Why Is an Immigration Lawyer So Important?

Given the complexity of immigration law and the importance of being granted the right to live legally in the United States, it’s surprising how many people attempt to reach their immigration goals without an attorney’s help. Hiring a lawyer is not legally required, but working with an experienced attorney on your immigration case definitely pays off. After all, you can greatly reduce the risk of errors and missed deadlines that could result in your application being denied or you being deported.

The most common reasons to work with an immigration lawyer are to get help applying for a visa and becoming a naturalized citizen. Other situations include:

• Criminal convictions: Nearly every form issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) requires you to disclose your criminal record, including dropped or expunged charges, or risk having your application denied. If you have been convicted, plan to work with an immigration lawyer on your case.
• Denied applications: The moment you learn a visa or citizenship application has been denied, reach out to an immigration attorney. This legal professional will determine why your application was denied and help you appeal or reapply at a later date.
• Previous deportation: Have you ever been deported or excluded from entry into the US? You may be permanently banned from future applications, so speak with an attorney about the effects of deportation and exclusion.
• Medical conditions: Certain communicable diseases and other medical conditions may render you ineligible to enter the United States. An immigration attorney can help you determine your options.
• Unreasonable wait times: Familiarize yourself with the estimated wait times for different immigration applications. If you have already been waiting far longer than the expected time, a lawyer may be able to help you expedite the process.
• Uncooperative employers: Work visas are a common method for entering the US. If your future employer is not doing their part to help your application go through, hire an attorney to help move the process along.
• Divorce: Marriage-based visa applications are generally filed jointly. As such, if your marriage ends due to death or divorce from your spouse, immigration authorities may assume the marriage was fraudulent. An immigration lawyer can help prove the legitimacy of your union and, by extension, that your visa is still valid.
• Underage children coming of age: The requirements for permanent resident status differ for children under age 21. If you have a child who is likely to become an adult before your application is processed, an immigration attorney can help you determine the best course of action.

Whether you’re hoping to become a legal US citizen or fighting deportation, you’ll quickly learn that immigration law is incredibly complex. That’s why you should hire a lawyer from Richards & Richards Law Firm to help you navigate the process. Based in Ogden, UT, our team is prepared to help you overcome the obstacles that stand in your way. Contact us at (512) 461-4836 today to schedule a free consultation.