Joanne M. Fakhre
An Immigrant Working on Your Immigration Needs™
Winston Churchill once said, "We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give." I truly believe this to be true. As an immigrant, having personally gone through the U.S. immigration process, I understand firsthand the workings of the immigration system and the needs of my immigration clients.
My Journey to the United States
I am a two-time immigrant. I was born in Lebanon and grew up on the tiny Caribbean island of Grenada. In fact, before becoming a Grenadian citizen, I was naturalized as a British Citizen. When Grenada gained its independence from Britain, I became a Grenadian citizen. After graduating high school in Grenada, I migrated to the United States. This had been my dream growing up.
I have been fortunate to have been exposed to different cultures, peoples, and ways of lives — an education within itself. I come from a long line of immigrants.
My Path Through U.S. Immigration
I entered the United States on an F-1 Student visa. After completing my studies, I applied for Optional Practical Training (OPT), and my employer at the time then sponsored me for the H-1B non-immigrant work visa for six years. The company later applied for my lawful permanent residence status (Green Card). They first filed a labor certification with the Department of Labor and, when that was certified, they filed Form I-140 Immigrant Petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which allowed me to file Form I-485 for my adjustment of status application with USCIS. I remember being so excited when my legal permanent residence was approved. Then, on January 12, 2010, I proudly became a United States Citizen. It was a long and tedious process but well worth the wait. For me, there is nothing more beautiful than pledging allegiance to the United States, or attending a naturalization ceremony and seeing my clients sworn in as United States Citizens.
My Personal Story
The oldest of five, I am well-traveled and enjoy politics and world affairs. I have lobbied at the United Nations, Department of State, and Department of Defense on issues surrounding the sovereignty and independence of Lebanon. I am passionate about my work and enjoy meeting and working with each of my clients.
Academic Achievements and Legal Education
Education
- University of North Florida
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, minor Biology
Master of Science in Criminal Justice, emphasis on counseling - Florida Coastal School of Law
Juris Doctor, cum laude honors
Recognitions and Legal Excellence Awards
Awards
- Leaders in the Law Award from Florida Association of Women Lawyers (2016)
Professional Affiliations and Community Involvement
Professional Memberships
- The Florida Bar
- American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA)
- Central Florida Chapter of AILA, past Board member 2017-2018 and Regional Vice Chair, Jacksonville, Florida 2018-2019
- Jacksonville Bar Association
- Jacksonville Women's Lawyers Association, Past President (2015-2016)
- NorthEast Florida Women Veterans, Board Member 2017-2019
- The Navy League of the United States, Jacksonville Chapter
- United States District Court, Middle District of Florida
Commitment to Community Service and Pro Bono Work
Community Service
- Principal Speaker at the Naturalization Ceremony, April 26, 2018, U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida
- Pro bono work with the Jacksonville Legal Aid, her church, and clients in need
- Guest Speaker on Immigration Law at conferences and seminars
Languages Spoken: Bridging Communication Gaps
Languages
- English
- Arabic (Spoken)
Committed to Excellence in Immigration Representation
To adequately practice law, especially immigration law, one cannot forget the human aspect of it. My clients can expect promptness, understanding, determination, and a commitment to excellence in the services I provide through my firm. I treat each individual's case as though it was my own or a family member’s. Having gone through the immigration process myself, I understand that dealing with immigration can be intimidating, confusing, and frustrating. Therefore, I thoroughly prepare my clients throughout each step of the process, addressing their needs with professionalism and high ethical standards. I aim to provide my clients with the highest quality of service, honesty, dedication, and zealous representation.
Contact Us for Trusted Immigration Guidance in Jacksonville
To learn more about how the Law Office of Joanne M. Fakhre can help you, call (904) 447-1937 today and schedule your consultation.