Top Long Beach, CA Naturalization Lawyers Near You

Do I need a Naturalization Lawyer for U.S. Citizenship?

Applying for citizenship can be a complicated process that includes filing the appropriate forms and gathering the necessary supplemental documents in support of an application. A naturalization lawyer can help you determine whether you are eligible to apply and ensure your application is complete and free of omissions. This type of lawyer can help you prepare for and be present at your naturalization interview with a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer.

What is the naturalization process?

It is important to understand the application steps and potential complicating factors to a successful application. A complete application along with proper preparation for your interview and English/civics test means a much higher likelihood of approval on your first attempt. The Naturalization Eligibility Worksheet, which can be found on the USCIS website, is a useful tool to determine whether you qualify for naturalization. Speaking with a naturalization lawyer can also be very helpful. In general, the application process will proceed in the following manner:

• Complete and file Form N-400 along with the necessary supplemental documents.
• USCIS will mail you a letter with appointment details to have your biometrics taken.
• USCIS will mail you a letter with appointment details for your Naturalization Interview. There will likely be questions about your application and background. All applicants will also take the civics and English test unless you obtain a waiver for the English language requirement.
• If approved, you will receive a ceremony date to take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States. After taking the oath, you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization, which is proof of U.S. citizenship. Later you may apply for a U.S. passport.

Is speaking English a requirement for U.S. citizenship?

In most cases, the ability to speak, read, and write basic English is a requirement for citizenship. Certain age and residency exemptions to this requirement may apply to your specific situation. A naturalization lawyer can assist you in determining whether you can waive this requirement and take the civics test in your native language.

What is a naturalized citizen?

In the U.S., a naturalized citizen is a person who acquires citizenship either by statutory decree or through application and approval by USCIS. Other than those who obtain automatic citizenship by virtue of being born in the United States, all other citizens are naturalized citizens.

Best Time to Seek Legal Help

No matter what your legal issue may be, it is always best to seek legal help early in the process. An attorney can help secure what is likely to be the best possible outcome for your situation and avoid both unnecessary complications or errors.

What to Expect from an Initial Consultation

• Seek to determine whether the attorney can represent you. There is no one-size-fits-all legal solution and it may turn out your needs are better served by an attorney in a different specialization.
• It’s important to find a legal ally who is both competent in the law and someone you can trust to protect your interests.
• Discuss how the practice’s billing works and discuss possible additional charges or fees that may arise during or after the resolution of your case.

An attorney consultation should provide you with enough information so that you can make an informed decision on whether to proceed with legal help.

Types of legal fees:

Bill by the hour: Many attorneys bill by the hour. How much an attorney bills you per hour will vary based on a number of factors. For instance, an attorney’s hourly fee may fluctuate based on whether that hour is spent representing you in court or doing research on your case. Attorneys in one practice area may bill you more than attorneys in a different practice area.

Contingent fee: Some lawyers will accept payment via contingent fee. In this arrangement, the lawyer receives a percentage of the total monetary recovery if you win your lawsuit. In sum, the lawyer only gets paid if you win. Contingent fee agreements are limited to specific practice areas in civil law.

Flat fee: For “routine” legal work where the attorney generally knows the amount of time and resources necessary to complete the task, he/she may be willing to bill you a flat fee for services performed.

Common legal terms explained

Affidavit – A sworn written statement made under oath. An affidavit is meant to be a supporting document to the court assisting in the verification of certain facts. An affidavit may or may not require notarization.