Filter by

star star star star star
20 Aug, 2024 by Chip gomberg
Respectful, professional, organized, responsive, and personable. The perfect solution to a diificult situation. I'm happy to have worked with them.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Aug, 2024 by Kirsten lee
I recently had the pleasure of working with attorney Matthew Gross and his assistant Dirk, and I cannot recommend them highly enough. From start to finish, the entire process was incredibly fast and easy. Matthew and Dirk Watson were not only highly professional but also very friendly and approachable. Their responsiveness was exceptional, ensuring that all my questions and concerns were addressed promptly. What stood out the most was their unwavering support throughout the entire process. They were by my side every step of the way, providing clear guidance and making me feel confident in the decisions being made. Their expertise and dedication made a potentially stressful situation much more manageable. If you’re looking for a legal team that combines efficiency, friendliness, and outstanding support, look no further than Matthew Gross and Dirk Watson. Their commitment to their clients is truly top-notch, and I am grateful for their exceptional service.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Aug, 2024 by Nina burke
Matthew Gross and his team we extremely kind and thoughtful in dealing with me. They really took their time and answered all of my questions and concerns during this process. I felt I was extremely well prepared to answer all of the trustees questions and knowing that they were in my corner made me feel at ease. I would ABSOLUTELY recommend Fresh Start Law practice to anyone needing information, or wanting to know all your options before filing bankruptcy and if this is your decision to do so, because of circumstances beyond your control then choose Fresh Start Law Firm you will not regret it.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
09 Sep, 2024 by Arjun narayan
Derek was extremely helpful with our roof claim; he was thorough and explained every step along the way in great detail. I highly recommend his services.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Aug, 2024 by Max thakkar
Got my roof claim done well.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2024 by James headley
Derek and his team were truly fantastic. Holding professionalism at the highest standard. Taking time to clearly explain all legalities involved. His team is friendly and personable, while maintaining clear and transparent direction. 5 stars
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
13 Nov, 2024 by Monica correa
100%RECOMENDADO EXCELENTE ABOGADO
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Apr, 2024 by 242 zoe
They are a great team. You should hire them !
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Apr, 2024 by Felipe valerio
I recently had the pleasure of being represented by Shannon Sullivan, and I must say, the experience was nothing short of exceptional. From the onset, the communication was clear, consistent, and reassuring. Shannon was incredibly attentive to my needs, answering all my questions with patience and depth. I am immensely grateful for the support and guidance provided and I would highly recommend their services to anyone in need of legal assistance.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
29 Jul, 2024 by Mihai echim
I highly recommend Attorney John Gihon. He guided me through my case with exceptional expertise and professionalism. John's clear communication and dedication made a challenging situation much easier to navigate. I am incredibly grateful for his support and advice. Thank you, John, for your outstanding service!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
31 Dec, 2023 by Felipe g
We met John Gihon and his team after being turned down by several attorneys, and also hiring a couple with no success. John was extremely thorough and gave us all the different escenarios with my brothers immigration case. John was as able to dismiss his case. I also referred a friend with removal proceedings and John managed her case as well, needless to say she got her case dropped as well. Excellent service, excellent results. Always thankful with John.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Dec, 2023 by Souha zouari
They didnt call me back and they said yes they did and they have my wrong phone number bad experience.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What an Immigration Lawyer Can Do for You

An immigration lawyer specializes in helping individuals, families, and businesses navigate the complex immigration process. These lawyers provide legal guidance on various immigration matters, such as obtaining visas, gaining permanent residency (green cards), applying for citizenship, and defending clients in deportation or removal proceedings. Immigration lawyers also assist with employment-based immigration, asylum applications, and resolving issues related to visas or immigration status.

Whether you're trying to immigrate to the U.S., facing deportation, or sponsoring an employee or family member for a visa, an immigration lawyer can help you understand your legal options and navigate the often complicated legal system.

When Should I Hire an Immigration Lawyer?

Hiring an immigration lawyer is beneficial in many situations where you are dealing with U.S. immigration laws, whether for personal or business reasons. Common reasons to hire an immigration lawyer include:

  • Visa applications: If you need assistance applying for a visa, whether it's a work visa (H-1B), student visa (F-1), or tourist visa (B-1/B-2), a lawyer can help ensure the application is properly completed and submitted.
  • Green card applications: If you're seeking permanent residency, an immigration lawyer can guide you through the process, whether through family sponsorship, employment, or the Diversity Visa (lottery) program.
  • Deportation or removal defense: If you’re facing deportation or removal from the U.S., a lawyer can defend your case in immigration court and seek to prevent removal.
  • Asylum applications: If you’re seeking asylum due to persecution or fear of persecution in your home country, a lawyer can help you prepare a strong case and file for asylum.
  • Family reunification: If you're a U.S. citizen or permanent resident looking to bring family members to the U.S., a lawyer can assist with the family sponsorship process.
  • Citizenship and naturalization: If you're ready to apply for U.S. citizenship, a lawyer can help you navigate the naturalization process and ensure you meet all the requirements.
  • Business immigration: If you're an employer seeking to hire foreign workers, a lawyer can assist with employment-based visas, labor certification, and compliance with immigration regulations.
  • Special immigration categories: Immigration lawyers also handle complex cases, such as visas for victims of human trafficking (T visa), crime victims (U visa), or those seeking Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

Hiring an immigration lawyer early in the process can help you avoid delays, errors, and possible denials due to incomplete or incorrect applications.

