Lawyers map
>256
experienced lawyers
Filter by
24 Jan, 2025 by Jose mora
My attorney was very helpful and attentive he showed me step by step on what I had to say and do and was right beside me the whole step of the way
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Jamie morton
Future First Criminal Law was absolutely amazing they went above and beyond to handle my case I will definitely recommend them to everyone I know in the same place I was in 5 stars for sure
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Well i don't know
Had an great experience with them.
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Jose mora
My attorney was very helpful and attentive he showed me step by step on what I had to say and do and was right beside me the whole step of the way
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Jamie morton
Future First Criminal Law was absolutely amazing they went above and beyond to handle my case I will definitely recommend them to everyone I know in the same place I was in 5 stars for sure
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Well i don't know
Had an great experience with them.
Read more
25 Jul, 2018 by Diana
Thank you Attorney Emilia Banuelos and to Arcelia, for never giving up. My work permit was lost in transit, and after 10 months of arguing with USCIS, I got my new work permit with approval date of July 2020. I had Arcelia's cell number on speed dial and every time I called she would answer, She became such a good friend, that I even invited her to my wedding next month. Thanks for everything and soon we will be working on my residency papers.
Read more
02 Mar, 2018 by Flora
I want to thank this office, and especially Arcelia. I filed my DACA in February 2017, my work permit expired in July. I never got my work permit, Arcelia did tons of service request they would always email me back to tell me I would hearing from them in 15 days never did. Went and got a copy of my money order and Immigration cashed it on March 3, 2017. After arguing for a couple of months and showing the proof. I got my receipt in August 5, 2017, took my fingerprints and finally after my Attorney's office calling immigration and doing a total of 16 Service request I got Card last week. I was really frustrated and upset but one thing I can say is that every time I called Arcelia she would answer my call, and if she was busy she would tell me I will call you back and she did even if it was at 7 or 8 at night. Thank you very much. There was a point that I honestly thought I wasn't going to get it.
Read more
24 Feb, 2017 by Erik
I hired Emilia to help me and my wife for an immigration case she really helped a lot and gave great advice, talked to me over the phone and really was helpful with all of my questions I highly recommend her to anyone for help she really is great!!
Read more
24 Feb, 2018 by Ss
I worked with Matt for my EB1 OR I-140 and 485 petitions. Matt was outstanding and helped me navigate the process with ease. He had thorough knowledge about this process and was readily available to answer any small questions I had. Most of all, he is very patient and helped me to take the stress quotient off this process.
Read more
08 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Very happy with the professionalism and expertise off Matt and his team for our green card applications. Highly recommend him!
Read more
13 Jan, 2016 by Rob
Mathew Martinez is a fabulous attorney with an excellent understanding of immigration law. We had a somewhat complex case and spoke with several attorneys with some giving what I believe was not good advice. Prior to signing with Mr. Martinez. In any event, Mr. Martinez was able to help us with our situation in the most appropriate manner. As we progressed he was quick to reply in a knowledgeable and helpful manner to any additional questions we had. Marie Snyder who works with Mr. Martinez is an excellent paralegal and was in frequent contact ensuring a smooth transition. I would highly recommend this team for any immigration needs. In my opinion, this is not an area to go cheap or with inexperienced attorneys.
Read more
12 Apr, 2021 by Sam
I am really grateful having Attorney Chhayal on my behalf. I highly recommend her for any immigration needs! She is hard working and extremely responsive.
Every time I called she is always friendly and helpful. She goes above and beyond the time I need to explain and make sure any questions I had, always answered and addressed.
I 100% will recommend to anyone in need.
Thank you Chhayal for all your support!
Read more
08 Apr, 2021 by Kelly
Chhayal Patel helped me with a difficult bankruptcy several years ago. She was very thoughtful, helpful, and generous. I highly recommend her skills and keen mind.
Read more
07 Nov, 2019 by Ashley
Chayyal helped my husband and I file for the K1 visa and his permanent resident card. We could not have gone through that process successfully without her help. She was always willing to answer questions and ensure that we understood every step of the way. I am so happy with the outcome and grateful that we found her!
