OUR STORY
Attorney Dr. Marc Santamaria is the son of Filipino immigrants who moved here in 1969. His mother immigrated here through a work visa. He knows the immigrant story quite intimately through his family and growing up in an immigrant community — Daly City, California. He saw his parents struggle and save everything they could to achieve the American Dream. Seeing the sacrifices his parents made, inspired him to honor them through his own hard work.
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.
Honor your father and mother which is the first commandment with a promise,
so that it may be well with you, and that you may live long on the earth.
Ephesians 6: 1-3
Growing up in an immigrant community inspired Marc to connect with his roots in the Philippines. After graduating from UC Berkeley with his Bachelor’s in Legal Studies, Marc studied at the University of the Philippines, Diliman and wrote a published article on Filipino immigrants to the U.S. While writing this article, he interviewed a U.S. embassy official. On the way to the interview he saw long lines of people waiting to talk with immigration officials. Some came from the south and had to take boat and plane rides to talk with the immigration officials—and stay there overnight. It was not fair for him to easily get into the embassy and interview an embassy official, while others had to wait overnight. At that point he knew the U.S. immigration system had to be fixed.
THE MEANING OF OUR LOGO
Our logo is meant to be more than just a fish. It’s a Christian symbol for Jesus and His call for Christians to be “fishers of men. (Mark 1:17)”
We will be fishers of men by being professional, respectful, and caring. Also note that Jesus, symbolized by the cross, is the head, and the law office is the tail. We follow His lead.
Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
Galatians 6:2
To contribute in some small way to improve the immigration system, even before law school, Marc volunteered at immigration offices. Then after graduating from law school and becoming a licensed California attorney, he worked in immigration offices helping immigrants position themselves to achieve the American Dream just like his parents and millions others. He traveled the world to meet with clients and made presentations to potential immigrants and investors.
With the grace of God — Jesus, Marc founded the Law Office of Dr. Marc Santamaria with the vision of helping workers, investors, and families find a way to work and live in the U.S.