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24 Oct, 2024 by Cecilia campos
Excelente servicio al cliente, mi asistente Mayra me ayudo mucho y explico el proceso de mi papá, el va a ciudad juarez a su cita y vamos tranquilos al saber que todo la documentación está bien y la tranquilidad y seguridad que nos dio Mayra se que todo va a estar bien. Gracias abogado Gonzales x tener asistentes tan profecionales.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Hellen calix
La abogada Nereida me ayudó en mi proceso de residencia y es excelente muy organizada y amable sin duda se la recomiendo a cualquier persona.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Rosy robles
La asistente Esmeralda , Muy amable y atenta y respondio todas mis preguntas.
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12 Jun, 2024 by James stpatrick
The first two reviews you see here are from two vindictive mothers, trying to keep children away from the fathers.
If you want fairness justice, abd somebody who will actually fight for you. Hire her she will not let you lie you cannot make up lies. You cannot be vindictive. She will help you down to the bottom. Another lawyer practically stole my money and I ended up with L Gavito. At first I thought she was rude with how short she kept phone calls and I was getting and thinking my case is just another pile for her. Nope she called me out nowhere to me to go get my kids for the spring break.
She will work on your case even when you think she is not. LET HER COOK as they say.
I’m 3 Months into my custody against a spiteful person. I wish I hired Gavito from the start.
She CARES
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10 Jun, 2024 by Shannon padilla
Didn't even get a chance to talk to a lawyer but whoever answers the phone is so rude I didn't even want to bother talking to anyone anymore 🙄
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24 Feb, 2024 by Chelsea ortiz
Sooo rude and don’t have the children’s best interests wish I could give a negative star
DO NOT RECOMMEND LETTY ! ! !
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08 Mar, 2024 by Frank saucedo
Great lawyer, very professional and reliable, he handled my case for years and never had reason to complain, great communication system about court appointments changes, strategies planning, excellence all the way!!
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15 Aug, 2023 by Mr. nobody
They don't go with their appointment, made me wait almost an hour
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20 Apr, 2023 by Lisa delong
29 Dec, 2023 by Lazar hausman
David is great. I visited him at the recommendation of another attorney. He was very helpful and thorough with our situation.
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16 Oct, 2023 by Ruth alvarado
Uno de los mejores en San Antoni muy Honesto el Abogado David. El siempre está para ayudar su gente gracias abogado Dios me lo bendiga 🙏🏻
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30 Sep, 2023 by David carreon
David Dilley is the best lawyer I have ever came across. He's true to his words and he has a great staff that keeps you updated on what's going on. Never a dark moment when you have him on your side
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10 Nov, 2017 by Sandra
Ms. Chapa helped with my daughters case. It was a complicated matter, but my daughter and her daughters are now able to remain in the United States! I am a repeat client, as Ms. Chapa also helped me in the past to legalize my status. So happy with her results.
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23 Feb, 2017 by Misael
Very honest attorney!! She was always present for my court hearings and made sure that my process was successful.
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17 Nov, 2015 by Ana g.
Ms Chapa represented my husband, who was detained, he had a complicated case because of some criminal history, but she argued in our favor and in the end got the results we needed for our family. My kids have their dad back. Great attorney!!
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16 Sep, 2018 by Adriana
I hired them over the phone. I would try and call to speak to the lawyer but he was never available then I tried to speak with the paralegal and she was never available. I would be placed on hold for 5 to 8 minutes at a time with no answer and then the line would get disconnected. The receptionist was always very rude she would keep me online and forget and pick up 5 to 8 minutes later and say how can I help you. I would kindly remind her that I was waiting to speak to the paralegal or the lawyer Or even the manager. Very unprofessional very disrespectful and I never got call back from them. I was lucky enough to get my thousand dollars back. But I want to warn anyone else please do not hire them.
