The specialization of immigration attorneys lies in the interpretation of U.S. immigration laws. Primarily, they help guide people through the evolving and complex immigration system.
Most immigration attorneys spend the majority of their time helping their clients, who are experiencing difficulties that are immigrants related. Also, they can represent their clients when called for hearings like deportation.
Many immigrants like to use the services of an immigration attorney because of the possible errors they can make by themselves during their green card or visa application. Such errors or mistakes could lead to delays that can last for years. It can also result in the application being denied or even getting deported.
Therefore, immigration attorneys perform the role of advisors to clients during the immigration process. Read on to find out the role of the immigration attorney.
Defends clients who are facing deportation
Say you live in a place like New Jersey and are facing a removal proceeding or deportation in court. A Jersey City immigration lawyer would be able to help you.
They can help prepare you and your witnesses for appearance in court, as well as deal with deadlines and court requirements. Moreover, such a lawyer can write briefs on your behalf, representing you during the hearing and presenting your case.
The U.S. government will have an attorney represent them, and their goal might be aimed at deporting you.
Helps in changing immigration status
Immigration law is complex when you are in the U.S. with a particular status or visa and intend to change to another. This process is called a status change. Several foreigners have undergone this process.
However, there are several things that you must take note of that can affect your status application, such as the ability to travel back and forth from the United States using your current visa.
In such a case, your best bet is to seek advice from an immigration attorney. This helps you avoid possible issues that might put your application at risk.
Assists immigrants in appealing their application decision
When your immigration application is decided upon and you perceive the end result as unjust (in cases, for instance, of your asylum or visa application being rejected), your immigration attorney can help you file an appeal on your behalf.
In such a situation, your immigration attorney will help you determine why your application was rejected. Then, they’ll advise you on the best way to proceed and help you write and submit the appeal.
Helps you interpret the law
It isn’t a requirement to work with an immigration lawyer when applying for any form of immigration. But immigration law is very complicated and changes regularly, so it’s advisable to work with a professional attorney.
Many attorneys usually offer a consultation session where they first discuss the details of your situation and how they can help. There, they will write down your case facts. It’s vital that you provide as much information about your case as possible.
For instance, your immigration attorney might ask you about your nationality; personal details of yourself, your family, your employer, your work and income; and your immigration and criminal history.
Immigration attorneys can help you interpret the law simply so that you understand the process. This will ensure that you can provide every bit of required information needed for your application, ensuring success.
They also provide advice on documents and evidence that you must assemble and the steps you must take to start the application. If you need other things, your immigration attorney can also help you write your application, ensure it meets standards, and that supporting evidence is correct.
Usually, immigration applications are rejected due to little mistakes or false information. An immigration attorney will help prevent such situations. Moreover, attorneys have the experience needed to liaise with officials and keep you informed on the progress of your application.
Provides immigration application assistance
A significant responsibility of immigration attorneys is to help you with your immigration application. There are different application types, from visitor, work, to student visas. A lawyer should be able to help you with the application process irrespective of the type.
The immigration process in the United States is complicated, expensive, and time-consuming. So you can easily make errors that can result in application rejection.
To get a higher probability of success, you should advisably work with an immigration attorney. This is essential since they have the required experience and knowledge to ensure a successful application.
When you hire an immigration attorney, they will provide solutions tailored to your issues. In addition, they ensure that you save time by helping you fill out the required paperwork and submit your application forms.
Advises on immigration-related matters
It can be pretty overwhelming to navigate the U.S. immigration system. Since there are several types of visas, you might not even be sure what’s best for you or know what to do to solve your problems.
However, attorneys are knowledgeable about immigration laws and, thus, are in the best position to meet your needs. With their expertise, they can provide dependable and professional legal advice to people who don’t understand the immigration system.
Additionally, they can help discuss your goals and case, advising you on the best immigration path. During a session with your attorney, they will discuss your situation and what you aim to achieve while taking you through several options and providing advice on the best steps to take.
That’s a wrap
For immigration-related matters, it’s advised to speak with an actual immigration attorney—not a notario or a consultant.
Most top immigration attorneys belong to the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA). Though it’s not compulsory to belong to this association, members can connect with liaison committees, information, and colleagues, who can keep them updated with agency policies and developing laws.
Ensure that you talk with different lawyers before you make a choice. Choose one who is professional, experienced, knowledgeable, has assisted in cases similar to yours, and also ensures that you are comfortable with them.