The US immigration process is complex and sometime, confusing. Calling an immigration attorney does help. The immigration can turn overwhelming, what with many documents to duly complete, submit and the next steps to take. Even though the USCIS believes that this process can be done with without hiring an attorney, certain scenarios need a lawyer to make your case. An immigration lawyer is an independent practitioner not connected to the US Immigration who helps clients deal with issues relating to visas, US citizenship, green cards, and immigration benefits.
Creator: David Franklin | Copyright: © 2007 David Franklin
US immigration law being federal, help from any USA-based lawyer is possible even if you live in another country. Not all immigration issues require legal consultation if you merely wish to visit the United States for a vacation, and will return in 90 days, you may not require any visa, but could possibly travel on the Visa Waiver Program. The US immigration law is increasingly complex and hiring an attorney saves time, and money for re-doing an application done incorrectly, or defending removal proceedings if an application goes seriously wrong. Some other reasons are:
When to Call an Immigration Lawyer
Do consult an immigration law attorney to understand basic green card eligibility or other immigration benefits if eligible. Discretionary reliefs like asylum or waivers from immigration authorities with exceptions or benefits not offered to other applicants, can be explored
You are Informed about Inadmissibility
To be declared inadmissible means not being legally allowed in the United States. Inadmissibility occurs when you reach the border or if already within US borders. Often, inadmissibility is due to incorrect information submitted to USCIS and can be reversed. An immigration attorney reviews the determination and fixes issues holding you back.
You’ve Received Notice of a Deportation Order
Creator: Evgenia Parajanian | Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Even after receiving an order of deportation, you can challenge the decision in court. A successful appeals process by a skilled attorney, who understands the immigration courtroom, could help.
Your Immigration Application is Rejected
If your green card or visa application is refused due to missing information on your application, USCIS possibly requires more information. The denial isn’t permanent and an attorney can identify missing details to reverse the denial.
You’re Not Sure Which Type of Visa You Need
There are a bunch of visas floating around out there, and it depends on why you are entering the US. If you are unsure of what kind of visa is applicable in your case, an attorney can help.
If Overwhelmed with the Immigration Process
Creator: Manjurul | Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Each step in the immigration process could be complex. If struggling and overwhelmed, get help. An immigration attorney notes concerns and leads you through the entire process.
Initial Meeting with Lawyers
Most Immigration lawyers charge a flat fee around $100, to understand if they could help you out. Some offer free first consultation. Bring relevant personal documents, including your passport, I-94, marriage certificate, visa(s), records of criminal convictions, and immigration notices. Lawyers generally ask questions, take detailed notes, and advise you about further steps to be taken or documents that are needed. Immigration lawyers often have a flat-fee for standard cases, such as helping apply for a marriage-based green card. For less predictable types of legal services, with representation for an immigration court hearing with several hearings, the lawyer will prefer to charge you at hourly rates.