Welcome to the Garfinkel Immigration attorney spotlight series, where we will conduct a bimonthly Q&A with one of the Firm’s lawyers. In this edition, we spoke with Partner William Hummel.
William Hummel, a graduate of the University of Florida College of Law, is certified as a Specialist in Immigration Law by the North Carolina State Bar, the highest level of specialization attainable in the state. He was recently recognized by Who’s Who Legal and The Best Lawyers in America©.
How long have you practiced immigration law?
It will be 10 years in September.
What drew you to the immigration law field?
It was both from my job right after undergraduate working with the International Studies Program at Davidson (which included working with the international student population) as well as my volunteer experience during that time with the Latin American Coalition here in Charlotte. During my volunteer experience with the Latin American Coalition, I was able to assist the Immigration Legal Center on several immigration cases and found the work extremely challenging yet rewarding.
What have you found most rewarding about working in immigration law?
The personal connection you make with many clients. After working with individuals through the work visa, green card and then citizenship processes, you learn a lot about their background and family. I find joy in seeing a client through every step of the process and the difference it has made in their life.
What do you see as the most substantial challenges ahead in the complicated and ever-evolving environment around immigration law issues?
I believe the most complicated thing in the years ahead may be the lack of any substantive change in the law. I do not see any immigration reform legislation passing in the near future. This means any desired changes will only be able to happen via a change in regulation or policy. The challenge with this is that policies and rules can vary drastically from one presidential administration to the next, leaving less stability and predictability for those trying to navigate the immigration process.
What is your favorite thing to do when you’re not working?
Going to the beach if I can!
What is your favorite movie or TV show? Why?
I just finished Season 1 of the Gilded Age and loved it. I also love the Crown. I tend to like shows that incorporate elements of history. My favorite comedy show over the last few years has been Schitt’s Creek.
What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I studied American Sign Language for a couple years.