Should we....

[Jesse and Hema 2]

I like the idea. Maybe just a summary of what to look for (good and bad) and when a lawyer's necessary.

It could also mention that some lawyers often will give consultations, where they can just give you guidance if you are unsure where to go.

The hard part is finding a competent lawyer. Seems there's lots of stories on here of people's lawyers delaying the case because it sits on the lawyer's desk for a couple weeks, or making foolish mistakes. The other day, I saw a post where a lawyer sent a petition to the wrong service center. Sure, that's not devastating to the case, but it shows that the lawyer isn't even bothering with getting up-to-date information.

It would be cool if there was a "lawyer reviews" section, but that's not quite feasible.

[Fandango 1,440]

What would be in the guide? How would one go about advising on how to select an attorney?

I think there should be a HUGE disclaimer somewhere that says that the hiring of an attorney is a personal choice, and in no way, shape, or form is any of this site designed to circumvent legal counsel. It should say that while you can DIY, and while you can read sites like ours, it's v much caveat emptor and the responsibility lies solely on the petitioner. As VJ members, we all have to remember that this is all just anecdotal information of ppl in similar situations...and as much as any of us like to think we are 'experts', that should not replace the advice of counsel.

Yes, this process is pretty much straightforward for most, and yes, you can DIY. But, no one here should EVER tell anyone they don't 'need' an atty. Personally, I'm of the notion that every one of those posts saying as such should be immediately removed.

ETA: I'd be skeptical to draft a formal guide with any particular guidelines on how to pick a lawyer. To me, that's territory I'm not sure that we should be getting into...

Edited January 27, 2008 by LisaD

[rebeccajo 14]

What would be in the guide? How would one go about advising on how to select an attorney?

I think there should be a HUGE disclaimer somewhere that says that the hiring of an attorney is a personal choice, and in no way, shape, or form is any of this site designed to circumvent legal counsel. It should say that while you can DIY, and while you can read sites like ours, it's v much caveat emptor and the responsibility lies solely on the petitioner. As VJ members, we all have to remember that this is all just anecdotal information of ppl in similar situations...and as much as any of us like to think we are 'experts', that should not replace the advice of counsel.

Yes, this process is pretty much straightforward for most, and yes, you can DIY. But, no one here should EVER tell anyone they don't 'need' an atty. Personally, I'm of the notion that every one of those posts saying as such should be immediately removed.

ETA: I'd be skeptical to draft a formal guide with any particular guidelines on how to pick a lawyer. To me, that's territory I'm not sure that we should be getting into...

I'm thinking any 'guide' should be somewhat general. It certainly wouldn't 'name names' or reference anyone in particular. Either positively or negatively.

It's my opinion (from being in the profession as support personnel) that many laypeople think an attorney can handle any type of legal matter. In reality they are just as specialized as doctors. So going to your local family lawyer isn't a good choice for immigration matters.

My boss is a real estate lawyer - he wouldn't touch immigration law with a ten-foot pole and will happily tell you so. The other partner in our firm does personal injury work. I had a very funny conversation with him last Thursday about the paperwork procedures for an immigrant. He was as clueless as any Joe Blow citizen.

I'd just like to see some general guidelines for the type of questions you should ask an attorney before you hire them. And also some guidelines about what to look for insofar as their credentials.

I agree with you completely that posts saying 'you don't need a lawyer' should be removed.

Edited January 27, 2008 by rebeccajo

[Krikit 1,165]

This is the kind of information which would be great in the guide.... Link

[Jeraly 4]

I think it would be good to have as it means people can at least select reputable ones... but yeah - more of an FAQ... "You might need a lawyer if...", "Questions to ask a potential lawyer", "How to choose a reputable lawyer" etc are things that could be covered to enable people to make their decision.

I know that I can't offer advice on lawyers easily as we didn't use one but it would be nice to be able to point people in the right direction if they are asking for help in this area...

[mawilson 2,133]

Is it your opinion that VJ serves people better than legal counsel?

Yes