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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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05 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Pague en su totalidad en su oficina mi caso de immigración, el cúal pasó de matrimonio a un caso de violencia familiar, sus asistentes me dijeron que ella tenia experiencia en casos de violencia domestica pero lo que hicieron fue dejar mi caso abandonado, sin ninguna explicación ni la oportunidad de buscar otro abogado hasta que era demasiado tarde, me hicieron perder el dinero, el tiempo y la oportunidad de pelear ni caso y encontrar justicia. Son el diablo en persona y esperó que el karma les cobré a cada una su maldad.
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22 Mar, 2017 by Frank
I consulted with Elba Edith Rocha initially in December of 2016, then tried again in January of 2017, but she was too busy. Then when I went in again today to pick up a form from her secretary, within an hour Elba Rocha called me to inform me that she no longer wanted to take my case. Her weak explanation, that I" showed her no respect when I initially consulted with her. I suppose "Her Highness" felt my line of questions about the immigration process and how she was going to help us offended her high and mightyness. The problem with all that is that my wife and I were left to deal with a very delicate position. My wife had to close all her bank credit card accounts in Mexico, along with energy mongers, water, and gas utility, pay rent in advance 5 months, hire someone to watch over our house, arrange to have her retirement checks sent to the US (incredibly difficult), store her car somewhere safe($) cut cable,phone service,bring only enough clothes(immigration frowns on more than 1 suitcase) to last 2 weeks!! So yeah, that attorney has caused us both incredible stress!! Now we are forced again to look for another lawyer. She was not at all professional about her reasons why she did it.
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26 Dec, 2023 by Doraluz perez
I call them ask for an appointment the Lady say will call me and I never heard from them
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12 Nov, 2023 by Kallan salganik
I had a terrible experience with attorney Carlos Diaz. The communication was not as professional as I would expect from a legal representative. I recently required legal assistance for what I believed to be a straightforward matter—a simple traffic ticket with clear evidence to contest it. Based on my experience, I lacked confidence in Carlos Diaz’s approach and felt that the level of advocacy did not meet my expectations. I would have reservations about entrusting even such an easy case to this attorney again.
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05 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Not a good lawyer do not recommend please do not hire. waste of time money does not return calls. RUNNNN
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12 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
This attorney was TERRIBLE! I would advise anyone thinking of hiring this attorney to not do it. She ignored my phone calls, emails, and text messages. For months, I attempted to get updates on my case, but she would give me a personal lame excuse to why my calls went unanswered. This caused a breakdown in communication, and I'm now at risk of losing the case she was PAID IN FULL to handle. She did not file any motions to assist in our case which resulted in me having to terminate her services and hire another lawyer, more money. She over charged me for basic research, review, and travel and padded the invoice for work that she never completed. I will never recommend this lawyer to anyone.
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08 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I wish I'd never spoken to Mr. Barrett. He was quite personable on the phone. We had some nice, very brief chats, but when he wants to disappear, he WILL disappear. I went ~42 days with nothing which would be absolutely fine but you have to manage expectations, and not say 4 days then go 42. Bizarre. Oh and he never withdrew from my case. The case continued and the entire process was a nightmare. I’m still baffled.
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24 Dec, 2022 by Frank
Retained Kenneth Royce Barrett after the initial consultation to ensure it was understood in that the rodent infestation I was dealing with inside apartment dwelling was clearly conveyed to property management; however, property management ignored the problem and failed to provide exterminating services despite monthly reminders for six months after infestation compounded exponentially. Served with eviction notice, sought an attorney and foolishly relied on the Peer Review provided to this attorney during selection process. Suddenly, Barrett increased retainer from $450/2 hours to $1,000/4 hours. After retainer was remitted, he immediately came back to me concerned in that level of case perceived difficulty had increased though no changes resulted to warrant any concerns for any increases in case perceived difficulties. This implied Barrett was forewarning of the potential need for additional funding. I decided to instead to negotiate an Exit Strategy with property management myself and did given I’d already relinquished $1.0K to Barrett for essentially no reason. Informed Barrett who then advised to not let property know of move out intentions in writing. Then he became unreachable. Three weeks later I requested my residual retainer be refunded on two different days before he responded with having had Covid and was behind on record keeping tasks but would resolve following week. This did NOT happen. Four months later I contact him again to learn he’s suffered another bout with Covid and remains behind on work tasks. He then tells me he advised me to remain in my previous apartment. Another lie. So I investigate to learn he has a reputation for being dishonest. Another month passes, seven months after initial retainer paid, request formal contact information for litigation purposes and receive nothing. As 100% Disabled American Veteran unable to work, trusting this person created a financial hardship I continue to struggle with present day given the unexpected relocation expenses and non-refunded retainer in part or in whole.
