things to know when getting an immigration lawyer

7 Things to Know Before Hiring an Immigration Lawyer

1. How Experienced Are They? First and foremost, determine your potential lawyer’s familiarity and experience with...
2. Where is the Lawyer Licensed? It is important for you to find out where the lawyer you intend hiring is licensed. If...
3. Who is Handling the Case? You should know whether the lawyer in question...

Full Answer

What do I need to know before hiring an immigration attorney?

Before your attorney can start working on your case, you’ll need to hammer out the financial details. You’ll want to know: Many attorneys offer payment plans, but remember, many immigration documents require filing fees. Those fees typically can’t be put on a payment plan, so you’ll need to think ahead when it comes to financing your case.

Why do you want to be an immigration lawyer?

Because immigration law provides you with a foundation to represent people who have immigration matters to resolve, but it also allows you to recognize how a person’s immigration status might impact them in many seemingly unrelated ways. What do immigration lawyers do?

Where can I find an immigration lawyer?

You can find immigration lawyers in various legal settings as well, from large law firms to smaller practices that include or specialize in immigration law, to government agencies to nonprofit organizations. (Every world-class performer or athlete has an immigration attorney behind them, advising on and securing necessary visas!)

What degree do I need to become an immigration lawyer?

For most people planning to practice law, including immigration law, the JD is the standard degree. But some law school graduates go on to pursue other degrees or credentials requiring additional study, such as the Master of Laws (LLM) or the Doctor of Science of Law/Doctor of Juridical Science (JSD or SJD).

What questions should I ask my immigration attorney?

Here's a quick look at ten questions you should ask every immigration attorney you speak with about your case.Do You Specialize in Visas and Family Immigration Law? ... Are You A Member Of The American Immigration Lawyers Association? ... Have You Ever Been Reprimanded Or Disciplined For Dishonesty?More items...•

How do I prepare for immigration Consultation?

5 Tips to Make the Most of your Immigration ConsultationAsk the Prospective Attorney Questions about His or Her Experience. ... Tell the Lawyer if Your Case Involves an Emergency. ... Bring the Necessary Immigration Documents to Your Appointment. ... Bring Copies of Criminal Records, if Applicable. ... Take Good Notes.

Can immigration lawyer speed up process?

The immigration process can be intimidating and take a long time, but hiring an immigration attorney to support you with your case can speed up the process and help you meet your goals.

How much does a US immigration lawyer cost?

An immigration lawyer charges between $150 and $300 per hour, with a typical 30-min consultation fee of $75 to $150. Legal assistance when filing basic immigration forms costs $250 to $800, while green card assistance runs from $800 to $5,000, plus the USCIS fees of $460 to $700.

What questions should I ask an immigration consultant?

Ten Questions To Ask An Immigration ConsultantAre you registered with ICCRC? ... Can I talk or correspond directly with the registered agent? ... How long have you been in the industry? ... How are you different from others? ... Which immigration program may be right for me, and why?More items...•

What questions should I ask about immigration?

Green Card and Immigration BasicsWhat is a green card? ... What is USCIS? ... What is a lawful permanent resident? ... What is conditional permanent residence? ... Why would a green card application be denied? ... Can I work in the U.S. while waiting for my green card? ... What is the Visa Bulletin? ... What is a biometric screening?

How long is the US immigration process?

How long does it take to become a U.S. citizen? The national average processing time for naturalization (citizenship) applications is 14 months.

How long does an I-130 take to get approved?

5 to 9 monthMost Form I-130 petitions for immediate relatives are approved within a 5 to 9 month time frame, but they can take longer in some cases. If you are in the United States and also filed an application to adjust status, USCIS will begin reviewing Form I-485 at this point.

How can I get I-130 approved fast?

You can generally request expedited processing by calling the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833) or by asking Emma after you have obtained a receipt notice.

Do you automatically get a green card when you marry a US citizen?

The beneficiary, or person who is applying to receive a green card, is generally automatically eligible to receive a green card once they are lawfully married to a U.S. citizen or green card holder.

How much is the green card fee?

The USCIS Immigrant Fee is $220.00.

