If you visit an immigration law firm’s website, you’ll probably be offered a free consultation. But what does that mean? How much information are you, as the potential client, expected to provide? How much work can the lawyer do for you before you officially hire them? And how does your situation change if you’re specifically meeting with an immigration lawyer? If you don’t have the answers, don’t worry. Here’s a breakdown of what typically happens during a consultation with a lawyer.
Initial Contact and Setting Up the Consultation
You can start the process by reaching out to the immigration lawyer’s office to schedule a consultation. You can usually do this by phone or online. During this initial contact, you may be asked to provide a brief summary of the legal issue you need assistance with—in this case, what kind of visa you’re applying for—to help the lawyer understand your needs better.
The Consultation Meeting
Depending on the firm, the consultation meeting can take place in person, over the phone, or through video conferencing. During the meeting, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your immigration issue with the lawyer and ask any questions you may have. Bring as many materials and information concerning your citizenship (birth certificates, citizenship information, etc.) as you can.
Explaining Your Case
The meeting will likely start with you providing the lawyer a basic summary of your situation. This includes providing any relevant documents or evidence that you need to apply for citizenship. The more information you can provide, the better the lawyer will be able to assess your situation and determine how easy it will be for you to apply for your respective visa.
Asking Questions
The majority of your time should be spent asking the lawyer any questions you may have. Ask questions about the lawyer’s experience, their fee structure, and their assessment of your situation. Asking thorough questions can help you determine if the lawyer is the right fit for your needs.
Getting Legal Advice
Even if you haven’t hired them yet, you can still seek legal advice from the lawyer. This is commonplace for consultations; it won’t be seen as freeloading. Anyone can apply for a visa on their own, but immigration lawyers have lots of experience navigating the system. Even if you plan to complete the process alone, it’s smart to pick an immigration lawyer’s brain first. The lawyer will listen to your concerns, assess your situation, and provide you with advice on how to proceed.
Understanding the Lawyer’s Role
While they may offer some legal advice during your consultation, remember that the lawyer is not yet representing you. They are only providing basic advice based on the information you provide. They will not do additional research or work for you at this point. If you decide to hire the lawyer after the consultation, you will need to enter into a formal representation agreement.
A consultation with an immigration lawyer can be a valuable opportunity to get advice on the whole immigration process, but it also functions as a sort of window-shopping method. Take the time to see if the firm is a good fit for you. Do you feel comfortable trusting them with your citizenship? By understanding what to expect from the consultation process and being prepared, you can make the most of your meeting and take the next best step towards obtaining your visa.
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