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23 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
July 2013 we started this divorce. No fighting , simple non contestant . It's February 2015 and our case was done in January, I still don't have a copy of the decree. She rescheduled , and forgot many things, Got a lot of information wrong. I'm scared to get the final paper back because I have feeling it is wrong. During the process of us being told our court date 1 business day in advance , and
that's because I called or she would have forgot . Her receptionist is not professional at all, and very rude even considering all the mistakes. I still don't have answers to all our questions like the attorney general I was told " they will call you". No it shouldn't work that way. I'm very unnerved and would NEVER recommend her for anything!!!
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26 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
This lady reschedule my court date with out even telling me. I had court Monday morning at 8 am and she called monday at 8:45 am bearly giving me a notice that she had rescheduled. She also never called me to ask any question about my case i had never even met her i only met her receptionist. The day of the other court day she did nothing for me I had to pay a court fee, had to take deffensive driving and will be on probation for 4 months.
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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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02 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
This attorney is very incompetent, I hired him for immigration matters. Waivers that should have been filed before the immigration case was never filed, you will be back home in your homeland, if you hire this man.
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08 Sep, 2012 by Jackie
I hired this attorney to process an adoption in the year of 2006. I waited in the process since then to find out from another attorney on 9/7/12 that case was dismissed since May. 2008. This is a disgraced. I would call the office every day to be told the case is ready to go. May God bless this man for the wrongs he's done.
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30 Jul, 2022 by Tahna
This person supposedly represents bloomchic/shine yee Hong Kong but you can't email her, the number to her lawfirm is not in service or not a viable number and apparently she works in Texas, New York and Beijing but you can't contact any of those businesses.
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05 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Consulting fee. Refunding fee. No cost information. No payment plan information.
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16 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Garrett does not answer calls, texts, emails, or messages of any kind and has not contacted me in 2 months. He only showed up to court today after one of the officials called asking where he was. He has given out fake address (like the one tied to this account of his) and will not say where to find him. He has failed to relay pertinent information to my case which could have serious implications on me. He is a terrible lawyer and is seriously sketchy.
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13 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
No recomiendo a esta abogado, por su falta de integridad y resposabilidad mis documentos de immigracion fueron cancelados. Yo page al pricipio 4/2014 todos los money orders que me pidiero y un ano despues empesaron mi caso 06/2015, como los money orders estaban cancelados por el tiempo me isieron agarrar nuevos y tube que pagar double. Mientras tanto la compania de ella usaron una targeta SIN fondos para pagar y imigracion me cancelo todo. Trate de ablar con ella 3 veses en persona porque immigracion me sigue mandando cartas y la abogado le dice a su secretaria que Ella no aprueva la cita para ablar con migo asta despues de dos meses, tambien he tratatado de comunicar con Ella por telefono y a sido imposible. No es todo tube que aser Mis examenes medicos 2 veses, mas aparte me cobraron $3500 aparte de todos Los money orders que di doble, no tienen ethica profecional. Tampo me quicieron dar mis documentos para poderme ir con otra abogada.
