Choosing an immigration attorney is a big decision

Being aware of these seven common blunders when choosing an immigration attorney can help you find peace of mind, and avoid years of stress.

1. Hiring an Immigration Attorney Who Is Not Board Certified

A wrong or misinformed legal strategy can have permanent consequences on your life.

Attorneys with demonstrated expertise and knowledge within a specific area of law can be awarded a Certificate of Special Competence by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization (TBLS) board certification program which serves the public interest and advances quality standards within the legal profession.

The TBLS board certifies immigration lawyers that have substantial, relevant experience in a select area of law such as immigration law, have completed continuing legal education hours in the specialty area, and passed a rigorous exam. Board certified immigration attorneys are up to date with all of the latest changes in not only the immigration law, but the government agencies’ protocols.

This select group of attorneys is authorized to indicate that they are BOARD CERTIFIED IMMIGRATION LAWYERS and for the most part are experienced, respected and tested.

When it comes to your immigration case, your legal strategy can and will impact your life, for better or worse, and the legal advisor’s advice should be trustworthy and accurate.

2. Hiring the Immigration Attorney You Meet

While it’s tempting to hire the immigration attorney closest to home or the first immigration attorney advisor in the yellow pages or the internet, this decision requires more time. Take your time to interview at least a few immigration attorneys before picking the best match for you.

3. Choosing an Attorney with the Wrong Specialty

Some immigration attorneys specialize solely in practicing immigration and nationality law. Others practice immigration law along with other types of law such as family, criminal, civil, etc.

Some might be best for deportation matters and others for family immigration matters or employment based cases. Be sure to understand an immigration attorney’s strengths and weaknesses – before signing the dotted line.

4. Picking an Immigration Attorney with an Incompatible Strategy

Each immigration attorney has a unique strategy. Some immigration attorneys may suggest an aggressive approach, while others are more conservative. If you prefer not to take great risks with your case matter, an immigration attorney that espouses an aggressive approach is not a great match for you.

5. Not Asking about Credentials

To give legal advice, immigration attorneys are required to pass a test and be issued a state license to practice law. Ask your immigration attorney about their licenses, tests, and credentials. Some immigration attorneys go a step further and become Board Certified by the state bar that has issued the attorney a license to practice law.

6. Making Assumptions When They are Affiliated with a Reputable Brand

An immigration attorney might appear qualified and professional due to an association with a major law firm. Working with an immigration attorney from a reputable and large firm can lead to stability and access to other attorneys practicing in various fields and disciplines. However, choose an immigration attorney because they are the best fit, not because of their branding.

7. Not Understanding How They are Paid

Some immigration attorneys are “fee only” and charge you a flat rate no matter what. Others charge on an hourly basis. For either approach you should always demand a written attorney / client contract.

If the immigration attorney is interested in earning and charging you more but ignores your best interests, do not hire them.

If your immigration attorney pushes unnecessary services on you, it’s time to find an immigration attorney who has your best interest in mind.

The immigration attorney is ethically bound to act in the client’s best interest

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