Biography
Cecil R. Roberson brings a rare multidisciplinary perspective to Atiya Law, serving as a strategic advocate at the intersection of immigration, business, and criminal defense. A “practitioner-scholar,” Cecil combines high-stakes litigation experience with a deep academic background, currently serving as a Full-Time Professor of Business Law and International Business Law at Michigan State University.
Comprehensive Immigration & Appellate Advocacy
At Atiya Law, Cecil specializes in navigating the complexities of the U.S. immigration system. His practice is dedicated to helping individuals and organizations secure their future through:
Business & Employment Visas: Advising entrepreneurs and companies on visa strategies, residency, and citizenship.
Humanitarian Relief: Representing clients in matters of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Asylum.
Appellate Practice: Identifying grounds for appeal in denied applications and providing rigorous representation before the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) and the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR).
A Holistic Defense for the Immigrant Community
Cecil’s background as a former Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Wayne, Kent, and Oakland Counties allows him to provide a unique “Crimmigration” defense. He assists immigrants facing criminal matters, ensuring their defense strategy is crafted to protect both their liberty and their immigration status. Additionally, he leverages his MBA and decade of experience with Fortune 500 companies (including GM and AT&T) to advise immigrant business owners on formation, contract disputes, and regulatory compliance.
Trial-Tested Experience
Before joining Atiya Law, Cecil served as an Employment Litigation Attorney at Jackson Lewis, defending against complex claims of discrimination and contract breach. He also served as In-House Counsel and Compliance Officer for Theoria Medical and as an associate attorney for the Detroit Land Bank Authority. This breadth of experience—from jury trials to corporate governance—enables him to anticipate challenges and deliver results in any forum.
Education & Professional Honors
Juris Doctor: Wayne State University Law School (President, Black Law Students Association)
Master of Business Administration: Eastern Michigan University
Bachelor of Arts (Journalism & Advertising): Michigan State University
Admitted to Practice: State Bar of Michigan; U.S. District Court (EDM); EOIR; USCIS; Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA).
Cecil is a recipient of the St. Ives of Treguier Award, nominated by Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, recognizing his outstanding character and commitment to public service. A Detroit native and graduate of Cass Technical High School, he remains deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of legal professionals.
Cecil is admitted to practice in the State Bar of Michigan, the U.S. District Court (EDMI), and the Executive Office for Immigration Review