Do I need a lawyer to apply for US citizenship?

Do I need a lawyer to apply for U.S. citizenship? No. You can file USCIS forms yourself, including Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, which can be submitted online.

1. How Experienced Are They?

First and foremost, determine your potential lawyer’s familiarity and experience with immigration issues similar to yours. For example, if you are seeking asylum, you’ll want to know about past asylum cases in which representation was provided.

2. Where is the Lawyer Licensed?

It is important for you to find out where the lawyer you intend hiring is licensed. If the lawyer’s office is in Auckland, for instance, you need to be sure the lawyer is licensed to practice there. Why? This is to protect you.

3. Who is Handling the Case?

You should know whether the lawyer in question will really be the one setting up your case or if another person will handle it. Often it is usually an inexperienced lawyer or a paralegal who is left to do the work. This may cause some problems which can cost you extra money.

4. How Busy is the Lawyer?

Find out how many cases every month the attorney handles. If the lawyer has several cases to handle, the quality of work rendered to you may not be excellent. The best lawyers handle only a few cases and do the cases themselves. Immigration cases can take several months or even years to complete.

5. When will He Begin?

You also want to find out from your potential attorney when they can start on your case, and how he will communicate the progress of your case. You will need to make sure you are hiring a lawyer who is ready to begin work and can give your case the attention that it deserves.

6. How much will it cost?

It is very important to get a clear estimate of the legal fees. Some lawyers may charge you a little amount initially and find ways to get more money by charging an additional fee. Ask them what the fees cover. Dors it cover for initial filing only or does it include ancillary matters, follow-up appointments etc.

7. What About Testimonials?

Can the Lawyer provide actual client testimonials from previous successful cases? What do past clients say about him, his integrity, and his willingness to provide both successful and compassionate legal representation? Take the time to research testimonials from different outlets like the website of the attorney, social media, and online review sites..

Who might be interested in immigration law?

Does the thought of working on human rights issues excite you? Do you like interacting with people from other countries and cultures? Are you interested in criminal law, constitutional law, civil rights law, family law, education law, entertainment law, sports law, compliance, or business law? Do you hope to be a transactional lawyer or litigate in federal court?.

What do immigration lawyers do?

The immigration issues that have seen intense political debate and media coverage in recent years are only part of the story.

How can you become an immigration lawyer?

Regardless of the eventual practice area, completing a bachelor’s degree is the usual first step in becoming a lawyer, followed by earning a juris doctor (JD) degree.

What does immigration law pay?

It’s no secret that legal careers tend to pay well, though individual lawyers’ salaries can vary considerably, even within the same legal specialty, like immigration law. The services you offer, clientele you serve, and area of the country you practice in can all affect earning potential.

Where can I learn more?

There are certainly plenty of online resources to help you learn more about becoming an immigration lawyer; however, you may find it’s helpful to start by connecting with people in the field.

What is the first step to solving your immigration problems?

Scheduling a free immigration consultation with a reputable immigration attorney is the first step to solving your immigration problems. The team at Davis & Associates is eager to answer all of your questions and guide you on what your options are.

What to ask a visa lawyer?

Experienced visa immigration lawyers or their associates have likely handled cases like yours. Asking about the lawyer’s track record is a reasonable request. Most importantly, the lawyer can describe the circumstances and the strategy used to achieve a favorable result, while explaining how the same approach could work for you. A good attorney will be happy to tell you about favorable outcomes, whether you’re asking about citizenship and naturalization , deportation , immigration appeals or visas.

What is AILA membership?

Membership in the American Immigration Lawyers Association, or AILA , is an endorsement of the attorney’s commitment to immigration law. It shows that the lawyer you’re working with demonstrates a desire to staying abreast of new developments and best practices.

What should a visa immigration lawyer do?

The plan should include a timeline and defined deliverables. When you explain your case to an attorney, he or she will most likely have a good idea about what to do from the start – and after a good conversation, the attorney you’re working with will fine-tune a strategy that gets you the best possible outcome.

What is the purpose of an initial visit?

