what should i look for when getting an immigration lawyer

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What should I bring to my immigration lawyer's appointment?

Bring along any personal documents that relate to your immigration situation, such as your passport, visa(s), I-94, marriage certificate, records of criminal convictions, and any notices from immigration authorities. The lawyer is likely to ask a number of questions and take notes,...

Do I need an immigration lawyer?

Not all immigration issues require consultation with an immigration lawyer. For example, if you merely wish to visit the United States for a vacation, and are sure you will be ready to return in 90 days, you might not require any visa at all, but could (if you're from one of the countries on the list) travel on the Visa Waiver Program.

How much does it cost to meet with an immigration lawyer?

What to Expect at the Initial Meeting With a Lawyer. Most immigration lawyers will charge a flat fee (often around $100) to meet with you and talk over whether and how the lawyer could, if you hired him or her, help you out. A few offer a free first consultation.

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.

How do you evaluate an immigration lawyer?

10 Tips What To Look For When Choosing An Immigration LawyerGet A Trusted Referral. ... Avoid Hiring A General Practitioner. ... Be Skeptical Of Unrealistic Promises. ... Inquire About Their Availability During Regular Office Hours. ... Cost. ... Experience. ... Written Contract. ... Question Their Work Ethics.More items...•

Is it worth using an immigration lawyer?

Immigration services can be just as complex, and it is likely worth the expense to hire an immigration lawyer for immigration questions and processes to avoid unnecessary staffing and legal employment compliance hurdles.

What are the chances of winning an immigration case?

Yes, the reality is once served a Notice To Appear at immigration court, the odds of winning are far less than 50-50. But that does not mean you cannot be one of the fortunate ones. Significant differences may exist between your case and the ones you heard about on the news.

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.

How much does an immigration attorney cost?

The total fee in a simple case could be as low as $1,500, or in a complex case can climb higher than $10,000. If you need to appeal your case, expect to pay even more. If the lawyer quotes an hourly rate instead, expect to pay between $100 and $350 per hour.

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.

What should I wear to immigration court?

All persons appearing in the immigration court should respect the decorum of the court. Representatives should appear in business attire. All others should appear in proper attire. All persons appearing in the immigration court should respect the dignity of the proceedings.

How long does it take for immigration judge to make a decision?

Due to a large backlog of immigration cases, it can take months or even years for an immigration case to be decided. In California, the average time to complete an immigration case is 2-3 years, depending on whether the case involves a criminal conviction (which takes longer).

What does mean the immigration judge affirmed the decision?

This means that the judge's decision has become final, and the government will not be able to take any further action in the case. You have the legal status that the immigration judge granted you, as well as the benefits that come with it.

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 do I ask immigration questions?

Dial 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833) and ask your question in English or Spanish. The system will answer your question and can send you links to forms and information by email or text.

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.

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?

What is an immigration lawyer?

An immigration lawyer is an independent practitioner (unconnected to the U.S. immigration authorities) who helps clients deal with a wide range of issues relating to visas, green cards, U.S. citizenship, and other immigration benefits.

How much does an immigration lawyer charge?

Most immigration lawyers will charge a flat fee (often around $100) to meet with you and talk over whether and how the lawyer could, if you hired him or her, help you out. A few offer a free first consultation. You will probably want to meet with more than one attorney before choosing one to represent you.

What does it mean when you need emergency help with immigration?

you need emergency help with an immigration matter. you have been notified that deportation or removal proceedings are being started against you. you have been deported from the U.S. and wish to apply to return. you have had an immigration application refused or denied in the past.

Can an attorney lie on behalf of a client?

Realize, however, that the attorney's role does not include lying on behalf of a client. If, for example, someone tells an attorney, "I need help preparing paperwork for my fake, green-card marriage," the attorney (assuming he or she is reputable, some are not) will have to tell the client to go elsewhere for help.

Do immigration lawyers charge hourly fees?

However, for less predictable types of legal services, such as representation for an immigration court hearing (which could turn into several hearings), the lawyer is more likely to charge you at an hourly rate. Also see What Immigration Lawyers Report About Their Fees and Free Consultations.

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..

Is immigration taxing?

The US immigration process can be highly taxing and difficult. When you are navigating through the thorny process, you will want the best lawyer to guide you through all steps.

Do immigration lawyers charge by the hour?

Immigration law firms typically charge by the hour. However, some law firms charge fixed fees for the standard preparing and filing of your case. Opt always to pay a fixed fee for a law firm’s services or else require that they give you an estimation of how much time it will take to file your case so that you know how much their services will cost you in terms of time and money.

What does an immigration lawyer do?

An immigration lawyer advises clients and businesses on legal matters related to immigration, which is the process of coming to the U.S. from another country to live or work. These lawyers represent their clients in court proceedings, assist them with legal documents and provide recommendations based on their understanding of immigration law.

Pros of being an immigration lawyer

If you're interested in a legal career, there are many reasons to consider becoming an immigration lawyer. Reviewing some advantages of this profession can help you decide whether to pursue a career in immigration law. Here are seven advantages of being an immigration lawyer:

Cons of being an immigration lawyer

While there are many benefits of a career in immigration law, it's also important to understand some challenges of working in this area. Comparing these drawbacks with the benefits of the profession can help you determine whether it's the right career for you. Here are seven cons of being an immigration lawyer: