Do you suggest getting an attorney or use an agency?

[pushbrk 12,569]

I think this thread is in need of some full disclosure. If it seems like Pushbrk has been overly interested in shooting down DIY comments, it's probably due to the fact that he makes money helping others w/ the process. So, if you are wise, you will take his comments on this particular issue with a grain of salt.

Many people, including me did it themselves. I'm not shooting down anybody who wants to do it themselves. I'm saying those who tell others THEY can do it themselves are unqualified to make such statements about the unknown ability of people they know nothing about. If a person THINKS they can do it themselves and wants to, then they probably can. Without knowing the person, their abilities and details of their circumstances, NOBODY, not ME or YOU is qualified to tell them they should or can do it themselves.

Further, it is a violation of the TOS of VJ to advise against consulting an attorney.

Edited October 27, 2010 by pushbrk

[thelastpetitioner 218]

jesus guys,let it be,the OP knows his/her limits,he/she should take a look at the paperwork needed through out the entire process and decide for him/herself,it is doable,but depends on the the couple.

i believe thats the end of discussion?

[sorchaine 10]

I filled out and submitted everything on my own, with my fiancé's help of course. I double and triple checked everything I was submitting to make sure forms were filled out correctly, I was sending in everything that was necessary and that it was as organized as I could make it. I used the guides on this site (as well as others to just double check that I wasn't missing anything) and asked questions when I wasn't sure and I had no problems at all throughout the entire process from submitting the I-129F to receiving the visa. I know that every case is different, but for me it was much easier and better for me to do it all myself. My case was very straightforward. Two single people, both had never been married, no children, no overstay of visas as my fiancé had never been out of his country, had co-sponsor and had met twice in the just over a year we had known each other. I received no RFE and everything moved along smoothly and quickly for us. We were lucky, very lucky I believe to have such an easy time with no problems and a somewhat quick turnaround of a little over 4 months from petition submitted to visa received.

I think that if you feel that you can do it all on your own, study up on everything, go over the forms and check them over until you feel confident and comfortable. If you have questions, ask. The people here are great at giving you good answers to help. The guides are also an excellent source of information and help. But if it all seems like too much, then go with a service or attorney, but I would suggest checking them over very well to make sure what they are saying or offering is legit. I've read more times of services or attorneys causing more problems than helping. People losing time and money for simple mistakes that a service guaranteed wouldn't happen.

Edited October 27, 2010 by Solearai

[norrin 3]

My Natasha and I did it ourselves with help from Visa Journey. We have just gotten her greencard. She is from St. Petersburg,RU. The paperwork is not so difficult as was dealing with everything in Russia and we had a problem with the Cat two days before her flight. Other than that it wasn't something we needed a lawyer for. Gather your evidence, read the guides found here and ask for help.