Top East Elmhurst, NY 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.

Top Questions to Ask When Hiring an Attorney

• How many years have you been practicing law? How long have you practiced law in the local area?
• How many cases similar to mine have you handled in the past?
• What is the likely outcome for my case?

In legal practice, experience matters. An experienced attorney will likely have handled issues similar to yours many, many times. Therefore, after listening to your situation, the attorney should have a reasonable idea of the time line for a case like yours and the likely resolution.

Tips on Approaching an Initial Attorney Consultation

• Use the consultation as a means of gaining a better understanding of your legal situation.
• Ask the attorney how many cases similar to yours he/she has handled. An attorney’s experience and knowledge can speak to their expertise (or lack of) in addressing your situation.
• Your attorney should be able to articulate roughly how long a case like yours will take to resolve and what sort of procedures to expect.
• Determine how comfortable you are working with the lawyer and/or law firm.

How much does it cost to hire an attorney?

In general, how much an attorney costs will often depend on these four factors: billing method and pricing structure, type of legal work performed, law firm prestige, and attorney experience. Depending on the legal issue you are facing, an attorney may bill you by the hour, settle on a flat fee, or enter into a contingency fee agreement. The type of legal work you need help with will also play a role in cost incurred.

Common legal terms explained

Plaintiff – a person or party who brings a lawsuit against another person(s) or party/parties in a court of law. Private persons or parties can only file suit in civil court.

Judgment – A decision of the court. Also known as a decree or order. Judgments handed down by the court are usually binding on the parties before the court.