If you intend to work in the United States beyond your authorized period of stay, or if you need other legal assistance or advice, you may need to retain an attorney who specializes in immigration matters.

A good attorney will communicate clearly and accurately, outline your options, answer your questions, and act as your advocate with the Customs & Immigration Services, the Department of State, or Department of Labor, or other U.S. government agencies.

Following are some questions you should ask when considering an attorney:

• Is your practice limited to immigration law?  How long have you been practicing in immigration law?
• Are you a member of the American Immigraion Lawyers Association (AILA)?  Do you belong to other professional associations?
• What is your specialization within immigration law?
• Have you handled any cases similar to mine?  If so, how many?  What was the coutcome?
• What is your fee and what service does the payment include?  Am I charged every time I speak to you?
• Can you provide an estimate of how much time my case will take to be resolved?
• Who will actually handle my case - you  or a paralegal?  If it is a paralega, can I meet him/her?
• What is the best way to communicate with you -  by telephone, e-mail, or in person?

Here are a couple of sources to look on for a immigration attorney:

• Attorney Search Network (A State Bar Certified Lawyer Referral Service)
• American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA)