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20 Jul, 2024 by Idan frumkin
We have been fortunate to have had Casseus Law legal assistance. Rachel and her team have been very helpful and have helped us achieve our goal efficiently and smoothly.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Sennur cinar heidecker
We moved to Boston from Germany and the first month we heard Rachel's name and her office at CIC. Whomever we were asking a good lawyer, we were hearing same name, Rachel!. During the time, we understood that she is very much on hands person and stunning lawyer. Her expertise level, skills sets, putting together every details on time, made us felt we are in good hands. She quickly understands the needs of the clients and always going beyond clients' expectations. Briefly she is an amazing, exceptional lawyer and person. She explains step by step what and why she does. She is very proactive, kind, responsive person. That's why I guess her clients are growing like a 'snowball'. Thank you Rachel....
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19 Mar, 2024 by Samar p
#EB-1A Approved in 12 days only#
At Casseus Law, Rachel told me my case would be approved easily, even without extra requests for evidence. Even though I wasn't sure, she seemed very sure. Rachel and her team were really good at handling my immigration case. Rachel is a great lawyer who is passionate, aggressive, and respectful. She never backs down from tough challenges.
Other lawyers said I couldn't qualify for EB-1A, but Rachel looked at my case and said I would get approved. She helped me every step of the way.
I highly recommend Casseus Law and Rachel to anyone applying for a green card through EB-1A or NIW. Thank you so much, Rachel!
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18 Jun, 2020 by Alfredo
After attending one of her presentations I emailed Sarah asking for advice on my case (waiver for J1 visa). We have been exchanging emails for more than five months. Sarah is a very professional lawyer as you can see it for her prompt responses and precise advices. In these few months she has been on top of the changes that have been happening in these times of COVID-19. I have followed her advices and everything has gone perfect.
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02 Mar, 2020 by Anahita
Sarah is a brilliant lawyer, outstanding in her work, with a thorough knowledge of the American immigration system. Her research into each individual case is impeccable, as is her ability to draft a crystal clear petition. She was my lawyer for an O-1 petition, and it was her confidence in my case that led me to file the petition in the first place. No query goes unanswered, every point she makes is clear and sharp, and she responds to every email immediately.
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15 Aug, 2019 by Karl
I spoke with Sarah Edgecomb about my immigration situation. Even through her caseload was full, she nevertheless spent a good deal of time giving me guidance even outside of any consulting agreement. I was very impressed with her clear communication about my immigration situation. She is a very clear thinker and laid out options, risks and interconnectedness involved in various strategies extremely well. In the world of immigration law where absolutes are not always at hand and ambiguities abound, Ms. Edgecomb so very clearly explained the risks and benefits associated with various immigration pathways and answered my numerous questions very well. I learned quite a lot in our brief conversation. On top of her intelligence, geniality, and clear, methodical thinking, Ms. Edgecomb demonstrated exceptional generosity by spending so much time with me in an initial phone call. If she only were available for additional clients I would definitely seek her counsel. I highly recommend Ms. Edgecomb to anyone desiring legal counsel.
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30 Apr, 2015 by Kateryna
I consulted Anthony on a straightforward green card application through marriage. Anthony provided me a wealth of information about timelines, things to look out for, an overview of green card interview and how to prepare for it, as well as recent changes in document submission requirements. His demeanor was professional, he answered all my questions thoroughly, and I did not feel rushed. He also offered to help in case I have any difficulties filling out the forms. Many thanks!
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21 Apr, 2015 by Tasha
I consulted with Mr. Keber (on April 13, 2015) regarding a serious concern I had with my upcoming Naturalization Interview. He took my call right away and gave me sensible, practical and legally accurate advice. It paid off and I was approved to take the (citizenship) oath! I went into the interview feeling confident and reassured. I would hire him in a heartbeat and would highly recommend him to anyone seeking a knowledgeable immigration lawyer. He was patient, compassionate and easy to understand.
