Maria Rivero

US-ILC is devoted to ensuring that team members are consistently updated on firm processes, services, and industry trends while continuously seeking innovative ways to enhance client services. The firm’s creation of unique positions not typically found in other law firms inspired my desire to become an employee. This multi-functional position allows me to expand my expertise in integration, client relations, process management, and timeline coordination, all while maintaining a high standard of professionalism.

I have worked in the legal field for about sixteen years, beginning in personal injury and property damage before discovering my passion for immigration law in 2009. I started as a legal assistant and later became head of a firm’s U visa department, expanding the team to include two paralegals. My experience also included criminal immigration matters. I later spent four years handling immigration court cases and training paralegals on court procedures and waivers for a firm. I then joined Hispanic Unity of South Florida for two years before returning to private practice with a firm specializing in EB-5 and employment-based visas. I eventually managed and expanded its family-based immigration department.

As a Contracts Associate for the Client Affairs department, I guide clients through contract processes from the start of their cases and help them understand what to expect from the legal assistant, paralegal, and attorney who may represent them in court appearances. The role requires adapting to new client services procedures and timelines while effectively communicating with them in English and Spanish as part of our commitment to providing top notch customer services. Empathy remains central to my approach, as many of our clients face challenging immigration circumstances.

My previous role in the legal industry aligns closely with my current work. Having experience in each position helps me to instinctively implement comprehensive understanding of firm operations. Setting clear expectations and maintaining transparency are central to my approach. My background in the legal industry has strengthened my work in immigration. I chose to focus on immigration because it is the most humanitarian area of law.

In my spare time, painting has become my creative outlet as it soothes my mind and improves my patience. I also practice yoga, meditation, and deep breathing for balance and mental clarity. These skills help me to manage the demands of immigration cases. My favorite time is spent with my family, especially when we attend karate tournaments and training sessions.