Championing Immigrant Dreams

Dan Baldwin • August 1, 2024
a woman is on the cover of the orange county attorney journal

Contact

Vitalii Maliuk

Arvian Law Firm LLC

300 Spectrum Center Drive, 4th Fl

Irvine, CA 92618

(213) 838-0095

arvian-immigration.com




“A combination of factors led me to the path of immigration law. Chief among them is my own immigration experience, which gave me a deep understanding of the challenges involved. Coupled with my desire to advocate for the underrepresented and my belief in the power of the law to change lives, becoming an immigration attorney felt like the perfect way to make a positive impact,” says Vitalii Maliuk, founder of Arvian Law Firm, LLC.


Founded three years ago, Maliuk’s firm provides full-service immigration law services through offices in two locations. He employs one other attorney, one assistant attorney, two paralegals, an administrator, two marketing specialists, and four customer service representatives. Approximately 65 percent of the firm’s practice is in immigration with the remaining 35 percent primarily focused on asylum cases. He is licensed in Missouri to practice law and is authorized to practice immigration law in all 50 states.


The firm’s mission statement pinpoints their focus and commitment to their practice areas and their clients’ needs: Our mission is to empower immigrants with knowledgeable and compassionate legal representation, guiding them through the complexities of the immigration system to achieve their American Dream. Their company slogan states simply: Your Journey. Your Rights. Our Advocacy.


“Our team is comprised entirely of first-generation immigrants, which allows us to deeply empathize with the challenges and emotions that new immigrants experience. We draw from our own personal journeys to guide our clients through a smoother transition to life in the U.S. We offer not only legal expertise but also cultural understanding and compassionate support,” Maliuk says.


Clients enthusiastically agree.


“A huge thank you to Vitalii for his emergency assistance! We were in despair, but he helped us calm down and find a way out of the difficult situation. He stayed in touch with us until late in the evening, and ultimately, thanks to his efforts, the issue was successfully resolved.” —Alex, March 2024


Immigration Attorney Vitalii Maliuk


A Practice of Relentless Advocacy

Maliuk says, “We want our peers and potential clients to know that we are relentless advocates for immigrants, driven by a deep understanding of their journeys and dreams. Our firm is not just about legal expertise; it’s about creating a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in their new home.”


He says that early on he saw a real need for a different kind of law firm, one that was truly client-centered and focused on empowering immigrants through the legal process. By opening his own firm, he was able to create a more accessible and supportive environment, tailoring services to the unique needs of each client and ensuring they felt empowered and informed throughout their journey.


One of the major challenges for any immigration attorney is the difference in law between different states facing the same immigration challenges. Immigration law in the United States is primarily federal, but different circuits have some leeway in how they interpret and implement certain aspects. This can lead to significant differences between states such as Texas and California, each with distinct approaches to immigration. Maliuk’s first-hand experience as an immigrant gives him a depth of awareness and compassion shared by few attorneys in this complex practice area.


“My decision to focus on immigration law stems from a deep personal connection to the challenges and aspirations of individual persons seeking to build a new life in the United States. As an immigrant myself, I understand firsthand the complexities of navigating the legal system and the importance of having compassionate and knowledgeable advocates by your side. This personal experience fuels my passion for making a positive impact in the lives of those seeking to achieve their American dream.”


The firm provides a full range of services. Among the most common are filing applications for green cards, visas, and other immigration benefits; representing clients in removal proceedings; providing advice and assistance in navigating the immigration system; assisting clients in applying for and renewing visas; advising clients on their rights and obligations under immigration law; and representing clients in appeals or other court proceedings.


“People often describe me as a compassionate and approachable attorney. I have to be to do this job, and more importantly, I want to take that approach. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for my clients, understanding that immigration matters are often emotionally charged and deeply personal.”


Maliuk’s client base is diverse. He and his team serve a range of clients from all walks of life, including individual persons, families, and businesses. Their clients often have unique stories and aspirations that often require unique approaches. Clients seek Arvian Law not just for legal expertise, but also guidance and support through what can be and very often is a complex and emotionally trying process. His team specializes in family-based petitions, employment-based visas, asylum cases, and other immigration matters, tailoring their approach to each individual’s specific needs and goals.


For example, the firm represented a young entrepreneur who faced deportation just as his business was taking off. The stress and uncertainty were taking a toll on him and his family. Maliuk made it his mission to not only provide exceptional legal guidance but also to be a source of support and encouragement throughout the process. “Witnessing his relief and joy when we secured his green card was a powerful reminder that our work is about more than just legal outcomes; it’s about changing lives,” Maliuk says.


Lead Paralegal Artem Koshkalda, Immigration Attorney Vitalii Maliuk, Client Relationship Manager Kristina Taryanik, and Legal Assistant Yuliia Maliuk.

© christopher TODD studios


Seizing and Creating Opportunities

“My journey to becoming an attorney was shaped by both my immigrant background and personal challenges. Adapting to a new culture and overcoming financial barriers required significant effort and perseverance. But these experiences also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the opportunities available in this country and strengthened my resolve to help others achieve their dreams,” Maliuk says.