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07 Oct, 2017 by Esther flamenco
When I first started looking for a lawyer. I did my research around my area. I noticed some lawyer were polite but really expensive and not too knowledgeable. I never met Mr. Gutierrez. However his staff was very good and professional. I'm sorry to hear that others might not think the same but I learn something. An immigration process takes time and patience. If you are the type of people that think that just because you pay for a service you need a red carpet, then go pay 15,000 to 20,000 dollars for the same service waiting the same time but just because you were able to see your lawyer face. If you have the money then be my guest. I am happy to see my wife with her resident card. THANK YOU TO SANDRA FOR HER PROFESSIONALISM AND THE TIME SHE SPEND IN MY WIFE CASE.
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15 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Gutierrez Law Firm and Roland Gutierrez help me to open a branch office in USA from one I have in Mexico.
Best advice about the procedure we will follow and the investment we need.
Thanks Gutierrez Law Form.
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16 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
My husband and I hired Mr. Trevino to help my husband with his residency and it’s been the longest time waiting, without knowing anything. I do not know if he is good or not because we have spoken to him ONCE and through a video call were we could even get to see him, so basically just a phone call. They have the worst customer service, secretary is rude and they never know anything. Plus, that’s once in a million when they answer the phone, which is completely rare. As of today we haven’t received any answers, and when we get to speak to any of them, they just ask for money. WORST EXPERIENCE EVER.
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30 Jan, 2022 by Karla
Hola, yo contrate a el abogado JORGE TREVIÑO para que me ayudara con mi esposo. En un proceso para que obtuviera su residencia permanente me cobro un mínimo para agarrar su caso para comenzar a trabajar en el. siempre obtuve respuestas a todas mis preguntas etc etc muy buen abogado super respetuosos & atento hoy en día podría desir que es un excelente abogado que confío a ojos cerrados & que gracias a dios mi esposo obtuvo su residencia gracias abogado
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01 Nov, 2018 by Sacramento
I hired Jorge Treviño to help petition my girlfriend under VAWA. He charged me 50% upfront. He did open a case but soon after that, he stopped answering my calls and texts. His secretary at the firm also stopped answering my calls. I regret hiring this lawyer I just wish he was more honest with me and tell me what actually was going on to help my girlfriend instead of wasting our time and money. Please go to a different immigration lawyer thank you.
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07 Jan, 2015 by Mario
After seeing other lawyers nobody want my case ,he see the light in to the dark I recommend him 100% he fight for me in court now am American citizen thank you
Mario S
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17 Feb, 2014 by Michael
Steven Redgate and his "team" are a joke. I hired him about 5 years ago to obtain my permanet residence and it was a disater at the end. When I first met with Mr. Redgate he promised me that would go to all hearings and when it came down to going he didn't know There was one scheduled and on top of that he wanted to charge me extra for going. He stated in the beginning that my fee would cover all that but it didn't. I ended up going to the meeting by myself but luckly for me I becaom a permanet resident.Thanks for nothing Mr. Redgate.
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17 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
I have seen the other reviews and I do not understand how people would say those things. Mr. Redgate handled my immigration case and told me that it would be difficult from the very beginning. He told me my options and explained everything that he could do. He also told me to talk to other lawyers so that I would be sure that I was comfortable dealing with whoever took my case. I took his advice and did speak to other lawyers but after listening to them decided to go with Mr. Redgate. The case took a long time to complete and we had to go to several hearings, but we were successful!
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05 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Not very helpful........................................................................
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09 Feb, 2018 by Paola
Excelent service and attention! The Lawyer Elizabeth Echavarria always answered about my questions.
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23 May, 2022 by Anonymous
He is very careless about the clients and their cases, he gets mad for the questions and concerns. He behave very unprofessionally.
