As a top immigration attorney Pasadena residents trust, Nelson and Associates know how important it is for you to feel comfortable any time that you meet with your attorney. One of the ways that we help you to feel that comfort is to let you know what to expect from your first visit with your attorney.
Immigration Attorney Pasadena: What You Can Expect At Your Visit
One of the most intimidating parts of getting an attorney for anything is that first meeting with your attorney. This is particularly the case when you are dealing with an immigration issue. As an immigrant living in the United States, you may already feel marginalized and somewhat lost if you are less than fluent in English. At Nelson and Associates, we do our best to ensure that you feel as comfortable as possible any time that you come to our offices. We know that dealing with immigration concerns is worrisome as is and you shouldn’t have to worry about the very person who is supposed to be helping you. So, what should you expect from your first visit with an immigration attorney?
Making Your Appointment
The first thing you will need to do is to set up your initial appointment or consultation. To do this you will need to call and set up your appointment with the attorney you are interested in using.
At Nelson and Associates, you just need to call us at 626-683-3451 and speak with our incredible front desk staff. They will work with you to set up an appointment at a time that is convenient for you so that you can come into our office and sit down to meet your prospective attorney. They will also let you know what you need to bring to your appointment so that you come properly prepared. This usually includes:
- Any copies of immigration forms you have already filled in or filed
- A copy of your birth certificate
- A copy of your visa if you have one
- Any documents you were given when you entered the United States
- A brief summary explanation of why you left your country
- Contact information for your sponsor for coming to the U.S. if you have one
- Contact information for any witnesses in your case if relevant
- A copy of your green card if you have one
- A copy of any work permits
- A copy of any immigration judge orders
- A copy of your file if you have worked with another immigration attorney before this visit
During your initial phone call with an immigration law firm, you should also inquire about translation services. Will you need a translator? Ask whether the attorney office offers translation services if you do need them. If the attorney office does not offer translation services and you have a family member who will serve as your translator, let the attorney office know that you will be bringing a translator to your appointment. If you don’t have a translator, ask the attorney office if they can recommend a translation service. If the attorney office has no recommendation for you, we always advise that you speak with your consulate.
Your First Attorney Appointment
At your first appointment with your attorney, remember to bring any documents that you have related to your immigration status as well as anything you were told to bring during your phone conversation with the attorney’s office.
If you are bringing your own translator, be sure that they arrive on time for your appointment – in fact, it’s best that you travel to your appointment together if possible.
A lot of clients worry about what to wear during their appointment, we always say that you should dress in what you are comfortable in! Most of our clients wear what we would call “business casual” clothing, but this appointment is about your immigration status and not about what you are wearing!
Now, during your appointment, you will be asked quite a few questions about what is going on and what you need your attorney to do to help you. It is often helpful for you to write down any details that you don’t want to forget to tell your attorney.
This appointment will also give you the opportunity to ask your attorney any questions that you may have. Again, it’s always helpful to write down your questions so that you don’t forget to ask them.
We also recommend that you bring a pen and paper to your appointment so that you can take notes. This will help you to remember what was said at your appointment later on and serve as a reminder for anything that your attorney has asked you to do after your appointment.
Before Leaving Your Appointment
Now, before leaving your appointment, be sure to ask your attorney any questions that you still have. You should always feel confident when you leave your attorney’s office. If, for any reason, you feel uncomfortable or less than confident after meeting with an immigration attorney, pay attention to this feeling. This may be a sign that you should consult a second or third attorney because it’s much easier and more comforting to work with an attorney that you feel comfortable with.
Are You Looking For an Immigration Attorney Pasadena Trusts?
If you are in need of a reputable and experienced immigration attorney in Pasadena, Nelson and Associates are here for you. To make an appointment for a consultation with our attorneys, just give us a call today at 626-683-3451 or use the contact form on the bottom of our website to request a call from our office.
