7 Tips for Making the Most out of Your Immigration Lawyer Initial Consultation

By Mitchell J. Cohen, Esquire

Attorney Mitchell J. Cohen

1. When you call to make the appointment, advise the law office if the case is an emergency. For example, if you received a decision denying your application or petition, or ordering you removed from the United States, time is usually of the essence. Likewise, if you are scheduled for an immigration interview or immigration court hearing in the near future, you should make that known to the office when scheduling an appointment.

2. Bring any immigration receipts, notices, and decisions, and any copies of documents filed with immigration (USCIS, Immigration Court, ICE, CBP, BIA, AAO, State Department, etc.)

3. Bring (if you have): your passport(s), I-94 card(s), permanent resident card(s), employment authorization card(s). It is also a good idea to bring your birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce decree(s),

4. If you have ever been arrested or cited for a crime, bring copies of the arrest report or citation and the disposition of the case(s).

5. If you are coming about a relative’s immigration case, bring as many of the above-listed documents as you can.

6. If you are coming to meet the attorney about someone who is detained in criminal or immigration custody, try to see about getting that person’s alien registration number (also known as “Alien number” or “A number”), date of birth, correct spelling of name under which he or she is detained. Ask where the person is being detained, and whether he or she has an upcoming hearing, and if so when. If s/he has a criminal attorney, get the name and telephone number of that attorney as well. Be aware that when talking to an individual in detention the communications are generally monitored.

7. Its often helpful to write down your questions/concerns and bring them to the consultation for your own reference, so you don’t forget to bring them up with the attorney.

By following these suggestions you will have a more thorough and effective consultation with an immigration attorney. The more relevant background information you are able to provide me, the better position I am to evaluate your case. In the words of Jerry McGuire, it will “help me help you.” To schedule an immigration legal consultation at my Hallandale Beach law office, call (954) 457-1941. For my Fort Myers law office, call (239) 931-6558. I look forward to hearing from you.

Mitchell J. Cohen, Esquire