Simply put: an immigration lawyer helps people navigate the legal hurdles that arise as they immigrate to another country. This means that the many responsibilities of an immigration lawyer are as diverse as the immigration process itself. This process is extremely complicated, and it can change drastically depending on the intention and background of the hopeful applicant.
A more apt description of an immigration lawyer’s job is ‘helping those who want to immigrate to a new country determine what kind of visa they need and guiding them through the legal process of getting that visa.’ This will look different for every client and their unique circumstances. The most common areas that immigration lawyers operate in are:
Citizenship
This is probably the most common area of work for an immigration lawyer. Immigration lawyers assist eligible individuals with the citizenship application process, including preparing the application, representing them at citizenship tests and interviews, and advising on issues related to dual citizenship. This also can involve acquiring a form of temporary citizenship, like a green card.
Family Immigration
Sometimes, clients need a visa for a family member who is not a US citizen. In cases like these, immigration lawyers help obtain visas for family members, including spouse/fiancé visas(K-1) and child visas.
Employment Immigration
When individuals want to work in a different country, they need an immigration lawyer to help them get specialized occupation visas, such as the H-1B visa for specialized occupations, the L-1 visa for intra-company transfers, and the EB visa for investors, to name a few.
Asylum Immigration
Immigration lawyers also help those fleeing persecution in their home countries apply for asylum. They also assist with applications for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) for individuals who qualify.
Deportation Defense
When individuals face deportation, immigration lawyers provide the necessary defense to keep them in the country. There are many ways to do this, including cancellation of removal, bond hearings, and appeals.
Even beyond the fields listed above, there are countless visas and types of immigration that need professional guidance. While a lawyer is not necessary to immigrate or obtain a visa, the system is set up to be thorough and unappealing, even difficult. You’re much better off with a lawyer at your side who knows how to protect you and ensure that you don’t overlook anything that could potentially jeopardize your visa or citizenship.
At Herbert Law Group, we’re more than just your immigration lawyers—we’re your partners in building a brighter future. Contact us and set up a free consultation today!
