{"id":352779,"date":"2024-07-11T15:09:00","date_gmt":"2024-07-11T20:09:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/immigration\/immigration-attorneys.html"},"modified":"2024-07-11T15:09:00","modified_gmt":"2024-07-11T20:09:00","slug":"immigration-attorneys","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-attorneys.html","title":{"rendered":"Hiring an Immigration Attorney"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><div\n    data-testid=\"fl-general-title\"\n    class=\"fl-general-title fl-flex fl-gap20 fl-items-end\"\n>\n    <div class=\"fl-general-title-heading fl-flex fl-flex-column\">\n        <h1\n            class=\"fl-h1 fl-general-title-title fl-no-spacing\"\n            data-testid=\"fl-general-title-title\"\n        >\n            Hiring an Immigration Attorney\n        <\/h1>\n        <p\n            class=\"fl-general-title-description fl-text-xl fl-no-margin\"\n            data-testid=\"fl-general-title-description\"\n        >\n            The immigration process is complex and some situations are high stakes. Legal help from an attorney can help you get the best possible outcome.\n        <\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/lyle-therese-a-hilotin-lee-j-d\/\">Lyle Therese A. Hilotin-Lee, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/meagan-neil-esq\/\">Meagan Neil, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            July 11, 2024\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<p>Facing an immigration issue alone can be overwhelming and frustrating. Some immigration matters\u2014such as petitioning family members or a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/can-a-lawyer-stop-deportation.html\">potential deportation<\/a>\u2014greatly benefit from a lawyer&#8217;s support and advocacy. A legal professional can protect your rights and guide you through the parts of the immigration system that are hardest to navigate alone.<\/p>\n<p>But it&#8217;s critical you find an attorney whom you trust and can effectively handle your case. Even if you have a recommendation from a trusted source <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/pro-bono-resource-center\/free-legal-resources\/legal-aid-and-pro-bono-organizations-by-state.html\">or a nonprofit<\/a>, you still must do your homework.<\/p>\n<p>FindLaw\u2019s Hiring an Immigration Attorney section can help you feel confident about evaluating an attorney\u2019s experience and what questions to ask before you commit.\u00a0Use the menus below to navigate to the most relevant topic, or scroll down to learn more about hiring an immigration lawyer for your issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div\n    class=\"fl-category-overview\"\n    data-testid=\"fl-category-overview\"\n>\n    <div\n        class=\"fl-accordion fl-category-overview-container\"\n        id=\"category-overview\"\n        data-testid=\"fl-accordion\"\n    >\n                    <div\n               class=\"fl-accordion-item fl-category-overview-item\"\n               id=\"section-1-category-overview\"\n               aria-labelledby=\"button-1-category-overview\"\n               data-testid=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n            >\n                <h2\n                    class=\"fl-accordion-header fl-flex fl-items-center fl-justify-between fl-no-margin\"\n                    data-testid=\"fl-accordion-header\"\n                >\n                    <button\n                        id=\"button-1-category-overview\"\n                        aria-label=\"Category 1 content\"\n                        aria-expanded=\"false\"\n                        aria-controls=\"section-1-category-overview\"\n                        class=\"fl-accordion-button fl-flex fl-flex-auto fl-justify-between\"\n                        type=\"button\"\n                    >\n                        Hiring an Immigration Attorney\n                        <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                            <i\n                                class=\"fa fa-angle-down small\"\n                                aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                            ><\/i>\n                        <\/span>\n                    <\/button>\n                <\/h2>\n                <div\n                    class=\"fl-accordion-content\"\n                    data-testid=\"fl-accordion-content\"\n                    id=\"content-1-category-overview\"\n                >\n                    <ul class=\"fl-no-margin fl-list\">\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-control-list-item fl-flex\">\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-container\">\n                                <i\n                                    class=\"fa fa-angle-right small\"\n                                    aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-text\">\n                                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-attorneys\/find-an-immigration-lawyer.html\" class=\"fl-list-item-link\">\n                                    <span>Tips for Finding the Right Immigration Lawyer for You<\/span>\n                                <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-control-list-item fl-flex\">\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-container\">\n                                <i\n                                    class=\"fa fa-angle-right small\"\n                                    aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-text\">\n                                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-attorneys\/immigration-intake-questionnaire.html\" class=\"fl-list-item-link\">\n                                    <span>How To Prepare for Your Immigration Consultation<\/span>\n                                <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-control-list-item fl-flex\">\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-container\">\n                                <i\n                                    class=\"fa fa-angle-right small\"\n                                    aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-text\">\n                                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-attorneys\/should-i-use-a-notario-for-my-immigration-case.html\" class=\"fl-list-item-link\">\n                                    <span>Should I Use a Notario for My Immigration Case?