“Trust between a lawyer and a client is the key to success – only when you understand people as human beings can you truly help them.” – Lawyer, PhD in Law Jasmina Andreeva
Lawyer Andreeva, let’s start from the very beginning – where were you born, and what memories do you have from your childhood?
I was born in Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia. At that time, the country was still part of Yugoslavia. I had a carefree childhood full of games – I never lacked anything. All children lived like that back then.
What inspired you to pursue a career in law? Were there people or events that guided you toward this profession?
I am the first lawyer in my family, and no one specifically guided me to the legal profession. I have always had a strong sense of justice and a desire to help people in need. Also, at school, I loved subjects like history, sociology, and philosophy – all closely connected to law.
Where did you complete your higher education? Which classes or professors left the biggest impression on you?
I graduated from the Faculty of Law “Justinijan I” in Skopje. The professors were very demanding, and the level of education was high. They taught us to have high standards not only toward others but especially toward ourselves. The professor who impressed me the most was Prof. Škarić, who taught Constitutional Law. In Bulgaria, I completed a PhD in Private International Law at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” and in 2008 obtained the academic degree of Doctor of Law.
When did you first encounter migration issues, and how did this become your professional passion?
I first encountered migration issues when I came to Bulgaria in 2000, while starting my PhD studies at Sofia University. I did not yet have Bulgarian citizenship and had to first obtain a temporary, and later a permanent residence permit. Shortly after, I received a certificate of Bulgarian citizenship. Having gone through these processes myself, I realized I could be helpful to others going through the same path.
In Macedonia, were there specific migration issues that made you realize the importance of quality legal support?
In Macedonia, there has always been interest in obtaining Bulgarian citizenship. My father, Lyuben Sotirov, may he rest in peace, was the first chairman of the Association of Bulgarians in North Macedonia. One of the association’s functions was to advise Macedonian Bulgarians on submitting documents for Bulgarian citizenship. That is when I realized how important it is for people to receive quality legal support and a human approach.
How did you decide to start your career in Bulgaria? Was adapting to the new environment easy?
The decision came naturally. Working with people who needed consultations quickly made me realize the need for a serious approach. In the beginning, it was not easy at all – every beginning is hard, and mine was 23 years ago.
What challenges did you face then, and how did you overcome them?
The most difficult were bureaucracy and the poor organization of state institutions. We are talking about a period more than 20 years ago when institutions did not use the internet or online systems; everything was very archaic. After Bulgaria joined the EU, procedures improved, and I had already accumulated valuable experience.
How did you learn about the “Migration” firm, and what impressed you the most?
I met my colleague Aleksandar Mičić by chance at the Ministry of Justice while waiting for an interview for Bulgarian citizenship with our clients. He made an excellent impression on me and invited me for a meeting at the “Balkan Migration” office. Since then, I have been part of the team.
What is it like to help compatriots obtain a Bulgarian passport or start a business in Bulgaria?
The satisfaction is immense. Over these 23 years, I have helped hundreds of people who, through Bulgarian citizenship, have changed their lives and found a better life for themselves and their families. This is the greatest recognition of my work.
What makes a migration lawyer truly good – knowing the law or understanding clients as human beings?
Knowing the law is extremely important, but laws change. The ability to understand clients as people is equally essential. The key word in the process of obtaining Bulgarian citizenship is trust – clients choose people they can rely on.
Do you remember a case that touched you the most?
There was a family with three children in very poor social conditions who received Bulgarian citizenship. They now live happily in Sweden. Another case was a child with a rare genetic disorder who obtained citizenship and thus gained access to treatment in France. These moments confirmed that I chose the right professional path.
What does the “Migration” team mean to you?
It is not just a workplace; it is a mission. I feel part of something bigger.
What goals do you set for your professional development?
The values I follow are persistence, diligence, and integrity. I aim for solid and quality work, and the results will speak for themselves.
What advice would you give to a young lawyer?
Be patient and work with quality – the results will not be delayed.
Outside of your profession – what is your “refuge”?
I love sports – basketball and football. My children train in these sports, and I enjoy watching their games on weekends – it recharges me with energy.
What would you like clients to know before entering the office?
I want them to know they will always be heard and professionally consulted. They will receive quality information that will help them, not empty words. I will always be available, but I expect honesty and seriousness.