Navigating the complex world of immigration law can be daunting, and knowing what to ask immigration lawyer candidates is crucial for choosing the right attorney to guide you through the process. Jim Hacking, an experienced immigration lawyer practicing throughout the United States, offers valuable insights on how to select the best legal representation for your case. In this article, we’ll explore the seven key questions you should ask when interviewing potential immigration lawyers.
1. How long have you been practicing immigration law?
Experience matters, especially in a field as complex and ever-changing as immigration law. When considering what to ask immigration lawyer candidates, this question should be at the top of your list. It’s essential to inquire about their experience specifically in immigration law.
“You want to make sure that you’re dealing with someone who does immigration law exclusively and that that’s all that they do,” Hacking advises. While newer lawyers can certainly be competent, there’s no substitute for years of hands-on experience in navigating the intricacies of immigration cases.
Ideally, look for an attorney who focuses solely on immigration law. Be wary of lawyers who handle immigration cases alongside other practice areas like personal injury or estate planning. The depth of knowledge required for immigration law demands undivided attention and continuous learning.
2. How long have you been a member of AILA?
AILA stands for the American Immigration Lawyers Association. Membership in this organization is a strong indicator of a lawyer’s commitment to staying current with immigration law developments.
Hacking emphasizes the importance of AILA membership: “AILA is a fantastic organization. I learned so much by being a member of AILA and to me it’s almost like a seal of approval.” AILA members have access to daily updates on changes in immigration law and policies, ensuring they’re always working with the most current information.
While there may be exceptions (some experienced lawyers may have personal reasons for not being AILA members), in general, AILA membership is a positive sign of professional dedication and up-to-date knowledge.
3. How many cases like mine have you handled?
Immigration law covers a wide range of case types, from family-based petitions to asylum claims to business visas. It’s crucial to ensure that your potential lawyer has experience with your specific type of case.
Hacking suggests being very specific with this question. For example, if you’re applying for a spouse visa from overseas, ask: “How many spouse overseas visa cases have you handled before?” The more experience a lawyer has with your particular case type, the better equipped they’ll be to navigate potential challenges.
4. Can you tell me the breakdown of case types that your firm handles?
This question helps you understand the firm’s areas of expertise and primary focus. A firm that handles a high volume of cases similar to yours is likely to have streamlined processes and in-depth knowledge of potential pitfalls.
Hacking shares his firm’s breakdown as an example: “The biggest case type that we have at Hacking Immigration Law are lawsuits. Right after that, are spouse cases either where the spouse is overseas or the fiancée is overseas, or the spouse is here in the United States. After that citizenship, after that asylum.”
Understanding this breakdown can help you determine if the firm’s expertise aligns with your needs.
5. What is your favorite case type?
This question might seem odd at first, but it can reveal a lot about a lawyer’s passion and expertise. Hacking explains, “If you can tap into the passion of the immigration lawyer that is being interviewed by you, you’re really going to be able to figure out, is this the right attorney for me?”
Different lawyers within a firm may have different specialties or preferences. For instance, Hacking mentions that he personally loves handling lawsuits, while his wife prefers asylum cases. Matching your case with a lawyer who is passionate about that particular area of immigration law can be beneficial.
6. What type of support do you have?
Immigration law often involves handling a high volume of cases, each with numerous documents and deadlines. Understanding the support structure of a law firm is crucial to ensure your case will receive adequate attention.
Ask about the composition of the team: How many paralegals or administrative staff support each attorney? How are responsibilities divided? This information can give you insight into how your case will be managed and whether the firm has the capacity to give your case the attention it deserves.
7. Why have cases like mine that your office has handled been denied?
This question serves multiple purposes. First, it tests the lawyer’s transparency and willingness to discuss challenges. Second, it provides valuable insight into potential pitfalls in your case.
Hacking views this question positively: “I love to tell people about cases that we have had denied. I love to be as transparent as possible. We’re trying to educate our clients before they hire us so that they know how hard what they’re trying to obtain actually is.”
Understanding past denials can help you and your lawyer build a stronger case by avoiding common mistakes or addressing potential weak points proactively.
Conclusion
Choosing the right immigration lawyer is a critical step in your immigration journey. By knowing what to ask immigration lawyer candidates during your interviews, you can gain valuable insights into a lawyer’s experience, expertise, and approach. Remember, you’re not just looking for any lawyer – you’re looking for the right lawyer for your specific case and circumstances.
As you interview potential attorneys, pay attention not just to their answers, but also to how they communicate with you. Do they explain concepts clearly? Do they seem genuinely interested in your case? Your comfort and confidence in your lawyer can make a significant difference in what can often be a stressful and complex process.
Ultimately, the goal is to find a knowledgeable, experienced, and passionate advocate who can guide you through the intricacies of immigration law and give your case the best possible chance of success.
