There are many reasons why immigration lawyers might be needed. If you are in need of such a service, you might be wondering how much you will be expected to pay. The first thing to discuss however, is what an immigration law firm does and whether you actually need one.
What Do Immigration Lawyers Do?
Those who want to enter the United States to live will need permission to remain. This might be because they are seeking asylum due to human rights issues in their home country or because they wish to move to the U.S. to start a new life, near to family members who are either U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents. In some cases, those looking to enter the country will be doing so for work purposes. In this particular case, they will typically need the help of a specialized business immigration attorney.
According to the expert lawyers at Graham Adair, legal immigration specialists, U.S. immigration laws are extremely complex, and consequently much work is required to achieve a successful outcome for clients. Lawyers must help their clients to understand their rights and explain the law to them in simple terms. A huge amount of paperwork needs to be prepared and collected; without the help of a lawyer, those looking to gain legal entry to the U.S. could easily become swamped. It is worth noting too that any mistakes in an application can result in very lengthy delays to the process. In some cases, mistakes can result in applications being denied and the individual being deported.
Immigration attorneys have intimate knowledge of the system as well as experience of working with government departments, so they know what to expect. They can help minimize the impact of any issues that arise, decreasing the delays.
How Much Can You Expect to Pay?
The cost of an immigration lawyer’s services will depend on several factors. The complexity of the case in question is one issue, as this will mean more time spent on it. Geographic location is also a factor, as lawyers charge different amounts depending on which state they are based in. You will also pay more depending on your attorney’s level of expertise.
Most lawyers charge by the hour, and you can expect to pay anywhere up to $300 per hour for your lawyer’s assistance. But on top of this, there will be fees for the various forms that need to be completed.
Benefits of Hiring an Immigration Lawyer
As already mentioned, immigration law is extraordinarily complex and unless you understand the law, you will inevitably find the process daunting. Without the help of an experienced lawyer, you could make mistakes that scupper your application.
While the services of immigration lawyers can be expensive, you will have a much higher chance of success should you use one. Your lawyer will ensure that your application is assessed in the quickest possible time and will provide advice at every step of the way.
How to Find a Good Immigration Lawyer
Finding the right lawyer is crucial. You should look for someone with a good track record of helping individuals gain legal entry to the U.S. This means looking for a lawyer or law firm that specializes in immigration law. Search out reviews and speak to people that you know and ask for recommendations. It is always best to choose a lawyer that has already helped someone you know and trust.
Finally, budget might also be a consideration, so shop around and try to negotiate a price that works for you. Speak to several lawyers and base your decision on who you are most comfortable with.