He says that a number of significant factors make his team and his firm unique in their ability to serve a variety of clients in the complicated practice of immigration law. 


“We have a willingness to take on challenging cases.” The firm routinely accepts cases that other lawyers often shy away from. The firm continually demonstrates their expertise and commitment to helping clients in the most difficult situations. That includes extensive experience representing numerous detainees, a practice that many immigration lawyers avoid due to its complexity and challenges.


They are able to take on clients with urgent needs, often on short notice, showing considerable flexibility and readiness to assist in time-sensitive situations. They are not shy about taking on work with previously denied petitions: “We actively work with clients whose petitions have been denied, leveraging their expertise to find new approaches and solutions.” 


Regardless of the size of the challenge, the firm maintains a client-centered focus tailoring their strategies to each client’s individual needs and goals. “We always provide personalized attention rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Each of us has an above-and-beyond commitment. We go the extra mile to understand our clients’ unique circumstances and guide them through the complex legal landscape,” Maliuk says.


Clients are aware of their situation at all times due to Maliuk’s commitment to transparent communication that prioritizes keeping referring attorneys and clients informed throughout the entire process, fostering a collaborative and less stressful experience. Such a level of service is enhanced by a willingness to stay up-to-date on both the current status of immigration law, but also to the latest in client and support service communication. This basically technical approach is well-balanced by the compassionate and unwavering support for the emotional and logistical challenges. 


In addition to a wide range of internal services, the firm has developed a strong network of partnerships with social service organizations, language interpreters, and mental health professionals. This collaborative approach allows them to address the diverse needs of their clients and provide truly holistic support.


Maliuk says, “Each of us has a genuine passion for positive impact: We approach our work not just as a legal service, but as a means to make a significant difference in our clients’ lives. These factors combine to create a unique approach that sets us apart in the field of immigration law, particularly in our willingness to take on and succeed in the most challenging cases.” Maliuk and his team have an admirable track record of success in complex immigration cases, backed by peer recognition and, more importantly, numerous client success stories.


For example, a case involving deportation of a family after their asylum claim was initially denied brought Maliuk into contact with truly desperate people. Their case, to others, seemed hopeless. “We dug deeper, uncovering new evidence of the persecution they faced in their home country. Our team worked tirelessly, even traveling to gather firsthand accounts and expert testimony. Ultimately, we successfully appealed their case, allowing them to remain in the U.S. and build a new life free from fear,” Maliuk says.


Maliuk says that he and his team are not only working within their community; they are active and involved in that community in areas outside of the workplace. “We believe in giving back to the community in ways that go beyond monetary donations. We understand that many people face financial barriers when seeking legal assistance, especially in the realm of immigration law. In recognition of this, our firm regularly offers pro bono services to those who cannot afford representation.”


The firm is also active in fostering the next generation of legal advocates. Individual members of the team mentor law students who are passionate about immigration law, sharing their knowledge and experience to help them grow and make a difference in the field.


Along that line, Maliuk has some very specific advice for law students and young people considering a career in law or one of the related fields.


“Find your niche and become an expert in that area of immigration law. Build genuine relationships with your clients. Create empathy because understanding and personalized attention are just as important as legal expertise. Work hard and persevere through challenges. Passion for the law and a genuine desire to help people will fuel your success. Don’t be afraid to take on difficult cases. Those challenges will shape you into a better attorney. Seek out mentorship from experienced immigration lawyers who can guide you and share their wisdom.”


Client Relationship Manager Kristina Taryanik, Immigration Attorney Vitalii Maliuk, and Legal Assistant Yuliia Maliuk.

© christopher TODD studios


Settling In, but Not Settling Down

When he is not advocating for his clients, Maliuk enjoys spending time with his family exploring the beautiful hiking trails of Orange County.


“My wife is my constant source of support and inspiration. She believed in me even when I doubted myself and encouraged me to pursue my dream of becoming an immigration lawyer. And my family is my rock. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their unwavering love and support,” he says. The couple has three children. They moved to Orange County a little over a year ago.


“Orange County feels like the perfect fit for this chapter of our lives. We love the beautiful beaches, great schools, and all the family-friendly activities available.”


Settling in isn’t settling down and that certainly applies to Maliuk’s plans for Arvian Law. Over the next five years, he will embark on a strategic expansion to broaden the team and its geographic reach, while upholding their core values of personalized service and unwavering client advocacy. They are actively exploring opportunities to open additional offices in key locations throughout Southern California, aiming to provide accessible and comprehensive legal support to a wider range of immigrant communities.


Currently their lead attorney is pursuing licensure in three additional jurisdictions, with the potential to establish offices in those areas as well. This expansion will be supported by the recruitment of talented attorneys selected for their talent and their passion for immigration law and the firm’s dedication to client-centered representation. 


“By extending our services beyond Southern California, we aim to empower and advocate for immigrants across multiple states, making a meaningful difference in their lives and contributing to a more just and equitable immigration system,” Maliuk says. 


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