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23 Feb, 2012 by Ambrose
Since April 2011, I have recommended eight clients to him and every one came back thanking me. He will review the case at no charge and advise clients with very honestly. He will not continue or accecpt clients that lie or hide material facts in their case or support clients who he know are not honest. As long as you tell Tony the truth , I believe he is capable of winning any case in immigration. One friend I refered to him, came back and stated that he will not take his case because his case is full of fraud and manipulation. He is very proffessional and cannot discuss clients cases with any other person. My immigration case lasted for twenty-six years and I spent over One Hundred thousand dollars in Attorney's fees, and his charge was the lowest fee I paid in this case. He worked with me on a payment plan and when he saw how much effort I was making to pay, he took off $2000 from my total bill. Tony is not greedy and his concern has always been to satisfy the customer
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07 Aug, 2015 by David
I was referred to Ray Watson having left a Multinational Technical company and joined a technology start up company with 13 angel investors. Despite holding multiple degrees and an MBA, we had reluctance and difficulties being a startup without history. Roy was magnificent for being aware of the options, how to handle the difficult situation and for guiding us round the obstacles caused by inflexibility of the "standard" immigration bureaucracy.
His creativity and willingness to create options is what stands him aside from other classical lawyers and always friendly, optimistic (and with reason) he is a true gem to anyone wanting Immigration. I would sign him in a heart beat should I ever need a visa or immigration documents again. Pity we lost Katelyn. Dr David G, BSc, MSc, PhD, MBA.
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30 Jul, 2014 by Vish
I have an H1B issues with a strange employment loss. I spoke with few Lawyers and everyone scared me about the situation instead of telling me the options and what's the best possible option I can do at this time. My friend referred Mr Roy Watson. I called his office and he answered the call right away. He asked me the every single detail of my situation and provided me the best possible options to deal with. This gave a real boost and helped me understand the whole situation. His knowledge on immigration related issues is peaks. I recommend him 100%
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10 Aug, 2013 by Iain
I found Roy Watson to be courteous, helpful and quick to respond to queries. He takes time to explain complex areas patiently.
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05 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
I applied for an H1-B and Sara made the whole process incredibly smooth and easy. Comparing my application to that of my friends, I feel so lucky to have chosen Sara! She knows exactly what to do at every step of the application, she responds quickly to emails and she's always happy to give advice. Couldn't recommend her more!
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26 Jan, 2013 by Vivienne
Sara offered all the aspects I needed in an immigration lawyer: absolute responsiveness, professionalism, expertise, excellent communication, dedication & success. She worked with me under a very tight timeframe and ensured I understood the process. I felt supported and guided by her & had found someone I could trust in this process. I would unreservedly recommend Sara.
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03 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
I am honored I contacted immigration attorney Vincent Lau, he gave out extremely apropos comment to my specific case. Honest and down to earth immigration attorney.
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24 Jul, 2015 by Mahdi
Her first expression was outstanding. She listened us very attentively as we were not good at explanation in English. She understood our topics and start very simple way to reply. She was following our expression or body language as well, so was able to catch up our conversation, always she let us talk frequently, she looked all our papers and shared her opinion, finally she suggest me if I want I can move forward myself with this issue instead of spending thousands dollars by paying a lawyer, this part made me surprised, and proved her she is very honest. According to her professionalism I would like to rate her five star.
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25 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
I´ve been working with Robing for 2 years now. She managed my permanent residency petition and she did a great job.
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16 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Elizabeth was a GOD's gift to us. I struggled to get my mom's case heard / accepted by Top attorney's in the U.S.. It was a challenge none were willing to take due to the time commitments. The good one's wanted easy waivers cases and the shitty one's would take anything but had no clue how to get it done. Elizabeth was VERY GOOD and VERY diligent. She really really cares about her client. I remember when the USCIS denied our first request, she promptly follow up with an even stronger letter with additional facts that were overlooked. And she didn't even charge us for the follow on rebuttal.
I write this today knowing that my MOM has her interview scheduled to become a U.S. Citizen by the end of this month. And none of this could have been possible with out Elizabeth tirelessly fighting for my mom. Just do yourself a FAVOR and hire her.
Thank you Elizabeth. You are the BEST!!!
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11 Jul, 2024 by John doe
Amazing attorney and great person.
Mr.House not only believed in me, he provided me the best defense.
The court officers even told me when I was in the back that this “this is the guy you want. Trust me.”
When I asked them about him.
