Top Questions To Ask A Potential Immigration Attorney
Even if an immigration attorney has stellar reviews on a lawyer review website or comes highly recommended, don’t feel shy about interviewing them. Asking the following questions will instill confidence in working with the attorney.
What is your experience with my specific immigration case?
You wouldn’t hire a Japanese sushi chef to cater a taco bar. Even though the sushi chef is expert in their craft, cooking for different ethnic menus requires specialization. Likewise, not all immigration cases are the same. For instance, if you or your spouse are seeking a marriage green card, ensure the potential attorney has handled plenty of these cases. While the attorney may have extensive experience in, say, deportation defense, that experience may not translate into successfully obtaining a visa. Try to get a good overview of the attorney’s specific experience in handling cases similar to yours, including their success rate.
Are you a member of any professional organizations related to immigration law?
Look for membership in organizations such as the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA). Why does this matter? Because immigration laws and policies are seemingly ever-changing. If a lawyer is a member of a professional association, it provides a semblance of confidence that they are staying current on legislative changes.
What are your fees, and how are they structured?
Most people detest surprises, especially when it comes to hidden fees and financial matters. The attorney should make it easy to understand what the fee structure will be, including any consultation fees, flat rates, hourly rates, and additional costs (e.g. government filing fees) that might arise during the process. Don’t be afraid to ask.
Can you provide references or testimonials from past clients?
Real feedback from real people speaks volumes. Ask for reviews, references, or links to client testimonials. If they’re hesitant to provide any, that’s a red flag. Protecting the anonymity of clients is one matter, however, satisfied clients will be more than happy to have their names released.
Who will handle my case?
Sometimes the attorney you meet isn’t the one doing the heavy lifting. Clarify whether your case will be managed personally by the attorney or passed to junior staff or paralegals.
What is your approach to communication?
Will the immigration attorney respond to emails? Return phone calls? Do they offer virtual check-ins? You deserve an attorney who keeps you updated and doesn’t leave you in the dark for days or even weeks at a time.
How long do you anticipate my case will take?
No attorney has a crystal ball, and thus, shouldn’t promise an exact timeline. However, an experienced immigration attorney can offer a realistic estimate based on your situation. They should also explain what factors could delay your case.
What challenges do you foresee in my case?
An honest attorney won’t sugarcoat things. If they spot red flags—like past overstays, visa denials, or criminal history—they should explain how they’ll handle them.
What is your success rate with immigration cases like mine?
While no one can guarantee outcomes, a high success rate is still a good sign. It shows they know what they’re doing—and they’ve helped others in your shoes. How do you know if an immigration attorney is being honest about their track record? This is why review websites and testimonials can offer valuable intel.
Speak With an Experienced, Compassionate Immigration Attorney
At Harmony Law, we welcome your questions because we believe the foundation of a strong attorney-client relationship is built on clarity, trust, and honest communication. The very questions listed above? We hope you come across this article and ask away! Whether you’re applying for a marriage green card or facing a more complex immigration challenge such as deportation, our experienced attorneys take the time to explain your options, anticipate potential obstacles, and stay personally involved in your case. Compassionate, top-tier representation shouldn't be hard to find. Let us show you how we’re different.
Contact us today for a free case review.
