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11 Dec, 2015 by Timothy
My Name is Timothy and I am beyond impressed by Ted Murphy. I want to Ted with the most complicated and difficult case that my previous three immigration attorney's had given up on. Ted Murphy took time to explain his way forward plan and the best path about my case. He then followed this path that turned out to be the best and perfect plan. Ted took me from being illegal immigrant, appeared before the judge and got my permanent resident status. He then later applied for my citizenship which was granted about a week ago. Ted Murphy's sense humor, the love of what he's doing, communication and leadership skills tenacity, focused, fearlessness had really blowed my mind. I also learned that he is so highly respected by prosecutors and judges. I must include that I previously knew Theodore Murphy from no where in my life before. My summarized version of this Ted Murphy is nothing less than an Angel from Heaven. I does make more sense to me. He is so selfless and the truth altruistic Hum A being. I know for sure that I will forever honor, respect and love this man to ETERNITY. God bless you, your family, your law firm forever and annoint you in the enlarged territory. I will always everywhere share the good report about you. What faithfull servant in you. Sincerely Timothy P.
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17 Sep, 2014 by Isauro
My sister contacted Mr. Murphy to provide immigration advice to my then criminal case Lawyer. Mr. Murphy’s expertise in immigration cases and willingness to seek the best possible outcome for my case contributed to a life changing outcome, which to my family has been seen as a miracle. My case was not easy and I was facing deportation. Luckily for me and my family having the right representation at the right time was the key. If you are in need of an immigration lawyer and want to have the best, knowledgeable, caring immigration lawyer to represent you, go immediately with Mr. Murphy. He is the best Immigration Lawyer around the area. He has a great team and possesses the knowledge to help you achieve the miracle you dearly wish.
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01 Sep, 2014 by Virginia
In all my nervousness and excitement, Mr. Murphy took control and made it possible for me to reunite with my husband. I really appreciate all the work and effort he put into my husband's case, especially getting him a bond hearing so quickly. We are very grateful to him for taking on our difficult case. I know we have a long road ahead of us but thanks to Mr. Murphy we can face it together. I knew hiring Ted was the right decision. Another immigration attorney told us Ted was the right person to handle our case. And after meeting with him I could tell we had finally found the right person to handle our situation.
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23 Jul, 2016 by Stephen
Kristin’s attention to detail, professional approach and all round helpfulness is very commendable. Kristin helped me by listening and providing exactly the right level of service and attention.
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21 Mar, 2013 by Joane
I just wanted to say that I am strongly recommend Attorney Morley to everyone who is going through immigration process. I contacted Attorney Morley in my frustrating immigration situation and wasn`t sure that my issue can be resolved. He helped me a lot. He was very nice and I liked his peronalities at the very first meeting and later on I appreciated his professionalism. H ewalked me through my process and always wa sreachable and kep me updated. I got the positive result and starting my new life stage! If you need an immigration Attorney - Attorney Matthew Morley will be the first one I will recommend!
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29 Jun, 2024 by Jim van
Phil Simon and Ryan Hyde of Simon Hyde Law were very professional and made the process super easy for me. They were quick to respond to questions, and were able to obtain a very satisfactory result. I would recommend them in second.
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29 Jun, 2024 by Gene stracciolini
Phil Simon prepared our wills for us. He did a great job. It was a very easy process.
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13 May, 2024 by Prash
Phil was an amazing attorney and a Partner in my request. He was knowledgeable and so completely aware of the urgency of my request. He responded back to my emails and messages with immediacy which allowed me to get my work done well in time. Phil's enormous patience and responsiveness were especially impressive. I haven't met an attorney in over 20 years who has been this responsive and helpful. If there had been delays, or changes, they were entirely due to changes in circumstances on my end. Thank you so much, Phil!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Michael raytik
I have used Alexander Silow on multiple occasions and each time I receive the best possible outcome. Alex is one of the most knowledgeable and respected lawyers I have ever met. His commitment to his clients is unmatched and presence in the courtroom is second to none. Would absolutely recommend and have on multiple occasions to any person seeking representation.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Daniel murphy
When I initially consulted Alex Silow to explain the details of my case, he seemed like a good fit as we had a similar take on both the situation and the plan of action. Unfortunately, our relationship soured quickly. I found him to be arrogant, rude, and self-serving. I learned to despise him even more than the lying cops and the low-life DA who cared nothing of my innocence, but only for the chance to bolster his record at my expense. They can all rot in hell and I hope they do. Silow interrupted me, and yelled at me repeatedly in the course of phone calls that should have been a calm back and forth discourse. There was no reason for such abhorrent behavior. I have never met anyone in any profession that talks to their clients like that. This is unacceptable in any setting. And he refused to believe me even though every word I said is true, which only complicated the case. Furthermore, it is my belief that he purposely failed to get the case dismissed in a pre-trial hearing, so that I would have to pay him another $2,500 to go to trial. If his pre-trial failure was not on purpose, then his defense was grossly incompetent. I was charged with theft. Fortunately, there was surveillance video of the entire incident, in which I picked a single piece of scrap wood out of a trash pile and put it back exactly where I found it in under 60 seconds. In order for that to be theft, by definition, there has to be "economic loss". So, after watching the video, the judge says "what's the difference between stealing a car and returning it the next day and stealing this piece of wood and returning it? Any decent attorney would have answered that taking a piece of wood from a demolished deck out of a scrap pile and putting it back within 60 seconds does not constitute "economic loss". Silow failed to do so. The judge held the charge over for trial and Silow put another $2,500 in his pocket, after which the DA, knowing he did not stand a chance at trail, promtly dropped the charges. This experience was a real eye opener about just how corrupt the criminal justice system is. Cops, judges and DAs need criminals (real or fabricated) to justify their cushy salaries from the county. And the defense lawyers are all too happy to extract every dollar they can from the defendant. It's a scam, and they're all in on it. Silow puts on a good act as if he cares, but he's about the $$$, not the client. Disclaimer. The above statements of opinion are just that, my opinion, not facts or accusations. Note: I did not just walk up radomly to a woodpile. I had worked on this property many times for the former owner, who is a building contractor, and believed that this wood belonged to him
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30 May, 2024 by Dirty lenses
Highly recommended, excel in clear communication & are there every step of the way. I had the pleasure to work with Basil Joy who is an outstanding representative. Clear expectations were set prior to starting this journey, and those expectations were met. Thank you GG&M!
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10 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Ok, first of all I do not recommend this lawyer at all. She is impossible to get a hold of and does not keep track go her cases. After being with her for years and her telling me that my case should come out in a month or two ...10 years later (still resolving the case) I come to find out she wrote a number wrong and never checked up on it for the last 5 years. By myself, I went to the immigration office for less than a year and found out there was many documents she never turned in that I had given to her. Enough of my case, point blank I do not recommend her.
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27 Dec, 2010 by Lyz
I met her a few years ago and I am so happy with her work. She is a great professional and amazing human being. She is still my lawyer and will be again if I ever need.
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04 Apr, 2021 by Wil
Hired Jim to handle a contracts case for me. When asked what his experience was in that area he pointed me to a pamphlet, which I thought was strange and should have seen as a RED FLAG. Jim took it upon himself to negotiate a settlement 1/3 of the amount owed unbeknownst to me. I met with Jim and when I refused to accept this nonsense settlement he was obviously worried that his deeds would come to light. After putting me at this severely disadvantaged position I ultimately had to accept this greatly reduced amount. I told him I wasn't happy with his performance and he sent the check back and had it reissued in the name of his law firm deducting roughly 2/3rds the amount. Went to his office to discuss and he hid in his office behind the locked door. Jim is only out for himself and could care less about you as a client. I wouldn't use Jim's services if they were free and I was facing the electric chair. STEER CLEAR OF THIS SO-CALLED LAWYER!
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What an Immigration Lawyer Can Do for You

