They don't have to. Regardless of the method you use to get names and telephone numbers of immigration lawyers, you should interview them before making a final selection. Remember, that the purpose of your visit is to interview the lawyer. Don't be afraid to ask questions about his practice, his staff, his fees and expenses, and especially his experience in handling the legal matters you think will come up later or are dealing with now. If you are looking for an immigration lawyer to help you with a family immigration matter, for example, it would be a good idea to take your spouse and possibly a grown child along, because they may deal with the lawyer as much as, or more than, you will.
Many people ask whether a small firm or a large firm is best.
There are good lawyers in firms of all sizes, including solo practitioners, and there are advantages and disadvantages in both small and large firms. The Immigration Law Center is a small firm with practitioners whose skills overlap, giving them the ability to care for each other's clients should an illness, emergency, or vacation make it impossible for one of them to handle a particular legal matter. If you are interested in choosing a sole practitioner, you should find out how the sole practitioner handles matters for his clients when he or she is ill or on vacation. Sometimes finding a lawyer who is right for you may be just a matter of luck, but by following these recommendations, you will certainly increase your chances of finding the right lawyer to meet your needs and to form a lasting, confidential relationship with you. Boyd F. Campbell Mr. Campbell practices immigration and nationality law, federal employment law, and business law.