Your first meeting with a lawyer is to help you learn about your legal choices and prepare for your court hearing. Their job is to help you.
It is very important that you speak to a lawyer about your immigration case as soon as possible, because it can take a few months to find one that can represent you or that you like.
In this article, we will explain what to expect during your first immigration consultation with an immigration lawyer and how to prepare.
Before meeting with a lawyer, make sure you do your research about them. One of the first things that you should do is check the state’s Bar Association to see if that attorney is licensed to practice law. You can also look up reviews online of their work.
This information is not a substitute for legal advice from a qualified attorney or accredited representative. The content was last updated October 2025. A version of this article originally appeared at ImportaMi.com.
Also Read: How to Report and Prevent Notario Fraud in Immigration Cases
What should I bring to the consultation?
Your lawyer will need to know as much about your case as possible, so it’s important that you gather the following documents:
- Forms of identification, such as your passport or birth certificate, if you have them.
- Documents related to your immigration case, such as your Notice to Appear (NTA), Verification of Release (VOR) forms, and any documents given to you in the shelter.
- Paperwork related to an arrest or any encounter with law enforcement (or a crime committed against you or a family member).
Keep in mind that, while copies of the documents are okay at this stage, your attorney may ask you for original documents at a later stage to present to the judge.
It is important to come prepared for your first meeting with the lawyer; make sure you have a pen and notebook or a notes app on your phone. This way, you can easily write down important information, such as answers to your questions and any new details you learn.
What should I prepare to share with the lawyer?
Your first meeting may be scheduled with your lawyer, or with a paralegal/legal assistant instead. A paralegal/legal assistant is someone who is professionally qualified and trained to assist a lawyer, and it’s normal for them to meet with clients, especially during their first visits.
Whether you meet with your lawyer or their legal assistant, your first meeting is a chance to share your story. This will allow your lawyer to evaluate your case and figure out the best way to help you. Sharing these details might be difficult and might make you emotional, but it is necessary so they lawyer can understand your situation. Some of the questions that you can expect to be asked are:
- Why did you come to the United States?
- Important dates, like your approximate arrival to the US
- If you have a court hearing already scheduled
- Details about your immigration journey
- Your experience at the border and with immigration officers
Remember, everything you discuss is confidential between you and your lawyer. Always be honest and feel comfortable sharing your full story.
What questions should I ask the lawyer?
This consultation is also an opportunity to ask questions and see if the lawyer is a good fit for you. These are some topics and specific questions you can ask when meeting with a lawyer for the first time:
- Do you have experience with immigration cases?
- Do you have experience with cases like mine?
- Do you have time for my case?
- Do you have references or previous clients I can talk to?
- How much are your fees, and how do I pay them?
- Will you provide receipts?
- Will you give me a written contract?
- Will the contract be provided in my preferred language?
Also Read: What to Expect When You Call An Immigration Attorney