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13 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Bad service don’t waist your money. They ask me to pay a full amount of money in two months no services done poor communication. They don’t read email. They don’t communicate with clients. I hired them I pay my money but no service is done and they don’t want to give back the money. They have a lot to learn I advice you to see how other law firm work that way you can have idea what to do please you don’t know What to do and where to started. I give zero stars ⭐️
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13 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
We have hired him to for a 1.000 dollars for the case , with a payment plan for $ 100.00 every 2 weeks we got a late payment and have a balance of $ 200.00 dollars and hi now wants $600.00 saying that is $400.00 for late fees .
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03 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
This lawyer takes money, does nothing with your case, and then withdraws from your case. Have your money work for you and go with a different lawyer.
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14 May, 2024 by Anonymous
No defiende no te brinda la información que requieres saber , lo pensaría más de 2 veces para contratarlo .
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07 Apr, 2023 by Hh
I hired Mr Yip to review my contract for a new job fresh out of the residency. He reviewed my contract and told me that it was “standard” for a new physician hire.
I trusted his opinion and signed. 18 months later my employer “ a small private clinic” calls me in to terminate my contract without cause. I found out that I have to pay back my sign on bonus and my relocation allocation in full even though I have worked for the office for 18 months out of the 24 months. I think that they did so because of financial issues related to the company.
I contacted Mr Yip to let him know about what happened, he stopped responding to my texts once I told him of the termination with out cause.
At no point did he mention anything about the termination without cause and what ever I have to pay back to the company if that ever happened. He did not even mention it to me or suggested negotiating the terms to request a prorated amount pay back or any thing at all.
My contract was drafted to protect the employer, and my lawyer did nothing to advocate for my right.
I doubt that he even read the entire contact.
I warn you not to ever hire this lawyer. He is not only inefficient, but also unprofessional.
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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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23 Aug, 2014 by Cristian
I applied for an H1b visa on April of 2013. I wasn't aware about how the whole process worked but, I trusted the immigration lawyers my employer hired to deal with my case.
I did not get the H1b that year but, I got it on 2014 and everything went smoothly with another law firm.
To sum up the awful turn of events:
1- They never made aware of an existing lottery for the H1b that year
2- They had my employer fill a job description the wrong way. This caused my paperwork to be returned
3- I didn't have my professional license issued until July ( Dentist License) but, they said "it was ok" because they would create a different position on the job description and then change the job title once the visa was approved
4- I was selected on the lottery BUT the job description this law office invented, would not qualify for an H1b. This made my denied to be denied
5- I was only made aware of all this mess they created on the same week I was supposed to start working on a 6-figure job
6- I had to stay overseas for an extra 9 months due to this until I was able to get another job. This created a huge financial burden on me and my family (wife and baby)
7- After all this unprofessional mess they created, the best was left for last. They offered me to come on a H3 visa (which is for exchange students-NOT WORKING VISA) to work on that same position. In other words, they suggested that I WORKED ILLEGALLY in the USA, which could of course, compromise my entire life in this country.
I was lucky enough to get referred to another lawyers before I talked to these people again. Now, I live in the US working on an academic position and will finally get to my dream job this year.
The lawyers that handed my case ( a true mess) were Maggie and Ajmera.
Do yourself a favor and look for someone else
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07 Sep, 2011 by Jaime tijerina
Had an accident in Oct of 2010, needed medical treatment, so I called a lawyer recommended by a friend. I was referred to a chiropractor for treatment that did nothing but useless massage and electroshock for me. So miraculously was healed to stop going to the doc and waist my time. Then nothing for months, I figured the lawyer was negotiating on my behalf and it takes time. Until I started getting calls from the bill collectors. I gave them the attorney’s number and they soon stopped. Then more calls saying the contacted the attorney and then never received any updated or responses. So I called the attorney and asked what was going on. Six months later hand there were waiting on a response from the insurance Co. (Which called me a week after the accident offering a settlement. Off course I referred them to my attorney.) Long story short… I received a bit over seven thousand from the insurance Co. Over three thousand went to my attorney. I got a bit over six hundred and the rest to the medical treatment. I thank god there wasn’t anything wrong with me as a result of the accident. But this lawyer did the least amount of work for me for the maximum amount of profit. I only met him once, during the initial consultation. Thanks.
