I don`t like the lawyer

[JC&BS 75]

So, I am facing a dilemma and would like your input. I am planning to file for the CR1. Fiance`s family is footing the bill and we will repay after his arrival in US. They want me to go with the family lawyer but when I met up with the lawyer he wasn't very nice. He wouldn't answer basic questions such as 'After I give you the paperwork for you to organize, will you send the petition off or will I send it off?" He replies "Who will I send it off to?" I replied 'I don't know. Not sure." (Because I genuinely do not know who sends it off, I ask as a potential client) I ask again a few minutes later and he responds "Why do you need a lawyer?" I take a breath because I am irritated at this entire situation, I don't like lawyers and do not feel like I need one. I'm only here because the family is paying for him. I look at the aunt(who recommended him) and say "You were recommended to me." He then says "You don't have to follow through with any recommendation." I nod in agreement.

 

Out of fairness to him, it was a free 15 minute consultation when he normally charges $300 / hour but since I am now a 'friend of the family' he met up with me. He has not been hired as my attorney as of yet.

 

Not only did he not answer my questions but he was condescending. I do not like this man. But the fact is he has helped two family members with immigration.

 

I'm also positive that when I explain my thoughts to the family they aren't going to listen and be loyal to the lawyer particularly because they share nationality and he has helped two family members, the earliest being this past fall. 

 

What can this lawyer do for me? No idea since he didn't sell himself to me nor answer my questions.

[ms_bobdog 501]

Firstly, you said fiancé but you want to apply for CR1. You will get married before that, right? 

 

Secondly, are there complications to your case? If not, save the money and DIY. There have been numerous examples here on how a lawyer hindered the process instead of helping. Just read the threads and understand the process, post questions and let VJ members help you, and you should be ok.

[Going through 5,671]

Either find another lawyer you are comfortable working with, or don't use a lawyer at all if you don't feel you need one----many don't.  Answers to many of your questions (as well as advice on how to properly fill out and file the forms) can be found on these forums for free.

[Little_Vixen 1,869]

Don't do anything you don't feel comfortable with. I have seen too many visa's be messed up by lawyers to put much faith in them. That being said, he might just be good at his work but be an #######. Besides, you really don't need a lawyer for these visa's if everything is straightforward. Just follow the VJ guides and you will be just fine.

 

You can keep both happy and let him do all the paperwork but YOU send it out. That way you can triple check if you have all the paperwork you need and everything is filled out correctly.

Edited February 19, 2018 by Little_Vixen

[JC&BS 75]

3 minutes ago, ms_bobdog said:

Firstly, you said fiancé but you want to apply for CR1. You will get married before that, right? 

 

Secondly, are there complications to your case? If not, save the money and DIY. There have been numerous examples here on how a lawyer hindered the process instead of helping. Just read the threads and understand the process, post questions and let VJ members help you, and you should be ok.

Yes, presently he is my fiance but will become my husband before I file.

[OldBritAbroad 15]

As noted above, most lawyers are ####### - it’s just the nature of the work (and some personality lol). Once the lawyer agrees to take you as a client, they should fight for you and be seen to be doing so. If you’re not convinced, drop them - you’re paying them after all. Check out other users of their service - what do they say?

Edited February 20, 2018 by Ryan H
Reason for edit: to remove alternate spelling of profanity.

[redvines 57]

We also used a lawyer who was a family friend of my spouse's family and specializes in immigration. She has been absolutely amazing and I am 100% confident in her. I think like anything in life, if you are unhappy with the service go elsewhere. 

 

Even though the family is loaning you the money you are ultimately paying for this service and the $300 per hour will add up quickly, especially if the lawyer is hard to communicate with. Maybe to appease the family do the paperwork yourself and pay to just have him check it over?