How can an immigration lawyer help me?
An immigration lawyer has studied the immigration laws of the United States and has graduated from law school. He or she is licensed to practice law and is regulated by the State and Federal Government. He or she can help you obtain legal status from the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Services (BCIS) or represent you in Immigration Court. A lawyer will:
  • Analyze the facts of your case thoroughly
  • Explain all the benefits for which you may be eligible
  • Recommend the best ways for you to obtain legal status
  • Complete and submit your applications properly
  • Stay current on the new laws that affect you
  • Avoid delays and problems with your case whenever possible
  • Discuss the status of your case with you
  • Speak for you in discussion with the BCIS or represent you in court
  • File necessary appeals and waivers

How do I find an immigration lawyer to assist me?
Visit or talk with the lawyer personally. Is he or she trustworthy and knowledgeable? What does the lawyer say can be done for you? How much will it cost? If you are not satisfied, talk to another lawyer.

Be wary of unlicensed operators! If you are not sure whether the person offering you
immigration services is a lawyer, ask to see their bars admission certificate. If you are still not sure, call the State Bar Association. Remember, in the United States, it is illegal to practice law without a license.


Will an immigration attorney be appointed to assist me with my case
if I don’t have a lawyer?
Many people do not realize that there is no right to have an appointed lawyer in immigration proceedings and there is no public defender system. This means that people facing
deportation, including asylum seekers, must hire a lawyer to represent them or find a lawyer willing to work for free.


What is the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Services (BCIS)?
On March 1, 2003, service and benefit functions of the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) transitioned into the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS). The BCIS is responsible for the administration of immigration and naturalization adjudication functions and establishing immigration services policies and priorities. These functions include:

  • adjudication of immigrant visa petitions;
  • adjudication of naturalization petitions;
  • adjudication of asylum and refugee applications;
  • adjudications performed at the service centers,
  • and all other adjudications performed by the INS.
What is the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (BICE)?
Immigration enforcement, which is the responsibility of the Directorate of Border and Transportation Security, includes preventing aliens from entering the country unlawfully, detecting and removing those who are living in the U.S. unlawfully, and preventing terrorists and other criminal aliens from entering or residing in the United States.


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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