When to Hire an Immigration Lawyer

When should you hire an immigration lawyer?

Hire an immigration lawyer when a mistake could cost you your status, your case, or your ability to stay in the country. Simple, routine filings can sometimes be done without one, but complications make professional help worth the cost.

Who can give you immigration legal advice?

USCIS says only a few groups may represent you: attorneys in good standing, DOJ-accredited representatives who work for DOJ-recognized organizations, and law students or graduates supervised by one of them. Foreign attorneys can represent you only in matters outside the United States.

People outside those groups, including notarios, visa consultants and form preparers, cannot represent you or give legal advice. They may be able to give limited help filling out forms.

In the United States, the word "notario" does not mean what it means in many other countries. A "notario público" here is generally not a lawyer. Use the lists linked on the USCIS Legal Services page before you pay anyone.

How do you spot immigration scams?

Be cautious if anyone guarantees approval, claims a special relationship with USCIS, asks you to sign blank forms, keeps your original documents, or asks for payment in cash or gift cards. These are warning signs, not proof, but each is reason to stop and verify.

• Verify the attorney on the state bar lookup.
• Ask for a written fee agreement and a receipt for every payment.
• Keep copies of everything you sign and file.
• Never give up original passports, birth certificates or other originals.

See also red flags when hiring a lawyer.

What should you do if you receive a Notice to Appear?

Do not ignore it. A Notice to Appear starts removal proceedings and tells you to appear before an immigration judge. Missing a hearing can lead to a removal order in your absence.

1. Keep the notice and every mailing, envelope and receipt.
2. Contact an immigration attorney or a recognized nonprofit right away.
3. Keep your address current with the immigration court and with USCIS.
4. Do not sign anything you do not understand.

What if you are asked questions by immigration enforcement?

You have the right to remain silent and to speak with a lawyer. Do not sign documents you do not understand, and do not give false documents or false statements. Keep a lawyer's name and number with you if you can.

How much does an immigration lawyer cost?

Many immigration lawyers charge flat fees for defined filings, and hourly or retainer fees for court cases. Government filing fees are separate from attorney fees, so ask for both numbers in writing. Fees change, so confirm the current government fee schedule on the USCIS website.

Some lawyers offer free or low-cost first consultations. See how much does a lawyer cost for how fee structures work.

Where can you find free or low-cost immigration help?

The Department of Justice publishes lists of pro bono legal service providers by state, and USCIS links to lists of accredited representatives and recognized organizations. Nonprofit legal aid groups and law school clinics also help many applicants.

Our guide to finding a lawyer you can afford covers the main options.

How do you find an immigration lawyer near you?

Browse the immigration lawyers in the directory, or search by city or distance. Ask whether the lawyer works in your language, and use these questions at the first meeting.