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overview
Robert S. Anderson has significant experience in the areas of employment-based immigration and the representation of local, national, and international companies in obtaining authorization for employees to work permanently or temporarily in the United States.
Practice Areas
Bio
Robert counsels and represents clients in the full spectrum of immigration legal issues as applied to their workforces and staff, including all aspects of the international movement of personnel (inbound and outbound work authorization status); formulating and implementing short-and/or long-term employment plans; obtaining appropriate immigrant (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3) and non-immigrant (H-1B, L-1, E-1 and E-2, O-1, P-1, R-1, TN) employment classifications; managing the Permanent Labor Certification Program (PERM); advising on immigration compliance including Forms I-9, E-Verify and LCA files; and obtaining temporary visitor and work visas for employment in foreign countries. Robert also conducts internal immigration audits and in-house training.
Robert works with a wide range of companies, including Fortune 500 corporations, non-profit organizations, and start-up enterprises in a variety of industries, including biotechnology, pharmaceutical, healthcare, automotive, beverage, tier-one and tier-two suppliers, engineering, and information technology, among others. He was named in The Best Lawyers in America© for 2020 and 2021.
Prior to joining Kerr Russell, Robert served as a senior attorney in the Immigration Law Practice of Miller Canfield. Previously, he was the Managing Member of Robert S. Anderson & Associates, a law firm focused on immigration; and was previously associated with a regional immigration law practice.
credentials
Affiliations
- State Bar of Michigan
- Federal Bar Association, Eastern District of Michigan Chapter
- Immigration Committee Co-Chair
- American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA)
- Past CBP Liaison Chair, Michigan Chapter
Bar and Court Admissions
- Michigan
Education
- Wayne State University Law School, L.L.M.
- Thomas M. Cooley Law School, J.D.
- Michigan State University, B.A.
Insights & News
October 13, 2020
Proposed Changes to H-1B Program & New Wage Requirements Implemented
On October 8, 2020, the Departments of Homeland Security (DHS) and Labor (DOL) announced sweeping changes to the H-1B program, as well as adjustments to the way that required wages are calculated for the H-1B, E-3 and PERM labor certification processes.
August 20, 2020
Kerr Russell Attorneys Recognized by Best Lawyers in America© 2021 and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch
Seventeen Kerr Russell members were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2021. Notably, twelve of the named attorneys have been listed in The Best Lawyers in America for more than five years.
June 23, 2020
Presidential Proclamation Suspends Entry of Some Non-Immigrant Workers
On June 22, President Trump signed a Presidential Proclamation suspending the entry of some employment-based non-immigrants, effective June 24. Citing the need to protect the economic recovery of the United States in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Proclamation effectively bars U.S. Consulates from issuing H-1B/H-4, H-2B, some J-1, and L visas through December 31, 2020.
April 23, 2020
Presidential Proclamation Barring Entry of Immigrants
On Monday night, April 20, President Trump tweeted that he planned to sign an Executive Order temporarily suspending immigration into the United States.
April 3, 2020
COVID-19 Immigration FAQs (Part 2)
In an effort to provide updates reflective of the common questions we are answering, we have compiled additional FAQs and responses.
March 27, 2020
COVID-19 Immigration FAQs (Part 1)
We have been receiving many immigration-related inquires in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting impact to companies that employ foreign workers. Here, we have compiled the most common questions posed with our responses.
March 24, 2020
COVID-19: Immigration Impact - Update (Part 2)
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the international movement of personnel, visa applications, and how immigration benefits are processed in the United States.
March 17, 2020
Coronavirus/COVID-19 Business Continuity: A Message to Our Community, Clients and Friends
Kerr Russell is committed to its community, clients and people. As the world navigates through the impact of COVID-19 (coronavirus), we want to assure you that Kerr Russell is committed to supporting our community, clients and people as effectively as we have through every other crisis our Nation has encountered over our firm’s nearly 150-year history.
Our firm is fully operational: We have made sure that our lawyers and staff are able to safely and effectively serve our clients’ needs and continue operations on an uninterrupted basis. Most of our people
March 16, 2020
COVID-19: Immigration Impact
The global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has spread to the international movement of personnel, visa applications, and how immigration benefits are processed in the United States. Below is a summary of some of these implications.