And they were right. Jameson swiftly got my case dismissed due to exculpatory evidence on my cell phone.
I would give 6 stars if I could.
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16 May, 2022 by Walter bailey jr
Attorney Shea was appointed to my case by the court over 20 years ago and he represented me as if he were being paid thousands of dollars. We recently made contact with each other and it felt like old friends catching up.
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25 Mar, 2022 by Elizabeth alvarado
09 Sep, 2024 by Spandan agrawal
The team at Cambridge Immigration Law was flawless and amazing to work with! They were able to file my Green Card Application with absolutely no issues, and made it very easy for me to provide all the information they need. They were always responsive and available to answer any questions throughout the process, and very reachable - just a phone call away. Ellen, Roberto, Kimberly, Kellie and the rest of the team are all very friendly and super easy to work with.
Highly recommend for anyone in the area for any immigration related cases!
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12 Aug, 2024 by Kennedy ogochukwu
First I appreciate the warm and friendly reception and responses from Cambridge Immigration Law.P.V. every time we call or visit the office. I'm thrilled by kind disposition and understanding of my plight and willingness to assist. Again, their commitment to the client, follow up of cases and giving feedback to their client is highly commendable. I rate them five stars and will always recommend them to friends and associates. Thanks. Kennedy and Latisha Ogochukwu
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08 Aug, 2024 by Kelvin gitau
I like the services being offered by Cambridge and I hope it may continue to reach more people
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24 Feb, 2016 by Boihue
Le Centre de l’immigration Irlandaise à Boston, Massachusetts m’a conseillée de contacter l’avocate Jane Chiang. J’étais dans une situation urgente. J’avais besoin de demander d’ajuster mon statut pour que je puisse visiter ma soeur, qui vivait en Californie du Sud, et avant qu’elle ne décède du cancer au mois de mars en 2011.
Pendant cette période difficile, je me considérais chanceuse non seulement parce que j’avais rencontré Jane Chiang, mais aussi parce que j’appréciais sa compassion et son assistance. Elle avait soumis une « Demande Accélérée » (Request of Expedite) pour mon dossier. J’ai finalement pu lui rendre visite et dire adieu à ma sœur mourante.
Jane Chiang est une avocate très professionnelle, compétente, responsable et compatissante. Elle a trouvé le temps de répondre à mes e-mails, même quand elle était en voyage à l'étranger.
Je suis toujours reconnaissante pour son aide et pour aider à accélérer mon dossier. Je la recommande vivement à tous, y compris mes amis.
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19 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Je viens de conclure la procedure de naturalisation avec Jane comme avocate et n’ai que de bonnes choses à dire. Elle m'a guider à travers chaque étape du processus avec soin et attention. Elle me prévenait toujours des problèmes potentiels, et faisait en sorte que nous ayons toujours une longueur d'avance sur ceux-ci. Je recommande Jane à toute personne ayant besoin d'un avocat en droit des etrangers
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19 Oct, 2015 by Anthony
Jane is a very experienced, knowledgeable and resourceful immigration lawyer. Jane helped my family and I navigate a very complex situation that had many moving parts. Jane knew the exact process to follow, but more importantly helped to walk me through the process and explained it to me so that it was easy to understand. Jane provided checklists and resource documents that ensured I knew exactly what I needed to and when.
Additionally Jane went out of her way to make sure that I was fully prepared, both prior to and after my embassy visit.
I would not hesitate to recommend Jane to anyone looking for visa assistance.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Jimmy chen
Working with Jason Cohen was a great pleasure. His expertise and attention to detail were evident from the beginning. His professionalism and responsiveness instilled confidence throughout the process. I highly recommend Jason to anyone looking for a dedicated and knowledgeable real estate attorney.
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18 Oct, 2023 by Lilly l
I recently had the privilege of engaging with Attorney Jeff Feuer for a landlord-tenant dispute and am compelled to commend his exceptional service.
Having spent numerous years as a CPA in the consulting industry, I am familiar with the consulting realm. Hence, when I say Jeff's professionalism and expertise truly impressed me, it's from a standpoint of understanding high standards of service.
