I rarely give reviews over the internet; however, I recently stumbled upon one of the best-kept secrets in Philadelphia: a boutique Immigration law firm called FIBI Law.

Should you or anyone you know need Immigration services, whether seeking adjustment of status or facing deportation, you need to get to know them.

For over 30 years, I have been battling with Immigration to adjust my status. Things got worse, and before I knew it, I was in deportation proceedings.

After years and thousands of dollars dealing with three separate big-name, so-called “hot shot” Center City lawyers with expensive offices, I got nowhere.

Please don’t make the mistake I made; don’t believe the hype beyond those high-rise, fancy offices; most are driven by greed and selfish gains. I was fighting two wars simultaneously, one with Immigration and one with immigration lawyers.

It felt like a high-stakes chess game; I paid to get in and had to pay for every move they made. One charged me $2,500 to write a worthless one-page letter to USCIS. The other charged me $700 to request my file from Immigration through the Freedom of Information Act. I already had the file, which cost nothing to obtain. When I refused to pay, he threatened to drop the case after I already paid to retain him. 

All I needed was someone who would listen to my story and take the time to understand the legal nuances of my case without taking me to the cleaners. 

After multiple denials and what felt like a personal vendetta by USCIS while facing deportation and battling unscrupulous lawyers, I was tired and frustrated.

One day, I drove by a sign on Woodland Aveenue that said, “Fibi Law –For immigrants by Immigrants.” 

I reluctantly went in and spoke with Kodwo, the owner. He listened intently, and the one thing he said that won me over was, “I am on your side.” I felt then that I had finally found a lawyer who allowed me to tell my story without judging and drawing false conclusions.

There is an African proverb that says, “Until the lion starts telling its own story, the hunter will always be the victor.” Fibi Law Firm allowed me to tell my story to them and eventually to an immigration court. They were step by step with me, all the way to the finish line until I was the victor.  I am now a permanent resident, thanks to Fibi Law Firm.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the entire Woodland team that worked tirelessly to see me through my ordeal. The office manager, Fred, is a dedicated man of tolerance, patience, and empathy. I may not be the easiest client to deal with because I have many demands. Everything has to be accurate: I check everything, ensuring all i’s are dotted and t’s crossed. I have to be in the loop with all of it. Their patience, humility, and caring disposition are second to none. There is no grandstanding or over-the-top ambiance, just a place to sit and talk about your immigration needs and get help. 

We all know receptionists, front desk personnel, and paralegals can give you the run-around. You will meet Lily or Shante at the desk, two of the nicest people you want to meet. My first meeting was with Awa, a charming receptionist who has relocated. Then came Lily, who I am sure would be the envy of any lawyer’s office. She is pleasant, intelligent, attractive, and a professional who is always ready to help. To top it off, she speaks multiple languages, too; how can you not win in a place like this?

Call them. Kodwo, the solid, unfazed strategist, with Rock, Karin, and the entire crew, will see you through

M. Haughton

Philadelphia