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17 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Flor Flores was hired and I regret it. My money has been stolen. From the look of other reviews in other places she has done the same to others. She is never available to talk to or she will never answer emails. Do not hire this lawyer look elsewhere it is important that we all contact the Texas Bar Association so she can stop hurting other people. It has been 1 year and nothing has been done with my case.
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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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30 Dec, 2016 by Anshul
She seemed quite convincing at first. But after I paid the fees my case was handled quite casually. When my application didn't receive a response she did not suggest any solution. It was only after I upgraded to premium that I received a response with was an RFE. Even after receiving two RFEs the responses prepared by her were quite inadequate. It just seemed like she was not interested at this time. Moreover, she came up with baseless reasons for why I could have gotten an RFE (such as being friends with someone from a particular religious community and nationality). However, the issue was the paperwork that she prepared which was lacking.
This is not a rant or a false accusation because after my application was rejected and Tina blamed Godly powers for the rejection, The same application for H1 was approved when filed within months through another attorney.
She is incompetent and can probably handle standard cases. There are far better attorneys in Houston who will give you better service and will help you when you need them rather than shrug shoulders and come up with silly stories to scare you off.
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21 May, 2009 by Anonymous
I was involved in a slip and fall accident while i was 6 and a half months pregnate with my daughter and i was reffered to the lasfirm of salines and legire and 4 months into my case the lawfirm split with out any waring to its clients and my case got sent with mr.salines i called his office for 3 months in a row and NO ONE ever answered the phone or got back to me until i called the law firm that reffered mr.salines to me and informed them as to what was going on and that i was firing him,he sent me a copy of my case file and on the cover sheet it stated that i NEVER tryed to contact him I WOULD NOT RECOMEND THIS LAWYER TO ANYONE WHO IS IN CONSTANT PAIN OR IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE.
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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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11 Jul, 2017 by Jose
This guy is a con-artist. I hired him in California without knowing he was based in Texas. He took my money, would never return my phone calls or emails. My case ended up in jeopordy with USCIS because he refused to represent me despite the fact that he was under contract and could not move forward with USCIS without his saying. Long story short, I had to fight my case with USCIS to drop him as my lawyer in order to move forward, and i had to place a complaint with the Texas State Bar. After showing an amount of evidence of fraud on his part, I was able to get my money back. But not after a long year headache. Bottom line is, don't hire this can-artist who preys on peoples trust and hopes of having a better life. DO NOT TRUST THIS GUY.!!!
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10 Jan, 2018 by Leonardo guevara
This person is pretty rude. She called me because I was looking for information for my mother, -a refugee- She screamed to me and spoke with me without any respect. I believe, she had a bad day. I have to point out that I do not know this person, but if you are a public server and you are not able to have a respectful conversation with the public, this job is not for you.
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11 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
I had the horrible pleasure of coming in contact with Mr. Edmond O'suji through a referral. In all my years I never seen such fraud, deceit and misrepresentation so much before in my life. This attorney has been deemed negligent, he failed to allow or advise me on proper process or ethical process of my case, he accepted a plea without my knowledge, he entered into a financial arrangement regarding my case without communicating anything to me. As a result my integrity and my case has been compromised. Future word of advice to any future prospects that are considering retaining this gentleman. Please do yourself a favor and save yourself the headache of dealing with dishonest attorney that will make provisions and accept pleas without your knowledge. He does not care about the consumer and has been known to misinform clients for his own gain.
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05 Jun, 2020 by Navid
I'm not recommended her at all. Her office charged me $100 for 1 hour consultancy. Before meeting I sent all of my docs and told her I'm in hurry for your advice. She ask for 3 documentation review $1000 and because she has many client, it takes 3 to 4 weeks long. She told me if I'm in harry I should pay more. The conversation finished in 10 minutes.
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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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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.
