If you have decided to move to the U.S permanently and seek a Green Card, it is integral to obtain the services of an experienced immigration lawyer. You cannot risk being deported or making any mistake that causes problems or delays the procedure. It is not difficult to find and hire an attorney, but finding one that is truly qualified for the job is a challenge. When you go attorney shopping, most of them will be keen to represent you, but how do you make the right choice? Lawyers typically charge by the hour or demand a flat fee upfront, i.e. they are getting paid whether you attain permanent residency or get expelled.

It can be difficult to determine who one can trust in the given situation. However, you can find a suitable attorney if you know what qualities to look out for:

1. Empathetic

It is important that the attorney you hire to help you stay in the country on legal terms actually cares about you. This person should be interested to hear you out and show concern for your circumstances. You should work with a lawyer who is ready to strive for you and win the case. An attorney that tends to rush you and is too eager to take the case cannot be trusted. Solicitors of this kind are only concerned with their payment and it doesn’t bother them if you lose the case. An attorney that shows signs of compassion and kindness is the best bet.

2. Skeptical

An attorney that guarantees 100% success on the first meeting is a liar. They are probably desperate to grab a client, or might use unlawful means to get you a green card; you will be the one in trouble either way. The only thing an attorney could and should promise is their utmost attention and dedication to your case. Attorneys that radiate skepticism or slight pessimism are in fact being honest and rational. An attorney is supposed to consider all possible outcomes in order to formulate a contingency plan for the worst case scenario.

3. Vigilant

Immigration procedures involve a great deal of paperwork, and the tiniest of errors can turn into big obstacles. It helps to have an attorney by your side that possesses an eye for detail. Your legal representative should be thorough with their work, since their negligence can be costly for you. A person who is always attentive and careful can keep you out of harm’s way.

4. Easily Accessible

It makes sense to work with an attorney who is situated near your residence. Proximity ensures that they are easy to reach in case of emergencies. If you hire a lawyer from a different city or faraway place, they might not be able to help you in time. If contact through phone or email cannot be established, you can always visit their office or firm. Dorchester Immigration Attorney ensures 24/7 availability, so that their clients do not feel abandoned during tough times.

5. Well-reputed

Immigration law is complex; hence, having an immigration attorney who has supervised and won a variety of cases is critical. You can judge the expertise of an attorney by scanning their website, and questioning them directly. The state bar association keeps records of all attorneys who have been denounced or had complaints filed against them. Checking with these records before hiring a lawyer is a smart idea, as it ratifies their reputation and reliability.