Tips on How to Pick a Good Immigration Law Firm When You Need an Immigration Attorney
Although there are no requirements to have an immigration lawyer to help you with a green card, visa, asylum, or defend a deportation hearing, having experienced representation can save you time and money and obtain successful results for you. This is particularly true with immigration law compared to all different types of law, as immigration law is very complex, constantly changing, and very involved. Thus, choosing a good immigration lawyer is essential for individuals and families to protect their rights.
Here at MC Law Group, LLC, our immigration attorneys in Philadelphia, PA, pride themselves on offering compassionate, skillful, and competent representation to individuals and their families. Our lawyers are dedicated to protecting the rights of those in need of immigration legal services. Whether you seek to submit an application or navigate immigration court, rely on our experienced team to help guide you through the process. Please call our office to schedule your free consultation to learn more.
Factors to Consider When Selecting an Immigration Lawyer
When you and your family are seeking to decide on an immigration lawyer, there are many factors that you should consider. These factors can help improve the likelihood of success with your case and ensure that your rights are protected. Some of the most important factors when choosing an immigration lawyer include the following:
Confirm the Lawyer is a Licensed Attorney and a Member of the American Immigration Lawyers’ Association
Unfortunately, many legal document preparation companies or other unscrupulous individuals will act like lawyers, but they are not. You need to protect yourselves from non-lawyers trying to practice law or appearing as if they are a lawyer. There are specific ways you should do this.
First, check with your state’s licensing board to ensure that the lawyer is both licensed and in good standing.
Second, check with the American Immigration Lawyers’ Association (AILA) to confirm that the lawyer is listed on the website and with the organization. If not the lawyer, ensure that the law firm is a member or has some type of representation on the website.
Conduct Internet Research on the Lawyer
You will also want to check on the lawyer by conducting internet research. This includes reviewing their Google reviews, Facebook reviews, and other social media reviews. Look for news sources and additional information posted online about the lawyer. Check out the lawyer’s advertising to see if they post information about services or victories. Try to look for both the good and the bad, ensuring that you have a strong understanding of how the lawyer operates and his or her reputation.
Be Skeptical of Lawyers or Law Firms That Approach You
Some immigration services or lawyers will try to solicit business at immigration offices or in immigration court. Stay clear of these lawyers or business services. Not only is that usually improper, but those types of lawyers begging for cases are usually not getting clients for a reason. You are almost always better to research and find your own lawyer by looking at their website and information online.
Ask Questions at the Initial Client Conference
Most immigration law firms in Philadelphia will offer client consultations to explain your legal rights and how a lawyer can help. During these conferences, you should ask a lot of questions about your application or potential case. Ask what your access will be to the lawyer or a paralegal. If you are having a conference in person, look at the firm culture. Does the staff look stressed? Is everyone friendly? If you are having a conference via telephone try this: after you hang up, call back in 5 minutes to ask one follow-up question. See how hard it is to get a paralegal or lawyer back on the telephone. You should be able to get back in touch with one or both of those individuals. If not, it could be a sign that it will be difficult to reach them even after you have become a client.
Don’t Hesitate to Contact Our Experienced Lawyers at MC Law Group, LLC
Let our dedicated legal team of paralegals and experienced immigration lawyers in Philadelphia, PA, help you and your family. Whether you need help submitting an application, believe you were unfairly denied, or face a deportation proceeding, learn how our lawyers can help you today. We offer affordable and fair legal representation focused on our clients. Please call our office to schedule your free consultation.