Consultations with immigration lawyers are complex and should rarely be handled without the assistance of a knowledgeable attorney. Meeting with a New York immigration lawyer during a consultation allows you to learn about your options, what the process might involve and how much it will cost. In addition, the consultation provides you with a chance to find out whether or not the attorney is a good fit for your case.

To prepare for your consultation, write down any documents, calendars or court dates that are relevant to your case. In addition, write down the key details of your situation, including why you left your country, any crimes you have committed or been accused of, any sponsors in the United States and any circumstances that could support a claim of asylum. If you have an idea of what your goals are, such as obtaining a visa, adjusting status, applying for citizenship or sponsoring a family member, make sure to bring them with you.

Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer: What to Expect

During the consultation, the attorney will ask questions to understand your goals and determine whether or not they can help you. The attorney should also be able to provide you with possible outcomes of your case based on U.S. law and the facts of your case.

To determine if an immigration attorney is a good fit for your case, meet with several lawyers before hiring one. In addition to personal recommendations, look at the attorneys’ websites to see how well they communicate with clients and if they have a strong presence online, with professional articles or media mentions. Also, check if they have any complaints or malpractice suits filed against them.