Verdie Atienza

I am a Senior Attorney in charge of the firm’s L-1 and E-2 visas practice team. I am dual qualified lawyer in New York and in the Philippines and I am also qualified to practice immigration law in any state in the United States.Prior to moving to the US, I was a public defender in the Philippines and staunchly protected the constitutional rights of indigents. I effected the speedy release of long-term detainees by filing releases on recognizance motions and directed verdicts. I obtained my Bachelor of Arts degree (Major in Political Science) from Ateneo de Manila University and my law degree from the University of the City of Manila (Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila). Verdie is fluent in English and Filipino (Tagalog) and has limited proficiency in Spanish.ExperienceAs Head of the L-1 and E-2 Visas Practice Team, I evaluate the credentials of prospective applicants and beneficiaries to determine whether the L-1 or the E-2 visa is the best option available. I closely work with company executives, managers and entrepreneurs to determine the best strategy to attain their goals. In my years of practice, I have dealt with numerous U.S. Embasssies and Consulates around the world. As a result, I have gained significant knowledge of the guidelines and procedures that are unique for each embassy/consulate.I have a strong interest in various immigration issues as an immigrant myself. I first gained experience when I personally handled my own adjustment of status application. Upon my admission to New York State Bar, I started giving pro-bono legal advice on immigration and other legal matters to members of the Filipino community in the US and handled immigration cases of family members.Representative ClientsAs head of the L-1 and E-2 Visa Practice Team, I have worked with company executives, senior managers and start up entrepreneurs from various parts of the world. I have obtained visa approvals for nationals of the United Kingdom, Australia, Sweden, Turkey, Mongolia, India, Singapore, Trinidad and Tobago, Jordan, and Egypt.Aside from handling business related cases, I also have substantial experience in family immigration casework.