Natalia V. Santanna is the founder of Santanna Law Offices, PC, and a fierce advocate dedicated to navigating and dismantling the complexities of the U.S. immigration system. A native of Brazil who made the United States her home nearly two decades ago, Natalia brings a profound personal understanding of the immigrant journey to her zealous legal practice.

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Since 2012, Natalia has represented individuals in a vast array of immigration and federal matters, including asylum, cancellation of removal, bond hearings, adjustment of status, U visas, and family petitions. After founding Santanna Law Offices in 2014, she has led a stellar team in achieving life-changing results through strategic planning, litigation, and prosecutorial discretion.

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Natalia is fluent in Portuguese, Spanish, and English, and has furthered her commitment to marginalized communities by studying Arabic and Maya Mam. Her linguistic range allows her to connect deeply with clients, ensuring they are active participants and learners alongside her throughout the legal process.

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In response to a legal climate increasingly focused on mass detention, Natalia has pioneered high-stakes federal litigation strategies to secure her clients' liberty. She has filed dozens of habeas corpus cases in federal court, successfully obtaining releases for individuals held without bond.

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Her extensive experience in detained work is further recognized by her membership on the Criminal Justice Act (CJA) Panel for the Eastern District Federal Public Defender. As a member of this group of qualified private attorneys appointed by federal courts, she provides critical legal representation to indigent defendants, ensuring their constitutional rights are protected in the federal system.

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A firm believer in the power of pro bono service, Natalia has volunteered extensively at immigration clinics and detention centers at the border and internationally. Her leadership and mentorship have earned her numerous accolades:

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• Allies of the Maya Mam Community Nomination (2025): Recognized by the East Bay Sanctuary Covenant for her dedicated support of the Mam-speaking population.

• Pro-Bono Warrior (2017): Named by the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) for her volunteer efforts.

• Mentorship: She currently serves as a mentor for pro bono attorneys through the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights.