Welcome to Shepelsky Law Group - Now at 321 Broadway, 5th Floor, NYC, NY 10007!

My first full day at our new Manhattan location was a resounding success!

I’ll admit, I was a bit anxious this morning as I navigated my commute. It wasn't the easiest, and I had a lot of thoughts running through my mind. But with over 20 years of experience in running my practice, I knew that with the support of our incredible team, everything would fall into place. As I glanced out the window at the USCIS/NY Immigration Court building at 26 Federal Plaza, just across the street, I was overwhelmed with emotion.

I vividly remember coming here in 1995 to file my N-400 U.S. Citizenship application, juggling that with university classes at NYU. Back then, I stood in line for hours, just one more hopeful immigrant waiting for a chance.

Today, I walk in with my attorney ID whenever I need to, and now, my office is right across the street, working on equal footing with this once-intimidating building. I'm no longer an outsider here.

Since founding my law practice in 2004, I've spent countless days at 26 Federal Plaza with my immigration clients. Whether it was early mornings, catching the sunrise over City Hall, or busy afternoons, this place has been central to my career. I had my favorite spots—grabbing a quick, healthy bite at the buffet on the second floor, a quiet moment to review notes away from the tourist hustle. I recall braving New York’s steamy summers in a suit, with a dripping umbrella and a heavy bag full of case files, hoping for better air conditioning.

There were tough days, too. I walked out in tears more than once in those early years, overwhelmed by the weight of my clients' futures resting in my hands. I can still hear the voice of a judge reprimanding me in front of a crowded courtroom. But there were also moments of triumph—tears of joy when I won asylum cases, the judge's words, "Good job, counsel," and the heartwarming "Welcome to the United States" to my clients.

These years have been defined by hard work, persistence, and the drive to overcome every challenge—court hearings even when I was unwell, pushing through my fear of public speaking, and embracing my accent.

The journey has been long, from Staten Island to Manhattan, then to Brooklyn, and back to Staten Island, day in and day out. Now, I come from New Jersey, and while the commute has changed, the work bag remains just as heavy.

The landscape around 26 Federal Plaza has evolved too. The beloved cafe is gone, replaced by a regular deli. A new Cuban spot has popped up on the corner. The building itself is always under renovation, a constant reminder that this city, much like my career, is ever-changing and never stagnant.

I’m no longer the young lawyer I once was, but I am still full of dreams and plans. One of those dreams has come true—I’m now practicing right on Broadway, in the heart of the action, helping people navigate the complexities of U.S. immigration law.

Today, as I left the corner of Broadway and Worth after 5 pm, watching the neighborhood shift from business to leisure, it hit me just how far I've come. This neighborhood and I have a long history, and it’s one that continues to evolve.

Welcome to Shepelsky Law Group at 321 Broadway, 5th Floor, NYC, NY 10007. We're here for all your U.S. Immigration and Family law needs!