Cristiane Lucena

Cristiane Lucena, who prefers to go by Cris, is a Brazilian-born attorney with over two decades of experience navigating complex legal systems across two continents. She began her legal career in Brazil as a labor and employment attorney, and she also clerked for Justices at the Labor Regional Court in Paraná. After relocating to the United States, Cris earned her Master of Laws (LL.M.) in U.S. Law from the University of Houston Law Center (UHLC) in 2020 and passed the Texas Bar Exam during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cris discovered her passion for immigration law while working as a student attorney at UHLC, where she advocated for vulnerable individuals facing overwhelming legal challenges. Since then, she has dedicated her career to immigration law, proudly supporting diverse communities—including Afghan nationals paroled into the U.S. due to the 2021 U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Her work is marked by compassion, diligence, and a deep understanding of the immigrant experience.

In 2023, Cris moved to Philadelphia and joined Hykel Law in May 2025. She is excited to continue helping immigrants achieve stability and opportunity, with a special commitment to serving the Brazilian community in the Philadelphia area.

Outside the office, Cris loves the thrill of roller coasters and enjoys outdoor adventures, such as hiking, biking, and exploring nature trails. She’s an avid traveler who values time with friends and family, and she’s always happy to wind down with her beloved cat, Kobe.