Read more
13 Jan, 2025 by Fransisco
Utilicé los servicios de Bruno para mi proceso de inmigración. Es informativo y se asegura de que entiendas el proceso y el posible resultado. Valoro que sea realista y honesto. Se mantuvo en contacto conmigo en cada paso de mi proceso y se comunicó conmigo tan pronto como tuvo alguna novedad. También es fácil comunicarse con él. Estoy feliz de poder viajar a mi hogar natal. Bruno, gracias por ayudarme a mí y a mi familia. Si estás buscando un abogado de inmigración honesto, respetuoso, confiable y con precios justos, él es el indicado para ti.
Read more
31 Dec, 2024 by Andy
Bruno was professional but yet kept an upbeat casual attitude. He was very helpful, informative, guided through the process smoothly and made sure we were on top of things. He was also able to get me a more favorable outcome for my case and I was happy with what I got. He did a fantastic job and I would definitely recommend him and work with him again.
Read more
27 Dec, 2024 by Jehiry
Bruno Gitnacht is an exceptional lawyer who truly goes above and beyond for his clients. His professionalism, deep knowledge of the law, and attention to detail made all the difference in my case. Bruno took the time to understand my situation, explained every aspect of the process with clarity, andprovided thoughtful, strategic advice. His responsiveness and dedication gave me confidence and peace of mind during a challenging time. I highly recommend Bruno Gitnacht to anyone seeking expert legal representation.
Read more
19 Jan, 2021 by Rikki
This is the most amazing person to handle any case his staff and him self went above and beyond .
Read more
26 Oct, 2017 by Pamela
My son was killed in a truck/car accident, leaving behind a large extended family. Abdul and his partner, came right out to our house and spoke to several of us and explained what he could do. It was an involved case but Abdul went out of his way to help. I was especially impressed by how he kept us updated. Most attorneys do not do that! Abdul is also a caring person. I highly recommend you hire Abdul if you want a progressive attorney who will go out of his way for you!
Read more
04 Aug, 2015 by Natalie
Thank you for everything, I am very satisfied with all the work you have for me. Always answering my calls and keeping me informed about my case. I will always come back to you in case of another emergency. Thank you once again.
Read more
12 Nov, 2015 by Cesar polina
La abogada Vanessa Black fue muy atenta y amable en mi proceso de emigracion. El acesoramiento legal que recibi fue muy bueno y professional. Obtuve mi recidencia permanente con mucho exito.Yo en lo personal estoy muy satisfecho con sus servicios, definitivamente la recomiendo por su experiencia su conocimiento de leyes, y sobretodo que es muy atenta, cualquier pregunta que tengas e incluso si llamas a su oficina y te permite hablar con ella cuando la necesitas. Gracias Vanessa espero y siga asi de atenta con todos sus clientes.
Read more
30 Jul, 2015 by Ed
Ms. Black is competent and very knowledgeable in her field. She demonstrated a profound and accurate knowledge of the immigration laws.
Her dedication to us the client was also profound as she was available to us each and every time we called upon her for assistance, answering our calls within minutes or hours, not days, even while on vacation. Ms. Black went above and beyond handling our Attorney/Immigration needs right up to the conclusion of our case. I will always recommend Ms. Vanessa M Black Esq. to anyone with immigration needs.
Read more
25 Jun, 2015 by Maria
I have gone to many other offices and got the run a rounds and or poor customer service. Came to ABC Immigration and LOVED the customer service and my attorney Vanessa Black is very knowledgeable and committed to my case. At no time did I feel I was just another case or that they just wanted our money prices are reasonable as well. Loved the fact that I was able to have one on one conversations about my case with her she never came across rushed and actually listened overall Great experience and our waiver and petition has been approved. My husband is back home thanks to Vanessa's hard work and dedication. Have already recommended this office to friends. Don't waste your time looking around I already did that and this is truly your first and last stop.
Read more
21 Sep, 2020 by Bethany
Matt, and his colleague Angelo, are incredibly knowledgeable professionals capable of tackling a myriad of legal issues with heart and purpose. When pairing their intelligence, tact, and strategic mindset with compassion and empathy, they make for a truly unbeatable team. I trust them wholeheartedly and would recommend them to anyone looking for top-notch representation. Matt understands complex, cross-cultural issues and easily adapts to the legal environment at play. You will not be disappointed.
