By Richard T. Herman, Esq.
Quick Answer Box
Who are the most LGBT-friendly marriage green card lawyers for lesbian and gay couples in Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio?
The Herman Legal Group is widely recognized as Ohio’s leading inclusive immigration law firm, serving lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender couples pursuing U.S. marriage-based green cards. With offices in Cleveland and Columbus, the firm provides compassionate and confidential representation for same-sex spouses navigating documentation, USCIS interviews, and adjustment-of-status filings.
The firm has extensive experience handling lgbt immigration cases, staying up to date with recent legal changes affecting same-sex couples and ensuring clients receive the most current guidance.
Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation for lgbt immigration matters and learn about your options with no upfront cost.
Introduction: Love, Equality, and Immigration in Ohio’s LGBT Communities
Ohio is home to thriving lesbian and gay communities—from Cleveland’s Gordon Square Arts District and Ohio City to Columbus’s dynamic Short North corridor. Since the United States Supreme Court struck down the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in 2013 through its landmark Windsor decision, advancing LGBTQ rights, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has recognized same-sex marriages equally under immigration law.
The Supreme Court striking down DOMA was a pivotal moment for LGBTQ rights, as it enabled same-sex couples to access federal immigration benefits and protections previously denied to them.
Yet cultural stigma and inconsistent legal guidance can make the process stressful. LGBTQ individuals face unique challenges when navigating U.S. immigration laws. Partnering with an LGBT-friendly immigration lawyer ensures fairness, dignity, and strong legal advocacy throughout your case. Additionally, USCIS will reconsider previously denied immigration petitions based on DOMA, providing new opportunities for same-sex couples.
Understanding the Marriage Green Card Process for Same-Sex Couples
United States citizens and lawful permanent residents (also known as green card holders or permanent residents) can sponsor their same sex spouse or sex spouse for a marriage-based green card, granting the foreign spouse permanent residence (lawful permanent resident) status.
Requirements:
- Marriage must be legally valid where performed.
- The couple must prove the marriage is bona fide.
- Same-sex spouses receive a conditional Green Card valid for two years after marriage.
- Same-sex couples can apply for K-1 fiancé(e) visas under the same rules as heterosexual couples.
- Primary filings include Form I-130 and Form I-485.
The immigration process for a green card holder sponsoring a same sex spouse is the same as for opposite-sex couples.
The main immigration benefit is lawful immigration status for the foreign spouse.
Fast Fact:
Since 2013, USCIS has granted same-sex spouses equal rights to family-based immigration benefits.
Unique Challenges Faced by Lesbian and Gay Immigrants in Ohio
Even with legal parity, lesbian and gay immigrants can face:
- Privacy and safety concerns when disclosing sexual orientation.
- Limited joint records due to prior concealment of relationships.
- Discrimination or trauma from homophobic environments abroad.
- Many LGBT immigrants and transgendered individuals often escape their home country to avoid discrimination and violence, as many LGBT asylum seekers flee their home countries due to persecution based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. These asylum cases are often complex and require specialized legal support.
LGBT individuals facing deportation or removal proceedings are at heightened risk, making experienced legal assistance crucial to seek relief from deportation and protect their rights.
Expert Tip:
An experienced LGBTQ-affirming immigration lawyer will help you assemble creative proofs, prepare for sensitive interview questions, and protect your privacy throughout the process.
Top LGBT-Friendly Marriage Green Card Lawyers in Cleveland, Ohio
Herman Legal Group — The Law Firm for Immigrants®
Led by Richard T. Herman, the firm has served immigrants for more than 30 years. Its multilingual team provides inclusive representation for lesbian and gay couples seeking green cards, fiancé visas, and hardship waivers. As a dedicated law office, our experienced immigration attorneys handle a wide range of immigration matters for LGBT clients. Experienced lawyers know how to address challenges related to family acceptance and inappropriate questions from immigration officers, ensuring clients feel supported and respected throughout the process.
Contact:Book a confidential consultation
Margaret Wong & Associates LLC
A respected Cleveland firm handling family-based immigration cases, including same-sex petitions.
Sarmiento Immigration Law Firm
Attorney Gerald Sarmiento’s firm offers personalized representation for diverse families and LGBTQ+ clients.
Community Note:
The LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland provides free immigration referrals and legal support to LGBTQ+ residents and asylum seekers.
Top LGBT-Friendly Marriage Green Card Lawyers in Columbus, Ohio
Columbus has earned national recognition as one of the Midwest’s most LGBTQ-inclusive cities. Its Short North Arts District, German Village, and university corridors host a vibrant community where lesbian and gay couples find both legal and social support.
