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IMMIGRATION & ASYLUM
ABOUT US
ABOUT US
MELLALAW is a full-service immigration and asylum law firm based in Chicago, Illinois. Since opening our doors on November 29, 2024, we have been committed to helping individuals, families, and businesses navigate the immigration process with confidence and clarity.
Founded by Mario Mella, a former DHS Asylum Officer, MELLALAW brings a unique and informed perspective to every case. Mario’s transition from public service to private practice is rooted in a deep commitment to advocacy and justice.
Israel Mella is a dedicated legal immigration consultant and human rights defender with over two decades of experience handling appeals and business immigration cases. His commitment to justice and deep knowledge of immigration law make him a trusted advocate for individuals and businesses navigating complex immigration processes.
We specialize in asylum, family immigration, and business immigration, offering personalized legal solutions tailored to your specific needs. At MELLALAW, we are dedicated to protecting your rights and guiding you through the complexities of immigration—because your journey matters, and so does your future.
MARIO ABENIZ IGNACIO N. MELLA, ESQ
COUNSELOR AT LAW
Mario Mella holds a Juris Doctor from San Joaquin College of Law in Clovis, California, and a Bachelor of Arts in English and Philosophy from Temple University in Philadelphia.
As a former Asylum Officer with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Mario adjudicated complex asylum applications, conducted affirmative asylum interviews, and performed comprehensive legal research to assess applicants' eligibility. Prior to this role, he served as a pro bono staff attorney at various nonprofit organizations in California, where he prepared U-Visa, T-Visa, and VAWA petitions, and drafted immigration filings to advocate for vulnerable applicants.
Beyond legal practice, Mario has also contributed to ethical oversight in research. As a Non-Affiliated Member of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) at San Carlos Lab Corp, he ensures compliance with federal and institutional regulations, providing an external perspective on ethical treatment and humane practices in animal research.
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