Do I Really Need an Immigration Attorney? When DIY Can Cost You Everything

Written By: Matthew W. Peterson

Published: 03/08/2018

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Do I Really Need an Immigration Attorney in Massachusetts?

Ever stared at an immigration form like the I-485 (Adjustment of Status) and thought, “I can handle this myself“? You’re not alone. Many people begin their immigration journey confident they can navigate the paperwork solo, only to find themselves in my office months later with a rejected application and precious time lost.

When Simple Mistakes Lead to Major Setbacks

The immigration process might seem straightforward on the surface—just fill out forms, submit documentation, pay fees. But here’s the reality I see every week: small errors on forms like the I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) can trigger cascading problems that delay your life plans by months or even years.

USCIS doesn’t offer extensions when they request additional evidence. Miss their deadline, and your application gets automatically denied. That’s it. No second chances.

Common Immigration Forms That Trip People Up

Let me walk you through the forms where I regularly see costly mistakes:

I-485 (Adjustment of Status): Missing supporting documents or incorrect fee payments can result in immediate rejection.
I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): Relationship evidence requirements are frequently misunderstood, leading to painful delays.
I-751 (Removal of Conditions): The timing on this one is critical—file too early or too late, and you might face status complications.
N-400 (Naturalization): Criminal history issues, even minor ones, can derail citizenship if not properly addressed.

When Can You Go DIY (And When You Absolutely Shouldn't)

Some straightforward cases can be handled without an attorney. For instance, if you’re filing an uncomplicated I-130 for an immediate relative with no previous immigration issues, you might be able to tackle it yourself.

However, you should absolutely seek legal help if:

You’ve ever been arrested or had any criminal issues
You’ve spent time unlawfully present in the US
You entered without inspection
You’ve previously been denied immigration benefits
You’re facing removal proceedings
Your case involves waivers or special circumstances

The Middle Ground: Attorney Consultations

Don’t have the budget for full legal representation? A single consultation with an immigration attorney might be your best investment. For a fraction of the cost of full representation, you can get professional eyes on your situation, spot potential problems, and create a roadmap for success.

The True Cost of DIY Immigration

When clients come to me after a rejected application, they’ve often already lost:

Filing fees (sometimes thousands of dollars)
6-12 months of processing time
Work opportunities while waiting
Peace of mind from constant uncertainty

Remember, this isn’t just paperwork—it’s your future in this country. Your ability to work, travel, and build a life here hangs in the balance.

How an Immigration Attorney Actually Helps

Beyond just filling out forms, an experienced immigration attorney will:

Identify the best immigration pathway for your unique situation
Prepare you for interviews with USCIS officers
Respond effectively to Requests for Evidence
Help you apply for work authorization (EAD) and travel documents (Advance Parole)
Recognize when special provisions or waivers might apply to your case

Next Steps: Finding the Right Help

Whether you decide to work with an attorney or go it alone, make that decision from a place of knowledge, not assumption. The immigration process has enough uncertainty without adding preventable mistakes to the mix.

At the Law Office of Matthew Peterson, we help clients across Boston (and nationwide) navigate these waters daily. Whether you need full representation or just a one-time consultation to review your DIY application, we’re here to help make sure your immigration journey stays on track.

Remember: in immigration, doing it right the first time isn’t just convenient—it can be the difference between approval and denial, between months and years of waiting, between reaching your American dream or watching it slip away.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What should I do if I realize I've made a mistake on my immigration application?

If you discover an error on your immigration application, it’s crucial to act quickly. Contact the Law Office of Matthew Peterson as soon as possible. We can help you assess the situation, determine the best course of action, and guide you through the process of correcting the mistake before any deadlines are missed.

2. How can hiring an immigration attorney save me time and stress?

Hiring an Boston immigration attorney can streamline the application process by ensuring that all necessary documents are completed accurately and submitted on time. An experienced attorney understands the complexities of immigration law and can help you avoid common pitfalls, reducing the likelihood of delays or denials. This proactive approach ultimately saves you time and alleviates the stress associated with navigating the immigration system.

3. What types of immigration applications does your office assist with?

The Law Office of Matthew Peterson provides assistance with a wide range of immigration applications, including but not limited to green cards, visas, naturalization, and family-based petitions. Our team is equipped to handle various immigration matters and is committed to providing personalized support tailored to your specific needs. If you have questions about a particular application, feel free to reach out for guidance.

4. How long does the immigration application process typically take?

The timeline for processing immigration applications can vary significantly depending on the type of application and individual circumstances. Factors such as the specific visa category, current processing times at USCIS, and any additional documentation required can all influence how long it takes. At the Law Office of Matthew Peterson, we can provide you with an estimated timeline based on your unique situation and keep you informed throughout the process.

5. What should I bring when meeting with my immigration attorney?

When meeting with your Boston immigration attorney at the Law Office of Matthew Peterson, it’s helpful to bring any relevant documents related to your case. This may include identification documents, previous immigration paperwork, financial records, and any correspondence from USCIS. Having these materials on hand will allow us to better understand your situation and provide you with tailored advice and support.