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07 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Marlon took on a case for our family even though he was very busy, and it was not going to be one of his most profitable cases. However, his professionalism and diligence was undiminished. He handled it correctly, beginning to end, was timely in his communication and with us. Although he appears young, his level of knowledge on not only immigration law but also local courtroom proceedings was equivalent to a much more weathered attorney. Marlon is an attorney we believe can be trusted and we will tell all of our friends how grateful we are for his service. Immigration can seem intimidating, especially for non-English speakers, Marlon is definitely capable and well respected as an attorney.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Leonardf
This law firm engaged in fraud, and deceitful practices in my personal injury case. They are also dishonest, and deceptive in their practices. I just filed grievances against Tom Crosley, Steven Nunez, and Brennan Jenkins. I also had to report them to the authorities for stealing & misappropriating funds from a settlement. Lastly, this firm can't be trusted. They withdrew from my case one month before trial because the lawyer wanted to go to Japan for personal reasons. The most dishonorable group of attorneys that I've ever met hands down. The case has now been settled, & get this, Tom Crosley is trying to bill me for expert witnesses even though he never Nunez did any depositions, & I'm not going to trial. This attorney violated my constitutional rights by bullying or coercing me into accepting a low settlement or withdrawing. This guy, Crosley, & Nunez are total scammers. I will be uploading documents for proof very soon. Find a law firm that posts reviews from actual clients, not former employees like this scammer, Crooked Crosley. This law firm stole $37K from my family. Crosley also scammed me out of an additional $10K by sending a doctor to my home for 15 minutes. Dr. Brandon Goff was also part of this scam, he was supposed to write me a life plan that I never received, & was never able to use because the lawyer Crosley was in on the scam & withdrew. They never planned on taking my case to trial. It was a total waste of time dealing with this law firm.
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11 Oct, 2023 by Zarina
After car wreck the loud-mouthed State Farm high-priced lawyer offered us $900 for serious injuries. The 3 trial ended today. Jury awarded us $100,000+ based on attorney Steven Nunez meticulous work or persuasive arguments to the judge and jury. State Farm defense guy walked out of court moaning like a child “I’m gonna appeal this.”
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21 Nov, 2016 by Brian
My wife and I hired Mr. Lee to settle a property dispute with her ex husband. Mr. Lee took over $3500 from us and improperly filed a claim that was immediately thrown out of court. When we asked for another hearing he charged us more money. After giving him the money and over a year of time, Mr. Lee has been MIA. He will not return our calls. I feel that we were completely taken advantage of. DO YOURSELF A FAVOR AND DO NOT HIRE HIM!
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22 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
Office is a comfortable atmosphere, polite people answering the phone.
Mr. Lee was professional and respectful to me and my family.
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19 Feb, 2022 by Veronica
I wouldn't recommend this attorney. She has not return our calls, text, emails or FB messages. We hired her to represent my daughter on a custody case which she did nothing! Then my daughter decide to give her another chance and paid her for another case and she didn't even open the case! She just took my daughter money and hasn't reply to any of our calls! 4 years of doing us the run around but when it comes to money she answers quickly! All I want for her is to pay my daughter her money back! She is a single mother of 3 and she used her saving to pay Kimberly! You cant say you don't know who i am either because I have been trying to get ahold of you for the past 2 years!
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02 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms. Bush was hired for representation during a family law case. She did no research, did not return calls or communicate in any way prior to the court date, and did not show in court at the appointed time (no call before, during, or after with an explanation). There has been no word from her since, and she relocated her office. Needless to say, the decision was not favorable. The money paid to Ms. Bush was also not returned.
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17 Feb, 2016 by Becky
She sales herself really well by making you believe she's going to fight and work hard for you, but once she actually has work to do that all changes.
I asked her multiple times to send me an email and a month later I still haven't received it.
I call her, she says she'll call me back. A week later still nothing. I have to call again.
She had me sign off on paperwork that ended up hurting my case and made things more difficult for me. And she had assured me that it wouldn't.
She kept trying to get me to focus on the other lawyer and kept saying the other lawyer looked like he was going to drop the case. I don't understand why that needed to be a focus or concern.
She is a waste of money and a liar.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
He just wants your money did nothing my dad is getting deported because of him, last minute wanted around 8 thousand
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16 Mar, 2021 by Yasmin
Worst lawyer ever !!!!! Don't waste your time with him he doesn't communicates, you will have chase him to have an update. He will only take your MONEY and he won't do anything with your case..... Later he will ask you for more money.
He's a joke and a liar.