December 18, 2019
Immigration Insights for the End of the Year
Kerr Russell immigration practice chair, Kate McCarroll, recently released the Immigration Insider newsletter. Learn about changes to 2020 H-1B cap filings, an increase to filing fees, and an increase in STEM OPT on-site visits.
August 15, 2019
15 Lawyers From Kerr Russell Are Recognized In The Best Lawyers In America© 2020
A total of 15 lawyers from Kerr Russell are named to the prestigious 2020 Edition of the Best Lawyers in America©. The award is given annually in recognition of being named as part of the “top legal talent in the U.S.”
June 21, 2019
Immigration Insider - Summer 2019
U.S. Visa Applicants Must Now Submit Social Media Information
The U.S. Department of State is now requiring most U.S. visa applicants to provide information about their social media accounts. As of May 31, applicants must provide the social media platforms, user names, email addresses and phone numbers they have used for the five years preceding the application. For non-immigrant visa applicants, this information is collected on the DS-160, prior to scheduling a Consulate appointment. For those applying for an immigrant visa, the additional queries have been added to the DS-260.
March 19, 2019
Immigration Insider – USCIS Processing and Cap Filings of H-1B Petitions
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) recently announced that it resumed the availability of Premium Processing for all types of H-1B petitions. In August 2018, as an effort to reduce its significant backlog, USCIS suspended Premium Processing for all H1B petitions other than those filed by cap-exempt employers or filed to request an extension without a change in employer or position.
December 18, 2018
Immigration Insider - Potential Changes to Fiscal Year 2020 H-1B Cap Filings (Winter 2018)
Potential Changes to Fiscal Year 2020 H-1B Cap Filings
On November 30, 2018, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) issued a proposed rule that would require pre-registration for employers wishing to sponsor individuals for H-1B status. Additionally, the proposal would change the manner in which USCIS counts H-1B filings toward the cap. The proposal is open for public comments until January 2, 2019.
September 25, 2018
Kerr Russell's Wayne State alumni gather for presentation from law school dean
We had a full house for a presentation from Wayne State University Law School’s Dean Richard A. Bierschbach. Kerr Russell has a long and proud history of Wayne Law Warriors practicing here. Thank you to Kerr Russell's Mark Stasa and Laina Van Wyke and Wayne Law's Duc Abrahamson for organizing.
September 21, 2018
Kerr Russell sponsors, partners attend Metropolitan Detroit's Best and Brightest Companies to Work For 2018 event
Kerr Russell was pleased to be a silver sponsor for today’s Corp! Magazine / The Best and Brightest Programs event held at the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center, celebrating those who create innovative, engaging, inclusive work cultures. Attending on behalf of the firm: Kate McCarroll, member - immigration; Miroslava Orduno Rincon, member - immigration; and Roy Sexton, director of marketing.
September 20, 2018
Kerr Russell recognizes our 2018 dbusiness Top Lawyers in Metro Detroit honorees
Kerr Russell recognizes this year’s dbusiness Top Lawyers in Metro Detroit honorees - 21 attorneys, many for multiple practice areas.
September 18, 2018
Immigration Insider - Updates regarding premium processing, petition denials (Fall 2018)
Increase in Premium Processing Fee
U.S Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) announced that beginning October 1, 2018, the fee for premium processing will be raised to $1,410 (from $1,225). USCIS explained that the purpose of the fee increase is “to more effectively adjudicate petitions and maintain effective service to petitioners.” Premium processing is currently available for some I-129 and I-140 petitions, and allows petitioners to request 15 day processing of certain filings with payment of the additional fee.
September 11, 2018
Sneak peek of Dbusiness Magazine Top Lawyers photo shoot with Kerr Russell
A little sneak peek of today’s DBusiness Magazine “Top Lawyers” photo shoot of Kerr Russell with the talented and gracious David Frechette. Thank you to Valerie Maness for her assistance.
September 6, 2018
Kerr Russell attorneys, friends attend second annual New Americans Appreciation Gala - September 6 at The Henry
It was a beautiful evening celebrating the remarkable accomplishments of immigrants in America.