An immigration lawyer specializes in helping individuals, families, and businesses navigate the complex immigration process. These lawyers provide legal guidance on various immigration matters, such as obtaining visas, gaining permanent residency (green cards), applying for citizenship, and defending clients in deportation or removal proceedings. Immigration lawyers also assist with employment-based immigration, asylum applications, and resolving issues related to visas or immigration status.

Whether you're trying to immigrate to the U.S., facing deportation, or sponsoring an employee or family member for a visa, an immigration lawyer can help you understand your legal options and navigate the often complicated legal system.

When Should I Hire an Immigration Lawyer?

Hiring an immigration lawyer is beneficial in many situations where you are dealing with U.S. immigration laws, whether for personal or business reasons. Common reasons to hire an immigration lawyer include:

  • Visa applications: If you need assistance applying for a visa, whether it's a work visa (H-1B), student visa (F-1), or tourist visa (B-1/B-2), a lawyer can help ensure the application is properly completed and submitted.
  • Green card applications: If you're seeking permanent residency, an immigration lawyer can guide you through the process, whether through family sponsorship, employment, or the Diversity Visa (lottery) program.
  • Deportation or removal defense: If you’re facing deportation or removal from the U.S., a lawyer can defend your case in immigration court and seek to prevent removal.
  • Asylum applications: If you’re seeking asylum due to persecution or fear of persecution in your home country, a lawyer can help you prepare a strong case and file for asylum.
  • Family reunification: If you're a U.S. citizen or permanent resident looking to bring family members to the U.S., a lawyer can assist with the family sponsorship process.
  • Citizenship and naturalization: If you're ready to apply for U.S. citizenship, a lawyer can help you navigate the naturalization process and ensure you meet all the requirements.
  • Business immigration: If you're an employer seeking to hire foreign workers, a lawyer can assist with employment-based visas, labor certification, and compliance with immigration regulations.
  • Special immigration categories: Immigration lawyers also handle complex cases, such as visas for victims of human trafficking (T visa), crime victims (U visa), or those seeking Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

Hiring an immigration lawyer early in the process can help you avoid delays, errors, and possible denials due to incomplete or incorrect applications.

