How to Find a Licensed Immigration Lawyer in the U.S.

Immigration matters can affect where you live, whether you can work, and whether your family can stay together. Because the stakes are high, people who offer "immigration help" are everywhere, and not all of them are allowed to give legal advice. This guide explains who can legally represent you, how to check a lawyer's license, and which official lists can help you find help.

You may file on your own, but choose help carefully

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) says on its legal services page that you do not need a representative to file forms with USCIS. You may file forms yourself and represent yourself. If you choose to have a representative, USCIS does not provide or pay for one.

Many people still want a lawyer, especially when a case is complicated or involves immigration court. If you decide to get help, the most important step is making sure the person is actually allowed to represent you.

Who can represent you before USCIS

According to the same USCIS page, only certain people may represent you before USCIS:

• An attorney who is a member in good standing of the bar of a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia, who is not disbarred or otherwise restricted, and who is eligible to practice law in the United States.
• An accredited representative who works for an organization on the Department of Justice's list of recognized organizations.
• A law school student or graduate working under the supervision of a licensed attorney or accredited representative, under specific rules.
• A foreign attorney, but only for matters outside the United States.

USCIS adds that people outside these categories may give only limited help filling out forms. They cannot represent you or give legal advice, and they may charge only a nominal fee.

The "notario" warning

In many countries, a "notario" or "notario público" is a lawyer with special legal credentials. In the United States it is different. USCIS states plainly that notary publics in the U.S. are not attorneys and cannot represent you in legal matters, including immigration cases.

USCIS also warns that some people and businesses pretend to have special knowledge or say they have special connections to the government. A promise of a fast result, a guaranteed approval, or "inside contacts" is a warning sign. USCIS lists common tricks on its Avoid Scams page, including scammers who impersonate government officials.

Step 1: Check the lawyer's license

Immigration law is federal, but lawyers are licensed by states. A lawyer licensed in any U.S. state, territory, or D.C. can generally handle federal immigration matters, but you still need to confirm that the license is real and active.

USCIS recommends asking to see the attorney's current licensing document and verifying it through the state agency where they are licensed. Look the lawyer up in that state's public attorney record. Check that the status is active and whether any public discipline is listed.

Step 2: Check the federal discipline list

The Department of Justice's Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), which runs the immigration courts, publishes a list of currently disciplined practitioners. These are attorneys and representatives who are currently not allowed to practice before immigration authorities. Checking this list is a simple extra step.

Step 3: If you are working with an accredited representative

An accredited representative is not a lawyer, but they may be allowed to represent you if they are accredited by the Department of Justice and work for a recognized organization. EOIR publishes recognition and accreditation roster reports that list recognized organizations and accredited representatives. If someone says they are accredited, look for both their name and their organization.

Free and low-cost options

EOIR maintains a List of Pro Bono Legal Service Providers for people in immigration court proceedings. According to EOIR, the list includes nonprofit organizations and attorneys who have committed to providing at least 50 hours per year of free legal services at the immigration court location where they are listed. The list is published quarterly, and EOIR states it must not be used to solicit paid legal services.

Being on the list is not a promise that a provider can take your case. Call early, because capacity varies.

Step 4: Ask questions before you hire

Questions that help:

• Which state licensed you, and what is your bar number?
• How much of your work involves cases like mine?
• Will you appear with me at USCIS interviews or in immigration court if needed?
• Who will prepare my forms and who will I talk to?
• How do you charge, and which government filing fees are separate?

A real representative files a notice of appearance. USCIS explains that an attorney or accredited representative files Form G-28 with your application, and you sign it to show you agree to the representation. USCIS generally sends case information to both you and your representative. If someone helps with your case but refuses to have their name on the record, ask why.

You can browse firms that list immigration as a practice area on our immigration page. A listing is not a recommendation; check the license yourself.

If something goes wrong

USCIS says you can change or end your representation at any time with written notice. Complaints about an immigration practitioner's misconduct can be sent to the state where the attorney is licensed. USCIS also describes complaints to the DHS Disciplinary Counsel using Form EOIR-44.

For more articles on choosing and checking a lawyer, see our guides section.

Frequently asked questions

Can a notary public help me with my immigration case?

A notary public in the U.S. is not an attorney. USCIS says notaries cannot represent you in legal matters, including immigration cases.

Does an immigration lawyer have to be licensed in my state?

Immigration law is federal. USCIS requires an attorney to be in good standing with the bar of any U.S. state, territory, or D.C. Verify the license with that state.

Is an accredited representative the same as a lawyer?

No. An accredited representative is accredited by the Department of Justice and works for a recognized organization. They may represent you, but they are not attorneys.

What if I cannot afford a lawyer?

EOIR publishes a list of pro bono providers for people in immigration court. You can also look for legal aid programs in your area.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different — talk to a licensed attorney about your situation.