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30 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Terrible! No communication at all. Court is this week. Has not met with my family member to discuss anything. The appointment he had he was out sick. Seems to have abandoned him after bail release. Hope that Armando shows up to court.
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08 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Gennaro was a pleasant lawyer but slow to notify me of developments in my divorce case. My ex dragged the divorce out over 2 years. He allowed the opposing counsel to flagrantly ignore agreed upon elements of written and signed agreements, even court ordered items. He wouldn’t insist on my rights or inform them that he would take action if they didn’t come into compliance.
His rates were fair and flexible. I never felt like he was padding his billing hours because we agreed on an overall maximum potential cost. He delivered UNDER the price agreed upon.
Ultimately, I would rather have paid more for aggressive representation.
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26 Sep, 2020 by José
Mr. Valdez has no business holding a Texas bar license to practice any kind of law whatsoever. I have submitted a formal complaint/grievance to the state bar. He was a court appointed lawyer for a case i had in county court 186 in S.A. He missed completely more than one court appointment. A judge during his absence asked the court clerks in a scheduled appointment "is this the same Jerry Valdez that always shows up late if at all ? ". The clerk simply nodded and said "yes your honor". That's to say he has a well established reputation for being tardy and even absent from scheduled court proceedings. Do not for any reason hire this man. He is a crook, a lier, and has no business practicing law in Texas or any other state for that matter. I will work tirelessly to have him disbarred as he is a detriment to legal community as a whole.
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30 May, 2018 by Anonymous
This guy lies, he's not a good lawyer at all. He will not work for you, he works for the courts. No return phone calls, no visits in jail to discuss my case. I only saw him the day of my trial for which as stated he did not fight for me.
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29 Oct, 2017 by Warren
Jerry told lied to me, about what would happen after a conviction, now i cannot drive or find a good job . when i try to contact him, he ignores and avoids my phone calls , and refuses to call me back. My life if now set back for years to come due to this lawyer.
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06 May, 2022 by Jennifer
I’ve known Hector for years… my family has been living an ongoing nightmare for almost 3 years now, and we consulted him on the matter. Decided to retain him, and the case ended up being dropped. It didn’t go anywhere, never even set foot in court or even zoom court for that matter. We’d discussed the likelihood of getting any part of the $7500 retainer back at our initial consultation, and were assured we’d most likely see some return. Fast forward and now being told we get none of it back. He referenced the contract, and said the retainer is nonrefundable, however I do not find that information within the contract. We requested an itemized statement, which he was annoyed by, and days later when we received it, saw that a couple of listed items do not even make sense, and every item listed was charged at an in court rate. I genuinely feel like he played on the emotions, vulnerability and turmoil of myself and my family at the time we chose to retain him. It’s extremely disheartening to think that a friend would do this, considering that this case involved my daughter and grandson, two of the people closest to me that are my world.
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07 Mar, 2019 by Carlos alonzo
Hector has been a friend of mine for over 10 years. I hired him for my personal injury case. It was a heartbreaking experience, poor communication, poor results on the case ,including his assistant Ray using salesman closing tactics on me . Overall waste of time.
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31 May, 2023 by Jenny
No lo contraten es un estafador solo dice q va ayudar con el caso y no hace nada ya después que uno le paga aveces ni contestan son unos estafadores
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09 Jun, 2021 by Hernandez
No lo recomiendo solo te cobra y no ace nada por ty solo tiene 2 reviews. Mas de un web sites no existe y Los demas es lo mismo son un fraude cuidado no caigan en su juego lo digo por experiencia propia primero investiga y denuncia mala practica de estos abogados falsos
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21 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
Una persona q trabaja allí dice ser abogado y no lo es su nombre es Josue Velásquez y lo único que hace es robar el dinero de las personas lo digo porque tuve una relación con el y al final lo descubrí, al principio muy amable pero una vez q le pagas no les importas y también hace que la gente mienta en sus casos de Immigracion mucho cuidado busquen en state bar of texas y verán de lo que les hablo
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27 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
la oficina de este Abogado Rodolfo Zepeda, lamentablemente son unas personas sin interes por los seres humanos, una ves que se les a pagado sus onoraris ya ni contestan el telefono, te ponen en espera y luego te cuelgan. ni siquiera puedes hablar con ellos. Tienen un terrible servico al cliente. Si necesitan un abogado les recomiendo que busquen a otro porque estos senores no vale la pena. yo persoalmente tube muuy mala experiencia con estos senores, quienes son de lo peor de las ramo de abogados. y no se los recomiendo.
