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The world of immigration law is a complex labyrinth of policy and process that affects millions coming to the United States seeking a better life for themselves and their families. It requires meticulous attention to detail and a keen understanding of diverse cultures and their unique circumstances. For those providing legal counsel in this field, the personal journey often shapes the professional perspective, creating a distinctive niche.
One such individual is Flavia Santos Lloyd, a Brazilian-born, US-based immigration attorney and law professor. Her professional journey offers a unique insight into the challenging and gratifying world of immigration law. Yet, her personal journey sets her apart—the path of an immigrant who transformed her experience into a tool for advocacy.
At 20 years old, Flavia immigrated to the US from Brazil, which gave her an understanding of not just the complex and daunting immigration process but also the disheartening racial and gender-based prejudices that come with being an immigrant.
Recounting her journey, Flavia shares that initially, she did not consider becoming a lawyer. She had come to the US to study journalism. With her eyes firmly set on her slice of the American dream, Flavia worked tirelessly toward her goal, but the challenges sometimes felt insurmountable. She faced homelessness with a small child, and at times, she stated that she thought the hardships would never end.
But, after obtaining permission to work in the US, she finally found a job at an insurance firm, and a few months later, she landed a career as a legal assistant at a law firm which was more suited to what she wanted to do. This turning point gave Flavia a fresh perspective on what she wanted to do and the means to embark on an academic journey toward her brand-new dream— becoming an attorney.
Overcoming linguistic and cultural obstacles, she climbed the academic ladder, earning a law degree and a Master’s in international relations, subsequently passing the bar exam.
“As a woman of color, especially as an immigrant, you must work ten times harder than men just to be noticed. And regarding the law, it can be even more difficult. Other attorneys would often mistake me for a secretary or a translator and look surprised after they find out that we’re colleagues,” Flavia shares.
Her education, however, is wider than classrooms and textbooks. As an immigrant herself, especially being bilingual and speaking five languages, Flavia’s connection with her clients extends beyond professional legal advice. She understands the emotional toll of the immigration process, the fear of uncertainty, and the aspiration for a better life. These experiences fuel her dedication, making her an attorney and a vocal advocate for her clients.
“Many immigrants who come here have yet to master English, for example, so dealing with the immigration process, finding a job, or simply getting accustomed to their new neighbors and the environment can be tough,” Flavia explains. “My goal is to try and help my clients not just with legal issues but also with the challenges they face while assimilating to the new culture.”
However, Flavia’s clientele is as diverse as her experiences, ranging from ordinary individuals and their families to celebrities and athletes. Despite her star-studded client list, Flavia never loses sight of the bigger picture: every case represents a life, a dream, and a fight for a better future.
Moreover, Flavia’s approach has enabled her to build a thriving law firm, Santos Lloyd Law Firm, PC, with Headquarters in New Port Beach, California, and satellite offices in Beverly Hills, San Diego, and Orlando. Her hybrid business model includes allowing her team the flexibility to work full-time, part-time, and completely remote, providing services across the country. “Immigration is a federal law, so my team and I can represent people all over the country and even worldwide. That’s why I want my team to have the flexibility they need, as long as we work toward a common goal.”
Flavia’s journey from immigrant to award-winning advocate is an inspiration to many. As her career continues to thrive, her impact echoes not just through the courtroom but in the lives of her clients and the fabric of American society.
“I’ve learned over the years that success isn’t defined just by overcoming obstacles but by using them as a catalyst for change.
