About Us
SMS Law Firm is a boutique law firm with over 40 years of combined experience. We specialize in providing top-tier immigration and business legal solutions to clients all over the world. We’ve served individuals and their families from over 27 different countries.
From visa application to business formation and wealth protection, we deliver the best ethical approach to professionals and their families. SMS attorneys are exhaustively trained and experienced in order to provide all the information and knowledge that you need to be best advised on your journey to your legal goals. We understand just how daunting it can be to engage in lengthy and tangled legal processes, so let our legal team’s combined 60+ years of expertise be your guide. We’ll ensure simplified process for you through our reliable service.
We deal with complex legal processes daily and understand and empathize with the stresses our clients encounter on the road to their goals. We are proud to treat our clients with respect, kindness, and the honesty they deserve. Our lawfirm is devoted to providing an authentic and efficient service to minimize the strain and labor our clients experience while pursuing their legal needs.
Our Values
Integrity
Integrity builds trust, which is essential for maintaining healthy, long-term working relationships, achieving success, and meeting business goals. We are passionate about service and are well-known for our sincerity and candor.
Communication
Starting with your initial consultation, an SMS attorney will listen attentively and in good faith, ensuring you feel confident to discuss your expectations and legal matters openly. Together, we will navigate the journey ahead.
Diversity
We prioritize diversity and inclusivity and foster an open-minded and compassionate environment with skilled team members ready to assist every client. We are fluent in English, Chinese, Taiwanese, Portuguese, Spanish, Khmer, and Vietnamese.
Honesty
At SMS Law Firm, we prioritize understanding your needs and ensuring transparency. We will ask the necessary questions to fully grasp your situation and are always available to address your concerns without any restrictions.
MEET OUR DEDICATED ATTORNEYS
Our Team
Stella M. Shih, Esq.
Founder and Senior Partner
With over 20 years of experience, Stella connects deeply with immigrant families. Under her vision, SMS Law Firm has become San Diego’s largest multi-lingual law firm, excelling in tax, immigration, business, wills and trusts, investments, and family law.
James S. Shih, Esq.
Senior Partner
James brings over 13 years of expertise in investment immigration and international business. He is fluent in English, Chinese, and Spanish, and is a frequent speaker at global events.
Kevin Qi, Esq.
Senior Partner
Kevin, also a founding partner of SMS Law Firm, specializes in immigration and business law. As an immigrant himself, he relates to newcomers’ challenges. He’s bilingual in Mandarin and English.
SMS Law Firm is Family
At SMS Law Firm, we embrace a family-oriented culture. Every team member, from administrators to attorneys, is a valued member of our family. We are dedicated to fostering a challenging and supportive environment for the highly versatile individuals who play a crucial role in delivering top-notch services to our clients.
Hear directly from our family members about how we grow together and support our clients in achieving their goals.
IMMIGRATION AND BUSINESS SUPPORT
Legal Support Team
Our legal support team plays a crucial role in delivering exceptional service to our clients. We recognize the immense value these professionals bring to our practice and hold them in the highest regard.
Working at SMS Law Firm offers a unique blend of challenge and reward. Our law clerks, paralegals, and support staff are integral to our success, handling responsibilities that mirror those of practicing attorneys.
We provide our legal support team with real-world, hands-on experience. This practical exposure ensures our team develops a comprehensive understanding of legal processes and client needs.
While the work can be demanding, it offers unparalleled opportunities for professional growth. Our legal support team members gain invaluable skills and insights that serve as a strong foundation for their future careers in law.
SMS Law Firm is committed to nurturing talent and fostering a collaborative environment where every team member can thrive and contribute to our clients’ success.
INTERNATIONAL LAW FIRM
Shanghai Office
SMS Law Firm’s international APAC hub, our Shanghai office offers unparalleled expertise in immigration law and business services. Our team of bilingual professionals, fluent in both Mandarin Chinese and English, provides seamless communication for clients across Asia and beyond.
- Specialized in complex immigration cases
- Multilingual staff catering to diverse clientele
- Extensive experience serving high-net-worth individuals
- Comprehensive range of legal services, from administrative tasks to intricate legal matters
We pride ourselves on our ability to navigate the challenging landscape of international law. Our unique position allows us to offer insights and experiences exclusive to our firm, ensuring top-tier legal representation for all our clients.
Whether you’re an individual seeking immigration assistance or a corporation expanding into the APAC region, our Shanghai team is equipped to handle your legal needs with professionalism and cultural sensitivity.
EB-5 INVESTOR IMMIGRATION EXPERTS
SMS Law Firm
We take great pride in upholding the high standards of trust, confidentiality, and diligence set by our attorneys, prioritizing our clients needs; We deal with mountains of paperwork so that you don’t have to.
Navigating the legal landscape of the United States is complex and can be daunting. For example, who knew that paper cuts could be considered a workplace hazard? Legal issues can be intimidating and sometimes overwhelming, but when the SMS Law team is behind you, you know that yours will be handled ethically and efficiently.
The real reward for our attorneys comes when applications are approved and we successfully meet our client’s objectives. At SMS Law Firm, we value exceptional customer service and continually strive to set an example of the highest standards of professional service in the legal industry.
Our Clients and Associates
Expertise. Dedication. Excellence.
We are committed to providing exceptional legal services. With a team of experienced partners, we offer a wide range of legal solutions. Contact us to schedule a consultation or learn more about our services.