Choosing an experienced Austin immigration lawyer is an important step in any immigration process. At Peek and Toland, LLP, we understand that you need to find an attorney you trust and with whom you can work, as well as one who has the experience and skills to maximize your chances of success.
When seeking an immigration attorney, it is often wise to ask questions. Here are some of the top questions to ask your immigration lawyer, both before you begin and during the immigration process.
1. Have you handled cases like mine before?
Attorneys learn much of what they know through experience. Immigration attorneys will typically have experience with different types of visas and other immigration situations. By working with the government departments responsible for immigration and the courts, they will have developed a professional network of contacts with whom they can communicate during the process. Ask what experience your attorney has in handling cases like yours.
2. What do you plan to do for me?
A successful immigration case may involve more than just filing paperwork. Your attorney should have a general expectation for how your application will proceed and what he or she will do at each step to improve your chances of success.
3. What do I need to do to help my application succeed?
Your attorney may need information from you or may ask you to fill out certain forms by a specific date. Always respond to these requests as promptly and completely as you can. It also helps to keep copies of your paperwork in one place and bring these copies with you each time you meet with your attorney.
The most important thing is that you understand completely what it is the attorney can do for you and the likelihood of success. Some attorneys don’t take the time to fully explain the process and don’t always explain the realistic chances of winning a process. Make sure the attorney thoroughly explains the process and likelihood of obtaining the results you seek.