While an immigration lawyer cannot directly speed up the government’s processing of your immigration application, they can often take certain actions to help your case move through the process as efficiently as possible. This could help you get approval sooner instead of having to submit additional information.
Immigration cases are notoriously time-consuming. Depending on what you are applying for, it could take months or even years to learn the outcome of your application. Significant delays often stem from government backlogs, missing documentation, or procedural errors. Working with a lawyer could minimize delays from missing paperwork or filing errors.
How an Immigration Attorney Can Help Your Case Proceed Efficiently
Lawyers help clients navigate the immigration process every day. They have extensive knowledge of immigration law, the necessary documentation, common mistakes that occur, and what the decision-makers will look for when assessing an application. This makes experienced immigration lawyers a great resource. They help clients with the application process by:
Avoiding Errors and Incomplete Forms
One of the primary reasons for delays in immigration cases is incomplete or incorrect information on applications. Experienced immigration attorneys help prevent this by:
- Verifying all forms are complete and correct, including all the necessary information.
- Preparing supporting evidence by compiling and organizing the documentation required to strengthen a case
- Identifying inconsistencies to help avoid discrepancies that could trigger additional reviews or requests for evidence (RFEs)
By submitting thorough and error-free immigration paperwork, you can greatly reduce the likelihood of delays caused by preventable mistakes. This was key in a recent EB-2 NIW approval managed by our attorneys.
Responding Quickly to Requests for Evidence
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or other immigration agencies may issue RFEs when additional documentation is needed to assess an application properly. The time spent receiving this request, gathering the necessary information, and submitting it can delay your case. A lawyer can:
- Anticipate requests and include the documentation upfront, preventing the need for an RFE later
- Work quickly to provide the requested materials, reducing further delays
Exploring Expedited Processing Options
While most applications only have the option for standard processing, some situations may qualify for expedited processing. If this is possible in your case, your lawyer can take the necessary steps. This includes:
- Determining your eligibility for expedited processing based on USCIS criteria
- File expedited requests, including a persuasive argument supported by documentation to justify why your case should be a priority
Some examples where an immigration attorney may be able to advocate for expedited processing include medical emergencies, extreme financial losses, or impending family separation.
Leveraging Premium Processing (When Available)
The USCIS offers premium processing for certain visa categories. Premium processing requires an additional fee but guarantees adjudication in a short time, between 15 and 45 days, depending on the petition filed. Your lawyer can:
- Identify your eligibility and confirm if premium processing applies to your case
- File your petition promptly to benefit from faster processing
Representing You in Complex Cases
Delays are common when immigration cases call for additional attention. This includes those that require additional scrutiny because of criminal records, previous immigration violations, complex family relationships, or complicated employment histories. When this occurs, your lawyer can:
- Clearly explain issues and submit supporting evidence to resolve red flags
- Handle necessary appeals or motions
- Expedite responses to denials or unfavorable decisions
Your immigration attorney will fight for your best interests, including taking the necessary steps if your petition hits roadblocks along the way.
To consult with an experienced immigration lawyer today
855-780-9986
There Are Limitations to What an Attorney Can Do to Speed Up Your Immigration Case
While an immigration lawyer can help you prepare and file your application, they cannot directly influence the processing time of your petition. This means they cannot:
- Eliminate the backlogs in processing due to high volume or limited resources
- Bypass the necessary government procedures required to process a claim
- Guarantee faster processing without expedited handling, which is not available for all cases
Even in cases without expedited processing and long processing times, your attorney can help you. They can track your case’s progress and provide regular updates. They can also seek a resolution for you in the event of unreasonable processing delays.
When Should I Hire an Immigration Lawyer?
While an immigration lawyer cannot guarantee a faster decision regarding your immigration matter, they can significantly reduce the risk of making simple mistakes that could delay your claim. They can help your petition move through processing efficiently by avoiding errors, anticipating challenges, providing the necessary supporting documents, and advocating on your behalf.
When you work with an experienced immigration attorney on your petition, you take a key step in ensuring your case is well-prepared and efficiently managed. This reduces the risk of unnecessary delays and maximizes the chance of a quick resolution.
Hiring an attorney to help with your case before submitting your petition ensures you have the best chance at clearing the processing stage without requests for additional information or other delays.
What Types of Petitions Do Immigration Lawyers Handle?
Immigration lawyers can provide legal assistance with a wide range of issues and petitions. Many provide free, confidential consultations, so you have nothing to lose by contacting a law firm to discuss their potential role in your case.
We can help if you’re looking for an:
- Orlando family immigration lawyer
- Orlando work visa lawyer
- Orlando green card lawyer
- Orlando asylum immigration lawyer
Discuss Your Immigration Case With Our Legal Team for Free
If you are facing delays or concerns in your immigration case, working with one of our immigration attorneys could make a difference. Bogin, Munns & Munns is a full-service law firm representing those who need our help and support since 1979. We have offices across Central Florida but can represent individuals in immigration cases in other areas, too.
We provide a free consultation so you can learn more about our services and how we help clients with immigration cases. Contact us today to get started.
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