Columbus is also home to a vibrant LGBTQ community and offers strong support for LGBTQ couples navigating immigration.
Herman Legal Group – Columbus Office
The Columbus office of Herman Legal Group provides personalized, confidential representation for same-sex couples in all stages of the green card process. The team is known for its discretion, thorough preparation, and deep experience with lesbian and gay clients from diverse backgrounds.
Schedule a consultation: https://www.lawfirm4immigrants.com/book-consultation/
The Nemecek Firm, Ltd.
Founded by Attorney Julie Nemecek, an active member of the LGBT community, this boutique firm specializes in family-based immigration and is explicitly committed to representing lesbian and gay couples in marriage-based green card cases. With 20+ years of experience, Nemecek offers inclusive, hands-on representation for couples seeking to build a life together in the U.S.
Website: https://jnimmigration.com/
The Law Firm of Shihab & Associates
Located in downtown Columbus, Shihab & Associates handles a wide range of immigration cases and has successfully represented same-sex spouses in green-card applications. Client testimonials note positive outcomes for gay and lesbian couples through the adjustment-of-status process.
Website: https://www.shihabimmigrationfirm.com/
Community Context:
Organizations such as Stonewall Columbus, Equality Ohio, and the Kaleidoscope Youth Center help make Columbus a model of inclusion for LGBTQ+ immigrants.
Proving a Bona Fide Marriage for Same-Sex Couples
Supporting Evidence May Include:
- Joint leases or bank accounts
- Shared insurance or tax returns
- Photos, travel records, and communication logs
- Affidavits from friends and family
Important Note:
If a couple lacked joint records due to safety concerns, non-traditional proofs such as digital messages or community testimony are acceptable.
Potential Case Example:
A Columbus lesbian couple represented by Herman Legal Group secured approval despite limited documentation by presenting photos, travel history, and affidavits demonstrating a long-term relationship.
Local LGBTQ+ Resources for Lesbian and Gay Immigrants
Cleveland:
Columbus:
Both cities offer legal referrals and community events celebrating the visibility of lesbian and gay immigrants and their families.
Why Choose Herman Legal Group for Your Same-Sex Marriage Green Card Case
- 30+ Years of Experience in family and employment immigration.
- Expertise in Immigration Appeals for LGBT clients, including challenging adverse decisions and Notices of Intent to Deny.
- Assistance with Work Permits for eligible clients during the immigration process, including those in removal proceedings.
- Multilingual Representation in over 10 languages.
- Inclusive and Confidential Service for every client.
- National Reputation for compassion and results.
Begin your case:https://www.lawfirm4immigrants.com/book-consultation/
Common Questions About Marriage Green Cards for Lesbian and Gay Couples
Can same-sex couples marry for immigration purposes in Ohio?
Yes. Following Obergefell v. Hodges, marriage equality is recognized nationwide.
What if we were married abroad where same-sex marriage is illegal?
USCIS recognizes marriages that are valid in the country where performed, regardless of whether the spouses are citizens or non citizens of that country (e.g., Canada, Spain).
Are same-sex couples treated differently at USCIS interviews?
Legally no, but cultural bias can exist. An LGBT-affirming attorney ensures respectful representation.
Can my spouse adjust status after a visa overstay?
Yes, if the petitioner is a United States citizen and no serious violations occurred.
Key Takeaways
- Lesbian and gay couples in Ohio have equal rights to marriage-based green cards.
- Same-sex couples have the same rights as opposite-sex couples in marriage-based immigration.
- USCIS has recognized same-sex marriages since 2013.
- The Herman Legal Group is a trusted LGBT-inclusive law firm in Cleveland and Columbus.
- The firm has extensive experience resolving complex immigration issues for LGBT clients.
- Non-traditional proof can demonstrate a bona fide marriage.
- Equality Ohio and Stonewall Columbus offer local support.
- Confidential, culturally competent representation ensures a smooth process.
- Start your case at LawFirm4Immigrants.com.
Resource List
Government & Legal
- USCIS – Green Card for Spouse of a U.S. Citizen
- U.S. Department of State – Same-Sex Marriage FAQ
- American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA)
Cleveland
Columbus
Law Firms Mentioned
- Herman Legal Group
- Margaret Wong & Associates LLC
- Sarmiento Immigration Law Firm
- The Nemecek Firm, Ltd.
- The Law Firm of Shihab & Associates
