When Do You Need a Citizenship Lawyer?
Immigration legislation in the U.S. is highly complicated. Employing a citizenship lawyer can frequently help you save time, stress, and even money.
If any of the following apply to you, you should speak with a qualified citizenship attorney:
- You are requesting any type of discretionary relief, such as asylum or a waiver, which entails convincing the immigration authorities to make an exception or offer you benefits they might not typically offer to another applicant in your position
- You are unsure of your basic eligibility for a green card or other immigration benefits
- You have received government assistance while residing in the U.S.
- You have previously had an immigration application rejected or denied
- You have been charged with a crime or have committed a crime and are attempting to enter the United States or protect yourself from removal from the United States
- You have been notified that deportation or removal proceedings have been initiated against you
- You have been deported from the United States and wish to apply to return
Other Helpful Resources:
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Citizenship Lawyer in the U.S.?
Although citizenship attorneys often charge between $150 and $300 per hour, their fee schedules vary. Some charge a set cost for particular applications, while others charge an hourly rate.
What to Look For in a Citizenship Lawyer
The best citizenship lawyers have experience with various citizenship-related issues, such as green cards, family immigration, business immigration, citizenship, asylum, visas, deportation defense, and appeals.
How to Prepare for Your Consultation With a Citizenship Lawyer
Many citizenship lawyers offer free initial consultations and case assessments, during which you are welcome to ask any questions. After speaking with them, you can decide whether or not to use their services.
Inquire About the Background and Experience of the Prospective Attorney
You should be prepared with a list of questions before your initial consultation with an attorney.
For example, inquire about the lawyer’s years of expertise handling citizenship cases.
Inform the Lawyer if Your Case Involves an Emergency
If your citizenship issue involves an emergency, you must immediately contact a possible lawyer. Time is sometimes of the essence when a federal order effectively expels you from the nation or if your immigration petition or application has been denied.
Bring the Necessary Paperwork to Your Appointment
When you have your initial immigration consultation, you must have all the necessary documentation.
For instance, you should offer copies of all immigration decisions, announcements, and receipts. You must also send copies of any documents sent to ICE or USCIS.
Bring copies of your passport, green card, birth certificate, marriage certificate, and, if you have them, your work authorization cards.
Bring Copies of Any Applicable Criminal Records with You
You should bring a copy of the criminal citation or arrest record with you to the conference if you have ever been arrested for a crime or received a citation. Additionally, you should submit evidence demonstrating how the case was resolved (the case outcome).
Make Thorough Notes
You must take thorough notes during your initial session with a citizenship lawyer. You can then compare your notes with those from previous attorney sessions to see whether a certain citizenship attorney is the best fit for you.
Where to Find the Best Citizenship Lawyers in the U.S.
You can find the best citizenship lawyers in the U.S. on LegalMatch. You can also find citizenship lawyers through the American Bar Association.
Do not face your citizenship issue alone. Instead, use LegalMatch to find the right attorney for your particular case today.