<\/span>\n                                <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-control-list-item fl-flex\">\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-container\">\n                                <i\n                                    class=\"fa fa-angle-right small\"\n                                    aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-text\">\n                                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/immigration-and-naturalization-law.html\" class=\"fl-list-item-link\">\n                                    <span>What Does an Immigration Lawyer Do?<\/span>\n                                <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-control-list-item fl-flex\">\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-container\">\n                                <i\n                                    class=\"fa fa-angle-right small\"\n                                    aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-text\">\n                                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/can-a-lawyer-stop-deportation.html\" class=\"fl-list-item-link\">\n                                    <span>Can a Lawyer Stop Deportation?<\/span>\n                                <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/li>\n                                            <\/ul>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div\n               class=\"fl-accordion-item fl-category-overview-item\"\n               id=\"section-2-category-overview\"\n               aria-labelledby=\"button-2-category-overview\"\n               data-testid=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n            >\n                <h2\n                    class=\"fl-accordion-header fl-flex fl-items-center fl-justify-between fl-no-margin\"\n                    data-testid=\"fl-accordion-header\"\n                >\n                    <button\n                        id=\"button-2-category-overview\"\n                        aria-label=\"Category 1 content\"\n                        aria-expanded=\"false\"\n                        aria-controls=\"section-2-category-overview\"\n                        class=\"fl-accordion-button fl-flex fl-flex-auto fl-justify-between\"\n                        type=\"button\"\n                    >\n                        Attorney Hiring Tools\n                        <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                            <i\n                                class=\"fa fa-angle-down small\"\n                                aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                            ><\/i>\n                        <\/span>\n                    <\/button>\n                <\/h2>\n                <div\n                    class=\"fl-accordion-content\"\n                    data-testid=\"fl-accordion-content\"\n                    id=\"content-2-category-overview\"\n                >\n                    <ul class=\"fl-no-margin fl-list\">\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-control-list-item fl-flex\">\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-container\">\n                                <i\n                                    class=\"fa fa-angle-right small\"\n                                    aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-text\">\n                                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/ten-questions-to-ask-your-potential-lawyer.html\" class=\"fl-list-item-link\">\n                                    <span>10 Questions To Ask Your Potential Lawyer<\/span>\n                                <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-control-list-item fl-flex\">\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-container\">\n                                <i\n                                    class=\"fa fa-angle-right small\"\n                                    aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-text\">\n                                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/researching-attorney-discipline.html\" class=\"fl-list-item-link\">\n                                    <span>Researching Attorney Discipline<\/span>\n                                <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-control-list-item fl-flex\">\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-container\">\n                                <i\n                                    class=\"fa fa-angle-right small\"\n                                    aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-text\">\n                                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/what-should-i-look-for-when-trying-to-choose-a-lawyer.html\" class=\"fl-list-item-link\">\n                                    <span>How Do I Find a Good Lawyer?<\/span>\n                                <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-control-list-item fl-flex\">\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-container\">\n                                <i\n                                    class=\"fa fa-angle-right small\"\n                                    aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-text\">\n                                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer.html\" class=\"fl-list-item-link\">\n                                    <span>Guide To Hiring a Lawyer<\/span>\n                                <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-control-list-item fl-flex\">\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-container\">\n                                <i\n                                    class=\"fa fa-angle-right small\"\n                                    aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-list-control-text\">\n                                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/lawyer-hiring-info-by-practice-area.html\" class=\"fl-list-item-link\">\n                                    <span>Hiring a Lawyer: List of Legal Practice Areas<\/span>\n                                <\/a>\n                            <\/div>\n                        <\/li>\n                                            <\/ul>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2>Tips for Choosing the Right Immigration Attorney for You<\/h2>\n<p>Use the tips below to find a lawyer who fits your needs and unique circumstances.