Minneapolis, MN asked in Immigration Law for Minnesota

Q: Hello, i have a Master hearing today, so i was wondering because i don't have a lawyer yet. Must i have lawyer today?

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2 Lawyer Answers
William Bailey
William Bailey
Answered
  • Immigration Law Lawyer
  • Minneapolis, MN
  • Licensed in Minnesota

A: You never have to have a lawyer, just like you don't need to have a doctor to do surgery. You will probably get better results if you have a professional, but you can try to do it yourself.

I would recommend getting an attorney ASAP. If you are in deportation proceedings you are at risk of being detained and deported. You should not be trying to handle this on your own.

1 user found this answer helpful

Patricia C. Wall-Santiago
PREMIUM
Patricia C. Wall-Santiago
Answered
  • Immigration Law Lawyer
  • Fort Lauderdale, FL

A: First, you do not need an attorney to represent you before the Immigration Judge; you can do it prose. It is crucial to discuss your case with an experienced immigration attorney to determine any forms of relief available to you if any.

If this is your first appearance/hearing, you can request additional time to retain counsel if that is what you plan to do. Keep in mind that the government will not provide you with an attorney, but the government is obligated to provide you with a list of low costs or free legal service providers in your area.

Most importantly, attorney or not, you need to appear in court.

1 user found this answer helpful

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