J. Alexander “Alex” Short is the founder and managing member of Lehigh Valley Immigration Law LLC, established in January 2025. After years of practicing at midsize firms, Alex launched the firm out of a growing conviction that immigration law was reaching a critical moment—one that demanded more personalized, agile, and purpose-driven representation. Recognizing the increasing complexity and urgency of immigration issues across the U.S., he saw an opportunity to build a practice that put people first and allowed him the flexibility to take on cases where he could truly make a difference.

A seasoned immigration attorney known for his strategic insight and tireless advocacy, Alex brings a powerful combination of legal precision, deep empathy, and practical experience to every matter he handles. Whether he's defending clients in removal proceedings, helping reunite families through complex petitions, or advising businesses on workforce immigration strategies, Alex leads with integrity and results. At the core of his work is a belief that every client deserves to be seen, heard, and guided with care—especially when so much is at stake.

Comprehensive Immigration Expertise

Immigration Advocacy for Individuals and Families

Alex has successfully represented clients from across the globe, helping them secure temporary or permanent residency and protection under U.S. immigration law. His expertise spans a broad range of family-based and individual immigration matters, including:

• Family and Marriage Petitions

• Fiancé Visas (K-1) and K-3 Spousal Visas

• Adjustment of Status Applications

• Asylum and Protection under the United Nations Convention Against Torture (CAT)

• Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Protections

• Immigration Waivers (e.g., Visa Waiver Program, Hardship Waivers, J Waivers)

• Student Visas and Optional Practical Training (OPT)

• Research and Scholar Visas

• Extraordinary Ability Visas (O-1)

• Visitor Visas for Business and Pleasure

Alex has earned a strong reputation for handling complex deportation defense cases, appearing before U.S. Immigration Courts, the Board of Immigration Appeals (“BIA”), the Administrative Appeals Office, and federal district and circuit courts.

Deportation Defense and Crimmigration Law

A former prosecutor, Alex brings unique insight into the intersection of criminal and immigration law, commonly known as crimmigration law. He provides strategic counsel to clients facing criminal charges with potential immigration consequences, ensuring their rights are protected. Alex represents clients in matters such as:

• Challenging removal orders in immigration court

• Filing appeals with the BIA or federal circuit courts

• Securing asylum, withholding of removal, or CAT protection

• Addressing criminal convictions affecting immigration status

• Preparing federal and administrative immigration appeals

His ability to navigate the nuances of criminal law within the immigration framework allows him to develop innovative strategies to achieve favorable results for his clients.

Corporate Immigration Solutions

Alex partners with businesses of all sizes to facilitate global workforce mobility and navigate the complexities of corporate immigration law. He provides strategic counsel on:

• Employment-Based Immigration: PERM labor certifications, EB-1 and EB-2 immigrant visas, and visa strategies for professionals of exceptional or extraordinary ability.

• Non-Immigrant Visas: H-1B for specialty occupations, L-1 for intra-company transfers, and O-1 for extraordinary ability individuals.

• Specialty Visas: E-1 and E-2 investor visas, R-1 religious worker visas, and TN visas under USMCA/NAFTA agreements.

• Compliance and Audits: Addressing I-9 compliance, visa overstays, and regulatory investigations with tailored solutions.

• Industry-Specific Needs: Physician and healthcare visas, research scholar categories, and multinational manager/executive visas.

Alex also represents businesses in consular processing, addressing immigrant and non-immigrant visa challenges, including delays and denials, and litigates cases before federal agencies like the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Labor.

Education and Legal Scholarship

Alex earned his Juris Doctor from Penn State’s Dickinson School of Law, where he co-founded the Dickinson Law Addiction Legal Resource Team and contributed to legal scholarship on substance use disorder. His work has been published in Harvard Law School’s “Bill of Health” Blog and referenced in the University of Pennsylvania Law Review. Alex also holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Virginia.

Commitment to Advocacy and Service

Alex’s dedication to justice and equity began early in his career as a Congressional Page in the U.S. House of Representatives under Congressman Michael G. Fitzpatrick. This experience inspired his lifelong commitment to public service and advocacy for those in need.

At Lehigh Valley Immigration Law LLC, Alex continues to approach every case with professionalism, empathy, and determination, helping clients achieve their immigration goals and build better futures in the United States.

Why Clients Trust J. Alexander Short, Esq.

Whether you’re a family seeking reunification, a business addressing immigration compliance, or an individual facing removal proceedings, Alex delivers strategic and compassionate representation. Contact Lehigh Valley Immigration Law LLC today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward achieving your immigration goals.