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05 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
We appreciated the excellent service the lawyer Ying Beher provided. It all went smoothly, and we eventually had our immigrant status successfully transferred. Recommend her service !!
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25 Jan, 2020 by Taufiq
She is very friendly and knowledgeable in her field. She responded quickly to my emails for the appointment. At the meeting she explained what to do and even after approaching to give her some consultation fee she politely denied. I would refer her to friends and family in any of their need.
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27 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms. Beher immediately responded to my message/e-mail and offered advice regarding my response to a question on my application form for free! It was very convenient. She was very willing to help without any delays. I would recommend her to anyone looking for quick help with naturalization matters that do not require extensive amount of work.
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17 Apr, 2017 by Stacy
Being in a gay marriage and undocumented at the time, I was both excited but extremely apprehensive about the immigration process. It can be a pretty stressful experience to say the least! Azin is the best immigration attorney I could have asked for. Despite a few delays on my end, Azin was extremely patient, understanding and an absolute professional. But what sets her above is her ability to empathize (as an immigrant herself) and the genuine compassion that she shows for her clients. After the first meeting, I knew I was in good hands and it proved to be true. I successfully received my green card without any issue, all thanks to Azin. I highly recommend Ms. Arbab.
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30 Sep, 2016 by Sanaz
Our case was about fiance (k1) visa , im living in india and my fiance stays in usa because of that I felt may everything not going through in my way but she has been beside of us with useful advise and helpful informations which she provides for us about all of our doubt and questions , she made all the tough way more easier and I got my visa even earlier than expected time
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27 Jul, 2016 by Vera
Azin helped me though my divorce. She was very attentive and transparent on the possibilities from legal perspective. Her service was excellent and fairly priced. She was always prepared and on time for our appointments. She got the desired outcome and that's what matters the most.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Yiwen li
Amy is one of the best immigration lawyers I worked with. For the following reasons: She cares deeply: Many immigration firms see immigrants as just another case or another workload, but behind every immigrant, there is a unique story. Amy sees this, she cares for her clients and their dreams, and she tries her best to help them achieve their immigration goals. She is very knowledgeable and experienced in what she does: especially for the categories that need deep skill and expertise, such as O1, NIW etc. She understands the regulation, keeps up to date with changes, and pays attention to the nuances. She also tailors solutions for every case based on everyone’s different situation. She has a strong sense of justice, and not afraid to discuss with the authorities and stand up for her clients to do what is best for them. I recommend Amy to anyone who seeks a knowledge, capable immigration lawyer who cares, to be alongside their immigration journey.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Manal rahman
She is an amazing lawyer! She solved an extremely complicated case for us and was able to expedite the processing of our case in unprecedented time. We are so thankful to have found her and would recommend her for any and all immigration related questions!
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17 Jul, 2024 by Monica valle
After getting a recommendation to Amy's office for my particularly time-sensitive O-1B petition, Adriana Klemish, Associate Attorney, filed my petition to the government in record time. Adriana has truly mastered the art of the legal narrative, taking my experience and qualifications and translating them into an airtight legal case, which was quickly approved. She fully went above and beyond to understand the complexities of my field to best represent me. I cannot recommend Adriana and Amy's office enough. The attention to detail, knowledge, and professionalism have left a lasting impression, and I am beyond happy to recommend them to anyone needing immigration law support. I would not go anywhere else!
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20 Dec, 2019 by Clinethia arrington
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14 Sep, 2018 by Derek hackett
Lived in the apartments on the 2nd floor for 3 years. Affordable and cozy, even though the building is pretty dirty, especially the kitchen. The MSU Legal Clinic moved out of this building a little while ago. Some windows, and especially the back door have been broken by vandals, and the parking lot still needs a lot of work. However, these might just be the cheapest studio apartments in East Lansing
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03 Mar, 2017 by Ashley keller
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07 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Not once did he care for our case, neither did he create for us a good case. He was no help to us, and took advantage of us. He didn’t do what a good lawyer does, he didn’t prepare us for anything or actually take our case seriously. He had no idea what he was doing and takes nothing seriously. If I knew more English at the time I would have went to someone better and saved my money. Do not make the mistake I did. He doesn’t care for you, he just wants your money. No matter how good your case is he will ruin it.
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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:

  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.

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