Paschal Nwokocha’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Born in Nigeria, Paschal’s early life was shaped by education, family, and a sense of duty. His journey to becoming one of Minnesota’s most respected immigration lawyers is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and ability to overcome obstacles.
From Seminary to Law
Paschal’s story begins in Umuahia, Nigeria, where he was the oldest of six children. Initially, he pursued studies to become a Catholic priest, but his journey took an unexpected turn in 1992 when he and his brothers moved to the United States to join their father. In 1993, Paschal graduated from the University of St. Thomas and later attended the prestigious William Mitchell School of Law in Minnesota, where he graduated cum laude.
His career began as a state prosecutor with the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office, where he honed his legal skills. Paschal’s experience as an assistant attorney general in Minnesota’s 87 counties provided him with the tools to become the seasoned immigration lawyer he is today. It wasn’t long before he decided to start his own law practice.
Starting from Humble Beginnings
In 1999, Paschal opened his immigration law practice in a one-room office space in Minneapolis, armed with just a $3,500 bank loan and his brother’s car as collateral. It was a modest beginning, but Paschal’s drive and expertise quickly earned him a reputation as a knowledgeable and reliable immigration attorney.
Paschal’s passion for immigration law grew after volunteering with nonprofit organizations and assisting the immigrant community. His first pro bono case was for a family from Liberia seeking asylum, and winning that case was a pivotal moment in his career. He knew then that immigration law was his calling.
Building a Thriving Practice
Paschal’s law firm began to expand, and by 2008, it had moved to downtown Minneapolis. He added more lawyers and staff, focusing on all areas of immigration law, including deportation, family petitions, and work-related petitions. His firm now handles a full spectrum of immigration cases and is known for its dedication to helping individuals navigate the complexities of U.S. immigration law.
Paschal attributes his success to consistency and a focus on immigration law. His work is driven by a deep commitment to helping immigrants achieve the American dream. “We make the U.S. immigration laws work for our clients, not against them,” he proudly says.
A Life of Service and Advocacy
Beyond his legal practice, Paschal is also a community advocate. He created and hosted an annual Meet & Greet event for African diaspora lawyers in Minnesota, fostering collaboration and support among the immigrant community. He is also deeply involved in philanthropic work through the Nwokocha Foundation, which supports over 100 university-level students in Nigeria each year.
Paschal’s success story is a powerful reminder of the importance of consistency, passion, and giving back to the community. He continues to serve his clients with dedication and is proud of the work he has done to improve the lives of others. His legacy is one of empowerment, mentorship, and hope for the future.
