About
Jennifer O. Pernas is a founding partner and experienced immigration attorney who focuses her practice on family- and employment-based immigration matters. She is widely respected for her dedication to immigrant communities, regularly providing guidance on legal pathways and supporting individuals through challenging legal processes involving immigration, divorce, and child custody.
Jennifer earned her undergraduate degree from Florida International University and her Juris Doctor from Indiana University Maurer School of Law. During law school, she helped launch the first LGBTQ clinical project in the Midwest, reflecting her commitment to inclusion and advocacy early in her career.
A major focus of Jennifer’s practice is employment-based immigration, emphasizing healthcare professionals. She has extensive experience handling visa applications and green card processes for Registered Nurses and Physical Therapists under Schedule A and for H-1B specialty occupations. Her knowledge in this area led her to speak as a subject-matter expert at the 2021 AILA Chicago Fall Employment Conference.
In 2019, Jennifer was named a consulting attorney at the Mexican Consulate in Detroit. She frequently visits the Consulate to give “Know Your Rights” presentations and offer legal information on immigration relief options. This role highlights her strong connection to immigrant advocacy and public legal education.
Jennifer’s compassionate and culturally informed approach makes her a trusted advisor for families navigating the U.S. immigration system. She supports clients with personalized legal strategies that reflect their goals and circumstances, whether related to family unity or employment opportunities.
Jennifer O. Pernas continues to lead in immigration and family law, with a clear focus on empowering individuals through education, advocacy, and strategic legal support. Her work makes a lasting impact on the lives of clients and the broader community she serves.
Law Office Affiliations
- Founding Partner, J. Pernas Law, PLC
- Consulting Attorney, Mexican Consulate in Detroit, Michigan
- Member, State Bar of Michigan
- Member, American Immigration Lawyers Association
Licensed State
- Michigan
Education
- Indiana University Maurer School of Law
Juris Doctor (J.D.) - Florida International University
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Awards & Badges


- Adoption
- Asylum
- Child custody
- Child support
- Citizenship
- Divorce and separation
- Employee benefits
- Guardianship
- Health care
- Marriage and prenuptials
- Mediation
- Visa and Permits