About the firm
We are an immigration law firm that represents clients in US immigration law and nationality matters, with special interest in family based immigration matters and waivers of inadmissibility. We represent people who want to immigrate to (or change their status within) the United States, become US citizens or bring family members or others to the United States. We make sure you understand your rights and that your rights are protected by advocating zealously for you.
Cathy Higgins-Mora provides her clients with a careful analysis of the issues of their case. She provides detailed advice on options and strategies. Ms. Higgins-Mora has successfully represented numerous clients before the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Likewise, she has helped clients navigate matters before the State Department, the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR or the Immigration Court), the Board of Immigration Appeals and the U.S. District Court.
Services Offered
We provide you with honest and efficient legal representation in US immigration and nationality law matters. We understand and keep up with the ever changing immigration laws, regulations and policies. We represent individuals in immigrant and non-immigrant visas, waivers of inadmissibility, and naturalization/citizenship. We counsel you through each step of the process.
We speak English and Spanish fluently. If you’d like to bring an interpreter in any other language, please do so.
Our Practice Areas
Family-Based Petitions, Green Cards, and Immigrant Visas
Citizenship and Naturalization
VAWA and U Visas
DACA and other Deferred Action
Options for Military Families
Experience
About Cathy
Prior to starting her own practice since June 2014, Cathy Higgins-Mora was a partner with Hughes Socol Piers Resnick & Dym, Ltd in Chicago. She has dedicated her career to the practice of U.S. immigration and nationality law. She joined the firm in 2000.
Ms. Higgins-Mora represents individual foreign nationals and their families in U.S. immigration and nationality matters, including family-based immigration petitions and applications; adjustment of status and immigrant visa processing; and naturalization and citizenship applications.
She routinely represents clients before the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Department of State, and numerous U.S. consular posts worldwide.
In the 1990’s Ms. Higgins-Mora was an extern at the Midwest Immigrant & Human Rights Center (now the National Immigrant Justice Center), where she was involved in significant lobbying efforts on behalf of individuals being detained indefinitely. She also prepared a manual and trained pro bono attorneys how to represent clients under the Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act of 1997 (“NACARA”).
Cathy is licensed to practice law in the state of Illinois since 1999. Since Immigration law is federal, Cathy can represent clients with US immigration matters all over the US and world. She graduated from Chicago-Kent College of Law in 1999. Cathy Higgins-Mora is fluent in Spanish.
Memberships and Associations
Legal
- Member, American Immigration Lawyers Association
- Chair, Various Committees, American Immigration Lawyers Association, Chicago Chapter
- District Director, Liaison Committee, American Immigration Lawyers Association, Chicago Chapter
- Volunteer at citizenship workshops, Illinois Coalition of Immigrant and Refugee Rights
Speeches and Presentations
- Ms. Higgins-Mora is a frequent speaker and trainer for not-for-profit immigration representatives who are accredited by the Board of Immigration Appeals. She has presented at the Chicago Bar Association, the DePaul Law School and venues including the American Immigration Lawyers Association.
- Lake Forest College legal studies class
- D214 presentations – “Redefining Ready.”
- Elmhurst University legal studies class
Internship Sponsorship
The Law Office of Cathy Higgins-Mora often hosts interns from high school, college or law school. Interns get to experience what it is like to be an immigration lawyer at a small law firm. Interns get one on one shadowing opportunities with Cathy Higgins-Mora. Interns meet with clients, work with attorney and assistant to prepare cases and often serve as translators where possible (written and/or oral). In some situations, interns can attend immigration hearings and interviews with Ms. Higgins-Mora to observe and/or actively interpret for clients and immigration officials. Hours are quite flexible. Inquire by email if you are interested or want more information.
A Message from your Attorney
”"As an immigration attorney since 1999, I feel privileged to assist hard-working immigrant families. I take great pride in providing them with compassionate and quality representation."
