Filing

[Ramazan & Margie 0]

Hi, should I hire an attorney to prepare my paperwork or should I just do it myself? What have you all done? 

[geowrian 22,337]

Most users here do it themselves. If your case is fairly straightforward, then having an attorney involved can be more of a hindrance than a help (ever play the game "telephone"?). You still need to provide the same info and documents and wait the same timeline.

[Ramazan & Margie 0]

I have something on my arrest record from 2003. I talked with an attorney and he said I would need a letter of explanation, when should this be turned in? Also does anyone know what should be said in this letter. Thanks

[geowrian 22,337]

16 hours ago, Ramazan and Marji said:

I have something on my arrest record from 2003. I talked with an attorney and he said I would need a letter of explanation, when should this be turned in? Also does anyone know what should be said in this letter. Thanks

Are you the petitioner or beneficiary? Is this for a K-1 or a CR-1/IR-1 (your profile says K-1 but this was posted in the CR-1/IR-1 thread)? What kind of charge was it (if you don't mind me asking)?

 

For the petitioner, an explanation can be included on the I-129F/I-130 petition, or added as an attachment. Providing certified copies of court records may be necessary for some crimes.

For the beneficiary, they will need to provide a police clearance along with court and prison records as necessary at the time of the interview.

[Ramazan & Margie 0]

I'm the petitioner. (Assault 2003 family party I was barely an adult) this is not for a fiancé visa, this is for a spousal visa. An attorney here in Houston says he would charge 150.00 to write me a letter of explanation, 395.00 to fill out our paper work. I messaged 3 attorneys yesterday and these were there answers. I've never done this before (files spousal visa) so any help will be appreciated. 

[geowrian 22,337]

Looks like you got some good advice...for an I-130, no court documents or even an explanation is needed by the petitioner. It won't impact processing of the I-130 either (unless it is a crime under AWA....which doesn't appear to be the case here). Your spouse should still be aware of it in case they ask about it at the embassy interview later.