Lyndhurst, NJ asked in Immigration Law for New Jersey

Q: After paying $10,000, the immigration lawyer has shut down due to medical reasons. how can I get my money back?

He has been pushing through my application, but nothing has come back for the 6 years that I’ve been working with him. I recently noticed an email stating that their office was closing down his practice because he can no longer continue due to medical regulations. I never received a phone call or a letter about this and in the email was all the documents that I had provided him with before. I have spent $10,000 with his immigration lawyer. Any way I can get my money back

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Immigration Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: It's unfortunate to hear about your situation with the immigration lawyer. Given the sudden closure of the lawyer's practice due to medical reasons, your first step should be to try to reach out to the lawyer or their office to discuss the matter directly. Express your concerns about the closure and inquire about the status of your case and the possibility of a refund. Be sure to document all communications, including emails, phone calls, and any responses received.

If you are unable to reach a resolution with the lawyer or their office directly, you may need to explore legal options to recover your money. Consider consulting with another immigration lawyer or seeking advice from a consumer protection attorney who can help you understand your rights and options for recourse. They can assess the situation, review any contracts or agreements you had with the lawyer, and advise you on the best course of action to pursue a refund.

In some cases, you may need to file a formal complaint with relevant authorities, such as the state bar association or consumer protection agency, if you believe that the lawyer's conduct was unethical or if they failed to provide the services for which you paid. These organizations may investigate your complaint and help facilitate a resolution, including the possibility of recovering some or all of your money. However, it's essential to seek legal guidance to navigate this process effectively and maximize your chances of obtaining a refund.

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