Stephen Blaker Recognized for Outstanding Work in LGBTQ+ Immigration Law

In a noteworthy achievement, Stephen Blaker, co-founder and partner at Blaker & Granet LLP, has been named to the National LGBTQ+ Bar Association's 2025 40 Under 40 list. This prestigious honor acknowledges exceptional LGBTQ+ legal professionals under the age of 40 who have made significant contributions to their fields and demonstrated a steadfast commitment to advancing LGBTQ+ rights and equality.

The 40 Under 40 accolades celebrate top LGBTQ+ lawyers across the nation, including practicing attorneys, law professors, corporate counsel, and members of the judiciary. Honorees were recognized during the Lavender Law® Conference and Career Fair, held from July 28 to 30, 2025, in New York City.

A Leader in LGBTQ+ Immigration Law

With over a decade of experience in immigration law, Stephen Blaker has established a reputable practice focusing on both employment-based and family-based immigration petitions. His expertise encompasses various categories, including H-1B, TN, L-1A/B, E-2, E-3, O-1, J-1, as well as I-140 (Remarkable Ability, Multinational Managers, labor certification-based), Adjustment of Status, and Naturalization applications. His diverse clientele includes notable multinational companies in media, healthcare, technology, real estate, and nonprofit sectors.

Stephen has made significant strides in advocating for LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families within the U.S. immigration context. His commitment is especially evident in his work with marriage-based green card applications, where biases have adversely affected applicants. Notably, he secured re-evaluations for cases tainted by implicit bias and assisted in the preparation of complex immigration matters involving transgender clients, upholding their dignity and rights.

One of his remarkable achievements includes facilitating the first non-binary passport recipient under new State Department guidelines. His advocacy promotes inclusivity and equity within the immigration framework, showcasing his dedication to supporting marginalized communities.

Commitment to Mentorship and Community Leadership

Beyond his legal practice, Stephen is an active participant in the American Immigration Lawyers Association's LGBTQ+ Lawyers Interest Group. He champions initiatives such as officer bias training for immigration adjudicators. His mentoring extends to law students at USC Gould School of Law, where he shares his insights and experiences to foster the next generation of legal professionals. Moreover, he collaborates closely with OUTLaw, the LGBTQ+ organization at USC Gould, where he previously held the position of president.

Blaker & Granet LLP commends Stephen for this well-deserved recognition, which reflects not only his legal acumen but also his unwavering dedication to the LGBTQ+ community. This accolade serves as a testament to his leadership, expertise, and commitment to advocating for justice and inclusion in immigration law.

About Blaker & Granet LLP

Blaker & Granet LLP is a distinguished immigration law firm owned by LGBTQ+ individuals and women, devoted to providing outstanding legal representation in both employment and family-based immigration cases. With a focus on promoting justice, equity, and inclusion, the firm aims to serve marginalized communities effectively. For more information on Stephen Blaker’s services, potential clients can reach out via their official contact channels.