Kerr Russell’s Brandy Mathie, Robert Anderson, James Cambridge and Mary Cambridge, Miroslava Orduno Rincon and KeVin Knox, and Roy Sexton attended the 2nd annual New Americans Appreciation Gala on September 6 at The Henry in Dearborn.
August 30, 2018
Kerr Russell team places first at Detroit Chinese Business Association golf outing
Kerr Russell was pleased to support the 23rd Annual Detroit Chinese Business Association (DCBA) International Golf Open on August 28. Our golfers - Jeffrey May, Ken Lombardo, Robert Anderson, and Rich Buslepp - placed first in the outing.
DCBA chair Brian Gao and Kerr Russell member / DCBA Advisory Board Member James Cambridge presented the foursome their hard-earned trophies (14 under par!).
June 25, 2018
Kerr Russell featured as advertiser in Corp! Magazine's annual Human Resources Guide
Be on the lookout for Corp! Magazine's special edition "2018 Human Resource Guide." From the publisher: "In partnership with the Best & Brightest Companies to Work For, this issue focuses on best practices in the workplace.
June 18, 2018
Immigration Insider: Change in Delivery of Secure Documents, FY 2019 H-1B Lottery Petitions, and I-751 Removal of Conditions Extension (Summer 2018)
Change in Delivery of Secure Documents
In an effort to increase the "security, integrity, and efficiency of document delivery," U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) announced that beginning April 30, 2018, it would utilize a new delivery method for "green cards," employment authorization documents (EADs), and travel documents (e.g. re-entry permits). The new method requires beneficiaries to present identification to confirm identity and sign for their documents in order to receive delivery.
March 29, 2018
Detroit Public Television's PBSNewsHour and Nightly Business Report to be sponsored by Kerr Russell
Kerr Russell is pleased to support Detroit Public Television, and, beginning April 2, the following spot will air during PBS NewsHour (weekdays, 6-7 pm) and the Nightly Business Report (weekdays, 7-7:30 pm). View the spot here.
February 26, 2018
Kerr Russell's latest ad "Driven By Results" debuts in Crain's M&A, Biggest Deals issue this week
Kerr Russell's latest ad "Driven By Results" debuts in Crain's M&A, Biggest Deals issue this week. The ad emphasizes the firm's 143-year presence in Detroit as part of the larger business and legal community. "We understand the region. We know what moves Michigan. We are committed to the community."
January 26, 2018
Download Kerr Russell's updated firm brochure and overview of services
Kerr Russell is proud of Detroit. We are proud to have had a seat at the table here since 1874. Our exceptional attorneys understand the unique challenges facing business leaders. Our legal solutions are prompt, accurate, economical, and focused around your needs in every area. We know Michigan business like the back of our hands.
January 17, 2018
Ken Lombardo, Robert Anderson featured in Crain's Detroit Business
Congratulations to Robert Anderson and Ken Lombardo for being featured in this week's Crain's Detroit Business "People on the Move." Both were named members (partners) of the firm, effective January 1. You can view the Crain's piece online here.
January 15, 2018
Influencing the Legal Landscape - new Kerr Russell ad to appear in dbusiness
Kerr Russell introduces the third ad in the new "Est. in Detroit 1874" series: "Influencing the legal landscape." The piece emphasizes the firm's 143-year presence in Detroit as part of the larger business and legal community. "We don't sit on the sidelines. We are active in industry groups and we're driving legislative change. We are leaders in the law."
January 1, 2018
Kerr Russell selects Robert Anderson, Kenneth Lombardo as new members
Kerr Russell is pleased to announce that Robert S. Anderson, immigration law, and Kenneth R. Lombardo, corporate law, have been selected to become members (partners) of the firm, effective January 1.
December 18, 2017
Kerr Russell team makes holiday donations to Capuchin Soup Kitchen, Wigs 4 Kids, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Ann Arbor, and Children's Hospital of Michigan
One of our traditions here at Kerr Russell is to hold a holiday raffle to benefit three local charities as well as to conduct a toy drive for local children. This year's raffle (many of the beautiful and festive prizes picture here) raised a record total of $3,450 which will be divided equally among three organizations: Capuchin Soup Kitchen, Wigs 4 Kids of Michigan, Inc., and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Ann Arbor.
