The subject of immigration law in the UK is complex to say the least, so it’s hardly surprising that most turn to immigration lawyers to help with applications and citizenship issues. However, in terms of hiring a lawyer and what exactly they may be able to do to help any given case, there’s a fair bit of confusion to say the least.
So, in order to clarify some of the basics, what follows is a quick FAQ from the experts at www.hudsonmckenzie.com covering the most common queries regarding immigration lawyers practicing in the United Kingdom:
1 – Does an Applicant Have to Hire a Lawyer?
Technically speaking, the answer to this question is no – you do not have to hire an immigration lawyer in order to make an application for a UK visa. This is something of a grey area in the minds of most as there will always be those legal firms that will tell you it’s pretty much a matter of law to speak to a lawyer before making an application, when this isn’t in fact the case at all. Of course, the subject of whether or not it’s a good idea to hire an immigration lawyer is a wholly different one – your chances of success skyrocket with the right legal advisor. So while there’s nothing to say that you cannot go it alone if you choose to, you’re much more likely to struggle and perhaps even fail if you don’t take on a legal advisor.
2 – What Are the Benefits of Hiring an Immigration Lawyer?
The biggest benefit of all that comes with hiring an immigration lawyer is of course the most obvious – your chances of being successful increase dramatically. Immigration lawyers processing and assisting with hundreds of visa applications each week know exactly what to do and what not to do to give your own application the best possible chance of being accepted. What’s more, along with helping your application be accepted when and where your case qualifies, a good immigration lawyer can also make sure things happen as quickly as possible with no undue delays. So, for the sake of simplicity, speed, peace of mind and ultimately the success of your application, an immigration lawyer really can be worth their weight in gold.
3 – Should I Choose a Lawyer Based in the UK or My Home Country?
In every instance, it’s better to take on a lawyer based in the country in which you’re planning to make your move to. The reason being that it is those that were born, raised and educated in the country in question that are more likely to have the most comprehensive knowledge of all important legal matters. In addition, there’s also the logistical element of the process to take into account as there’s always the chance your legal representative will be called for in-person during the application process. And when this happens, it’s never in your favour if they’re based on the other side of the world. Choose a lawyer that speaks your own language by all means, but make sure they’re based in the UK.
4 – How Much Do Employment Lawyers Charge?
Prices are determined in accordance with the unique circumstances of the case in question and how complex and/or long-winded it may be. In some cases the lawyers’ job is simple and straightforward, while in other instances they’ll have to work night and day for an extensive period of time to help your case – it all comes down to what they have to do and over what kind of time scale. In all instances however, make sure all fees and charges are agreed on and signed-to on paper before going ahead.
5 – How Can I Be Sure to Make the Right Choice?
In order to choose the right lawyer for you, it’s simply a case of finding an example that fits all necessary criteria in accordance with your case. Look into their experience, success rates, feedback, credentials and fees in order to gain a good insight into how they perform when put into practice.
6 – What If My Application Has Already Been Submitted or Refused?
Last but not least, if your application has already been submitted or has been rejected…even multiple times over…there’s still a great deal an immigration lawyer can do. By carefully analyzing your application/s, they’re able to determine any areas that may be preventing it from being successfully accepted and offer you advice accordingly. So, regardless of the stage your application is currently in or whether it’s been turned down outright, you may still be successful if you consult with an appropriate immigration lawyer.