Getting a green card can be complicated, even more so if you need the right attorney. It’s essential to research lawyers before hiring one for your case.
During your interview, ask potential attorneys about their experience with immigration law and cases similar to yours.
Experience
Obtaining a Green Card is one of the most important decisions that you will make in your life. A green card allows individuals to legally reside in the United States as permanent residents and work as permitted by law.
The first step in choosing a Green Card attorney is to evaluate their experience. Look for a lawyer who specializes exclusively in immigration law and has handled similar cases. You may also inquire about the attorney’s success rate.
Word-of-mouth referrals are often the best way to find a Green Card attorney. Ask for references from previous clients to hear firsthand about their experiences working with the attorney or law firm. You should also check the attorney’s online reviews. These give you an idea of the level of service and professionalism you can expect from the attorney or law firm.
Communication
When seeking the help of a Green Card Attorney, you want to be confident that they understand your case. A reasonable attorney will be able to explain legal nuances clearly and concisely so that you can understand them.
You also want to ensure your lawyer can be reached easily in an emergency. Immigration law is a constantly changing field, and you need to know that you can get your lawyer whenever you need them.
You should never hire an attorney who doesn’t communicate well with their clients. This is an essential part of any relationship, and it is particularly true when working with a Green Card Attorney. The best way to get a feel for their communication skills is to meet with them for an initial consultation. During this meeting, you will understand their integrity and honesty. This is critical for a successful immigration process.
Credentials
A Green Card is a permanent residency in the United States. It allows holders to work in the country and can lead to citizenship. Applying for one without an attorney is possible but must be challenging. A minor mistake in the paperwork or miscommunication can have disastrous consequences, and a Green Card Attorney will be able to navigate this process much more effectively.
A green card can be acquired through family (immediate spouses, children under 21, and parents), employment (self-petitioning and PERM), or in immigrant “special categories” such as VAWA. Individuals can also obtain a green card by making a significant investment or establishing themselves in a particular job category.
Check out an attorney’s website and make sure they have a license to practice law in your state, territory, commonwealth, or district. Look for specialist certifications indicating additional expertise in a specific field. Also, see if the attorney has a disciplinary record with the Executive Office of Immigration Review.
Fees
Getting a green card (lawful permanent residence) is complex and expensive. This is especially true if one applies for their green card through consular processing abroad or adjustment of status within the United States.
Determining an attorney’s fees before hiring them to handle your case is essential. Ask them about their fee structure and how they bill their clients. Consider the time spent on your case and any other applicable legal costs.
A reputable immigration lawyer will be transparent about their charges and provide precise estimates for the work. They will also ensure that all fees are paid on time and up to date. This will avoid the possibility of losing your case due to late payments. Also, it will minimize the risk of your claim being placed on a backlog or denied by USCIS.