What Does an Immigration Lawyer Do?

An immigration lawyer provides a wide range of services to help clients with their immigration needs, whether personal or business-related. Their tasks often include:

  • Assisting with visa applications: Helping clients fill out and submit visa applications, ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate.
  • Filing for green cards and permanent residency: Guiding clients through the process of applying for a green card, including family-based, employment-based, or other forms of residency.
  • Defending against deportation or removal: Representing clients in immigration court who are facing deportation and working to prevent removal from the U.S.
  • Preparing asylum cases: Assisting clients in applying for asylum based on fear of persecution in their home country due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
  • Handling citizenship applications: Helping lawful permanent residents apply for naturalization and ensuring they meet all the legal requirements for U.S. citizenship.
  • Employment-based immigration: Assisting employers with the process of sponsoring foreign workers for temporary or permanent visas, including H-1B, L-1, and EB-1 through EB-5 visas.
  • Representation in immigration interviews: Preparing clients for immigration interviews and attending interviews at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offices.
  • Appealing denied applications: If a visa, green card, or citizenship application is denied, a lawyer can file appeals or motions to reopen or reconsider the case.

How Are Immigration Lawyers Paid?

Immigration lawyers generally charge for their services based on the type of immigration case and the complexity of the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:

  • Flat fee: Many immigration lawyers charge a flat fee for specific services, such as preparing a visa application, green card petition, or citizenship application. Flat fees help clients know upfront what the legal costs will be for a particular service.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex cases, such as deportation defense or appeals, some lawyers charge by the hour. Hourly rates vary depending on the lawyer's experience and the complexity of the case.
  • Retainer: For ongoing immigration matters, some clients may need to pay a retainer, which is an upfront payment billed against as the lawyer works on the case.
  • Pro bono or sliding scale: Some immigration lawyers or nonprofit organizations may offer free or low-cost services for clients with limited financial means, particularly in asylum or humanitarian cases.

It’s essential to discuss the fee structure with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand the costs and payment arrangements.

How Much Does an Immigration Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring an immigration lawyer varies based on the type of legal service required, the lawyer's experience, and the complexity of the case. General cost estimates include:

  • Visa applications: For help with visa applications (e.g., H-1B, L-1, F-1), legal fees may range from $2,000 to $7,500, depending on the complexity and the type of visa.
  • Green card applications: Fees for family-based or employment-based green card applications typically range from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the case.
  • Deportation defense: For defending clients in removal proceedings, costs can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case and how long the case takes.
  • Asylum cases: Asylum applications may range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on whether the case is defensive (in removal proceedings) or affirmative (not in removal proceedings).
  • Citizenship applications: Legal fees for filing a naturalization application usually range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the client’s immigration history.
  • Business immigration services: Fees for assisting businesses with employment-based visas (such as H-1B or EB-5 visas) often range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more.

Always ask for a clear breakdown of costs and fee arrangements before proceeding with legal services.

Top Questions to Ask an Immigration Lawyer

Before hiring an immigration lawyer, it's essential to ask questions to ensure they have the experience and expertise to handle your case effectively. Important questions to ask include:

  1. What experience do you have with immigration cases like mine?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s family-based immigration, employment visas, or asylum.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee, hourly rate, or retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost.
  3. What is the likelihood of success in my case?
    Ask for an honest assessment of your case and the potential outcomes, including any challenges you might face.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Immigration cases can take time, so ask how long it may take to process your application or resolve your legal issue.
  5. Will you handle my case personally?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of your case. Make sure you know who will be working on your case directly.
  6. What documents do I need to provide?
    Ask the lawyer about the documentation required to support your case, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or employment contracts.

How to Check the Credibility of an Immigration Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable immigration lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:

  • Check their state bar status: Confirm with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no disciplinary actions against them.
  • Look for specific immigration law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in immigration law and have experience handling cases like yours.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients who can speak to their ability to handle immigration cases.
  • Check for industry affiliations: Membership in organizations like the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) can indicate the lawyer’s expertise and commitment to immigration law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most out of your first consultation with an immigration lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Passport and immigration documents: Bring your passport, visa, and any documents related to your current immigration status.
  • Family documents: If you're applying for a family-based visa or green card, bring marriage certificates, birth certificates, and proof of family relationships.
  • Employment information: For employment-based visas, provide your employment contract, offer letter, or other documentation of your job.
  • Criminal records (if applicable): If you have any criminal history, bring copies of court records and other relevant documents.
  • Timeline of events: Provide a clear timeline of any prior immigration applications, visas, or issues with immigration authorities.
  • List of questions: Prepare any questions you have about your immigration case, the process, costs, and the likelihood of success.

By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer understand your case more effectively and get the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.

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