The Ultimate Guide to Choose an Immigration Attorney

When it comes to navigating your future, here's what to look for before hiring an attorney:

Over the last 13 years as an immigration and employment lawyer, I've seen the consequences of choosing the wrong representation (when clients come to us with cases that have been denied or unresolved). I've also been on the other side—hiring attorneys for my own matters—so I understand how challenging the selection process can be.

Here's my practical advice for finding and choosing the right immigration attorney:

• Verify credentials.

  
  

  Always work with a licensed attorney, not a "notario" (which often means "lawyer" in Spanish, but does not require legal training in the US). Many "immigration consultants" act as though they are lawyers and cause irreparable damage to their clients' immigration history, even causing bars from entry to the US or deportation.

• Check online for bar discipline.

  
  

  State bar associations maintain records of attorney discipline. A clean record matters when you are entering into a fiduciary relationship. 

• Get multiple perspectives.

  
  

  Call at least three lawyers before making your decision. Each consultation will give you different insights and approaches.

• Research their reputation.

  
  

  Look at online reviews and ask for referrals from people who've used their services. Check their LinkedIn posts to see what they're sharing professionally.

• Interview thoroughly.

  
  

  Ask about their success rate, communication style, and frequency. For immigration cases, this relationship may last years as you move from visa(s) to Green Card to citizenship.

• Understand the fee structure.

  
  

  Get a detailed explanation of all potential costs—including postage, travel time, mileage, and printing expenses. Make sure your fee agreement clearly explains what happens if your case changes or requires additional work.

• Evaluate the firm's communication systems.

  
  

  Ask how you'll receive updates and access your case information. At our firm, clients can log in anytime to our client portal to see real-time case progress, 24/7.

• Trust your instincts.

  
  

  Do you like the lawyer? Do you look forward to working with them? Immigration cases can take months or years, so you want someone you connect with.

• Remember, choosing an attorney is like selecting a CPA.

  
  

  You don't want someone emailing you the day before a critical deadline when you don't have the knowledge to know if the work is done correctly. You want a professional who keeps you informed, sets clear expectations, and delivers consistent results.

The right immigration attorney isn't just filing paperwork—they're guiding your future. Choose wisely.

For any consultation about our services, call (949) 940-6725, or book a consultation online to speak with one of our experienced immigration attorneys.