Read more
20 Sep, 2017 by Elida
El Abogado Apfel ha sido de gran ayuda para mi caso. Posee extraordinario conocimiento sobre la causa immigratoria. Tiene una capacidad organizativa y de comprencion, asi como una gran mistica de investigacion. El abogado Apfel tomo el tiempo necesario para escuchar mi problema y asesorarme. Actualmente lleva mi caso y estoy muy contenta con los resultados.
Read more
16 Sep, 2017 by Michael
My wife and I consulted Matthew on the recommendation of a colleague to assist my family during a stressful and challenging personal time in our lives. We saw Matthew in consultation prior to engaging him, at which time he enabled us to simplify our thinking and put our problem in an understandable perspective. He was extremely caring and concerned about helping us with our problem and really listened to our fears by explaining the legal process that was totally foreign to us in a simple way that we could understand. He was most knowledgeable about getting the job done and kept us totally informed along the way. I would recommend him to friends in a similar situation.
Read more
16 Aug, 2023 by Roselyn
He is very intelligent and good lawyer. He is Very nice He help me and my daughter to process all my paper works. And now we were in USA i am very grateful to him. all his staff is very nice too.
Read more
03 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Several years after erroneous felony charges against our son were dismissed, those charges began to show up on his background checks creating problems with employment and other opportunities. After some research, we were referred Mr. Ballacer to file a motion to have his records sealed. After carefully going over our case history to gather important details to justify our request, Dan's office filed the motion on his behalf. From the outset, Mr. Ballacer was honest that there were no guarantees that our motion would be granted. When a hearing was scheduled, as opposed to a flat denial of our motion, he assured us that this was our opportunity to justify our request. At the hearing, Dan's concise presentation of the supporting facts resulted in the judge granting our motion to exonerate hour son of the original charges and seal his arrest record. Thank you for all of your hard work!
Read more
02 Oct, 2016 by Jim
Dan provided consummate representation from the very initial contact to last interaction we had. I found that Dan as well as all those involved with and employed by his firm to be top notch professionals; experienced, responsive, communicative, detailed, thorough, fair, objective, supportive and above all caring. I would with great confidence, recommend Dan and his organization in a heart beat to anyone seeking a recommendation.
Sincere regards,
Jim
Read more
15 Nov, 2016 by Mike
My case was very complicated and the other side had many more resources. "K" did an excellent job of pulling together a great deal of information in a short time. He was not intimidated when many others were.
Read more
03 Oct, 2016 by Larkins construction
Attorney Ellison assisted us with the case regarding employment law with two counties in Minnesota. After completing work for the counties they did not pay us for the work yet we were being taxed for it and subsequently end up falling behind. We obtain the services of attorney Ellison who took her case and assisted us ultimately leading to the judge granting us actual litigation. That means a lot to a small business attorney Ellison was fair his costs was reasonalve. He communicated all actions of the litigation and informed us of what to expect after the litigation. He made himself flexible to our needs. He is the people's attorney and I would definitely refer him to anyone that is looking for representation in a field that he specializes in.
Read more
27 Sep, 2016 by Mark
Keilembo provided excellent advice and service for my husband and me to create our will. Thank you!
Read more
02 Feb, 2025 by Tracy eitner
Emily and her staff helped us set up guardianship for our son, a special needs trust, and wills for my wife and I. We are very happy with the services. She provided us with a wealth of information to manage the yearly requirements of the guardianship. I would highly recommend Emily for anyone who needs legal representation!
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Sheila peabody
Attentive , knowledgeable, compassionate, delightful.
Read more
25 Jan, 2025 by John phin
Emily Taylor has represented my family for years. As the complexities of our life have increased, her representation has become ever more important. She and her staff are always gracious and effective. We thank her!
Read more
16 Apr, 2024 by Craig
Outstanding work. This gentleman was professional and very humble. Wish I had found him earlier. He will handle your case with such drive and dignity.
