How to Prepare for Your Immigration Consultation

Why preparation matters

An initial consultation with an immigration attorney is typically 30 to 45 minutes. That is enough time to assess your situation and outline potential paths forward, but only if the conversation is focused and you come prepared with the right information. Attorneys cannot give you a meaningful case assessment if key facts are missing or documents are unavailable.

The goal of the consultation is not to resolve your case on the spot. It is to determine what options are available, what risks exist, what the process looks like, and whether the attorney is the right fit for your needs. Preparation helps you get the most value from that limited time.

Documents to gather before your meeting

The specific documents you need depend on your situation, but the following list covers the most commonly requested items. Bring originals if possible, or clear scans or copies:

Identity and status documents

• Passport (current and any expired passports)
• Most recent I-94 arrival/departure record (available at i94.cbp.dhs.gov)
• Current visa stamp or visa approval notice
• Green card (if applicable)
• Employment Authorization Document (EAD), if any
• Social Security card

Immigration history

• Any previous USCIS approval notices (I-797)
• Any Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs) you have received
• Copies of any previously filed petitions or applications
• Any correspondence from USCIS, the Department of State, or immigration court
• Records of any prior visa denials or entry refusals

For family-based cases

• Marriage certificate
• Birth certificates for yourself and any children
• Divorce decree or death certificate (if a prior marriage ended)
• Evidence of bona fide marriage (joint lease, bank statements, photos, etc.)

For employment-based cases

• Offer letter or employment contract
• Resume or CV
• Educational credentials and transcripts
• Credential evaluation (if your degree is from outside the U.S.)
• Pay stubs or W-2 forms

Questions to ask your attorney

A consultation is a two-way conversation. While the attorney will ask you questions to understand your facts, you should also come prepared with your own questions. Here are some to consider:

• What immigration options are available to me? There may be more than one path, and you should understand the trade-offs.
• What is the expected timeline? Processing times vary widely. Ask for realistic estimates, not best-case scenarios.
• What are the risks? Every case carries some risk. A good attorney will be transparent about potential obstacles, such as inadmissibility issues, RFEs, or long wait times.
• What documents will you need from me? Get a clear picture of what is required so you can start gathering materials right away.
• What are the fees and how are they structured? Ask whether the firm charges flat fees or hourly rates, what is included, and whether government filing fees are separate.
• Who will handle my case? In some firms, the attorney you consult with may not be the person who manages your case day to day. Ask who your point of contact will be.
• What happens if my case is denied or gets an RFE? Understanding the contingency plan before you begin provides important context.

What to expect during the consultation

A typical initial consultation follows this general structure:

• Fact gathering: The attorney will ask about your immigration history, current status, family situation, employment, and goals. Be honest and thorough — information you omit can affect the advice you receive.
• Assessment: Based on your facts, the attorney will explain which options may be available, the general process for each, and any obvious concerns or complications.
• Next steps: If you decide to move forward, the attorney will outline the engagement process, fee structure, and initial document requirements.

Consultations may be conducted in person, by phone, or by video. The format does not affect the quality of the assessment, but you should ensure you are in a private, quiet location where you can speak freely.

Red flags to watch for

Not every immigration practitioner operates with your best interests in mind. Be cautious if you encounter any of the following:

• Guarantees of approval. No attorney can guarantee the outcome of an immigration case. USCIS and consular officers make the final decision.
• Pressure to sign immediately. A reputable attorney will give you time to consider your options before committing.
• Unwillingness to explain risks. If an attorney only tells you what you want to hear and avoids discussing potential complications, that is a warning sign.
• Notarios or non-attorneys offering legal advice. In many countries, a "notario" is a licensed legal professional, but in the United States, notaries public are not authorized to practice law. Immigration legal advice should only come from licensed attorneys or DOJ-accredited representatives.
• No written fee agreement. Any reputable attorney will provide a clear, written engagement letter or retainer agreement before beginning work.

A note on confidentiality

During a consultation, you are protected by attorney-client privilege, even if you do not end up hiring the attorney. This means the attorney cannot disclose what you share without your consent. However, you should not send sensitive information by email or through a website contact form before a formal relationship is established.

Next steps

The more prepared you are for your consultation, the more useful and actionable the attorney's assessment will be. Gather your documents, write down your questions, and be ready to share your full immigration history honestly.

At AKT Immigration, consultations are designed to give you a clear understanding of your options, risks, and next steps. We believe informed clients make better decisions, and preparation is the first step.