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13 Dec, 2024 by Sam
Ms Ponce handled my naturalization process after being a green card resident for 19+ years.in the US Super knowledgeable and clear on the application procedure , process and documentation requirements. I also recommend the excellent service offered to accompany you the day of your interview . I wasfortunate to be also sworn in as a US citizen one hour after my interview the same day!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Erick gonzalez
12 Dec, 2024 by Giovanny gonzalez franco
Attorney Liset Lefebvre and her firm are very well-prepared professionals. They helped me and my family a lot. They were always very kind and attentive, always with a very good disposition and very clear explanations.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Erick gonzalez
12 Dec, 2024 by Giovanny gonzalez franco
Attorney Liset Lefebvre and her firm are very well-prepared professionals. They helped me and my family a lot. They were always very kind and attentive, always with a very good disposition and very clear explanations.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Daniel escaloni
Great experience with this law firm! The team was professional, responsive, and made the entire process smooth and stress-free. Highly recommend their services!
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15 Oct, 2024 by Yvette mcgee
I am going to start at the very beginning because I'm not sure how much space I have but I start with my initial meeting with Jennifer last initial you when I met Jennifer she was very nice. She seemed very sharp and extremely knowledgeable of strategies that could help me with my case. shortly after meeting with her and only her, I was convinced that she and I had a plan in place that would ultimately work in our favor. I paid three retainers and on all three cases her firm lost, which was devastating because partially my daughter has an illness and because she was forced into an environment that wasn't conducive to her health. It was necessary for me to obtain legal counsel so she was dishonest, meaning Jennifer and indicated that she could help me get attorney fees backk. I want to share my story because I don't want another family to go through the horrific experience that I went through with her firm, but please know that you do have courses you can file a grievance with the bar, which is ultimately what I had to do, as I said her firm, they know they were nothing for me and they spent every penny of my retainer. I started with a $3000 retainer. I gave her a $5000 retainer and then I gave her a $7500 and then she asked for another 15,000 to finish my trial . I was speechless to FREE and I tried to reach out and to the actual head head of the maybe the firm she never returned my phone call or email just completely ignored me. She had her money and she wasn't gonna do anything about it. I even had her in writing say that she needed an additional 1200 to finish the trial, which she never did so my case is just never got finished. My daughter continues to be sick. There was also there was a breach between client and attorney between the three attorneys, someone disclosed that because I did not complete pay for the additional monies that they wanted they were going to withdraw which they did from my case, not completed, knowing that it had to be completed. There was a lot of money at stake on top of the fact that she was still getting sick I think Jennifer's recommendation was to get a forensic analyst to come in. I mean, I don't know I mean, if you're looking for someone that's gonna help you do what's best for your kid and not get completely broke and doing so this is not the firm for you that I can assure you that in addition to that when I got the second attorney to help of 3 while my original attorney is that on maternity leave. The money is that we spent on the retainer fees were almost detrimental to our family household income, and in the end we won nothing. as a mother, I simply wanted to do what was in the best interest of my daughter and no way shape or form did Armstrong and associates assist
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14 Aug, 2023 by Scott moltzan
Richard Armstrong is a very knowledgable, caring, and timely Attorney that can help you protect and grow your business. I highly recommend him for Business owners who need timely help with contracts, Richard can help you with buying and selling your business as well as making sure you protect your business by planning properly and having the necessary documents in place.
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03 May, 2023 by Robert chacon
Shawn is compassionate, thorough and takes care of our needs effectively and efficiently. We are so glad we can count on him!
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03 Jan, 2025 by Jisela robles
Mr. Morris worked with me since day one!
Explained everything step by step and let’s not forget to mention everything was done in about 2 months!
Forever grateful to have had Mr Morris!
Will definitely be contacting him in the future!
110% Recommend!
