How to Become an Immigration Lawyer

An Immigration lawyer specializes in the field of immigration law. This branch of law deals with national laws, regulations, and precedents that relate to immigration. This area of law differs from naturalization and citizenship, although they are sometimes conflated. The main objective of an Immigration lawyer is to help individuals become legal residents of the United States.

Job outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for immigration lawyers is good. The number of lawyers will grow by 9 percent by 2026, according to BLS. However, CBS MoneyWatch reported a shortage of immigration lawyers in 2017. In order to work as an immigration attorney, you will need a bachelor's degree.

You can further enhance your knowledge about immigration law by specializing in the field. While specialization is not mandatory to practice law, it will give you an edge over your competition. Your should understand legal concepts such as I-693 deficiency notice meaning. In addition, employers will seek immigration lawyers with ample experience. There are several ways to acquire this experience. First, internships in immigration law firms offer first-hand experience. This will help you evaluate the pros and cons of working in this field.

Aside from working in a legal firm, you can also start your own practice. Then you can choose your clients and set your own working hours. You can also determine your own billable rates. This may also allow you to earn more.

Education required

Before you can start practicing as an immigration lawyer, you need to acquire your first clients. You can do this by joining an existing law firm or setting up shop as a solo practitioner. Joining an existing law firm will give you access to the support of the firm and the opportunity to begin working with clients right away.

According to experts who write for us on education, to become an immigration lawyer, you will need a law degree from an accredited law school. Typically, you will study basic law concepts in the first year and immigration law in the second year. In addition, you will be required to take the bar exam in the state you live in. After you complete your education, you may also complete clerkships or internships in order to gain valuable experience and expand your job opportunities. In addition, you can complete a Master of Law (LL.M.) program, which is recognized worldwide and gives you credibility as an attorney.

If you are not enrolled in a law school, you can start working as a paralegal to cover the costs of legal education. It is also possible to find job opportunities in immigration law firms and government agencies that specialize in these fields. Immigration lawyers need to be skilled in public speaking and debating, as well as excellent listening skills. In addition, they need to understand the immigration code in order to be effective.

Career options

There are a variety of ways to become an immigration lawyer. You can join a law firm, work for a nonprofit organization, or volunteer. If you have some prior experience in the field, you can use it to get a head start. You may also want to consider becoming a member of a professional association for immigration attorneys. These organizations can help you find a job and get referrals. You can also consider opening your own practice. 

According to experts who write for us on law, as an immigration lawyer, you will be responsible for representing clients facing complex legal issues. In addition to interpreting the immigration laws and regulations, you'll also be responsible for corresponding with various professionals on a daily basis. This requires you to study and keep current on the latest changes in immigration laws and legislation.

While most immigration lawyers work for a law firm, they may also prefer working on their own. Although this can be more demanding, it can also be more rewarding financially. In addition, some immigration lawyers may work for the government.

Career path

Immigration lawyers specialize in immigration law, and often represent non-citizen clients in court. This type of work is extremely satisfying and often the subject of heated political debate. The job requires an interest in human rights and an ability to interact with different cultures. An immigration lawyer may specialize in one area of immigration law or practice broadly in several areas.

Immigration law attorneys can begin their career as solo practitioners or join a law firm. Solo practitioners must market themselves and build a strong reputation. They also rely heavily on networking and advertising. Solo practitioners often earn less than lawyers in the general practice field. Solo practitioners have fewer overhead than general practitioners, but must market themselves to gain clients.

Immigration attorneys should join local and national professional associations of immigration law to build their networks. This can help them land jobs and gain client referrals. They should also get real-world experience by working for nonprofit organizations that deal with immigration.