What You’ll Need and What to Expect
Navigating the U.S. immigration system can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re applying for a visa, sponsoring a family member, or dealing with an unexpected legal complication, the first step is often the most important: scheduling a consultation with an experienced immigration attorney.
At William Velie Attorney at Law, we’ve spent more than 30 years guiding clients through the complexities of immigration law. With a 99% approval rate and a nationwide client base, we know how important it is to begin the process with clarity, trust, and preparation.
If this is your first time consulting an immigration lawyer, here’s what you should know about what to bring, what to expect, and how to make the most of your initial meeting.
Why the Initial Consultation Matters
Immigration law is highly specific to each individual’s circumstances. Your background, goals, and immigration history all influence what options are available to you—and what risks may be involved.
The initial consultation gives you and your attorney a chance to:
- Review your current status and history
- Identify available visa or residency options
- Spot potential legal or procedural issues early
- Create a strategy for moving forward
At Velie Law, we offer free consultations because we believe in helping people make informed decisions without pressure or obligation.
What to Bring to Your Consultation
To get the most accurate advice, it is important to bring as much relevant documentation as you can. Depending on your situation, this may include:
- Your passport and copies of any visa stamps or entry documents
- I-94 travel records
- Prior visa applications or approval notices (I-797 forms)
- Employment offer letters or contracts (if pursuing a work visa)
- Marriage or birth certificates (if petitioning for family-based immigration)
- School enrollment documentation (for student visa cases)
- Any immigration-related correspondence you’ve received
- Court records or previous immigration decisions, if applicable
- Your questions—written down so you don’t forget anything during the consultation
You don’t need to have everything in perfect order, and if you’re unsure whether a document is relevant, bring it anyway. The more complete the picture, the better we can advise you.
What You Can Expect During the Meeting
Your consultation will be confidential and focused on your specific needs. Here’s what typically happens during a first appointment:
1. Review of Your Case
Our team will ask questions about your background, current situation, and goals—whether that’s getting a work visa, applying for a green card, or resolving a problem with your status.
2. Assessment of Options
Based on the information you provide, we’ll explain what visa categories or legal pathways may be available to you. We will also outline timelines, eligibility requirements, and documentation you’ll need.
3. Discussion of Risks and Challenges
Every case has potential obstacles. We’ll discuss any red flags we see—like unlawful presence, gaps in status, or complications from prior applications—and explain how to address them.
4. Outline of Next Steps
You’ll leave with a clear understanding of what comes next: what to gather, what to file, and how long the process may take. If you choose to move forward with Velie Law, we’ll also explain our flat-fee pricing model so there are no surprises later on.
Common Misconceptions About Immigration Consultations
Many people assume that speaking to an attorney means they’re locked into a commitment—but that’s not the case. A consultation is about gathering information, understanding your rights, and deciding if the attorney is the right fit for your case.
Others worry that they must have a “perfect” case before they reach out. In reality, some of the most successful outcomes begin with cases that seem complicated or uncertain.
Start the Process with Confidence
Immigration law is too complex to navigate with guesswork. A well-informed consultation is the foundation of a successful application—and the best way to avoid delays, denials, or missed opportunities.
At William Velie Attorney at Law, we bring clarity to the process, and we stand by our clients from consultation to approval. Whether you’re pursuing work, study, family unity, or a new life in the U.S., we’re ready to help you take that first step, so don’t wait – call to schedule your free initial consultation today.