\u00a0<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Ensure the lawyer is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA). Visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ailalawyer.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AILA&#8217;s official website to verify<\/a>\u00a0the lawyer&#8217;s membership.<\/li>\n<li>Check if the attorney has experience handling cases with similar immigration issues.<\/li>\n<li>For most family-based immigration cases, immigration lawyers charge a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/attorneys-and-fees.html\">flat rate<\/a><span style=\"color: initial\">. Be vigilant if you encounter an attorney who charges by the hour. This could be a potential red flag.<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Check <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/state-bar-associations.html\">your state bar<\/a> to ensure the attorney has no pending disciplinary actions and is eligible to practice law. Since immigration matters are federal, immigration lawyers can practice in any state. It&#8217;s essential to know which state they are licensed in to make it easier to verify their credentials.<\/li>\n<li>Use the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-attorneys\/immigration-intake-questionnaire.html\">initial consultation<\/a> to check how comfortable you are with the lawyer and understand their legal experience.<\/li>\n<li>Be honest with your legal concerns and your story. For example, if you have previous <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/how-does-an-arrest-affect-immigration-status.html\">arrests or convictions<\/a> and the lawyer doesn&#8217;t know about them, it&#8217;s hard for them to effectively defend you.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Roles of an Immigration Lawyer in the Immigration Process<\/h2>\n<p>An immigration lawyer is a professional who specializes in interpreting <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/immigration-and-naturalization-law.html\">immigration laws<\/a>. Trained in law school, they offer advocacy, legal services, and advice to clients navigating the immigration process. They also serve as counselors, providing legal advice to clients who interact with immigration court officials.<\/p>\n<p>Many immigration lawyers also have experience processing documents with U.S. agencies like the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dhs.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">U.S. Department of Homeland Security<\/a> (DHS), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services<\/a> (USCIS), and more. Immigration lawyers can give you detailed guidance on navigating the immigration process.<\/p>\n<p>Immigration lawyers also practice in various areas of immigration law. For instance, in some family-based immigration cases, both <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/family-law.html\">family laws<\/a> and immigration laws play essential roles. Business immigration lawyers help corporations transfer foreign nationals to the United States.<\/p>\n<p>In some cases, immigration lawyers can also represent clients in immigration courts in coordination with the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.justice.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Department of Justice<\/a> (DOJ), such as in cancellation of removal proceedings or deportation hearings. But most immigration lawyers do not handle civil disputes in federal courts or the Supreme Court. Instead, they act as mediators between their clients and government agencies. They can also help process visa applications with USCIS.<\/p>\n<h2>When Do I Need an Immigration Lawyer?<\/h2>\n<p>While an attorney is not required to migrate to the United States, enlisting their help is necessary in some situations. Immigration laws are complex and constantly evolving. A lawyer can provide up-to-date legal guidance and help you understand how different policies apply to you.<\/p>\n<p>An attorney can reduce the risk of errors\u00a0<span style=\"margin: 0px;padding: 0px\">i<span style=\"color: initial;font-size: revert\">n employment-based immigration, family-based immigration, and visa matters<\/span><\/span><span style=\"font-size: revert;color: initial\">. This is why many noncitizens hire an attorney to handle legal processes such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/visas\/who-may-obtain-a-green-card.html\">green cards<\/a> or naturalization.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>There are also some cases where the expertise of an immigration lawyer specializing in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/visas\/what-is-an-i-601-waiver.html\">waivers of inadmissibility<\/a> is helpful. Some of these situations include:<\/p>\n<h3>Prior Denial of Application<\/h3>\n<p>If you&#8217;re a visa applicant with past application denials, a lawyer can identify the cause. They can tell you about waivers or reapplication strategies. They can also determine if reapplying later or appealing the application is possible.<\/p>\n<h3>Crime Conviction<\/h3>\n<p>Almost every USCIS form requires applicants to\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/policy-manual\/volume-12-part-b-chapter-2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">declare their criminal history<\/a>, including charges later dropped or\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/criminal\/expungement\/expungement-eligibility.html\">expunged<\/a>. In this case, an immigration attorney can also be helpful. They can provide legal advice on how this criminal record could affect your immigration application or status.