Applying for a U.S. visa or Green Card is a complex process that demands accurate, up-to-date knowledge and meticulous attention to detail. While navigating this process on your own might seem cost-effective, even minor errors can lead to significant setbacks, such as visa denials, deportation, entry bans, or jeopardizing your loved one's status. Working with a U.S.-licensed immigration attorney can help prevent these issues, ensuring that your case proceeds smoothly.
Handling an immigration process based on information found on government websites may initially seem straightforward, but without professional guidance, complications often arise. Immigration attorneys provide essential support, legal expertise, and access to resources that simplify even the most challenging cases, addressing issues via channels and legal mechanisms that are not always readily available to the public.
To understand the value of hiring a U.S.-licensed attorney, it's also essential to know who regulates and issues these licenses. State bar associations regulate attorney licenses under the oversight of their respective state supreme courts. In Florida, the authority for licensing attorneys lies with the Florida Supreme Court, which delegates the responsibility to the Florida Bar to manage the licensing process and enforce professional standards.
While state supreme courts handle lawyer discipline at the state level, the U.S. Supreme Court may become involved if a disciplinary action raises significant federal constitutional concerns. In such cases, the matter can then be taken to the U.S. Supreme Court to review the state supreme court's decision.
An attorney licensed by any U.S. state or territory is authorized to practice federal law, including immigration law, as well as the law of the state or territory where they are licensed. U.S.-licensed attorneys must therefore uphold the highest professional standards and are held accountable by their respective state supreme courts and, in cases involving federal issues, by the U.S. Supreme Court. This level of oversight does not extend to unlicensed consultants, foreign attorneys, or non-lawyers, who are neither authorized to provide legal advice nor regulated.
It is important to note that an attorney in your country who claims to specialize in international or immigration law is not automatically authorized to practice U.S. immigration law. Without a U.S. license to practice law, advising on U.S. immigration law is illegal and considered the Unlicensed Practice of Law (UPL).
While non-lawyers, such as notaries, paralegals, and immigration consultants, may offer assistance with translating or filling out forms, any activity beyond this—such as advising on which forms to complete, which visa to pursue, or representing you before the government—is illegal and considered the Unlicensed Practice of Law (UPL).
Is a U.S. Immigration Lawyer Worth the Investment?
Hiring an attorney may come with additional costs compared to handling matters on your own, but remember: “You get what you pay for.” Individuals posing as legal professionals may offer lower fees, but without proper credentials, they cannot provide legitimate legal advice or services. This leaves you vulnerable and without recourse if they turn your American Dream into a nightmare.
When hiring a U.S.-licensed attorney, always confirm their credentials. An effective way to do this is by asking for their Bar Number, which can be verified with the state bar where they are licensed. Each state bar maintains a publicly accessible online registry that lists only the attorneys licensed by that state.
How to Verify an Attorney’s License on The Florida Bar Website
To verify Mr. Boan’s license, you can search for his Bar Number or full name on The Florida Bar's website. Please note that access to the site may be restricted in certain regions outside the U.S., including South America. If you experience restrictions, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help you access the website by connecting through a U.S.-based server.
If you cannot open the website in your country, please find below a screenshot of Mr. Boan's profile with The Florida Bar:
Additional Tips for Working with a U.S.-Licensed Attorney
Research: Before hiring any attorney, search online to learn more about them. Verify their Bar Number and ask for their credentials.
Use Form G-28: This form authorizes an attorney to act on your behalf with immigration authorities. It includes their Bar Number, so you can confirm their status with a bar association.
At G.E.B. GLOBAL, we are dedicated to providing clear and effective legal guidance. With our firm, you will work directly with Mr. Gregory E. Boan, Esq., ensuring personalized, trustworthy, and fully licensed legal support.
Contact us today to start your journey toward achieving the American Dream successfully.
Follow G.E.B. GLOBAL on social media for more information.
1395 Brickell Avenue, Ste. 800
Miami, Florida 33131
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