Lorilei Artiste (they/them; elle/ella) is an Associate Attorney with Santanna Law Offices, PC, bringing more than fifteen years of seasoned expertise in immigration law to the firm. As the child of a Korean immigrant who has lived around the world in Europe, Asia, and Latin America, Lorilei possesses a deep personal connection to the immigrant experience. They blend this global perspective with compassionate, trauma-informed legal advocacy to ensure every client feels safe, respected, and fiercely protected throughout their legal journey.

 

Since 2011, Lorilei has successfully represented individuals in complex immigration and federal matters, focusing primarily on family reunification and humanitarian relief. They have extensive, proven experience navigating intricate legal pathways, including family petitions, consular processing, removal proceedings, asylum, U-visas, T-visas, and VAWA self-petitions. Lorilei’s practice has always been deeply rooted in community service, dedicated to keeping families together and securing vital protection for vulnerable individuals.

 

Before joining Santanna Law Offices, Lorilei built a distinguished career as a public interest lawyer with some of the nation’s most prestigious legal nonprofits. They honed their advocacy skills serving communities through the Southern Poverty Law Center, Legal Services of NYC, Nevada Legal Services, and numerous Catholic Charities agencies. To better serve diverse communities, Lorilei is fluent in Spanish and English, and proficient in French, allowing them to break down linguistic barriers and provide clear, direct guidance to clients from all backgrounds.

 

A recognized thought leader, Lorilei doesn't just practice immigration law—they teach it. Previously, Lorilei taught and trained advocates through the New York Law School Asylum Clinic and the National Partnership for New Americans. Lorilei is also frequently invited as a panelist and lecturer at major national advocacy conferences. Past invitations to speak include the American Immigration Lawyers Association’s Annual Conference, the American Bar Association’s Equal Justice Conference, the Federal Bar Association’s Immigration Conference, the National Legal Aid & Defender’s Annual Conference, the Prison Law and Advocacy Conference, and ASISTA Conferences. 

 

Lorilei is admitted to practice law through the State Bar of Texas and the State Bar of New York. They are also admitted to practice before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, as well as the U.S. District Courts for the Southern District of New York, the Eastern District of New York, and the District of Nevada. Lorilei is a graduate of the Washington University in St. Louis School of Law and the University of Maryland.