Do you have a looming immigration issue without legal representation? Immigration challenges that threaten your future in the United States can be intimidating, and unfortunately, some people who need immediate help don’t adequately vet their potential lawyer. But when so much is on the line, you deserve to have someone representing you that you are proud to call your attorney. Don’t know where to start? Today, we will discuss some great qualities to look for when meeting with a Sarasota or Tampa immigration attorney in an initial consultation.
- Experience and Expertise: When looking for a Florida immigration attorney, one of the most basic qualities to consider is their years of practice. Experience in immigration law demonstrates the attorney’s familiarity with the complexities of immigration cases and the nuances of each potential legal issue. A seasoned attorney has undoubtedly encountered a wide range of immigration issues and developed effective strategies to navigate them. Newer attorneys can still be great lawyers, but their lack of relevant experience means you have less information about their skills to consider when making a decision.You should also look for a specialized attorney with in-depth knowledge and experience in handling various immigration matters, including deportation, VAWA cases, asylum, naturalization, adjustment of status, and more. Attorneys who devote a large chunk of their practice to immigration will naturally have an edge over attorneys who rarely handle complex immigration cases.
- Successful Case History: Client testimonials are a valuable source of honest information when choosing a Florida immigration attorney. Reading about past clients’ experiences gives insight into the attorney’s skills, professionalism, and success rate. Reviews and testimonials allow you to read trustworthy feedback from real previous clients, learn about how their case was handled, and see if the attorney is known for favorable case outcomes. Positive outcomes demonstrate the attorney’s ability to successfully navigate immigration cases and achieve favorable results for their clients. When reviewing an attorney’s track record, look for examples of cases similar to yours that have been resolved in the client’s favor.
- Communication and Accessibility: A Florida immigration attorney should prioritize being responsive and prompt to any questions or concerns you have about your case. When you ring the law office, you should have someone pick up the phone, every time.Clear and effective communication ensures you understand the legal proceedings and are kept informed about the progress of your case. The attorney should know how to explain complex immigration concepts to clients in an easily understandable way. At the most basic level, having an attorney always ready to take your call builds a sense of trust – they should genuinely care about your situation.
Always look for attorneys who are readily available for consultations. They should be willing to schedule meetings that work around your schedule to discuss your case in detail and provide personalized advice.
If English is not your first language, it may be helpful to find an attorney who is fluent in your native language to facilitate better communication and understanding between you and your attorney.
- Client-Focused Approach: Immigration cases are always different, whether due to new laws or unique aspects of your situation. Having an attorney willing to go the extra mile and craft a unique legal strategy ensures you have the best chance of success for your immigration case.A personalized strategy allows the attorney to identify and leverage all available legal options to achieve the best possible outcome. If you suspect your attorney is trying to fit your unique case into a prepacked ‘one size fits all’ solution, it may be time to seek representation elsewhere.
Additionally, attorneys should always put their best foot forward and go the extra mile for their clients. Those who need help navigating the US immigration system are often some of the hardworking people in the country. If your attorney is not considerate of your time, money, or effort toward your case, find an attorney who is.
- Professional Memberships: If you are looking for even more information regarding your attorney’s expertise and knowledge of Florida immigration law, ask to see their professional memberships, certifications, and involvement in immigration-related law communities. Examples include the American Immigration Lawyers Association, the Immigration and Nationality Law Certification given by the Florida Bar Association, and local city and county Bar Associations.
With these qualities at the forefront of your mind, you can go into a consultation and know what to look for. Remember, the choice of attorney for your Sarasota, Orlando, or Tampa immigration case can make a huge difference – trust the experience and expertise of Probinsky & Cole.
