From Refugee to Attorney

When I was just two years old, my parents made a life-changing decision that would shape the course of our family's future. We fled Vietnam on a small fishing boat, packed tightly with over two dozen people, in search of safety and freedom. I was too young to understand it at the time, but that journey across the South China Sea was full of risk and uncertainty. We had very little food or water, and we had no idea whether we would survive.

After three long days drifting at sea, a large ship spotted us and rescued everyone on board. We were taken to refugee camps in Malaysia and then the Philippines, where we spent nearly a year waiting for permission to start our new life. Eventually, we were resettled in the United States, in Des Moines, Iowa, where one of my aunts lived. It was the beginning of a new chapter, filled with both opportunity and struggle.

Growing up in an immigrant household, I quickly became a bridge between two worlds. As the eldest child, I took on responsibilities far beyond my age. I translated at doctors’ appointments and school meetings, filled out countless forms, and explained bills and documents to my parents. Their limited English meant they often relied on me to speak on their behalf in important situations. I did everything I could to help them because I loved them deeply and wanted to protect them from being misunderstood or mistreated.

Those early experiences shaped who I am today. They taught me resilience, empathy, and the power of communication. I learned what it meant to be an advocate. I learned that many immigrants, like my parents, are intelligent and hardworking, but face overwhelming challenges simply because they do not understand the system or the language. That realization is what fueled my desire to study law and to dedicate my career to helping others navigate the complex U.S. immigration process.

Today, I am proud to serve as an immigration attorney, working closely with families who remind me so much of my own. I understand what it feels like to be new to this country, to feel uncertain, and to face barriers at every turn. My clients come to me with stories of hardship, courage, and hope. It is my privilege to listen to them, to guide them, and to fight for the outcomes they deserve.

While my Vietnamese reading and writing skills are limited, I make sure that language never becomes a barrier for our clients. I have built an amazing team that shares my passion and dedication. Together, we ensure that every client receives clear, honest, and compassionate guidance. We take the time to explain each option and step in a way that makes sense, so our clients feel confident in the decisions they are making.

One of the things that continues to drive me is the number of people I meet who have been misled or taken advantage of by unethical immigration consultants. These individuals often prey on vulnerable immigrants, charging high fees and making promises they cannot keep. When something goes wrong, they disappear, leaving families to face devastating consequences alone. I have seen this happen too many times, and it fills me with anger and determination. I want my clients to know that they are not alone and that they deserve to work with someone who genuinely cares about their future.

My journey, from a small fishing boat in the South China Sea to a refugee camp, and now to serving my community as a U.S. immigration attorney, has been filled with challenges, but also with blessings. I am thankful every day for the opportunity to do this work. I believe God placed me on this path for a reason. It is an honor to stand beside the individuals and families who come to me for help and to be a part of their journey toward stability, opportunity, and peace.

No immigration journey is easy. There will always be obstacles, but no one has to face them alone. If you or someone you know is facing an immigration issue, I invite you to contact our office. We will listen to your concerns, explain your options clearly, and work with you to find the best path forward.

Contact Tran Flores Law today and let us be your trusted partner in this journey. 📞 (512) 894-9984