The elusive American dream, a cherished aspiration for countless Filipinos, remains a distant reality for many. Thus, immigration lawyer Attorney Marlene Gonzalez, through her profound expertise and unwavering commitment, stands as a staunch advocate for countless Filipinos who harbor the aspiration of attaining the elusive American dream.
With utmost dedication, she tirelessly endeavors to assist and raise awareness among our kababayans, both domestically and internationally.
As a compassionate immigration lawyer, prioritizes her clients’ needs above all. She firmly believes that her fees should not hinder her commitment to assisting those in need.
At the age of 12, Attorney Marlene immigrated to the United States with her family. Motivated by her mother, a nurse, the decision to move to the US was made. Her father, a military officer under President Ferdinand Marcos, chose to retire and join his family abroad. Their new home was in Los Angeles, California, but adapting to the unfamiliar environment posed challenges for young Marlene.
She decided to become a lawyer after listening to a U.S. Supreme Court nomination hearing and finding out that most US Senators who get to pick the most powerful justices have a legal background. She was a stay-at-home mother then raising her first child.
Attorney Marlene knew that she needed to be an active participant in decision-making as far as the government and life, in general, is concerned.
“I wanted to be at the table for any decision that impacts me, my life as a mother, and as a woman,” added Attorney Marlene.
She was inspired by Cory Aquino’s rise to the presidency.
“Cory Aquino inspired me as a woman, and I decided to pursue a legal education, despite having my three kids already at the time.”
Attorney Marlene Gonzalez is a dedicated immigration lawyer with 23 years of experience. She has actively worked with organizations such as the YWCA, Utah Sentencing Commission, and the Utah Minority Bar Association, focusing on advocacy. As a non-profit lawyer for six years, she handled cases related to the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and now serves as legal counsel to the Asian Association of Utah- Refugee Immigrant Center. With a passion for helping others, she aims to establish a law office in Arizona, where many Filipino-owned healthcare businesses are located.
She considers her greatest achievement in life as being able to raise three daughters who are now successful in their own endeavors.
Attorney Marlene is embarking on a new venture by launching a nursing recruitment company. This endeavor is another significant milestone in her ongoing mission to provide assistance and support.
In addition, she plans to offer consultations in the Philippines. Her current objective is to extend her assistance to immigrants and individuals aspiring to live in the United States, ensuring their safety and pursuit of a better life.
On a side note, Attorney Marlene has embarked on her own chocolate factory business. With a focus on spreading happiness, she aims to utilize the mood-enhancing qualities of serotonin, also known as the happiness hormone, found in chocolate. By sourcing cacao from the Philippines, she not only aims to bring joy to people but also to uplift Filipino cacao farmers and bolster their businesses.
Later this year, Attorney Marlene will visit Manila to share her expertise about Green Card safety and awareness.