The purpose of an initial visit is for you and the attorney to determine if representation makes sense, and for you to decide if the attorney is the right choice for you. Not all attorneys offer this consultation for free, though, so you should check before you start scheduling appointments with lawyers all over town.

What happens if immigration law is not the attorney's primary focus?

If immigration law is not the attorney’s primary focus, changing laws and accelerated enforcement may catch him or her off guard. Knowledge and experience are the best defense, and dedicated visa immigration lawyers understand how to manage unique situations.

Why is integrity important in law?

Integrity is important (especially because some attorneys accept cases and fees even when they believe there is no chance for success), and you want to work with an attorney who believes in what you’re trying to accomplish. Again, no attorney can guarantee a specific outcome.

What is an AILA referral?

If you don't have anyone who can give you a referral list, you can begin your search for a lawyer on AILA. AILA is the American Immigration Lawyers Association. It was established "to promote justice, advocate for fair and reasonable immigration law and policy, advance the quality of immigration and nationality law and practice, and enhance the professional development of its members." With over 12,000 members, the group provides regular continuing education training for immigration lawyers. If an immigration law firm is truly focused on immigration law, it should be a member of AILA. If it is not, it may be an indication that the law firm is spread out across multiple areas, and therefore perhaps not best equipped for your particular case.

Is immigration law a one time affair?

Immigration law being what it is, it is likely that your relationship with the law firm you chose will not be a one-time affair, which is why, it is critical to like your lawyer. Ask yourself this: is this someone that you can see yourself building a close relationship with?

Do referrals guide you to the right place?

Like in every other area of life , referrals often guide you to the right place. That is also the case in immigration law. Think about it, who would be in a better position to trust than someone who has actually been helped by an immigration law firm?

Is immigration a law?

Immigration is an area of law notorious for trying to make a quick buck. Indeed, you may have already experienced this firsthand, with a number of law firms rushing to offer you their business the minute you hinted that you require immigration advice. But while it may be tempting to go in for the cheapest offer, remind yourself that you are likely to get what you pay for, which is a lack of attention, a lack of doggedness, elements that make all the difference between success and failure in this complex area of law. So, if possible, do not let finances be your priority.

What makes an immigration lawyer reliable?

A reliable immigration lawyer has to be a good listener. It is a necessary component of a reputable lawyer. A lawyer who is a powerful listener can negotiate effectively, answer questions responsively in court. They communicate thoroughly with clients and improve their relationships and effectiveness in various aspects of their practice.

Why is listening important in a lawyer?

A lawyer who is a powerful listener can negotiate effectively, answer questions responsively in court. They communicate thoroughly with clients and improves their relationships and effectiveness in various aspects of their practice.

How to get a clear picture of the kind of lawyer you are about to hire?

To get a clear picture of the kind of lawyer you are about to hire, ensure to go through their reviews. The reviews are what clients experienced in the past. Avoid law firms or lawyers with many negative reviews.

Why hire an optimistic attorney?

Hire an optimistic attorney since they think the best possible thing will take place. Such an attorney will do everything possible to help you win the case confidently.

Is a lawyer always available?

As mentioned earlier, a reputable lawyer is always available for their clients. Ensure to get an attorney who can respond to your emails fast and answer your questions to your satisfaction.

Do lawyers charge for consultation?

Some lawyers ask for consultation fees to determine how serious you are about the case and if you can afford to pay for their services. However, reputable lawyers offer free consultation services to their customers. If you are unsure which lawyer is suitable to handle your case, a law firm that provides free consultation is the best place to start.

Is it better to hire an attorney who charges an hourly fee?

In many cases, it is best to hire a lawyer who charges a flat-rate fee. Some lawyers charge an hourly fee, which can be very expensive depending on the case’s complexity. An attorney charging a flat-rate fee is the best in many cases since they do not come up with additional charges no matter how complex the case gets. 5 Factors To Consider When Choosing The Attorney For You

What to ask an immigration lawyer?