Testimonials
Thank you to Seeberg Photography. This photo was taken by Delia Seeberg, Seebergphotography.com
Meet Our Team
Cathy Higgins-Mora
Attorney
Vianney Avalos
Legal Assistant
Michelle Mendoza
Legal Assistant
Misha Shah
Legal Assistant/Apprentice
Stephanie
Legal Assistant
Maureen
Legal Assistant
Jazmin
Legal Assistant
Spring 2023 Interns
Gisella Di Prizio
Lake Forest College
Megan Soto Benitez
Prospect High School
Summer 2023 Interns
Grace Yaako
Wheeling High School
Fall 2023 Interns
Patricia Crespo Catalan
Lake Forest College
Nathaly
Wheeling High School
Winter/Spring 2024 Interns
Ariel Lozner
Wheeling High School
Rani Saoudi
Hersey High School
Government Resources
Federal Government Agencies
Not for Profit Immigration Advocacy Organizations
Celebrate 10 Years of DACA!
Talking To Dreamers 10 Years Later
Rosa is a 25-year-old paralegal who has an inspiring outlook on the depths of importance of DACA. She was one of the first people granted DACA status in 2013 having applied for DACA as soon as President Obama opened the program.
How did DACA impact your life?
DACA gave me stability. It gave me a sense of belonging that I did not have before. I was finally able to get a SSN, health insurance, and a driver’s license—the very basic opportunities that almost any other person living here has. I can finally go out with my friends. Before, I was under a lot of stress to make sure I stayed out of trouble. I was always studying to prepare for a career I was not sure I would have. Not having even basic benefits for a long time taught me how to appreciate the simplest things in life.
What was it like trying to build a career before and now after DACA?
Even before DACA I always prioritized my academics. Thankfully, the people around me were very helpful and gave me resources to finish school. One of my high school teachers gave me waivers so I could take classes in college without getting in trouble. I was struggling but I was determined. Now I am a paralegal at a law firm, and I do not have to rely on other people’s help to build my career.
What are you feeling/doing now after 10 years since DACA?
I am so grateful for everyone that helped me before DACA. I am grateful that I am finally able to build the career that I worked so hard for all my life, since receiving DACA. I obtained my lawful permanent residence through my marriage and am about to take the oath of allegiance to the US as I have an application for US citizenship pending right now. The US is my home and always will be.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do you charge?
It varies. Feel free to call our office to find out. We always start with a consultation.
Why do you charge for a consultation?
Our consultation service includes up to one hour of individualized immigration legal advice. Immigration cases require more than just attention to detail. It requires interpretation of the underlying rules, regulations, and laws and understanding how the facts of your case apply to the law. We ensure efficient solutions and strategies so you can have the best possible outcome and experience. If you do not know how to move forward, we can provide the guidance you need. Contact us today to get started on your immigration journey with Attorney Cathy Higgins-Mora and her team as your guides.
What is a passport picture?
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/photos.html. Call your local Walgreens to get your passport photos taken today!
Where can I get my fingerprints rolled?
Are consultations available in-person?
Yes! Our office is open from Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. We also offer consultations via Zoom and by phone. Contact us today to make your appointment!
What should I bring to my consultation?
Feel free to bring any supporting documents pertaining to the service you are looking for. This could include passports, birth certificates, divorce certificates, IDs, Permanent Resident Cards, previously filed forms or correspondence from the Government, police records, etc.
How can I pay Cathy?
We accept cash, checks, and preferably, payments via Zelle to cathy@higginsmoralaw.com. We will accept credit cards as needed.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you are unable to attend your appointment, please call our office 24 hours prior to your appointment to reschedule!
What happens if you cannot take my case?
If we are unable to help, we still dedicate your consultation time exploring other solutions, including perhaps referring you to another lawyer that could potentially help you.
Schedule a Consultation with Cathy Higgins-Mora today
A first-time consultation may take well over an hour. We will do a complete interview of you and then discuss the issues, options and strategies for how to accomplish a solution for you. We will provide you with an estimate of legal fees to accomplish whatever option we decide to pursue. You will discuss your case directly with Cathy Higgins-Mora. Consultations can easily be done by phone or in person, whichever works best for you.
To set up a consultation or get more details, please fill out the form below.
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Law Office of Cathy Higgins-Mora
325 North Milwaukee Avenue,
Suite A
Wheeling, Illinois 60090
Monday-Friday 10 am – 5 pm by appointment only (call to request additional days/times)
There is plenty of free parking in the front of the building.
Cathy Higgins-Mora, Attorney at Law
I practice US immigration and nationality law. I represent people all over the world. I am fluent
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