What Does an Immigration Lawyer Do?

An immigration lawyer provides a wide range of services to help clients with their immigration needs, whether personal or business-related. Their tasks often include:

  • Assisting with visa applications: Helping clients fill out and submit visa applications, ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate.
  • Filing for green cards and permanent residency: Guiding clients through the process of applying for a green card, including family-based, employment-based, or other forms of residency.
  • Defending against deportation or removal: Representing clients in immigration court who are facing deportation and working to prevent removal from the U.S.
  • Preparing asylum cases: Assisting clients in applying for asylum based on fear of persecution in their home country due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
  • Handling citizenship applications: Helping lawful permanent residents apply for naturalization and ensuring they meet all the legal requirements for U.S. citizenship.
  • Employment-based immigration: Assisting employers with the process of sponsoring foreign workers for temporary or permanent visas, including H-1B, L-1, and EB-1 through EB-5 visas.
  • Representation in immigration interviews: Preparing clients for immigration interviews and attending interviews at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offices.
  • Appealing denied applications: If a visa, green card, or citizenship application is denied, a lawyer can file appeals or motions to reopen or reconsider the case.

How Are Immigration Lawyers Paid?

Immigration lawyers generally charge for their services based on the type of immigration case and the complexity of the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:

  • Flat fee: Many immigration lawyers charge a flat fee for specific services, such as preparing a visa application, green card petition, or citizenship application. Flat fees help clients know upfront what the legal costs will be for a particular service.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex cases, such as deportation defense or appeals, some lawyers charge by the hour. Hourly rates vary depending on the lawyer's experience and the complexity of the case.
  • Retainer: For ongoing immigration matters, some clients may need to pay a retainer, which is an upfront payment billed against as the lawyer works on the case.
  • Pro bono or sliding scale: Some immigration lawyers or nonprofit organizations may offer free or low-cost services for clients with limited financial means, particularly in asylum or humanitarian cases.

It’s essential to discuss the fee structure with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand the costs and payment arrangements.

How Much Does an Immigration Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring an immigration lawyer varies based on the type of legal service required, the lawyer's experience, and the complexity of the case. General cost estimates include:

  • Visa applications: For help with visa applications (e.g., H-1B, L-1, F-1), legal fees may range from $2,000 to $7,500, depending on the complexity and the type of visa.
  • Green card applications: Fees for family-based or employment-based green card applications typically range from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the case.
  • Deportation defense: For defending clients in removal proceedings, costs can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case and how long the case takes.
  • Asylum cases: Asylum applications may range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on whether the case is defensive (in removal proceedings) or affirmative (not in removal proceedings).
  • Citizenship applications: Legal fees for filing a naturalization application usually range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the client’s immigration history.
  • Business immigration services: Fees for assisting businesses with employment-based visas (such as H-1B or EB-5 visas) often range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more.

Always ask for a clear breakdown of costs and fee arrangements before proceeding with legal services.

Top Questions to Ask an Immigration Lawyer

Before hiring an immigration lawyer, it's essential to ask questions to ensure they have the experience and expertise to handle your case effectively. Important questions to ask include:

  1. What experience do you have with immigration cases like mine?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s family-based immigration, employment visas, or asylum.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee, hourly rate, or retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost.
  3. What is the likelihood of success in my case?
    Ask for an honest assessment of your case and the potential outcomes, including any challenges you might face.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Immigration cases can take time, so ask how long it may take to process your application or resolve your legal issue.
  5. Will you handle my case personally?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of your case. Make sure you know who will be working on your case directly.
  6. What documents do I need to provide?
    Ask the lawyer about the documentation required to support your case, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or employment contracts.

How to Check the Credibility of an Immigration Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable immigration lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:

  • Check their state bar status: Confirm with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no disciplinary actions against them.
  • Look for specific immigration law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in immigration law and have experience handling cases like yours.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients who can speak to their ability to handle immigration cases.
  • Check for industry affiliations: Membership in organizations like the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) can indicate the lawyer’s expertise and commitment to immigration law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most out of your first consultation with an immigration lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Passport and immigration documents: Bring your passport, visa, and any documents related to your current immigration status.
  • Family documents: If you're applying for a family-based visa or green card, bring marriage certificates, birth certificates, and proof of family relationships.
  • Employment information: For employment-based visas, provide your employment contract, offer letter, or other documentation of your job.
  • Criminal records (if applicable): If you have any criminal history, bring copies of court records and other relevant documents.
  • Timeline of events: Provide a clear timeline of any prior immigration applications, visas, or issues with immigration authorities.
  • List of questions: Prepare any questions you have about your immigration case, the process, costs, and the likelihood of success.

By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer understand your case more effectively and get the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.

Scroll to top