Read more
09 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Atty Ravindar helped me throughout my immigration process. Unlike the previous attorney I hired, he was easy to reach and woukd call you himself if you need him. To him, his cases are handled with care. I would recommend him to anyone who needs an immigration attorney who is sharp, mentally strong, approachable and someone who you wil feel safe with while going through a difficult time in your life
Read more
06 May, 2015 by Vickie
My family was in an accident caused by another driver and we had a difficult time agreeing with the offer the insurance company initially presented. We were referred to Mr. Tijjani and are completely satisfied with the results he achieved. Right from the start he explained the whole process and negotiated with the medical providers and insurance company. We were able to stand back and let him handle the whole situation which took stress away from the family. He consistently kept us updated on the progress of the case so we were never in the dark. He is quick to respond to questions and willing to explain how the legal system works when we did not understand the “why” behind something. Mr. Tijjani stood up for our rights as the injured party and made sure the final settlement was fair. Since our first experience with Him, we have referred other friends because we want them to receive the same level of care and legal guidance we experienced.
Read more
05 May, 2015 by John
TJ was the calm and focus in my life after being stupid enough to drink and drive. Always responsive and crystal clear where we were in the process. I could not imagine trying to tackle the legal system with out him.
Read more
03 Apr, 2018 by Pablo
Attorney Padilla changed my life; she is so professional and smart. She helped my whole family, thanks Ms. Padilla.
Read more
03 Apr, 2018 by Mario
Affordable prices and very experienced lawyer!!! Thanks for all your help, thanks Ms. Padilla.
Read more
10 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Magaly Fontes serves as a prime example of a caring and hard working immigration attorney. Both her and her staff are kind and express a high level of service at all times. Her office demonstrates a high level of professionalism and ensures to keep a high level of communication with her clients.
Read more
20 Aug, 2014 by Janet
I cannot figure out how to remove the previous review but I would if I could. Immigration is a very difficult and emotional process and we felt like we were not getting help. As it turns out Magaly Fontes was not ignoring us and had some family emergencies herself which kept her from contacting us. She did call us and we got the most caring, informative help we have received so far and are looking forward to her representing us through this process. If anyone can tell me how to remove a review I would like to remove the previous negative review I left.
Read more
24 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
*****
After having to endured months and months of pain , adversities and dispair
we had a good furtune to meet you in our lives.
Josh I appriciate mostly that you kept in touch with me on a regular basis, always happy to return my phone calls and emails, answer my questions and for being a great listener, guide me trough tough times.
Josh took the time to explain all information even if If he had to explain to me twice or three times sometimes... never did he make me feel that I am not worth of his time
I found Josh to be very professional, he knows what he is doing!
I will highly recommend him to advocate for you, you will get the care you need!!!!!!!
We are extremly relived with the final outcomel
to say the least you have gotten me the care I needed, and much more.
Thank you for restoring my dignity by your kindness, special care and attention to my case.
My family and I are forever grateful to you, and to your entire team for all the help you have given to us during our journey.
What an outstanding, nice man...YEP!!!!!
From my heart, Thank you!
Thanks a million,
Truly yours,
YA
Read more
10 Oct, 2017 by Geo
Hiedy is a great attorney. She helped me get released on bond when my prior attorney (now fired) was unable. If you want someone who really cares about your case and wont charge a fortune then she's the attorney you need
Read more
11 Sep, 2022 by Kam
Necole did a great job with my father’s case. She made sure I fully understood the process and answered all my questions. I have been truly blessed in having her as part of my life! Thank you for all that you have done.
Read more
29 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
I had my immigration case with Mr. Penalosa, the process went so smooth and with a positive outcome.
Read more
15 Feb, 2021 by Cathryn
Ayensa and the entire team is so welcoming and genuinely want you to succeed.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Miriam gonzalez
Excellent service and professional but at the same time they make you feel welcome and can truly understand you! So happy I stayed with them and not the previous law firm!!
Read more
18 Apr, 2024 by Cameron groom
Julia is a great attorney that doesn’t waste time to get things done. If you want someone who will work on your case aggressively go with her.
Read more
15 Aug, 2019 by Bojana lukic
I had a consultation with Julia and she was very knowledgeable and understanding. She offered me advice and support without even knowing if I was going to hire her or not and at the end decided to waive the consultation fee. I strongly recommend her.
Read more
02 Mar, 2018 by Susan mahoney
She is a great attorney.
Read more
18 Apr, 2024 by Cameron groom
Julia is a great attorney that doesn’t waste time to get things done. If you want someone who will work on your case aggressively go with her.
Read more
15 Aug, 2019 by Bojana lukic
I had a consultation with Julia and she was very knowledgeable and understanding. She offered me advice and support without even knowing if I was going to hire her or not and at the end decided to waive the consultation fee. I strongly recommend her.