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19 Dec, 2024 by John i
Mac Morris is the real deal. Earlier this year, I was dealing with a misdemeanor case here in Collin County. After researching many attorneys, I found Mac Morris, and decided to go with him. I'm very glad I did. He was very professional, thorough, and it was apparent from the very beginning that he cares about his clients. On my birthday, I got an email that my charge had been dismissed.
Aside from just court proceedings, Mr. Morris went above and beyond for me. He helped me make the right decisions in my life to become a better person and grow from this experience.
God bless you, Attorney Mac! Thank you for everything you've done to help me. The world needs more like you!
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09 Dec, 2024 by Derrick bethune
Great representation! They kept me informed on all developments.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Lisa
Excellent information explaned! - answered questions before we asked. So much necessary and informative information about the Trust/Will process.
Thank you.
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10 Jan, 2025 by O d
I would definitely steer very very clear of this place!
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05 Jan, 2025 by Angie nossa
Highly recommend this firm for Estate Planning!
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08 Oct, 2024 by Elfrieda
Mr. Kong walked me through every step of the way. I never went to court unless I had to be there. I highly recommend him!
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02 Jan, 2024 by Treveon
everything has been splendid he did an excellent job with keeping me informed. I appreciate all the help you did behind the scene and wish you best of luck with all your other client's Mr.Kong.
I look forward to reaching out to you if i have anymore unexpected run ins with the law.
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07 Dec, 2023 by Cesario
Kong was very helpfu! He made sure he was always available to answer question. Kong always gave different option and made sure to explain thw outcomes. Kong would communicate and follow up on a timely manner. Kong did an amazing job at helping with case. Thank you so much for all you have done!
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12 Mar, 2021 by David
Rebecca helped my wife and I apply for a Green Card EB-2 with a National Interest Waiver.
The process is quite complex and stressful, but she made it very smooth. She will share the right amount of information to advance efficiently without feeling overwhelmed.
As Rebecca sent us a copy of the files sent to USCIS, you immediately understand the high quality of the work and her high success rate.
I would recommend her services to anyone looking for immigration help!
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16 Feb, 2021 by Hugo
I have dealt with immigrations lawyers since 2008 when I was offered an H1B Visa back in Miami. Back then, I used a lawyer who made the process very smoothly. After few years with the H1B, I had to return to my country for personal reasons. 8 years later, I was offered another job in the US, but now in Virginia. I did the entire H1B process with another lawyer, but my visa was denied at the embassy level. I was so frustrated because I sold everything to move to the US since an initial lottery acceptance letter was received. Very little information and guidance was provided by the lawyer. At that moment, I reinvented myself and started looking for jobs again in my home country. I have already resigned, as well as my wife since this initial acceptance letter made us thought our Visa was approved. At that moment, a friend of mine recommended us Rebecca Whitehouse. Rebecca provided me and the company who wanted to hire me an alternative. We tried again, and my Visa was approved the following year. I was so amazed.....but guess what?.... 3 years later, and I no longer need the working visa...because I just received my green card :)
There are many things I can tell you about Rebecca, but what stands out the most are:
1. HONESTY: she was very honest since the beginning. Her price structure is fair. She could have charged me more by offering more services like renewing working VISA while waiting for green card, etc. But her advices and recommendations were always to benefit me and my family. On another occasion, I told her that my brother (with a degree in music production from Berklee) was potentially offered a creative job with a marketing and advertising emphasis and we wanted to hire her for the H1B process. She immediately told me that she would not take this case, as she knew it was going to get rejected due to the fact that the education did not match the job opening. She could have taken the case and then have it rejected and still charge the company for the work, specially since we are ignorant on immigration law. In fact, another immigrations lawyer told my brother and the company he would take the job, but we followed Rebecca's recommendation. This is why, I always told her that I would do whatever she recommended me to do. The level of trust I established with her was great.
2. Knowledgeable
3. Very detailed oriented: She tries to collect as much information as possible. She organizes everything very well, and makes sure there is no gap with information presented. She makes sure everything submitted to Uscis makes sense and is accurate.
