Michael Ponder

Michael Ponder 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 is a member of several professional associations including the American Immigration Lawyer’s Association.

Omar Zavala Soto

Omar Zavala Soto has worked in the immigration field for more than 13 years, first as a legal assistant and paralegal and now as an attorney. He has been licensed by the State Bar of Alabama since 2025 and focuses his practice on U.S. immigration matters.

Mr. Zavala Soto earned his LL.M. from St. Mary’s University School of Law in 2023. He is also a US Army veteran and proudly served the United States overseas, including in Iraq.

Born in Mexico, Omar has lived in the United States for over 30 years. He has been a valued member of the Law Offices of Michael Ponder, PLLC since 2022, where he supports clients with experience, dedication, and a deep understanding of the immigration process.

Roberto Hernandez

Roberto Hernandez (Bobby) is a paralegal at the Law Offices of Michael Ponder. He works closely with clients to gather documents, prepare filings, and keep cases on track—especially Adjustment of Status, family-based petitions, and naturalization applications. Bobby joined the firm in 2023 after graduating with a BA from Texas State University. Clients appreciate his clear communication and calm, thorough approach.

Sarai Lazo

Sarai Lazo is a receptionist at the firm and has been part of the team since her senior year of college. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Government, earning University Honors. Coming from an immigrant family, Sarai values the firm’s mission and enjoys being the first point of contact for clients. She takes pride in supporting the firm’s work as cases move forward and assisting clients through each stage of their matters. She plans to pursue a career in law in the future.