An Immigration Lawyer is a legal professional specializing in the complex laws, regulations, and procedures governing immigration to the United States and other countries.
They act as essential guides and advocates for individuals, families, and businesses dealing with visas, green cards, naturalization, deportation defense, and asylum claims. Due to the constant changes in global immigration policies, their expertise is critical in ensuring legal compliance and maximizing the chances of a successful application.
6 Key Facts and Roles of an Immigration Lawyer
Specialization in Federal Law: Immigration law is almost entirely federal law (in the US, governed by the Department of Homeland Security and USCIS). This means that a lawyer licensed in one state can generally represent clients in immigration matters across the entire country, regardless of the client's physical location.
Diverse Client Services: They handle a wide spectrum of cases, including:
Family-Based Immigration: Petitions for spouses, parents, and children (I-130).
Employment-Based Visas: H-1B (specialty occupations), L-1 (intracompany transfer), and EB green cards.
Naturalization: Applying for U.S. Citizenship.
Asylum and Refugee Status: Complex defense against removal proceedings.
Critical Role in Deportation Defense: One of their most vital functions is representing clients facing removal or deportation proceedings in Immigration Court. They help clients seek relief from deportation, which can include cancellation of removal or adjustment of status.
Managing the Application Process and Errors: Immigration lawyers ensure all paperwork (which can be hundreds of pages) is completed accurately and submitted correctly, preventing common errors that lead to delays or denials. They track deadlines, respond to Requests for Evidence (RFEs), and prepare clients for interviews.
Ethical Fees and Client Communication: Fees are typically charged on a flat-fee basis per service (e.g., $X for a Green Card application) rather than hourly, providing cost predictability. Clients should seek lawyers with transparent pricing and confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with the bar association.
Staying Abreast of Policy Changes: Immigration law is constantly evolving due to new presidential administrations, court rulings, and international events. A professional immigration lawyer is crucial for interpreting and applying the latest policy shifts from USCIS, the Department of State, and the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR).
Summary: An Immigration Lawyer specializes in federal law, handling complex applications for visas, green cards, and deportation defense across the country. They are essential for ensuring compliance, managing paperwork, and navigating the constant, critical policy changes set by government agencies like USCIS.
