Horspool & Parker
A Professional Law Corporation

Since 1975

Should I hire an attorney to help me with my immigration matters?

The first question many persons ask themselves is, “Do I need to hire an attorney to help me with my immigration matters?” The first thing you must consider is that the immigration laws of the United States are very complicated and constantly changing. These changes have been happening much more frequently since the events of September 11, and most of the changes have made the processes more complicated and the consequences of a denial more serious. It is impossible for the average person to stay current on all the frequent changes to the immigration laws and regulations. More importantly, failure to know about these changes could delay applications for years, cause unnecessary mistakes, or, in the worst cases, cause the denial of the benefit and the start of deportation proceedings. In addition, many questions on immigration forms, while appearing simple to answer, could create great problems if one is not familiar with the laws that explain exactly what the question is asking for and what you are required to answer. Obtaining immigration benefits is one of the most important things you will ever do. The results of the immigration process will have a lifelong impact on you and on most members of your immediate family. As attorneys specializing in immigration laws we will know the current changes in the law; we will make sure that everything in your case is done correctly; we will alert you to any problems with your case; we will monitor the case to make sure that any delays are normal and not the result of a problem; and we will be with you whenever you are interviewed by immigration.

What is Board Certification, and is it important?

Board Certification in Immigration and Nationality Law is a designation given by The Florida Bar, the agency that governs the practice of law in Florida, to attorneys who have demonstrated they have sufficient experience and knowledge in immigration matters to call themselves specialists. To become Board Certified in Immigration and Nationality Law an attorney must have been in practice for over five years, dedicate at least half of his practice to immigration cases, have at least 30 hours of continuing legal education in immigration law, and pass a long, difficult exam to prove their knowledge of all aspects of immigration law. Fewer than 2% of the attorneys in the United States are Board Certified, and only Board Certified attorneys can claim that they are specialists.

Should I consider a Notario, Notary Public, or Immigration Consultant?

Some people are tempted to use a Notario, Notary Public, or immigration consultant to handle their immigration case. The main reason is the perception that using one of these persons will be cheaper than using an attorney. Others, believe that Notarios are attorneys because in many countries you have to be an attorney before you can become a Notario. In the United States, however, just about anyone without a criminal record can become a Notary Public or Notario. You do not need to be an attorney, or even have a degree. The reality is that there are many reasons to avoid Notarios, Notary Publics, and immigration consultants. The first reason is that it is against the law. In the State of Florida, only licensed attorneys can help clients with immigration matters. When a Notario, Notary Public or consultant gives you immigration advice they are engaging in the Unauthorized Practice of Law, and in Florida this is a crime punishable by imprisonment. Because Notarios, Notary Publics, and consultants are engaged in illegal activities they operate without any oversight and they are unregulated. They are not permitted to attend seminars where attorneys learn about the most recent developments in immigration laws. As such, their knowledge of immigration laws is usually incorrect. Because they often have to close up their operations to escape being arrested, persons who use consultants, Notary Publics, and Notarios often find they can no longer find them when problems come up. Also, because they are not authorized to represent you, they cannot go with you when you have to go to immigration or appear before an Immigration Judge. You will be on your own. In summary, while in some cases the fees charged by a Notary Public or consultant may be slightly lower than those charged by an attorney, in the end, it might cost you much more to have an attorney correct the problems created by a Notary Public or consultant. Given what is at stake, and the fact that immigration matters are becoming more and more complicated, it does not make sense to trust your case to someone who may not know what they are doing and is committing a crime.

Immigration FAQ’s

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Horspool & ParkerA Professional Law Corporation

Since 1975

Horspool & Parker
A Professional Law Corporation