Our practice areas span from immigration to criminal defense, from family law to estate planning, and beyond. We’ve handled hundreds, even thousands, of cases, always striving to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients. The reputation of an immigration lawyer is an essential factor to consider when choosing legal representation. A lawyer with a good reputation is likely to have a track record of success in handling immigration cases and positive reviews and recommendations from clients and colleagues. The United States Constitution provides a right to representation for citizens who have been charged with a crime. However, this constitutional right to a lawyer does not extend to non-citizens or LPRs.
See the How to Look for a Good Lawyer section below for tips on how to find a lawyer that is a good fit for you. Depending on the state and its criteria, some law students are able to provide some legal services under the supervision of a licensed attorney. The process of immigration can be life-changing for many individuals and families, and that makes the difficult process even more stressful. Any mistake in an application to apply for a visa or permanent residency can result in denial and delay the process of immigrating for months to years. For many people attempting to immigrate to the US and New York area, it is useful to work with a New York Immigration Lawyer. A person can lose their permanent resident status if they violate the law by committing a violent crime or aggravated felony or a Crime Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT). Not every type of relationship automatically qualifies someone to apply for residency in the U.S.
If the lawyer quotes an hourly rate instead, expect to pay between $150 and $600 per hour. In addition, processing times for government forms may also contribute to the time it takes to resolve a case. Finally, any complications that arise during the case, such as challenges related to eligibility or issues with documents, can add months or even years to the resolution of a claim.
The average wait time for becoming a U.S. citizen is between 18.5 to 24 months. This accounts for processing Form N-400, completing biometrics, passing your citizenship interview, receiving a decision, and taking an Oath of Allegiance.
Failing to file the right paperwork precisely on time or failing to submit the right supporting evidence can have permanent consequences. On the other hand, patients with more complex legal issues can take several months or even longer to resolve.
ExperienceExperience is an essential factor to consider when hiring an immigration lawyer. A lawyer with experience in immigration law will have a deeper understanding of the laws and regulations surrounding immigration and a track record of success in handling cases similar to yours.
After completing a bachelor’s degree, an aspiring immigration lawyer must take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and apply for acceptance at one of the 200 accredited US law schools. Law schools do not offer specialties in different legal practice areas, although some do offer postgraduate degrees focusing on particular areas of law.
Below is an explanation of the different fees and costs that you may encounter. Using specific details is important to pair you with the lawyer you need. If you find yourself requiring a lawyer, know that not all lawyers are the same. Different lawyers will specialize in varying fields, and can thus give advice tailored to your situation. Once the newly-minted lawyer is licensed, he is legally entitled to practice in almost any area of law (patent law is a notable exception). The lawyer will be subject to annual Continuing Legal Education (CLE) requirements to maintain his license to practice. The candidate will also have to meet certain other requirements, such as an evaluation of his moral character and fitness, to be licensed as a lawyer.
Read more about O-1 visa lawyer here.
Immigration lawyers typically charge for their services hourly, and the cost can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s level of experience. Although you can expect an hourly rate of between $150 to $300 for immigration lawyers, the cost structure immigration lawyers work on differ. Some charge an hourly fee, and some charge a flat fee for specific applications. Whether or not you should hire an immigration lawyer in the USA depends on your individual situation and needs. If your case is complex or involves potential obstacles or challenges, hiring an immigration lawyer may be a worthwhile investment. A lawyer can help you navigate the complex and often confusing immigration process, gather and prepare the necessary documents, file the appropriate forms, and meet all of the necessary deadlines. They can also provide guidance and support throughout the process, and help you understand your legal rights and options.
Needless to say, your legal fees will depend on the complexity of your case. Some immigration lawyers offer a free initial consultation, while others will only charge you for the first consultation if you don’t engage their services afterward. Ask the lawyer for a written fee agreement that outlines their fees and any additional costs that may be incurred during your case. A good lawyer will be transparent about their fees and provide clear information about the costs involved in your case. Additionally, ask about their payment plan options, such as whether they offer a flat fee or an hourly rate.
