30 Sep Pros & Cons of Immigration Lawyers for Green Card Applications
The dream of obtaining a green card and building a life in the United States is a powerful one. It is a new beginning, filled with opportunity and promise. The path to that future, however, can feel complicated and filled with high stakes.
Making the choice to hire an immigration lawyer is a significant decision on this journey. At Henry & Grogan, our expertise in immigration law covers family immigration, employment-based immigration, green card assistance, and much more. We are here to bring clarity and confidence to your application process. If you are ready to take the next step toward your American dream, connect with our team today.
What Does the Green Card Application Process Entail?
Receiving a green card begins with establishing your eligibility through a family relationship, employment, or another specific category. You will then submit a detailed application packet to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which includes extensive forms and supporting evidence.
For many applicants, this involves an adjustment of status from a temporary visa. The process also includes a biometrics appointment, where your fingerprints and photograph are taken, and culminates in a final interview to verify the information you provided.
Pros of Hiring an Immigration Lawyer for Green Card Assistance
Expert Guidance
Immigration law has numerous policies that shift over time. An experienced immigration lawyer stays current with these developments so that they can correctly interpret the rules that apply to your unique situation. This means that when you hire an immigration attorney during the green card process, you gain a professional who can shed light on the requirements and help you put forward the strongest possible case from the very beginning.
Preventing Errors
The paperwork for a green card application is extensive, and even a small mistake can have big consequences. For example, a simple clerical error, a missed deadline, or insufficient evidence could lead to frustrating delays or even a denial, forcing you to start over. Immigration attorneys review every document with a trained eye, catching potential issues before your application is ever submitted, saving you invaluable time and resources.
Personalized Strategy
Your story and your path to permanent residency are your own. A cookie-cutter approach is rarely effective. Whether your application is based on employment, marriage, or your status as a refugee, a good lawyer develops a course of action centered on you. They will assess your complete background to identify the best path forward, prepare you for interviews, and help you anticipate the questions that are likely to arise.
Support With Complicated Cases
Many green card applications come with unique challenges. Perhaps you overstayed with a prior visa, have a past criminal charge, or face a previous denial. Immigration lawyers are equipped to manage difficult cases like these and can do everything from preparing a compelling national interest waiver to representing you before the Board of Immigration Appeals. They can also build an argument to help you overcome potential hurdles and protect you from the threat of deportation.
Comfort Knowing You’re Not Alone
The green card journey can feel long and uncertain. Having a dedicated lawyer by your side means you have a partner in the process. You will have a direct line to someone who can answer your questions, provide updates on your case, and advocate for you at every stage. This relationship brings a powerful sense of relief and allows you to focus on your future as you move toward eventual naturalization.
Considerations Before Reaching Out to an Immigration Lawyer
Hiring professional legal representation is an important choice, and it is helpful to consider a few things first. The primary factor is cost, as working with immigration attorneys is a significant investment. Of course, the potential expense and emotional toll of a rejected application and the need to re-file could be even greater than the initial cost of hiring an attorney.
For some individuals with exceptionally straightforward cases, such as a simple adjustment of status through marriage with no complicating factors, handling the process alone might feel manageable. Even so, it can be difficult to recognize what makes a case truly simple without a professional opinion. You should also remember that a lawyer is a guide, not a substitute for your involvement. You will still need to actively gather documents and provide truthful information to build your case.
In certain situations, individuals with limited financial means may be able to find assistance through a legal aid organization.
Call Henry & Grogan for Help With Your Green Card Application
Your aspiration to build a life in the United States deserves a dedicated and supportive ally. The team at Henry & Grogan is committed to helping you turn your vision into a reality.
If you are ready to begin the green card application process, contact us today. We believe in providing clear, honest, and effective legal support for every person we serve.