How to Prepare for Your First Consultation With a U.S. Immigration Lawyer
If you plan to immigrate to the United States from Canada, it would be wise to consult a U.S. immigration lawyer, especially if you have a complicated case. An immigration lawyer will inform you of your options and help you prepare your application correctly to increase your chances of success.
Below are some tips to help you prepare for your first meeting with a U.S. immigration lawyer.
Get referrals
If you have a family member, friend or colleague who has worked with an immigration lawyer before, ask whether they would recommend that lawyer. You can also identify immigration lawyers by searching the law society directory in your province. When you have compiled a list of potential lawyers, conduct research and narrow your options.
Gather relevant documents
Once you have scheduled a meeting with a U.S. immigration lawyer, gather all your immigration-related documents and take them with you to your consultation. Relevant documents include your birth certificate, passport, visas or visa applications, and if you are married, your marriage certificate. If you have received documents from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services or you have sent documents, take copies of those documents to your consultation as well.
Give the lawyer as much information as possible
During the consultation, be honest and open, sharing as much information as possible to avoid any surprises in your case. For example, if you have a criminal record, you must let the immigration lawyer know. Failure to disclose a criminal record can cause your immigration application to be denied.
Bring copies of police or court documents if you have a criminal record
A conviction for certain crimes can result in inadmissibility to the United States. However, several exceptions exist that could allow an otherwise inadmissible applicant to gain entry to the United States. In cases where there are no relevant exceptions, a person can apply for a waiver of inadmissibility.
If you have a criminal record, bring copies of police or court documents to your consultation and ask the lawyer how your conviction might impact your case.
Prepare a list of questions
It is important to ask questions that will help you determine whether the lawyer is the right one for your case. Here are some things you might want to know:
- Does the firm specialize in immigration law?
- What experience does the lawyer have with cases like yours?
- Will the lawyer handle your case, or will they pass it on to someone else?
- What are your chances of success?
- What strategy does the lawyer recommend?
- What tasks will the lawyer complete for you?
- What is the estimated cost for your entire case?
Are you searching for a U.S. immigration lawyer in Montreal?
If you are searching for a U.S. immigration lawyer in Montreal, contact us at Silver Immigration.
At Silver Immigration, we help workers, executives, and business owners secure status to live and work in the United States. You can expect to receive personalized and focused customer service, and we will work around the clock to ensure your needs are met without delay.
Call us today to schedule a free consultation.
