Tips: Finding an Immigration Attorney

Ask friends, family, and/or a trusted organization for the recommendation of a good lawyer.
Notaries are not lawyers. Texas law specifically forbids notaries from providing immigration services unless they hold a separate license to practice law.
You do not have to hire the first lawyer you meet. Talk to different lawyers until you find one that you trust.
When looking to hire an attorney, ask about the person's legal background and expertise. Make sure the lawyer has experience in immigration law. If you are in immigration court, make sure the lawyer has experience practicing in immigration court.
Hire a lawyer who answers your questions in a way that you understand. Do not hire someone who refuses to answer your questions.
You are entitled to a written contract. Read it carefully before signing it. It should state that you are agreeing to be represented by the attorney and include an explanation of the fees you will be charged. Make sure to get a copy of the contract.
Make sure your lawyer provides you a copy of every document that they prepare for you.
Do NOT sign blank application forms. Read everything before you sign it. If you cannot read English, ask for a translation or bring someone who can translate the documents for you.
Do NOT be tricked by people who are only after your money. If the price seems too high or even too low, be suspicious. If the promises sound too good to be true, they probably are. Whenever you make a payment always ask for a signed receipt.
If you encounter severe problems with your lawyer, try to work out a solution with him or her. If you can't work it out: The State Bar's Grievance Information helpline (1-800-932-1900) can help you decide if it would be beneficial to report the lawyer's conduct or whether the problem can be dealt with in another way. If the person is not a lawyer, report the problem to the Texas State Attorney General's Office Consumer Protection Department at 1-800-621-0508.

By Catholic Charities of Central Texas, Diocese of Austin

Frances E. Valdez
150 West Parker Road
Third Floor
Houston, Texas 77076

Frances E. Valdez

Call for an appointment: Phone: 713-861-2725 Toll Free: 877-860-2397

Ask friends, family, and/or a trusted organization for the recommendation of a good lawyer.

Notaries are not lawyers. Texas law specifically forbids notaries from providing immigration services unless they hold a separate license to practice law.

You do not have to hire the first lawyer you meet. Talk to different lawyers until you find one that you trust.

When looking to hire an attorney, ask about the person's legal background and expertise. Make sure the lawyer has experience in immigration law. If you are in immigration court, make sure the lawyer has experience practicing in immigration court.

Hire a lawyer who answers your questions in a way that you understand. Do not hire someone who refuses to answer your questions.

You are entitled to a written contract. Read it carefully before signing it. It should state that you are agreeing to be represented by the attorney and include an explanation of the fees you will be charged. Make sure to get a copy of the contract.

Make sure your lawyer provides you a copy of every document that they prepare for you.

Do NOT sign blank application forms. Read everything before you sign it. If you cannot read English, ask for a translation or bring someone who can translate the documents for you.

Do NOT be tricked by people who are only after your money. If the price seems too high or even too low, be suspicious. If the promises sound too good to be true, they probably are. Whenever you make a payment always ask for a signed receipt.

By Catholic Charities of Central Texas, Diocese of Austin

Call for an appointment:
Phone:
713-861-2725
Toll Free:
877-860-2397