Read more
02 Mar, 2018 by Susan mahoney
She is a great attorney.
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Nicole brink
The consultation was very straight forward and easy going.Salvador was very direct with the process and paperwork for our case. Will highly recommend this law firm.
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Natividad sanchez
Good information and provides different options for thier services.
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Jose rodriguez
Affordable, Friendly, Professional staff and attorney. Always available when needed, they really care about their clients. Thank You, keep up the good work.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Nicole brink
The consultation was very straight forward and easy going.Salvador was very direct with the process and paperwork for our case. Will highly recommend this law firm.
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Natividad sanchez
Good information and provides different options for thier services.
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Jose rodriguez
Affordable, Friendly, Professional staff and attorney. Always available when needed, they really care about their clients. Thank You, keep up the good work.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read more
22 Jan, 2025 by Mayra chacon
Contraté esta firma en Mayo 2024 y me prometieron que mi caso quedaba sometido en migración en 90 días y hoy casi 9 meses después aún no se envía mi caso ,
Ayer hablé con Elena y me pedía $500 para enviar mi aplicación y el día de hoy ya no quiso tomar el pago me exigió $1500 para continuar con el proceso, que eran order en de su superior y le pregunté quién era su superior y me dijo que no me podía dar esa información. También me mencionó que los casos duraban de 2 a 3 años en quedar listos y que mi caso estaba saliendo muy rápido. antes del tiempo que ellos manejan sin embargo como mencioné anteriormente a mi me prometieron que salía en 90 dias.
Me asignaron a Dazmi Luna como mi abogada y el día Sábado me dijo que ella no era mi abogada que mi abogada es Natali Sternau y hasta el día de hoy nunca he tenido un encuentro con ella ni por teléfono ni en persona , solo he tenido comunicación a través de empleados y no he tenido la oportunidad de conocerla cuando en varias ocasiones he pedido hablar con ella y no he podido lograrlo hasta hoy.
Estoy muy insatisfecha por la falta de profesionalismo de esta firma sin dejar de mencionar que cada empleado que se comunica conmigo me dice algo diferente, nunca me han podido dar el seguimiento adecuado.
Read more
23 Dec, 2024 by Barrios
25 Nov, 2024 by Laura cazares
02 Jan, 2025 by Dallas schiestel
They did a awesome job.
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Kristal torres
Excelente trabajo lo recomiendo
Read more
01 Nov, 2024 by Mike marandola
Excellent lawyers, worked a
case that others wouldn't accept got me the maximum amount
Read more
25 Jan, 2025 by Marc clayton
We were very impressed with the Attention to Detail, professionalism, and immediate attention we received all the way through our case. They offered us many options that we could use and give us the pros and cons to each. They are a very "Hands On" organization and their attention to detail was amazing. I would "Highly" Recommend Gallagher & Kennedy to handle your case.
Read more
01 Dec, 2024 by Veronika zacatzi
Sweet Lawyers is hands down one of the best law firms to work with. They truly understand what you’re going through and treat your case with the care and attention it deserves from the start they make everything easy to understand and take the time to walk through the process and never got left wondering about case. Sweet lawyers team is one of one for client service always attentive and compassionate 😀
Read more
28 Nov, 2024 by Corinna loredo
Sweet Lawyers is a professional and dedicated firm that truly prioritizes their clients’ needs. Their team works tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcomes, providing excellent communication and guidance every step of the way. It’s clear they care deeply about the individuals they serve and go above and beyond to deliver results. Highly recommended for anyone in need of legal expertise!
Read more
20 Feb, 2025 by Diana chacha
Was fantastic working with them. Very competent lawyers and professional. Top notch representation from them.
Read more
19 Feb, 2025 by James anderson
The team at GLG Personal Injury Lawyers is incredibly professional and caring. They made a stressful situation much easier to navigate and delivered great results. A fantastic choice for anyone looking for expert legal advice!
Read more
19 Feb, 2025 by Kason aniyah
Exceptional service from GLG Personal Injury Lawyers! Their knowledgeable team fights tirelessly for clients' rights, offering personalized support every step of the way. If you need a trusted injury lawyer, they are the best choice!
Read 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:
-
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.
