Life as an immigrant inside of the United States is complicated. Depending on your immigration status, you have certain rights given to you. However, it’s difficult to know exactly what your rights are without doing extensive research or consulting with an immigration attorney. The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa category in the United States that allows U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations.

As with everything in the United States, immigration attorneys cost money. It’s important that you reach out to their office and determine the price based on your specific needs.

Here’s everything you need to know about finding an immigration attorney and their average cost.

Why You Need an Immigration Attorney 

An immigration attorney is someone who specialized in helping clients navigate the immigration system. They work with clients looking to come into the country, those trying to leave, and anyone who needs help staying.

Immigration attorneys like Ybarra Maldonado Law Group handle cases in adjustment, appeals, bond hearings, and more.

You should contact an attorney if you’re uncertain about your green card eligibility or have received government assistant. In some cases, receiving public benefits may negatively affect your status.

Immigration Consultation

Before you decide on an attorney, you’ll need to sit down with them and discuss your options. However, these initial consultations can cost you anywhere between $100 to $400 a session. If you’re lucky, you can find some that provide free consultations.

You may have to talk with a immigration lawyer before you choose one to help you long-term. In that case, expect to pay the full cost of each session. Some lawyers apply the charge forward if you hire them, however.

When you sit down for a consultation, they’ll ask you about your situation. For example, do you need a defense against deportation or are you bringing family over from your country of origin?

Cost of an Immigration Attorney

How much the actual cost of hiring an immigration attorney will depend heavily on the case and how long it’ll take to complete it. It also depends on the lawyer’s experience and the current market.

A petition for a relative’s green card can cost you up to $3,500. However, renewing your green card will only cost you as much as $700.

If you’re dealing with deportation defense, expect much higher costs. Aside from the cost of bail, you’re also looking at between $4,000 and $12,000. More complicated cases may end up more expensive.

An immigration attorney in Chicago will cost less than other areas with more urgent immigration cases due to less demand. Meanwhile, the average immigration attorney in Houston and an immigration attorney in Los Angeles will charge more due to less availability.

Finding an Attorney

Facing legal difficulties as an immigrant? Don’t feel like you’re on the path to deportation. There are plenty of options available, including organizations that offer free counseling.

The best immigration attorney will be the one you can afford. After all, some kind of defense is better than no defense. The more affordable attorneys available are often less experienced, but they offer better rates in return.

Check out our other articles for more information on health, travel, and other topics.