Before you take the first step to start a new journey you need to ask for directions and, in some cases, for help. The same is true when you are an immigrant starting a legalization process within the United States.
The Dangers of Unprofessional Advice
Many immigrants coming to the United States are not familiar with immigration laws and seek advice from friends, relatives, translators, or notaries. They frequently obtain flawed information and face serious difficulties in the future when applying for permanent residence, citizenship, or family reunions.
It may appear that it is enough to fill out a form, attach copies, and pay fees. However, the person you're getting immigration advice from—a family member, friend, or neighbor—does not mean their advice will not harm you in your immigration process.
Why an Immigration Attorney?
An immigration attorney is accountable for their actions. They can lose their license and reputation for wrong advice. An immigration lawyer monitors constantly changing laws, knows important mistakes that clients make, and stays up to date with news particular to your category.
When You Might Not Need an Attorney
You can fill out documents for a work permit, visa, or travel document yourself. In the worst case, if you do something wrong, your documents will be returned, your case delayed, or rejected and you'll lose the fee paid.
When You Should Hire an Attorney
- To extend or change your immigration or non-immigration status
- To be represented in an American immigration court
- For asylum applications
- For deportation defense
The Immigration Court
The U.S. Immigration Court is often referred to as deportation court. This name alone indicates how important it is to have a competent defender. It is hard to imagine that an immigration judge would seriously talk with an alien who did not bother to take care of their defense.
In general, an immigration judge will most likely not try to understand the case if the defendant appears without an attorney—this typically ends with defeat due to ignorance of U.S. immigration law and lack of court experience.
Start Early
An immigration lawyer needs to be contacted as early as possible, at the earliest steps of proposed immigration to the United States. "Proper preparation is half the success." It is much easier to assemble necessary documents while at home than from across the ocean.
Have Questions About Your Immigration Case?
Schedule a free consultation with our experienced immigration attorneys. We'll review your situation and explain your options.
Schedule Free Consultation