If you are an immigrant having trouble becoming a U.S. citizen, seeking help from an immigration attorney can be a huge benefit. According to the Migration Policy Institute, in the fiscal year 2020, slightly more than 707,000 immigrants became lawful permanent residents. This was done with the help of great immigration lawyers. When looking for a good immigration lawyer, you need to consider many things.

Find a Specialist in Immigration Law

One of the biggest mistakes people make when applying for residency is hiring a general lawyer. To increase your chances of getting a residency, you need to hire one of the best immigration attorneys in the area. When you’re looking for a lawyer, look for one that has successfully dealt with many other immigration cases. This way, you can find an attorney who is up-to-date on immigration laws and will help you comply with all the requirements to make you a resident. Getting a quality attorney can help you prepare for all the necessary steps until you become a resident. 

Get Referrals 

One great way to find the best immigration attorneys in the area is to get referrals. Referrals from people that have successfully become American citizens can help you know which attorney to trust. They will also prepare you with a rough guideline of the procedure and how to handle each step until you get your citizenship. Although word-of-mouth referrals are good, the internet can help you fish for a great attorney from a wider pool. 

Confirm the Credentials of Different Lawyer

Before settling on one of the best immigration attorneys you find, ensure you confirm their credentials. Check their previous cases, their qualifications, and most importantly, their certifications. The American Immigration Lawyers Association website is a good place to start when checking for your attorney's credentials. Working with an attorney that is listed on this website can assure you that they have been tested and are qualified to deal with immigration cases. 

Negotiate Fees

Legal charges should be a big consideration when choosing an immigration attorney. It’s important to note that higher cost doesn’t always mean quality. Interact with the immigration attorney and trust your gut feeling. It’s very important to hire an attorney you can afford. Also, discuss the possibilities of payment plans to ease your burden of the legal fee. 

Whether you need to complete an immigration petition, gain citizenship, or even get a work permit, an immigration lawyer can play a huge role in helping you achieve these goals. In order to get this done, it’s important to hire a competent immigration lawyer who can help you resolve your immigration issues in a timely manner. Contact the Law Office of Brian T. Richards today for a free consultation.