How to Find a Green Card Lawyer (and Avoid Immigration Scams)
Updated October 31, 2026. Sources: USCIS.gov.
Not legal advice. GreenCardBlog.com is an independent information site, not a law firm and not affiliated with USCIS or any government agency. Immigration rules, fees and timelines change. Always confirm details on USCIS.gov and consider speaking with a licensed immigration attorney about your situation.
Many green card cases are filed without a lawyer, but a mistake can mean delays, a denial or worse. This guide explains who is legally allowed to help you, how to check them, and what to ask before you hire anyone. Sources: USCIS and the U.S. Department of Justice.
Who can legally give you immigration advice
USCIS says only two kinds of people may give legal advice on immigration matters: attorneys in good standing with a U.S. state bar, and accredited representatives who work for a nonprofit organization recognized by the Department of Justice (see USCIS: Find Legal Services). A notary public, an 'immigration consultant' or a 'notario' is not authorized to give legal advice in the United States, even if the word means a lawyer in other countries.
| Helper | Can give legal advice? | How to check |
|---|---|---|
| Licensed attorney | Yes | Search your state bar's lawyer directory; confirm good standing and any discipline |
| DOJ accredited representative at a recognized nonprofit | Yes, within the scope of accreditation | EOIR recognition and accreditation roster |
| Notario, consultant, form preparer | No | May only fill in forms with your answers, if allowed by state law |
Where to look
- The AILA Immigration Lawyer Search from the American Immigration Lawyers Association, a professional association of immigration attorneys.
- The EOIR list of pro bono legal service providers if cost is a barrier.
- Your state or local bar association's lawyer referral service.
Questions to ask in a consultation
- How many cases like mine (for example marriage-based adjustment of status, or consular processing) have you handled?
- Do you see any problems in my history, such as overstays, prior denials or arrests?
- Is your fee flat or hourly, and does it include government filing fees? (USCIS fees are separate and listed on the USCIS filing fees page.)
- Who will prepare my case, and will you attend my interview?
- Will you file a Form G-28 so USCIS sends notices to you as well?
Red flags
- Promises of a guaranteed green card or a special connection at USCIS.
- Asking you to sign blank forms or forms with false information.
- Keeping your original documents or refusing to give you copies of what was filed.
- Charging for blank government forms, which are free on USCIS.gov.
You can report immigration scams through the links on the USCIS Avoid Scams page.
When a lawyer matters most
Consider an attorney before filing if you have any criminal record, a past removal order, time out of status, a prior visa or green card denial, or if you received a Request for Evidence or a notice of intent to deny. Our I-485 guide and marriage green card guide explain the basic steps.
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- How to Renew Your Green Card (Form I-90), Step by Step
- Green Card Renewal Fee: What Form I-90 Costs
- Green Card Replacement: Lost, Stolen or Damaged Card
- Green Card Through Marriage: The Process Explained
- I-751 Removal of Conditions: When and How to File
Request a free consultation with an immigration attorney
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