Gabriela Lopez-Compean, a Managing Attorney at JFAI, exemplifies the organization's mission. Emigrating from Mexico to the U.S. at six, Gabriela has always been surrounded by immigrants' stories and has seen firsthand the complexities of the immigration system. Her journey through law school and work in immigration clinics solidified her passion for helping others navigate these daunting legal processes. Reflecting on her career, Gabriela says, "I knew I found my practice. I found what I wanted to do for the rest of my life."
Reflecting on her career, Gabriela says, "I knew I found my practice. I found what I wanted to do for the rest of my life."
Gabriela's days are diverse and impactful, driven by the mission to assist low-income immigrants. From client consultations to accompanying them to immigration interviews, her work is varied and fulfilling. "I like that I am never bored, and I get to use many skills when advocating for my clients and my team," she shares. Managing numerous critical cases, including those under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), requires meticulous organization. Gabriela credits JFAI Legal Assistant Sandra for ensuring clients receive the attention they need, acknowledging, "She is an amazing communicator, and I could not have done all the work without her."
The cases of crime survivors are particularly poignant for Gabriela. Representing clients at their lowest points and helping them gain stability for their families is transformative. One recent VAWA client, Mina*, suffered domestic violence from her U.S. citizen husband. After three and a half years, Mina received her VAWA visa approval. She had left her abuser when her baby was just six months old, despite the financial support he provided. Now, Mina works legally in the U.S. and awaits her lawful permanent residence approval.
Gabriela prioritizes a trauma-informed approach, especially when working with crime survivors, ensuring every interaction centers on the client's necessities. Looking ahead, she hopes JFAI can expand its programs to reach more community members in need and calls on supporters to spread the word about JFAI's mission.Â
Gabriela Lopez-Compean's commitment, alongside the collective efforts of the JFAI team, extends beyond legal services, creating a nurturing and supportive community for clients and demonstrating the profound impact of JFAI's mission. Thanks to your support, we are a step closer to making a significant difference in the lives of immigrants.
*The client's name is changed for privacy purposes.