Few legal matters feel as personal as immigration. A visa, a green card, a work permit or a citizenship application can shape where your family lives and whether you can work, travel or stay together. That's exactly why scammers target people going through the process. Choosing the right immigration lawyer, and knowing who is not allowed to give you legal advice, is one of the most important steps you'll take.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Every case is different. Talk to a licensed immigration attorney or an accredited representative about your situation.
Who can legally give you immigration help
This is the most important thing to know. In the United States, legal advice on immigration matters generally can only come from:
- Licensed attorneys in good standing with a U.S. state bar, or
- Accredited representatives who work for nonprofit organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of Justice
Notaries, "immigration consultants," tax preparers, travel agents and friends who went through the process can't legally give you advice on your case, choose forms for you or represent you, no matter how confident they sound.
What is notario fraud?
In many Latin American countries, a notario público is a trained legal professional. In the U.S., a notary public is only authorized to witness signatures. Some people use the word "notario" to suggest they can handle immigration cases when they legally can't. This is often called notario fraud, and it has cost families money, time and sometimes their chance at relief. The Federal Trade Commission warns consumers about these scams. Learn more at ftc.gov.
Immigration scams to avoid
Walk away if someone:
- Guarantees a green card, visa or approval. No honest professional can promise an outcome.
- Claims special connections at an immigration office or court.
- Asks you to lie on a form or sign a blank one.
- Keeps your original documents, like passports or birth certificates.
- Charges for government forms. Official immigration forms can be downloaded free from the official government website.
- Demands cash only and won't give receipts.
- Pressures you to decide or pay immediately.
- Contacts you out of the blue by phone, text or social media offering help.
If you've already paid someone and you're worried, talk to a licensed immigration attorney as soon as you can. Deadlines in immigration cases can matter a lot.
How to find an immigration lawyer you can trust
Search with the right words
"Immigration attorney near me" is a fine start, but adding your type of case helps, such as family petition, green card, citizenship, work visa, asylum or removal defense. On Listings Junkie, the lawyers category is organized by state. Our guide to using Listings Junkie to find local businesses shows how to search.
A few examples of immigration practices listed on the site:
- Andres Mejer Law in Freehold, New Jersey, describes itself as an immigration law firm whose lawyers are immigrants or children of immigrants.
- Immigration Law Office of Federico Serrano in Falls Church, Virginia, describes serving the business and immigrant community.
- Tha Law Firm in Atlanta, whose listing names Toure-Hernandez & Associates, describes an immigration and naturalization practice that represents clients across the U.S. and internationally.
These are examples, not endorsements. You can also browse lawyers in Florida, New Jersey and other states.
Location matters less than you'd think, but still matters
Immigration law is federal, so an attorney licensed in any U.S. state can usually handle immigration matters wherever you live. Still, a local lawyer may know your nearby immigration court and field office, and meeting in person can be easier, especially when you need to bring documents.
Look for language and comfort
You need to understand your lawyer, and they need to understand you. If you're more comfortable in another language, look for an office that speaks it or provides a qualified interpreter.
Check the license
Before you pay anyone:
- Look up the attorney on their state bar's website to confirm they're licensed and in good standing.
- For accredited representatives, check the Justice Department's list of recognized organizations and accredited representatives.
- Check the Justice Department's list of disciplined immigration practitioners for any problems.
Our article on what makes a business directory trustworthy also explains how to read any listing with a careful eye.
Questions to ask at your first consultation
How much of your practice is immigration law?
And how often do you handle cases like mine?
What options do I have,
and what are the risks of each?
What's the consultation fee,
and does it count toward later fees?
How do you charge?
Flat fee, hourly or a mix? What's included, and what costs extra?
What are the government filing fees,
and are they separate from your fee?
Who will work on my case
day to day, and how do I reach them?
How long might this take?
Ask for a realistic range, not a promise.
What do you need from me,
and by when?
Ask for a written agreement before you pay. It should describe the work, the fees and what happens if your case changes.
How to be a good client
- Tell the whole truth, including past arrests, prior applications, overstays or anything else you're worried about. Your lawyer needs it to protect you.
- Keep copies of everything you sign or send, and keep your originals.
- Meet every deadline and respond quickly when your lawyer asks for documents.
- Tell your lawyer about any address change or new notice right away.
Free or low-cost immigration help
If you can't afford a private attorney, look for nonprofit legal service organizations, law school clinics and recognized organizations with accredited representatives in your area. Some offer free consultations or fees based on income. Ask for proof of their recognition or accreditation, just as you would check a lawyer's license.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an immigration lawyer cost?
It varies by case type, complexity and area. Many lawyers charge flat fees for common applications and hourly rates for court cases. Government filing fees are usually separate.
Can a notary help me with my immigration papers?
A notary in the U.S. can witness signatures, but generally can't give immigration advice, pick forms for you or represent you. Use a licensed attorney or accredited representative.
Do I need a lawyer for a green card application?
It isn't always required, but a lawyer can spot problems, such as past immigration issues, that could cause a denial or worse. A consultation is a smart step.
What if I already paid someone who wasn't a lawyer?
Gather any receipts and papers, and talk to a licensed immigration attorney as soon as possible to review what was filed.
Can an immigration lawyer in another state help me?
Usually, yes. Immigration law is federal, so an attorney licensed in any U.S. state can generally handle your case.
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