Nearly 30 Years of Standing With Immigrant Families in East Texas
Our Story
In 1995, the Hispanic American Association of East Texas opened its doors in Tyler with a simple but powerful mission — to make sure immigrant families in East Texas had somewhere to turn.
Three years later, in 1998, HAAET was accredited by the Board of Immigration Appeals, one of the most significant credentials an immigration organization can hold. That accreditation means our team is fully authorized to legally represent clients before the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of State, the Department of Justice,
and Immigration Court.
For nearly three decades, we have shown up for families navigating one of the most complicated legal systems in the world. We have celebrated naturalizations, reunited families, defended clients in court, and guided thousands of people through the immigration process with honesty, expertise, and care.
We are still here. We are not going anywhere. And for every family that walks through our door, that matters
Mission Statement
The Hispanic American Association of East Texas is a DOJ-accredited nonprofit dedicated to empowering immigrant families in East Texas through affordable, trusted immigration legal services. Since 1995, we have guided thousands of individuals and families through DACA renewals, naturalization, family petitions, deportation defense, and more, ensuring that every person we serve has access to the representation they deserve.
A Message from Our Executive Director
For nearly 30 years, I have had the privilege of serving the immigrant community here in East Texas. What started as a simple mission in 1995 has grown into something I am deeply proud of. Every family that walks through our doors comes to us during one of the most stressful moments of their lives. My team and I do not take that trust lightly.
At HAAET, we are DOJ-accredited, which means we are fully authorized to represent you before USCIS, the Department of Justice, and Immigration Court. But beyond the credentials, what sets us apart is our commitment to treating every client with dignity, honesty, and care.
If you or your family need immigration help, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are here, and we are ready to fight for you.
Gilbert Urbina Jr.
Executive Director, HAAET
DOJ-Accredited. Authorized. On Your Side.
Not everyone who offers immigration help is authorized to do so.
Notarios, immigration consultants, and unlicensed representatives may take your money and your documents and leave you worse off than when you started. It happens more than you think, and the consequences can be devastating.
HAAET is different.
We are accredited by the Board of Immigration Appeals. That means we can legally stand in front of a judge and represent you. We can file your paperwork, advocate on your behalf, and fight for your case because we are authorized to do exactly that.
When you work with HAAET, you work with people who know this process, who care about your outcome, and who have the credentials to back it up.
The People Behind HAAET
Our team combines decades of experience with a deep commitment to the communities we serve.
Gilbert Urbina Jr
Executive Director, Level II DOJ Representative, Court Interpreter
Gilbert founded HAAET in 1995 and has spent nearly three decades fighting for immigrant families in East Texas. As a Level II DOJ Representative and certified Court Interpreter, he is authorized to represent clients before immigration courts and has stood beside families through some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
Ada Guerrero
DOJ Representative, Case Worker
Ada is a dedicated legal assistant whose sharp attention to detail and deep knowledge of legal procedures make her an invaluable asset to every case she touches. Beyond the office, she's a true pillar of the Hispanic community, bridging language and cultural gaps to help countless families navigate the legal system with confidence. Her rare blend of professional expertise and genuine heart has earned her the trust and respect of clients and community members alike.
Kevin Patterson
DOJ Representative, Case Worker
Kevin brings both legal expertise and a calm, steady presence to every case he handles. As a DOJ-accredited representative, he guides clients through the immigration process with clarity and confidence.
Maritza Baldovinos
Case Worker
Maritza works closely with clients to make sure every document is in order, every form is complete, and every step of their case is handled with precision and care.
Lucero Oblitas
Case Worker
Lucero is dedicated to making sure clients feel informed and supported at every stage of their case. She believes that a client who understands their process is a client who feels empowered.
Anna Carmona
Legal Assistant
Anna keeps the HAAET team running smoothly behind the scenes, supporting case preparation and making sure clients receive timely, thorough service from the moment they walk in the door.
Damaris Rivera
Receptionist
Damaris is the first voice most clients hear when they call HAAET. She handles scheduling with warmth and efficiency, making sure every client feels welcomed and connected to the right team member from the very first call.