December 14, 2017
Immigration Insider - Travel Restrictions, USCIS Ends Deference to Extensions of Nonimmigrant Status, Online Naturalization Application, New H-1B Filings (Winter 2017)
Implementation of Presidential Proclamation Regarding Travel Restrictions
On September 24, 2017, President Trump issued a third travel ban, after the initial two versions were found unconstitutional by the U.S. courts.
November 30, 2017
Merry and bright ... Kerr Russell welcomes the holiday season
It's a time to celebrate, reflect and remember. However you mark the holidays, we hope your days are filled with warmth and thankfulness, good times, and endless cheer. As another year draws to a close, we at Kerr Russell are grateful to you. You give purpose to our work and add meaning to our relationships. Your trust is a cherished gift. Enjoy these images as we get our offices ready to celebrate the holiday season. Design by Mandy Lark of Lark Interior Design.
November 16, 2017
Culture of Connection - new Kerr Russell ad to appear in Michigan Lawyers Weekly and dbusiness
Kerr Russell introduces the second ad in the new "Est. in Detroit 1874" series: "A culture of connection." The piece emphasizes the firm's 143-year presence in Detroit as part of the larger business and legal community. "We are relationship focused. We know our people and our clients are the lifeblood of our firm."
November 3, 2017
Kerr Russell launches new advertising in upcoming issues of dbusiness and Crain's Detroit
With this month's issue of dbusiness, focused on Top Lawyers in Metro Detroit, Kerr Russell launches its new brand advertising with "A Track Record of Results." Working with Identity Public Relations and Marketing, Kerr Russell's marketing team developed the creative to emphasize the firm's longstanding place in Detroit's legal and business history.
November 1, 2017
Kerr Russell ranked in the 2018 U.S. News - Best Lawyers® "Best Law Firms" list nationally in 1 practice area and regionally in 17 practice areas
U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers, for the eighth consecutive year, announce the "Best Law Firms" rankings.
October 6, 2017
Team spirit ... for some great causes
Today was a day of team building and team spirit, camaraderie and good-natured rivalry. To raise money for Kerr Russell’s holiday giving initiatives, attorneys and colleagues were encouraged, for a small donation, to wear their favorite team apparel - with an obvious leaning toward tomorrow’s big game between the Spartans and the Wolverines.
September 19, 2017
Kerr Russell team places second and scores longest drive at Detroit Chinese Business Association golf outing
At the 22nd Annual Detroit Chinese Business Association (DCBA) International Golf Opening at Indianwood Golf and Country Club, our attorneys experienced a great afternoon of golfing and kinship, plus a wonderful dinner with opening remarks by Executive Office, Oakland County, Michigan's Deputy Executive Matthew Gibb.
September 15, 2017
Immigration Insider - In-Person Interviews Expanded, Attorney Representation at Border, Denial of Advanced Parole, and DACA (Fall 2017)
The Fall 2017 edition of Kerr Russell's Immigration Insider has been published.
August 21, 2017
2017 Associate Golf Outing at Links of Novi
Like many organizations, we are so dedicated to creating client value, meeting your needs, and exceeding your expectations that we may neglect to recharge our own batteries, on the way to inspiring even greater collaboration, ingenuity, and teamwork.
August 10, 2017
A culture of giving
If you want to know how a firm can thrive for over 140 years in a city that has faced considerable challenges, walk through the door of Kerr Russell’s suite on the 25th floor of the Detroit Center and get a feel for the people.
January 30, 2017
Immigration Alert: Executive Order & Travel
On Friday, January 27, President Trump signed an Executive Order which bars individuals who are citizens of Iran, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Yemen, Libya and Somalia from entering the United States for at least 90 days.
Representative Matters
Employment-based non-immigrant petitions, with expertise regarding E-2, individual and blanket L-1 petitions, H-1Bs, Ps, Os and TNs
Permanent residence processes, including PERM and First Preference EB-1, Multinational Executives and Managers
Immigrant visas - Adjustment of Status and Consular Processing
I-9 and immigration-related compliance training
Department of Labor/Department of Homeland Security audits
Family-based immigration petitions
Naturalization