Considerations When Choosing an Immigration Lawyer

There are many reasons that people reach out to immigration lawyers for legal advice. Immigration attorneys can assist with a variety of immigration issues such as a green card application, deportation defense, naturalization, business immigration law, permanent residence, temporary work visas, employer compliance, etc.  Finding an honest, knowledgeable, and hardworking attorney can be the challenge. Below are some suggestions to help you find the right immigration attorney to assist you with your immigration case.

Get a referral.  Consider asking your friends, acquaintances or co-workers if they know of a reputable immigration lawyer, preferably one they have personal experience with, or know someone that has used them.  Finding an attorney through word-of-mouth or referrals is a great way to find an attorney because you get firsthand information about their experience.

Ask for references.  Once you have established several referrals for immigration lawyers in Houston, schedule consultations with them to discuss their recommendations for your immigration case.  Ask them to provide you with several references from previous clients. Any good lawyer would be more than happy to supply numerous referrals from satisfied former clients.  

Be prepared to spend a little more money for a reputable attorney.  Plenty of immigration lawyers are overloaded with casework that they just don’t have the time to manage.  Others may not have the experience for your particular immigration case needs. Some will take on cases just to make the money even though they can not handle it.  Investigate the reputations of the potential attorneys you are looking to hire. Don’t be afraid to spend the extra money for a lawyer that is well versed in Houston immigration law.  This could potentially save you months of delay or rejection in your immigration process.

Investigate payment options.  Although some immigration law firms usually charge by the hour, there are some that offer a flat rate to prepare and file your case.  It is advisable to always opt for this type of payment plan. If the flat rate isn’t an option, ask for an estimate for the amount of time that is expected on your case so you can have an idea of the full amount of time and cost to you. Additionally, payment financing is available at premier firms!

Choose a lawyer that speaks your native language.  Having an attorney that understands you ensures that you are both on the same page with the legal aspects of your case and keeps the process streamlined.  The immigration attorney can also make sure all certified documents are translated appropriately from English to your native language.

And lastly, build a relationship with your immigration lawyers in Houston.  Chances are that this will not be that last time that you need their services.  From green cards, to work visas and eventually naturalization, it is a great resource to have an attorney that knows you and your immigration history.

Having a dependable, knowledgeable and trustworthy immigration attorney in Houston to guide you through the immigration process can make all the difference.  Davis & Associates are expert immigration attorneys in Houston that have a vast knowledge in all areas of immigration law. If you have any questions regarding your immigration process, please call our offices today for a consultation.