Best Cleveland Immigration Attorneys in 2025

	Margaret Wong Margaret W. Wong & Associates	Call Today 216-566-9908	View Profile

Our Selection Process

How to Select the Best Immigration Attorney

Step 1: Focus on Experience

Immigration law is a highly specialized field that requires in-depth knowledge of visa requirements, U.S. immigration policies, and legal procedures. Not all attorneys are experienced in handling immigration cases, so it’s in your best interest to find a lawyer who focuses specifically on immigration law. Further, you should look for an attorney with experience in cases similar to yours. There are a variety of immigration matters ranging from family-based petitions to employment visas and deportation defense to asylum applications. Lawyers who focus a significant portion of their practice on cases similar to yours will ensure they’re well-prepared to represent you. Checking their membership in organizations like the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) can also indicate their expertise in immigration law.

Step 2: Research Reputation and Client Reviews

A strong reputation is an essential indicator of a good immigration attorney. Research online reviews, client testimonials, and referrals from previous clients who have successfully navigated the immigration process with their help. If an attorney has a history of winning cases, positive client feedback, and strong endorsements, they are likely a reliable choice. Be cautious of attorneys who make unrealistic guarantees, as government agencies and legal procedures ultimately determine immigration outcomes.

Step 3: Evaluate Their Communication and Availability

Effective communication is key when dealing with immigration matters. Choose an attorney who is responsive, clear, and transparent about the process. During your initial consultation, assess whether the attorney takes the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and explain the steps of your case. Since immigration cases often involve deadlines and urgent filings, it’s important to select a lawyer who is accessible and provides timely updates on your case.

Step 4: Understand Fees and Legal Strategy

Before committing to an attorney, discuss their fee structure and legal strategy. Some immigration lawyers charge flat fees for visa applications and petitions, while others work on an hourly basis. Be sure to get a clear breakdown of costs, including government filing fees and potential additional expenses. Additionally, ask the attorney about their approach to handling your case—whether they have experience with appeals, complex cases, or expedited processing options.

Recommendations While You Wait to Connect to an Attorney

Gather Essential Documents: Collect all necessary paperwork, including passports, visas, birth certificates, marriage certificates, employment records, and previous immigration applications. Having these documents ready will help your attorney assess your case efficiently.
Write Down Your Immigration History: Create a detailed timeline of your entries and exits from the U.S., past visa applications, green card petitions, and any interactions with immigration authorities. This will provide a clear picture of your situation.
Review Your Goals and Questions: Think about what you want to achieve, whether it’s applying for a visa, obtaining a green card, seeking asylum, or fighting deportation. Write down any specific questions you have for your attorney.
Check Your Eligibility for Immigration Relief: Research different visa categories, residency options, or asylum requirements that might apply to you. This will help you understand what options might be available.
Avoid Submitting Any Applications Alone: While waiting, do not file any applications, appeals, or legal documents without consulting your attorney. Filing incorrect paperwork can hurt your case or lead to delays.
Keep Records of Employment and Financial Documents: If your case involves work visas or financial sponsorship, gather pay stubs, tax returns, employer letters, and bank statements.
Avoid Speaking to Immigration Officials Without Legal Advice: If contacted by ICE, USCIS or CBP, avoid discussing your case without your immigration attorney’s guidance.
Stay Informed About Immigration Laws: Immigration policies change frequently. Keep up with reliable sources of immigration news so you understand the latest updates that may affect your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need an Immigration Attorney for My Case?

While some simple immigration applications can be completed without an attorney, hiring an immigration lawyer is highly recommended if:

Your case involves family-based petitions, work visas, or green cards.
You have a complicated immigration history, prior visa denials, or legal issues.
You are seeking asylum or deportation defense.
You are applying for citizenship and have criminal records or other concerns.
You need help avoiding delays, mistakes, or missing deadlines.

An immigration lawyer also helps clients avoid costly mistakes, file the correct paperwork, and represent them in legal proceedings when necessary. Hiring an immigration attorney also increases your chances of a successful application and legal protection.

How Much Does an Immigration Attorney Cost?

The cost of an immigration attorney depends on the complexity of the case. Some charge flat fees for services like green card applications or naturalization, while others charge hourly rates for more complicated matters. Typical costs include:

Green card applications – $1,500 to $5,000
Work visas – $2,000 to $7,500
Asylum applications – $3,000 to $10,000
Deportation defense – $3,000 to $15,000

However, don’t be discouraged by the cost. Many attorneys offer payment plans to help clients manage legal fees.

How Long Does the Immigration Process Take?

Processing times vary depending on the type of visa or green card application. Some estimates include:

Family-sponsored green cards – 1 to 10 years, depending on the category.
Employment-based green cards – 6 months to several years.
U.S. citizenship (naturalization) – 8 to 14 months.
Work visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1, etc.) – 2 to 12 months.

An attorney can help expedite the process and avoid unnecessary delays.

Can an Immigration Attorney Speed Up My Case?

While attorneys do not have control over government processing times, they can take several steps to help avoid delays and ensure your case is handled as efficiently as possible. A skilled immigration attorney will make sure all paperwork is completed accurately, reducing the risk of errors that could result in rejections or additional requests for evidence. In certain cases, they may also be able to file for expedited processing if you meet specific eligibility requirements. Additionally, an attorney can follow up with USCIS or consular offices to track the status of your application and address any potential issues. If your case is experiencing delays, they can also file legal inquiries or appeals to help move the process along. Hiring an experienced lawyer can significantly reduce the chances of mistakes or unnecessary setbacks, ensuring that your case proceeds as smoothly as possible.

What If I Am Facing Deportation?

For individuals facing deportation or removal proceedings, seeking legal representation as soon
as possible is crucial to protecting their rights and exploring available defenses. An immigration attorney can defend you in court by presenting legal arguments that support your eligibility to remain in the U.S. Depending on your case; they may also be able to apply for cancellation of removal or seek asylum if you qualify for humanitarian protection. If there are errors or inconsistencies in the government’s case against you, an attorney can challenge the charges to prevent deportation. In some cases, they may also assist with voluntary departure options, which can allow you to leave the U.S. without facing future legal barriers to reentry.