Petro Kostiv

Petro Richard Kostiv was born in Ukraine and immigrated to the United States at the age of eighteen, a transition that tested his determination and adaptability. Facing the challenges of building a life in a new country shaped his deep empathy and understanding of the immigrant experience. This foundation became central to his professional mission—to guide others through complex transitions and legal challenges with both precision and compassion, drawing on his own story of perseverance and global perspective.

Fluent in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, and Ukrainian, and conversational in German and Mandarin, Petro embodies cross-cultural communication. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in History with honors from the University of California, Berkeley, with a focus on Latin American political and economic development. He later completed a Master of Arts in Political Science from the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa and a Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan Law School, where he earned a certificate in international law.

While studying law, Petro worked at the Supreme Court of Argentina, gaining firsthand insight into judicial processes and comparative legal systems. His academic path expanded beyond law into aviation, earning a Bachelor of Science in Aviation and a certificate in U.S. Aviation Law from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Additionally, he completed IATA training in aviation safety and compliance, combining his legal acumen with technical expertise across two demanding professional fields.

Petro later founded Kostiv & Associates, a global law firm with offices in Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., Virginia, Maryland, Baltimore, and Miami. His firm specializes in immigration, business, and aviation law, providing comprehensive legal solutions for individuals and corporations worldwide. He has represented clients before U.S. federal courts, embassies, and international agencies, earning recognition for his integrity, preparation, and ability to navigate intricate cross-border matters with clarity and success.

A licensed commercial and private pilot with multiple FAA instructor certifications, Petro’s aviation background complements his legal career, allowing him to consult on regulatory compliance, safety, and aviation finance. Beyond his professional achievements, he devotes significant time to humanitarian causes, supporting orphanages and relief efforts worldwide.