If you have ever tried to get visa approval from the US immigration office, you know it is not only challenging, but also time consuming. Whether you are pursuing an eb-5 investor visa Houston TX or a temporary work or student visa, the process can be overwhelming. However, don’t rush your search for a great immigration lawyer.
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Ask for Referrals
If you know someone who has been granted a visa, consider asking them for referrals. You may also search for online reviews. The Better Business Bureau will tell you the lawyer’s rating and discuss any outstanding complaints.
Research
Whether you received referrals or not, you should do extensive research into lawyers in the community you seek to live in. You want to confirm that they are licensed to practice law in the state through the state bar. Also, search for any association memberships, such as the American Immigration Lawyers Association, and accreditations.
Interview Your Candidates
After you have done your research, contact each attorney. Your first task is to verify their credentials. For example, you should ask how long they have practiced immigration law and how much of their practice is focused on immigration law. You may also learn their success rate and how many cases they currently have. You should know whether the lawyer has enough resources to take on your case.
These professionals should also provide you with a free consultation. Your prospects should be able to give you a quick evaluation of your case and its chance of success. They should provide guidance that will improve your case. Finally, they should provide references. Be sure to check their references.
Avoid
Make sure you are working with a licensed attorney, not a visa consultant or someone who prepares petitions. You need someone with actual legal knowledge and experience. A reputable lawyer will also have plenty of work, so they won’t be hanging around immigration offices searching for new clients. Avoid lawyers who attempt to find clients in these offices. This practice is unethical.
Do not hire any lawyer who gives you advice that is either illegal or unethical such as those who offer bribes or are willing to lie on paperwork. Not only can these practices cause the immigration office to reject your immigration petition, but they can permanently prevent you from gaining legal entrance into the US.
Finally, avoid lawyers who give you false promises or make claims that don’t seem logical, such as a 100% success rate.
Don’t choose an attorney based solely on their fee. Choose the best immigration attorney, one who will fight for you and give you the best chance of success.