In August 2023, I found myself amidst a challenging situation. I had unknowingly entered a sub-lease agreement with an real estate sales agent lacking legal authority. Consequently, I faced eviction within a week. My attempts to secure a refund from this agent were met with resistance, followed by the sales agent's baseless and defamatory emails sent to both my educational institution and employer, just trying to prevent me from bringing him to the court.
It was in these trying circumstances that I reached out to Attorney Jeff Feuer. Jeff's methodical approach stood out immediately. He attentively absorbed all facets of my case and equipped me with a wealth of legal knowledge that even my own research hadn't unveiled. With his guidance, I penned a more legally sound demand letter. Jeff's swift intervention with a Cease and Desist Letter played a pivotal role in ensuring that the sales agent refrained from involving any third parties henceforth.
Throughout the process, Jeff’s responses were prompt, always within 24 hours, ensuring I felt supported at every juncture. His sage advice enabled me to resolve the matter without resorting to court proceedings. The leasing agent eventually acceded to my refund demands, and the matter was amicably settled. I'd like to add that Jeff's fees were incredibly reasonable, especially considering the caliber of service rendered.
Attorney Jeff Feuer's assistance was invaluable. I wouldn't hesitate to seek his expertise in the future, should the need arise.
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24 Jul, 2023 by Sandra napoli
William Schramm helped us the the sale and purchase of our home. He was helpful at every turn. We highly recommend.
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05 Sep, 2024 by N c
My experience with Attorney Peter was the best. And yes we won the case highly recommended.
He's the best as a person and as attorney.
Thanks for everything Peter.
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31 Jan, 2023 by Ascolilloac
Attorney Joe Markey is great to work with. He explained everything regarding our case in detail, kept us informed and reduced much of the anxiety we had throughout the process. We will definitely call Attorney Markey if we need legal assistance again. Thank you!
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02 Dec, 2021 by Better fancy
In the past when the older group of bellotti lawyers were available things were great. The new staff and other lawyers are very disconnected. I will never refer or use this law firm again.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Jimmy chen
Working with Jason Cohen was a great pleasure. His expertise and attention to detail were evident from the beginning. His professionalism and responsiveness instilled confidence throughout the process. I highly recommend Jason to anyone looking for a dedicated and knowledgeable real estate attorney.
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18 Oct, 2023 by Lilly l
I recently had the privilege of engaging with Attorney Jeff Feuer for a landlord-tenant dispute and am compelled to commend his exceptional service.
Having spent numerous years as a CPA in the consulting industry, I am familiar with the consulting realm. Hence, when I say Jeff's professionalism and expertise truly impressed me, it's from a standpoint of understanding high standards of service.
In August 2023, I found myself amidst a challenging situation. I had unknowingly entered a sub-lease agreement with an real estate sales agent lacking legal authority. Consequently, I faced eviction within a week. My attempts to secure a refund from this agent were met with resistance, followed by the sales agent's baseless and defamatory emails sent to both my educational institution and employer, just trying to prevent me from bringing him to the court.
It was in these trying circumstances that I reached out to Attorney Jeff Feuer. Jeff's methodical approach stood out immediately. He attentively absorbed all facets of my case and equipped me with a wealth of legal knowledge that even my own research hadn't unveiled. With his guidance, I penned a more legally sound demand letter. Jeff's swift intervention with a Cease and Desist Letter played a pivotal role in ensuring that the sales agent refrained from involving any third parties henceforth.
Throughout the process, Jeff’s responses were prompt, always within 24 hours, ensuring I felt supported at every juncture. His sage advice enabled me to resolve the matter without resorting to court proceedings. The leasing agent eventually acceded to my refund demands, and the matter was amicably settled. I'd like to add that Jeff's fees were incredibly reasonable, especially considering the caliber of service rendered.
Attorney Jeff Feuer's assistance was invaluable. I wouldn't hesitate to seek his expertise in the future, should the need arise.
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24 Jul, 2023 by Sandra napoli
William Schramm helped us the the sale and purchase of our home. He was helpful at every turn. We highly recommend.
