Cristina K. Castanier Kennedy
Paralegal
Overview
Cristina K. Castanier Kennedy prepares employment-based immigration petitions and applications for both for-profit and nonprofit organizations in the technology, manufacturing, and healthcare industries. She is particularly adept in U.S. nonimmigrant and immigrant visas, labor certifications, adjustment of status, and PERM processes. Cristina also prepares H-1B, TN, J-1, L-1, E-3, O-1, and I-140 petitions, and supports attorneys and clients with paperwork related to permanent residency and citizenship. She works collaboratively with attorneys and legal administrative assistants to effectively address clients’ immigration needs.
Prior Experience
Before joining Faegre Drinker, Cristina worked as a senior paralegal at a well-known Denver law firm recognized within the Hispanic community for its focus on family immigration. There, she prepared applications for FOIA, Advance Parole, DACA, U Visa, Employment Authorization, LPR Renewal, Removal of Conditions, Adjustment of Status, Consular Processing, and Naturalization.
Cristina also has nonprofit experience, having volunteered and later worked for a program initiative at the City University of New York. In this role, she assisted individuals with their naturalization applications, providing guidance and support throughout the process.
She brings public-sector experience from her time at the New York Attorney General’s Office in the Consumer Frauds and Protection Bureau. In this role, she assisted with matters involving consumer rights, fraud prevention, and investigations, and was actively involved in mediating complaints between consumers and businesses. This experience enhanced her attention to detail, client advocacy skills, and dedication to public service.
International Perspective
As a dual citizen of the United States and Ecuador, Cristina has personal experience navigating the U.S. immigration process, having arrived in the country at age eight. She is passionate about guiding others through their immigration journey and is committed to providing exceptional service.
Credentials
Languages
Spanish
Education
Brigham Young University-Idaho
B.A. in Political Science, Certificate in Criminology (2018)
Insights & Events
Honors
- Faegre Drinker — Pro Bono Honor Roll, 2024-25
No aspect of these recognitions has been approved by the highest court of any state.