For all these reasons and more, I strongly recommend Rebecca!
Thank you Rebecca for accompanying me and my family in these difficult processes in the past few years of our lives. You have contributed to my future a lot. Thanks for everything :)
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28 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
The best lawyer I have ever worked with. Highly recommended to anyone who wants professionalism!
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10 May, 2016 by Charlotte
I've always known Mr. Ismail as Shawn, so that's how I'm going to refer to him. Shawn is professional and ethical (I know - a lawyer... crazy, right?? - lol). Shawn started as my lawyer in my divorce case that began about four years ago and he has been my lawyer through the initial divorce, a reconciliation with my ex, and the more recent divorce petition and subsequent (and very messy) custody battle. He has always given sound legal advice, told me the truth even when I didn't want to hear it, and clearly explained every step of the process in layman's terms. He's a great litigator. His line of questioning when I took the stand was always clear and concise and led to a great point. He fought for my young daughter as if she were one of his own. He wore hot pink accents on his tie and handkerchief during trial because, as he said, "I'm fighting for a little girl today." He even called me on the phone later on in the evening on the day that our trial ended just to check in and see how I was doing. I could never thank him enough. And if I ever need a lawyer for anything else (which hopefully I won't!), I would be calling Mr. Shawn Ismail.
(Thank you Shawn!)
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25 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr Ismail is an outstanding legal professional and I've been using his advice for more than 3 years. His accurate expertise in the immigration law made me obtain my green card in a record time. Being attorney in my country of origin, Tunisia, N. africa, I've been impressed by Shawn's dedication, patience and kindness because he makes me feel as professional consultant and a close friend, in the same time!
For all these reasons I would strongly recommend his services to my family members, my friends and everyone looking for an awesome legel professional.
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05 Jul, 2014 by Michael
I have used Mrs Alonzo for 2nd opinion. She has a very quick reaction and it impressed me because this shows how familiar the lawyer with similar questions is. She went through all the details when explaining the answers giving few examples to make sure I understand logic behind.
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04 Dec, 2012 by Armando
Im very Satisfied with all the Work that They did for me , thanks to them i have now my Work Permanent ,They came through with everything they said they would do. They also kept me informed of everything that was going on with my case I recommend Chavez & Valko Immigration Law Firm.
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23 Dec, 2019 by Michelle
Danny Son first assisted me with my application for H1B1 Visa back in 2004 and he was on top notch making sure every single file was promptly taken care of. Danny also helped me with my initial green card application in 2005, then renewed my green card application last year and in 2019 took care of my naturalization. I just received my oath notice just only months after the application ( of coz he was the first to submit any applications, updates, follow up etc). I absolutely highly recommend Danny.. he is the best go to immigration attorney .. never had even a single hiccup along my whole immigration journey. He is also the most honest, down to earth, easy to work with attorney I have encountered. I work in real estate and I have experienced many lawyers in my career path for continuing education but Danny is definitely the most experienced immigration lawyer!!!
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14 Nov, 2010 by Jason
This guy did the impossable.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Nicole ross
I had a fantastic experience with Victoria Barr Law. Their team was incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and attentive throughout my case. They took the time to thoroughly explain every step and were always available to address my concerns. Their dedication and expertise truly made a difference, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. Highly recommend!
