By definition, an attorney interprets the law, helps you analyze your rights, and guides you through the law to the best of their knowledge. Immigration lawyers do this by assisting you through the citizenship process, helping people so they don’t make small mistakes on their visa application, which can easily lead to year-long delays.
Immigration lawyers also help people who are on the brink of deportation. There are several reasons a person might be removed from the United States such as failure to obey the terms of your visa, commission of a crime, or arriving here illegally. Immigration attorneys defend your right to remain in the country to avoid being sent back to their country or origin.
Finally, immigration lawyers may also assist with renewal forms. If you’ve been a resident of the United States for years, it might be time for a renewal. The terms may have changed since your original arrival and completion of the proper forms, so it’s important to consult an immigration attorney to make sure your forms are filled out correctly and that they are complete.
When do you need to hire an immigration attorney?
If you’re having an issue with immigration proceedings you should definitely consult an attorney, however there are several other reasons you should seek out advice from a lawyer. Here is a list of some of the reasons when you should seek counsel.
- If you are uncertain about your eligibility for a green card or immigration benefits.
- If you’ve experienced difficulty in obtaining a green card, citizenship, or other immigration benefits.
- If you’re applying for an investment-based visa.
- If you have an emergency involving immigration.
- If you are planning to move to the United States for work.
- If you’ve been convicted or accused of a criminal offense and you are trying to protect yourself from removal.
- If your immigration application has been refused or denied.
- If you’ve received notification of deportation or removal proceedings are being initiated against you.
- If you’ve been deported from the United States and wish to return.
- If the forms you need to file are too confusing or too time consuming to deal with.
- If you’re requesting discretionary relief, like asylum.
