bequibar

Hi,

Is there a website or listing for immigration lawyers/attorneys, an association they belong to, an affiliation or something?

I mean, if I needed one, would I just google "immigration lawyer" or would I go to a recommended place where they list themselves?

TracyTN

http://www.aila.org

bequibar

Thank you!!

meauxna

Hi beqs!
Hope all is well.

Folinskyinla

Hi:

Actually, AILA does NOT disclose its membership list other than internally to its members.

It does operate a referral service which charges a fee. Most AILA attorneys are not members of the referral service.

That said, I recommend highly that an prospective client inquire of the attorney if they are a member of AILA. It is not a guarantee of quality, but it does show interest -- AILA membership is pricey as these things go.

TracyTN

All I know is it has a search on it to find attorneys who (I assume) are AILA attorneys. Sure, you can't be guaranteed of quality, but it's as good a place to start as any.

Folinskyinla

Hi:

Feel free to contact the attorney in question and ask -- are you a member of AILA. Either she is or she is not.

JAJ

Does an attorney have to pass any exams to become a member of AILA?

Presumably, some state bars also have a specialist credential for immigration attorneys.

Folinskyinla

Hello:

There is no examination to be a member of AILA. As I mentioned, AILA membership is a strong indication of interest in the field.

Some, but not all states, do have examinations for certification of specialists.

A I

The best way to find a good one in my opinion is to Ask for a reference from someone you know. I have had less than pleasant experience with a LARGE firm in Houston, but I've had nothing but good service from two other "sole" practitioners and a father/daughter team in Houston.


Many offer a free consultation, Some will "nickle and dime" you to death, (pick up phone for 2 minutes, $50 - mailed you something 98c, etc... it adds up too)

others include everything upfront in their fees.I've always chosen lawyers that bill this way and have been very satisfied.

Some people like to be mimed and pampered, others don't care if the lawyer is as dry as bone as long as he's sharp and get's the case going your way...this may be the difference between a good experience and a bad one.

Many factors are involved in the search and selection, so ask around a lot, and ask many questions.

bequibar

Hi Folinskyinla and Meauxna!! Long time!!

I'm actually okay, life is great.

I asked because I know someone who just recently passed the bar in MN and wants to practice immigration law. He has done this pro bono so far, but he recently joined a law firm where he'd like to open the immigration practice and I was trying to offer him some guidance on where to register so he would be 'bona fide' and tap into a pool of prospective clients.