10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Immigration Lawyer

Oct 27

Before you hire an immigration lawyer, ask where they are licensed, how much of their practice is immigration law, what the fee covers, and how they will keep you informed. The ten questions below help you compare attorneys and decide who to trust with your case.

Handling Federal Immigration Matters Across NY, CT, NJ and PA. Attorney Admitted in NY&CT Only.

1. Where are you licensed, and are you in good standing?

Ask which states the attorney is admitted in, and check their name on that state's bar association website.

2. How much of your practice is immigration law?

Immigration rules change often, so ask whether immigration is the attorney's main focus.

3. Have you handled matters like mine?

Ask about their experience with your type of case. No attorney can honestly promise a result, so be careful of anyone who does.

4. Who will work on my case, and who will I speak to?

Find out whether the attorney handles your case personally and how you reach the office with questions.

5. What are my options, and what are the risks?

A good consultation explains every realistic path, including the downsides, in language you understand.

6. What will this cost, and what does the fee include?

Ask whether the fee is flat or hourly, and what is extra. Government filing fees are normally separate from attorney fees.

7. How long might this take?

Processing times depend on the agency and the case, so ask for a realistic range and what could cause delays.

8. What documents will I need?

Ask for a checklist so you can start gathering records early.

9. How will you keep me updated, and in what language?

Confirm how often you will hear from the office and whether you can communicate in the language you are most comfortable with. Attorney Goxhaj is fluent in Albanian, Italian and Spanish.

10. What happens if something goes wrong?

Ask how the attorney handles requests for more evidence, denials and appeals.

A warning about unlicensed help

Only licensed attorneys and certain accredited representatives may give legal advice about immigration cases. Be cautious of anyone else who offers to prepare your case, and never sign a form you do not understand.