<\/p>\n<h3>Previous Deportation<\/h3>\n<p>An applicant will need to hire an immigration attorney if they have a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/can-you-return-to-the-united-states-after-deportation.html\">previous history of deportation<\/a> or exclusion from entering the United States. Exclusion or deportation could sometimes result in a permanent ban from filing a nonimmigrant or immigrant visa. An immigration attorney can help you understand your case. They provide legal advice on issues such as deportation, removal, or exclusion.<\/p>\n<h3>Terminated Marriage<\/h3>\n<p>In general, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/what-is-marriage-fraud.html\">marriage-based visa applications<\/a> are jointly filed. If the marriage was the basis for the foreign national&#8217;s status or application, termination could jeopardize their immigration status or application. In this case, it is helpful to seek legal advice from an immigration attorney.<\/p>\n<h3>Petitioning Family Members<\/h3>\n<p>If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and want to petition a family member to come to the United States, you must follow specific rules. Eligibility and requirements may vary depending on the family member&#8217;s relationship with the petitioner. For children of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, their child&#8217;s age and marital status play a crucial role in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/green-card\/green-card-processes-and-procedures\/adjustment-of-status\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">adjustment of status<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>Temporary Visas<\/h3>\n<p>If you plan to travel to the U.S. temporarily, you should first get a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/visas\/temporary-visas.html\">U.S. visa<\/a>. A foreign national can apply for different types of temporary or nonimmigrant visas. Each visa has a specific purpose.<\/p>\n<p>For instance, USCIS issues business visas to those coming to the U.S. to attend business trips, conventions, and tourism. There are also visas for athletes and entertainers with internationally recognized reputations.<\/p>\n<p>For most situations, you don&#8217;t need legal help to apply for a U.S. visa. But <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-attorneys\/find-an-immigration-lawyer.html\">an attorney can help<\/a> if you are dealing with unusual circumstances or have a prior visa denial.<\/p>\n<h2>Finding the Right Immigration Attorney<\/h2>\n<p>Finding the right legal professional can be difficult. Foreign nationals might struggle with the U.S. legal system, language barriers, or other communication issues. Even U.S. nationals can find the immigration system confusing when bringing a family member or hiring a foreign worker.<\/p>\n<p>With proper legal representation, you can avoid some common pitfalls of immigration applications. These attorneys have experience handling such legal matters. They can also help you conduct legal research based on your immigration issue.<\/p>\n<p>FindLaw\u2019s directory of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">immigration attorneys<\/a> can get you started. <span data-sheets-root=\"1\">Enter your city or ZIP code for a list of qualified legal professionals in your area. Your search results will also show important details about prospective lawyers, including ratings and whether they offer free consultations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\">Don&#8217;t be afraid to talk to an immigration lawyer\u2014<a class=\"in-cell-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/do-you-need-a-lawyer\/what-is-the-attorney-client-privilege.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">attorney-client privilege<\/a>\u00a0prohibits them from sharing information about your immigration status. Their role is to help you, not act as an enforcement agent.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>What If I Can&#8217;t Afford an Attorney?<\/h3>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.aila.org\/about\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">American Immigration Lawyers Association<\/a>\u00a0is an association of lawyers and law professors who practice immigration law. It is a nonprofit organization that offers various legal services nationwide. It also has attorneys who provide pro bono services or help for immigration matters involving the federal government.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-up\" 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class=\"fl-editors-summary\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content\">\n                    <h2>Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\">\n            \n        <\/div>\n        <ul class=\"fl-list-style-none\">\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Some people can get a green card or complete immigration forms without hiring legal help\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Complex immigration cases (such as having a criminal history or past immigration violations) may need the support of an attorney\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    A lawyer can help you navigate complicated federal and state immigration laws\n\n                <\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n                    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\">\n                <p>The immigration process can be stressful and slow. An attorney can offer tailored advice and help prevent common mistakes.