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24 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Michael initially answered calls, in the event he didn’t he would return the call in a reasonable time frame. Not prompt but within reason. Within the first week he had already reneged on things he previously said he would do. Dates he guaranteed passed by. With no explanation or reason. He simply stopped communicating. Leaving us completely in the dark. On a matter he said was just a matter of presenting to the judge, no more than a simple interaction ll. After contacting the county clerk numerous times I was informed he never even went as he had assured he would. Now he will not answer anyones calls and has yet to return a single call. Is this guy actually committed to his clients. I don’t think so
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26 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Her son, Michael Gabriel Sosa, is a notorious child predator and she has repeatedly protected him from prosecution through suspect practices. She has been notified by the victims and their families as to his distribution of child pornography with no effect. DOES NOT PRACTICE WHAT SHE PREACHES.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Arlene 210-309-0437
Took my $1200.00...Hired her to help Me to get custody of my 3 year old grandson...I go to Court on 1-23-14...she called me and said she has health Issues and will not be practicing law anymore...but will Not refund my money....so I can hire another attorney...Amazing
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24 Apr, 2024 by Bryan
I found attorney Nestor Javier Lopez-Garcia through a Legal Aid referral notification when requesting legal assistance for my type of case. I was seeking representation after my initial civil case was concluded against my apartment complex [Artisan Luxury Apartments | Location: 8701 W. Parmer Lane] [Case #1JC-21-0454]. While I lived there, I rented a garage port that was tied into my lease agreement. While still in my lease, they leased out my garage to a new resident, and reported my items as abandoned. I filed a civil suit against them, and won a settlement amount; however their attorney made a countersuit about water damage on the carpet, which was the result from the big winterstorm that happened around 2021.and was related to the winter storm that displaced most of the people in my building. After that situation happened, there was no maintenance work done to repair my floor in the unit. I realized that this countersuit could be a tactic to mitigate the settlement. The settlement I won therefore was reduced after they won their countersuit against me. I filed an appeal, and realized that I needed professional help, because I realized how unprepared I was to counter-argue the opposing side's claim. I came into contact with Nestor J. Lopez, Esq. (Loc: Law Office of Nestor J. Lopez, PLLC). Which I found through Texas Legal Aid service. The issue that Mr. Lopez caused me was not appearing for my appeal hearing, & advising me that I did not have to appear myself. This caused the opposing side to win a Final Judgment at the County Court at Law #4 [No. 22-0869-CC4]. I had the opportunity to open a new case, but within that 30 day window Mr. Lopez did not file a new case on my behalf, and failed to provide me the information I needed to get him off my case, which would have allowed me to get someone else to open a new case for me. I had grounds to reopen a new case, but since Mr. Lopez was listed as my lawyer on file, then he would have to do so, which he never did. I filed a CDC grievance with the "Office of the Chief Disciplinary Counsel" [Re: 202207630] and provided them a detail papertrail & timeline of the events that lead to my outcome. After the hearing they found cause to provide disciplinary actions on him. He was required to complete mandatory courses, and has since been reinstated as of April 10, 2024. I am writing this review for anyone needing honest feedback before making a decision. I believe that people need resources & feedback to make informed decisions. I have vetted this review to make sure I have cobberating information to support everything I stated.
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23 Jan, 2016 by Hassan matthew kukah
I`d never seen an attorney getting to the court house all smelling alcohol.
More importantly, is his claim of help. Nothing falls free from the Sky.
Finally, he does more damage to poor uneducated immigrants cases than assist their sorry situation, using "Pro-Bono" to lure these unsuspecting already traumatized immigrants is unethical, selfish and inhuman which circumvents the basic principle of fundamental human rights.
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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.
