved by calling their hotline. The purpose of these consultations is to provide legal advice and options.

It is important for prospective clients to be aware that while consultations provide valuable insights, they may be subject to a fee and have a specific duration. Clients should clarify all details regarding consultation fees, length, and what to expect during the consultation when they call to book. The firm also directs potential clients to their YouTube channel and "Immigration Corner" articles, which serve as a form of public education and offer general information, although this is not a substitute for personalized legal advice.

To confirm the most current consultation fees, appointment availability, and details about their services, it is always recommended to contact Michael Gurfinkel Law Office directly using the provided contact information.

For individuals in California seeking legal assistance with immigration matters, connecting with the Michael Gurfinkel Law Office in San Francisco is the first step.

• Address: 966 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA
• Phone: (818) 543-5800
• Mobile Phone: +1 818-543-5800

Please note that while the provided phone number has an 818 area code (Glendale/Los Angeles), it is the primary contact listed for their offices, including San Francisco. It is advisable to call this number to schedule an in-person consultation at their San Francisco office or to inquire about their services. Appointments are required for consultations.

For countless individuals and families across California, especially within the culturally diverse Bay Area, navigating the often bewildering complexities of U.S. immigration law is a significant life event. The Michael Gurfinkel Law Office, with its San Francisco presence, offers a particularly suitable and recognized resource for locals in need of immigration legal services.

Firstly, the firm's deep specialization in immigration law is a critical advantage. Unlike general practitioners, Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel and his team dedicate their entire practice to this intricate field. This means they possess extensive knowledge of the constantly evolving federal and state immigration regulations, policies, and procedures relevant to Californians. For individuals seeking to adjust their status, secure a green card, obtain a visa, or defend against removal, this specialized expertise ensures that they are receiving counsel from a firm thoroughly immersed in the nuances of immigration law. This is particularly valuable given the high stakes involved in immigration matters.

Secondly, Michael Gurfinkel’s prominent public profile through his "Citizen Pinoy" show and "Immigration Corner" column serves as a significant trust factor for many locals, particularly within the Filipino community. While some reviews mentioned in the provided information highlight concerns about consultation practices, the broader perception and long-standing presence of his educational media indicate a lawyer who has consistently aimed to demystify complex immigration topics for the public. This extensive outreach suggests a dedication to empowering immigrants with knowledge, fostering a level of familiarity and trust even before a formal consultation. For those who feel intimidated by the legal system, this public-facing approach can make legal assistance feel more approachable.

Finally, the firm's easily accessible location on Mission Street in San Francisco, coupled with its robust phone contact system, makes it convenient for Bay Area residents to seek assistance. Being just steps away from major transit hubs like Powell Street BART and Muni Metro ensures that individuals can reach their office with minimal travel burden. For any Californian facing critical immigration decisions, the Michael Gurfinkel Law Office provides a specialized, widely recognized, and accessible avenue for dedicated legal support, striving to help them realize their aspirations in the United States.