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29 Jul, 2024 by Melinda carey
Victoria Barr Law, PLLC provided exceptional legal services from start to finish. Their team was responsive, knowledgeable, and truly cared about my case. They explained everything in detail, making sure I understood all my options. Their expertise and dedication made a stressful situation much easier to navigate. I highly recommend their services.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Lynn weaks
If you need a lawyer run far far away from here paid for a walk through she did nothing that you can't do on your own. She never called no one did one thing at all she was the worst all going do take money an couldn't care less. You do everything she did with out paying a lawyer I talked to another lawyer longer than here and got help out paying a dime. Another lawyer only charges for their service once go to court for not hiring a lawyer a walk-through is pointless. Telling you unless you have money through away run far far away this one. I give it a 0 if I could.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Carlos munoz
Good night, Ann, I'm sitting at my living room, still trying to assimilate what happened today, still can't believe it, thank for the awesome job you did. My brother is a lawyer and he told me to be prepared to lose and don’t be surprised because my husband created all the documents to make our properties look like his inheritance. I definitely believe that God used you, I don't know how many days it's going to take to realize that this is over, 30 years was a long trip and it's over I have a roof over my head and one day this it's going to be a little heritage for my kids, because they deserve it too. Awesome job and it was a pleasure knowing you. Blessings to your family and Diana. Good night. God made the impossible possible.
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28 Sep, 2024 by T t
The reviewer Sarah Shakeel, also known as Sarah Fasih, is NOT and has never been a client of the Law Office of Ann Bacchus PC in which I am employed as a legal assistant.
Sarah was the Petitioner and opposing party in a custody case in which Ann Bacchus represented Sarah’s ex-husband the Respondent. Sarah Shakeel, aka Sarah Fasih, was represented by attorney Maria Ahmed.
We had just concluded the custody case when our client asked us to help him deliver to Sarah a jewelry set that he had purchased for her as a gift. Although this transaction was not part of the custody case, we agreed to help our client with what we expected would be a simple delivery. We contacted Sarah’s attorney Ms. Maria Ahmed regarding the delivery of the jewelry. It was decided that Sarah would attend our office to pick up the jewelry.
Sarah arrived at our office to pick up the jewelry and immediately started asking me legal questions about her past divorce and recently concluded custody case. I explained to Sarah we did not represent her and could not give her legal advice. I suggested she discuss her concerns and questions with her own attorney Ms. Maria Ahmed. Sarah stated that she did not want to call her attorney Ms. Ahmed and run up attorney fees. Sarah stated that she just had a few simple questions and didn’t need her attorney. I again explained to Sarah that we did not represent her and that we could not give her legal advice. I directed Sarah Shakeel aka Sarah Fasih to her attorney Ms. Maria Ahmed. Sarah was not happy about having to call her attorney Ms. Maria Ahmed and incurring additional attorney fees. I suggested that we reschedule the delivery of the jewelry to allow Sarah time to speak with her attorney. Sarah refused to reschedule saying she will call her attorney. I provided Sarah with a private conference room to call her attorney Ms. Maria Ahmed. Sarah accepted the offer of the private room. Initially Sarah went in and out of the room on multiple occasions saying that her attorney was not answering her phone because it was after 5:00pm and trying to get me to answer her questions. Again, I suggested that we reschedule the pick up of the jewelry since it was past 6:00pm. Sarah responded that she wanted to keep trying her attorney a few more times. Eventually, Sarah returned from the private room and said that her attorney would call us. Attorney Maria Ahmed did call our office that day and informed us that her client Sarah was surprised that our client was at our office. We explained our client’s presence to attorney Maria Ahmed who confirmed she understood and stated she would explain it to her client Sarah. After a while, Sarah returned from the private conference room, picked up the jewelry and left while cursing her ex-husband for not following Islam according to her (Sarah’s) understanding of Islam.
I wish to reiterate that Sarah Shakeel aka Sarah Fasih is NOT and has never been a client of the Law Office of Ann Bacchus where I work. Sarah Shakeel aka Sarah Fasih was the Petitioner and opposing party in a custody case in which she was represented by attorney Maria Ahmed. The Respondent was our client, and as far as we know he was very satisfied with the services that we provided to him during and after the conclusion of his custody case and is happy with the results he obtained in the custody suit.