Since immigration law is an exceptionally specialized field, a reputable and trustworthy immigration lawyer standing on your side could be a very helpful ally. One of the questions you should definitely ask your lawyer, or you could research before an initial meeting, is whether your representative is a member of The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA). Membership of AILA is actually indicating that your lawyer is up to date with all regulations and updates, and with best practices as well. Although AILA could be a perfect place to find recommendations for the right lawyer in your local area, this membership does not guarantee the lawyer’s experience or record of success. Another source you can consult before you make the final decision on your legal representative is Avvo, a website that collects client testimonials and highlights important information such as bar violations.

What is an immigration contract?

The Contract is an indispensable element that will direct, describe, and guarantee both the immigration lawyer and the client, the conditions, expectations, responsibilities, and obligations.

What to ask an immigration lawyer after presenting a case?

After you present your case to an immigration lawyer it is almost expected to ask for an opinion about your case. An experienced and reputable immigration lawyer will give you an honest and realistic idea of your prospects, final outcome, and chances for success.

Why is it important to choose a lawyer who is specialized in immigration law?

It is of tremendous importance to choose a lawyer who is specialized in immigration law and whose experience with other cases is similar to yours because this could be a guarantee that you are in the right hands. It is strongly advised that you choose a lawyer who is entirely specialized in immigration law and whose rich experience will guarantee the expertise and capability needed when dealing with your case.

What should an immigration lawyer do after a thorough analysis of your case?

After a thorough analysis of your case and setting the final objectives, your immigration lawyer should present you with an actionable plan with a set timeline, and following steps, you should undertake explained in detail. The main purpose of this strategy is to avoid all potential risks you might confront while your application process is in progress. This plan should cover the deadlines for collecting all the necessary documentation, affidavits, and interview preparations.

How to contact Sverdloff Law Group?

Learn the next steps to take for your case. If you have any questions, contact our immigration lawyer at (312) 238-9090 or schedule a consultation today.

What is the best indicator of a lawyer's reputation?

Another indicator that attests to the lawyers’ reputability, which you can easily research, is Board certification that certifies lawyers in the practice of immigration law, educational background, published publications, or awards received that show expertise in this particular field.

Why do immigration lawyers work?

to improve their livelihood. These lawyers can also defend the rights of immigrants to ensure they're treated fairly and assist people who want to come to the U.S. to work or study. As an immigration lawyer, your work could have a profound impact on many people, which can help you find fulfillment in this job.

How much do immigration lawyers make?

On average, immigration lawyers make $69,505 per year. In comparison, a corporate lawyer, who represents businesses in areas such as tax law, makes an average salary of $142,018 per year. Many immigration lawyers can increase their annual salaries as they gain experience in the field, and they can also have a higher earning potential if they open their own practice.

How long does it take to become an immigration lawyer?

Becoming a practicing immigration lawyer can take many years. The educational requirements for these positions typically include a four-year undergraduate degree in a related area, such as political science or international studies, and a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree, which usually takes three years to complete. After completing law school, some aspiring immigration lawyers work as associates at law firms to gain experience, while others offer their legal services for free to help them build a client base and reputation. Because the path to employment as an immigration lawyer can be long, it requires self-discipline and internal motivation.

Can immigration lawyers open their own practice?

While there are many employment opportunities for immigration lawyers, many of these professionals choose to open their own practices, especially after they've gained some experience in the field. These entrepreneurship opportunities can be attractive options for professionals who want to choose their clients and establish their own work hours. Immigration lawyers with their own practice can also set their billable rates, which means they may have a higher earning potential than others in the industry.

Do immigration lawyers have to speak multiple languages?

In addition, because these lawyers often represent clients who live outside of the U.S., some employers may require immigration lawyers to speak multiple languages so they can communicate effectively. These increased job requirements can make it more difficult for some lawyers to find jobs in the field, particularly at the beginning of their careers.

How Experienced Are They?

• First and foremost, determine your potential lawyer’s familiarity and experience with immigration issues similar to yours. For example, if you are seeking asylum, you’ll want to know about past asylum cases in which representation was provided. Most lawyers have at least one area of law they specialize in. Usually, this means that they have in-dept...

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Where Is The Lawyer Licensed?

Who Is Handling The Case?

How Busy Is The Lawyer?

When Will He Begin?

How Much Will It Cost?

What About Testimonials?