Petro Richard Kostiv was born in Ukraine and immigrated to the United States at the age of eighteen, a move that required adaptability, discipline, and a strong sense of purpose. The challenges of navigating a new environment gave him a deep understanding of perseverance and the immigrant experience. This foundation shaped his professional philosophy and inspired his lifelong commitment to guiding others through significant personal and legal transitions with empathy and clarity. Fluent in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, and Ukrainian, and conversational in German and Mandarin, Petro bridges cultures effortlessly. His education reflects a global outlook and intellectual curiosity. 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 at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. He earned his Juris Doctor at the University of Michigan Law School. During his legal studies, Petro worked at the Supreme Court of Argentina, gaining practical insight into constitutional and administrative law. His academic pursuits expanded into aviation, earning a Bachelor of Science in Aviation and a certificate in U.S. Aviation Law from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He also completed IATA training in aviation safety and compliance, developing a dual specialization in law and aviation that continues to define his multidisciplinary career. Petro began his career researching international legal systems before establishing Kostiv & Associates, a leading law firm with offices across Los Angeles, Washington D.C., Virginia, Maryland, Baltimore, and Miami. His firm specializes in immigration, business, and aviation law, offering tailored strategies for individuals and corporations. Petro’s global experience and client-centered approach have earned him recognition for solving complex cross-border challenges with efficiency and precision. An FAA-certified pilot and instructor, Petro Kostiv holds commercial and private pilot licenses, as well as single- and multiengine ratings. His technical expertise allows him to advise clients on aviation compliance, insurance, and operational risks. Beyond his legal and aviation pursuits, he dedicates time to humanitarian work, supporting orphanages, disaster relief efforts, and educational initiatives worldwide. As president of the Ukrainian American Bar Association, Petro advocates for justice, reform, and international collaboration. Grounded in preparation and compassion, his career reflects a lifelong mission to lead, serve, and make a meaningful global impact.