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31 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired her for my citizenship application as I was caught with small amount of marijuana few years ago. There were signs that working with her would be a disaster from the very beginning. One time, I asked her if the citizenship application has been filed, to which she replied "yes". But then I heard few days after that it has not been filed. Or there was one time when she asked me if I have made the payment to her few months after I already did. Or there was one time when she was on the zoom call with me and she proceeded to look for my legal documents in front of me, fumbling through documents for good two three minutes. I should have known then.
One issue that we talked before submitting the application about was having a police report, that shows that the amount of marijuana I was caught with was less than 30 grams. The immigration law states that if marijuana was less than 30 grams, it should not pose a problem with the citizenship application. I found the police report and submitted that to her. After that, I did not hear anything about it until the interview.
During the interview, the USCIS officer asked her if she has a police report that proves that the possession of marijuana was less than 30 grams. She argued that she did not because it was not a conviction. That was the first time that I heard of that argument from her. To which, the USCIS officer argued that it is. Then, to my utter dismay, Susan started arguing angrily with the officer. She asked, I quote, "Are you a licensed lawyer?" in an accusing tone. I tried to stay calm, but inside I was in a sheer panic. I thought I could be deported in a country that I have lived in for more than 10 years.
Even though I passed the interview, we got a notice saying that they cannot make the decision. The USCIS officer said that she would talk about this case with her office's lawyers and then send us a request for evidence. When we were walking out of the interview, she said "we don't have a police report, right? why do we not have it again?". That was such a crazy question to me, because I have actually sent her the police report.
A week after the interview, she said that she purposefully decided to not show the police report because she believed that it was not a conviction and that showing them the report just might lead to more suspicions and questions. I can understand her strategy, but if that was her strategy, why did she not mention it before the interview to get my take? If I was asked before, I would have probably said maybe we can try that, but bring the police report just in case so that the strategy fails.
What I think happened here, is actually that she simply did not think about the whole police report issue until she got to the interview. As I mentioned before, when we walked out of the interview, she told me that we don't have a police report and then asked me why we do not have it. It does not make sense that her "strategy" was to not show it on purpose when she did not even know that we did not have it. This was a deliberate, dishonest attempt to hide a mistake that she has made.
Seven months of agony started after that. I could not travel outside of the country because of this delay, and I could not see my girlfriend, for seven months. We did not get any response from USCIS. I would plead with her through emails, which she would seldom reply, to look for ways to speed up the process. One time I even got an email from her saying "DON'T WORRY, YOU WILL NOT BE DEPORTED", all caps. I talked to two different lawyers about this, and they both said it is utterly insane that she did not bring the police report and that it is definitely a conviction. The issue only got resolved when I found a way, by myself to reach out to USCIS.
In short, I would really really not recommend working with her on serious immigration issues.
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17 Mar, 2021 by Edna borges
Where do I start I think if I’m not mistaken I met her through Father Teixeria after ordered to do community service after a shoplifting case. I was young and didn’t know anything about the law or deportation. Susan took my case after I was ordered deportable and she made sure everything in her power that I didn’t get deported. I hate to relive those dark days but if it was for her, wouldn’t have been here to raise my children. I trusted her and she did not fail it took time and she stayed on top of everything and thanks to her I became a citizen 2016. I would like to thank you for all your service in the immigration community you are a true hero. Not all heroes where cap some wear suits. I didn’t feel like a client. She made me feel like family I meet her family she meet mine’s.There a lot more detail to our story, years of pain healing and growth I’m truly grateful and blessed to have had her in my life.
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25 Jul, 2019 by Martin louis
Susan been my lawyer since 1998. She took me out of jail. She is a Great, understandable and Honest. I recommended her to a few people she always does a Great Job with them. She is the Best Lawyer...
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30 May, 2009 by Anonymous
Michele seemed money oriented and unresponsive. Between the three vacations she took during our case and inability to reply to e-mails in a timely fashion we seem to have little faith in her. She was never present to help go over and prepare for our court cases. She had her other associates meet with us, whom had no idea of our situation, in her place while she was out.
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19 Aug, 2013 by Jgirn
due to the ignorance of this attorney i was not able to immigrate with my family. Steve did not suggest us to file right documents on right time to avoid over aged situation. I would have been able to immigrate with rest of my family but Steve was not aware of CSPA act and he failed to properly guide us to benefit from this act.
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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:
-
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. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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.