Finally, Sarah Shakeel aka Sarah Fasih is well aware that her attorney Maria Ahmed sent Ms. Bacchus an email at the end of the custody case thanking our firm for our cooperation and professionalism throughout the case. Sarah, like her attorney Maria Ahmed, is aware that we—the Law Office of Ann Bacchus-did everything possible to accommodate Sarah Shakeel aka Sarah Fasih’s requests including the changes she (Sarah) wanted to make after she had signed the mediation agreement. I am very disappointed but not surprised by Sarah Shakeel aka Sarah Fasih’s misleading review trying to deceive the public as to her relationship with our office.
Thank you.
Tania Rodriguez
Employee at Ann Bacchus, PC
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10 Sep, 2024 by Sarah shakeel
Worst law practitioner ever. Their assistant. Tania Rodriguez is very unprofessional and very rude. She doesn't even listen to what is being told and nod without listening to you. She also interrupts you and asks you to leave premises if you wanna talk to your attorney. They don't even provide a room to talk privately. Never going there again. Not recommended at all!
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03 Jan, 2025 by Jisela robles
Mr. Morris worked with me since day one!
Explained everything step by step and let’s not forget to mention everything was done in about 2 months!
Forever grateful to have had Mr Morris!
Will definitely be contacting him in the future!
110% Recommend!
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19 Dec, 2024 by John i
Mac Morris is the real deal. Earlier this year, I was dealing with a misdemeanor case here in Collin County. After researching many attorneys, I found Mac Morris, and decided to go with him. I'm very glad I did. He was very professional, thorough, and it was apparent from the very beginning that he cares about his clients. On my birthday, I got an email that my charge had been dismissed.
Aside from just court proceedings, Mr. Morris went above and beyond for me. He helped me make the right decisions in my life to become a better person and grow from this experience.
God bless you, Attorney Mac! Thank you for everything you've done to help me. The world needs more like you!
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09 Dec, 2024 by Derrick bethune
Great representation! They kept me informed on all developments.
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20 Jan, 2025 by Youlan zou
24 Dec, 2024 by Vicky nguyen
I had a pleasure to attend a networking event which attorney Peter is a special guest speaker. I am impressed with the knowledge attorney Peter presented about Trust and Will. He presented the concepts and different scenarios how and why will and trusts are applicable in a very easy way to understand. He answered all questions from guests and willing to stay longer than the time needed to make sure everyone’s questions addressed. I have gained so much knowledge about the topic just in a short period of time. I highly recommend attorney Peter who has over 20 years of experiences in will and trust to anyone who has a need for it.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Thuyhang tran
Mr. Peter effectively explained the importance of creating a will and establishing a living trust, emphasizing how these tools ensure the smooth transfer of assets and protect loved ones. His breakdown of complex legal concepts into simple, actionable steps was particularly impressive.
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20 Jan, 2025 by Youlan zou
24 Dec, 2024 by Vicky nguyen
I had a pleasure to attend a networking event which attorney Peter is a special guest speaker. I am impressed with the knowledge attorney Peter presented about Trust and Will. He presented the concepts and different scenarios how and why will and trusts are applicable in a very easy way to understand. He answered all questions from guests and willing to stay longer than the time needed to make sure everyone’s questions addressed. I have gained so much knowledge about the topic just in a short period of time. I highly recommend attorney Peter who has over 20 years of experiences in will and trust to anyone who has a need for it.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Thuyhang tran
Mr. Peter effectively explained the importance of creating a will and establishing a living trust, emphasizing how these tools ensure the smooth transfer of assets and protect loved ones. His breakdown of complex legal concepts into simple, actionable steps was particularly impressive.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Stan gaulden
Littlefield Law Firm handled my case with professionalism and efficiency. I don’t hesitate to recommend them.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Kenny burleson
We engaged Linda and her staff to help us through our financial issues and their professionalism was beyond compare! Linda’s Assistant , Carissa worked with us through every step and could not have been nicer.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Susan burleson
Linda was such a help to us. Very professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate. Her assistant helped with all the paperwork and walked us through all our questions. Everything was explained as we went through the process. It went in a timely manner and was over quickly. I so appreciate Linda's and her assistant's help and understanding.
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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.