<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link fl-flex\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link\">\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <p class=\"find-attorney\">\u00a0<a title=\"Immigration Law Attorney Directory\" href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/#USER_GEO\/?fli=esum:FL29\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find a local attorney<\/a><\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"popularDirectory\">\n        <div class=\"general-popular-directory \">\n            <div class=\"general-popular-directory-title\">\n                <h3>Attorney Directory<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <ul>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Immigration Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/international-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">International Law Attorneys<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/labor-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Labor Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/employment-law-employee\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Employment Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/discrimination\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Discrimination Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/education-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Education Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"popularRecent\">\n    <div class=\"row popular-recent\">\n        <h2 class=\"popular-recent-title\">Looking for More Information?<\/h2>\n        <div class=\"popular-recent-item\">\n            <div class=\"popular-recent-item-image\">\n                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://www.findlaw.com/static/c/images\/images\/w_1200,c_limit,dpr_auto\/f_auto,q_auto:eco\/v1745849290\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/general-components-popular-recent-popular\/general-components-popular-recent-popular.svg?_i=AA\"\n                    alt=\"\">\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"popular-recent-item-content\">\n                <h3>Popular Law Articles<\/h3>\n                <ul class=\"fl-list\">\n                                            <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                            <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                            <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration.html\">Immigration Law<\/a>\n                        <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                            <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                            <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-attorneys\/the-role-of-an-immigration-attorney.html\">The Role of an Immigration Attorney<\/a>\n                        <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                            <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                            <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-attorneys\/should-i-use-a-notario-for-my-immigration-case.html\">Should I Use a Notario for My Immigration Case?<\/a>\n                        <\/li>\n                                    <\/ul>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"popular-recent-item\">\n            <div class=\"popular-recent-item-image\">\n                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://www.findlaw.com/static/c/images\/images\/w_1200,c_limit,dpr_auto\/f_auto,q_auto:eco\/v1745849421\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/general-components-popular-recent-recent_12960fdca\/general-components-popular-recent-recent_12960fdca.svg?_i=AA\"\n                    alt=\"\">\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"popular-recent-item-content\">\n                <h3>Most Recent Law Articles<\/h3>\n                <ul class=\"fl-list\">\n                                            <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                            <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                            <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-attorneys\/immigration-intake-questionnaire.html\">\n                                Preparing for Your Initial Consultation With an Immigration Attorney\n                            <\/a>\n                        <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                            <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                            <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-attorneys\/find-an-immigration-lawyer.html\">\n                                Tips for Finding the Right Immigration Lawyer for You\n                            <\/a>\n                        <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                            <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                            <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-attorneys\/should-i-use-a-notario-for-my-immigration-case.html\">\n                                Should I Use a Notario for My Immigration Case?\n                            <\/a>\n                        <\/li>\n                                    <\/ul>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Some immigration issues require legal help. Learn how a lawyer can help with your immigration matter and get tips for finding the right attorney at FindLaw.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":352730,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/OverviewPageController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":[]},"categories":[2733],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-352779","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-immigration"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352779","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=352779"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352779\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":394847,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352779\/revisions\/394847"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352730"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=352779"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=352779"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=352779"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=352779"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=352779"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}