A green card, or permanent resident card, is one of the essential documents for those who want to live and work in the United States permanently. However, the process of obtaining one can be complex, lengthy, and confusing. A green card lawyer is a professional who will help you overcome all the legal and administrative obstacles that you will encounter along the way. In this article, we will analyze in detail who a green card lawyer is, how they provide assistance, and how to choose the right specialist.
Who is a green card lawyer?
A green card lawyer is a licensed attorney who specializes in immigration law in the United States. They provide green card processing services and immigration matters and help clients avoid legal mistakes. The main task of a lawyer is to minimize the risk of denial and facilitate the process of getting a green card for the applicant.
What is the difference between a green card lawyer and a consultant or intermediary?
- An attorney is licensed to practice law and is required to adhere to strict ethical standards.
- An attorney can represent you in court and other official bodies.
- An attorney has in-depth knowledge of immigration law and proven experience in handling various types of cases, including complex ones.
Why do you need a green card attorney?
Getting a green card is more than just filing an application. The process requires careful preparation of documents, proper selection of the appropriate category (work, family, lottery, asylum, etc.), and meeting deadlines. Here are the main reasons why you should hire an attorney:
1. In-depth knowledge of the law
Immigration laws in the United States are updated regularly. What may have been acceptable a year ago may now be prohibited. An immigration lawyer Brooklyn is always up to date with the latest developments, which allows them to react quickly to any changes in the law.
2. Individual approach
Every situation is unique. For example, applicants may have different reasons for getting a green card: marriage to a US citizen, work visa, political asylum, or investment. A lawyer will choose the strategy that best suits your situation.
3. Solve complex cases
If you have been denied, have a visa violation, or have other difficulties, a lawyer will help you find a way out of the situation. For example, a lawyer can prepare an additional explanation for the Immigration Service or represent you in court.
4. Save time
Filling out immigration forms, gathering evidence, and preparing letters and other documents can take weeks or months. A lawyer can help speed up this process and avoid unnecessary delays.
5. Increase your chances of success
A mistake in the documents or an incorrect application submission can result in a denial. With the help of a lawyer, your chances of getting a green card increase significantly.
What services does a green card lawyer provide?
1. Consultations
In the first phase, a lawyer will perform a detailed consultation to understand your situation and advise you on the best way to obtain a green card. For example:
- If you want to obtain a green card through work, a lawyer will evaluate your profession and qualifications
- If it is through family, the person should verify whether your marriage meets the requirements of American law
2. Preparation of documents
One of the most laborious steps in the process is gathering documents. A green card lawyer:
- Help fill out forms such as I-130 (application for a relative) or I-485 (application for change of status).
- Ensure all necessary evidence is included, such as marriage certificates, police records, and financial documents.
- Prepare letters explaining your situation (if necessary).
3. Representation in courts and migration services
If your application is denied or you have to appear at a court hearing, you will be represented by a lawyer. This is especially important in cases where an appeal of a denial or a review of the case is required.
4. Appeal denial
A green card denial is not a death sentence. An attorney can appeal, request a new trial, or even go to court if the decision is wrong.
5. Green card renewal and replacement
A lawyer can help you renew your green card if it has expired or replace it if you have lost it.
How to choose a green card lawyer?
If you search for a "green card lawyer near me," be sure to choose an experienced and qualified specialist.
1. Qualification
Ensure the lawyer is licensed to practice law in the United States and specializes in immigration law. You can check their membership in the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA).
2. Professional experience
The more cases a lawyer successfully completes, the better. This is especially important if you find yourself in a difficult situation.
3. Customer reviews
Read online reviews or ask your friends for recommendations. A reliable lawyer always has a positive reputation.
4. Accessibility and communication
A good lawyer is always available, ready to answer your questions and keep you informed about the progress of the case.
5. Price Transparency
Before starting work, please clarify the cost of services. Some lawyers offer fixed prices, while others work by the hour.
How much do the services of a green card lawyer cost?
The cost of services can vary depending on the complexity of the case. Legal expenses for marriage green card cases often run between a few thousand and several thousand dollars. Entry-level attorneys usually charge roughly $2,000 for marriage-based green card services. More experienced lawyers may charge up to $8,000. Some attorneys offer installment plans or fixed service packages.
Key steps in working with a green card attorney
- Consultation: A lawyer reviews your situation, reviews all necessary documents, and develops a strategy.
- Document collection and preparation: The client provides personal information, financial documents, proof of relationship, or professional certifications. The lawyer prepares and submits all forms.
- Application filing: The lawyer ensures that the application is filed on time and with the correct agency (e.g., USCIS).
- Case support: A lawyer monitors the status of your application and responds to requests from migration services.
- Problem resolution: If any problems arise (e.g., a request for additional information), the lawyer will resolve them promptly.
When is it especially important to contact a lawyer?
Some situations require the mandatory participation of a lawyer:
- You have already been rejected a green card in the past
- You have violated the visa regime
- You have a criminal record
- The search is through marriage, and there is a risk of being accused of marriage of convenience
- You want asylum
The importance of preparing to work with an attorney
To ensure that working with a green card attorney is as successful as possible, it is essential to prepare for the process in advance. You should gather all the documents that may be required: passports, marriage certificates, income certificates, tax returns, and letters of support from employers or relatives.
The more complete and accurate the information, the easier it will be for the attorney to develop a strategy and avoid delays. It is worth preparing a list of questions in advance to discuss all the critical points during the consultation. Good preparation is the key to a successful outcome!
The bottom line
A green card lawyer is an indispensable assistant for those who want to avoid mistakes and successfully complete the procedure to obtain permanent residence. Choose an experienced and qualified specialist to guarantee the best result. Remember: investing in professional legal assistance is a step towards a stable future in the United States.
