Are you considering immigrating to the United States? Consulting with an immigration lawyer should be one of the first steps. Our Virginia immigration team provides tips on making the most of your consultation appointment.
Tip #1: Complete the Intake Form
Submit your intake form ahead of time. Most immigration lawyers will have an intake form on their website that must be completed and submitted before the consultation. This is so that the lawyer can get an idea of your case and determine if they can help you. Make sure to fill out the form as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
Tip# 2: Have Your Documents Ready
Get ready to bring all relevant original or copied documents to the consultation. This includes things like:
- Passport
- Birth certificate
- Employment authorization cards
- Marriage certificate
- Copies of any documents filed with USCIS or ICE
- Copies of criminal records, if applicable
If an immigration court hearing is coming up, and you have been notified in writing, you should also bring a copy of the hearing notice. If you decide to hire an attorney, they can confirm their availability to attend the hearing with you.
Tip # 3: Hire a Lawyer Who Speaks Your Language
You will want to hire a lawyer whom you feel comfortable communicating with. This means finding an attorney who speaks your native language. If they do not speak your language, make sure they have a staff member or translator available that does. Getting help in your native language allows for a smoother and more accurate consultation.
Tip #4: Prepare a List of Questions to Ask
To ensure you get the answers you need, make a list of questions to ask about the immigration process, your eligibility, and what options are available to you. If you don’t know where to start, consider these:
- How long will the immigration process take?
- What are my chances of success?
- How much will it cost?
- What are the risks involved?
Make sure to take good notes during the consultation to remember what was discussed.
Tip #5: Be Honest with Your Attorney
Finally, be honest with your attorney. This is an important relationship that you will need to trust. Be open and clear about your history, even if it is something you are not proud of, such as any criminal history, arrests, or anything else that may impact your case.
For your lawyer to best help you, they need to know everything about your situation. The more information your lawyer has, the better they can guide you through the best course of action.
Your Next Step
An immigration consultation can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these five simple tips, you will be on your way to a successful consultation. At Yacub Law Offices, we provide legal services in English and Spanish. We have a team of knowledgeable and experienced attorneys who can help you with your immigration case.
Contact us by filling out an online contact form or give us a call at +1 703 533 2347 to schedule your consultation today!