Michael Ponder is an experienced immigration attorney dedicated to helping individuals and families build better futures in the United States.

He earned his B.A. in Spanish from Tulane University in 1998 and went on to graduate Magna Cum Laude from Southern University Law Center in 2003, earning his Juris Doctorate. Since beginning his career in immigration law in 2005, Mr. Ponder has had the privilege of helping thousands of clients obtain visas, residency, citizenship, asylum, and other immigration benefits.

Mr. Ponder is licensed to practice law in Louisiana (since 2003) and Texas (since 2014). He speaks, reads, and writes Spanish fluently, allowing him to communicate directly and clearly with Spanish-speaking clients.

He has been a member of several professional associations including the American Immigration Lawyer’s Association since 2005.

A Personal Passion for Immigration Law

Mr. Ponder’s passion for immigration law began during his college years. While studying abroad in Madrid, Spain, he experienced firsthand what it’s like to live as a foreigner in a new country — an experience that deepened his empathy for immigrants facing similar challenges.

His volunteer work with the Latin American Student Association at Tulane University further inspired him to dedicate his career to immigration advocacy. That commitment continues today: in addition to his legal practice, Mr. Ponder volunteers his time providing pro bono legal services through organizations such as Texas Here to Stay Coalition, American Gateways, and Casa Marianella.