Immigration Lawyer
The entry of non-citizens into the country is controlled by Federal law. Immigration lawyers assist clients when they’re applying for entry, residing in the country, and becoming citizens. However, because the ‘immigration law’ umbrella is so large, many immigration lawyers stick to one particular aspect of it, such as foreign national employment or marriage-related immigration. Immigration lawyers are found working in mid-size or large law firms, non-profit organizations and oftentimes are solo practitioners. Immigration attorneys need to be licensed legally in their jurisdiction. They do this by completing a bachelor’s degree, as well as a Juris Doctor degree. Licensing is usually granted after the prospective lawyer passes the bar examinations required by their jurisdiction.
If you have a strong interest in immigration law, becoming an immigration lawyer may be the career for you. You must have a strong understanding of the concepts, laws and procedures of immigration law. Public speaking, analytical thinking and good problem solving skills are also great characteristics you should possess. Generally, immigration lawyers are able to speak fluently in two or more languages. Typically, Chinese, Spanish, Japanese and Arabic are the preferred second or third languages an immigration attorney should speak.
Immigration Lawyer Duties
There are a number of duties an immigration lawyer must perform on a daily basis. They handle many different types of immigration issues that relate to immigrants and their status of residency in the United States. Duties include:
- Assisting with client visas (obtaining one, overstaying one, etc.)
- Appeal citizenship denials
- Assist those involved in deportation cases
- Assist with illegal immigration issues
- Meet and interview clients
- Obtain necessary documentation
- Research
- Argue cases in court
- Communicate with state and federal organizations (DoJ, DOL)
Immigration Lawyer Salary
As of January 2010, the average median salary for immigration lawyers was $62,000 per year. Immigration lawyers face a variety of factors that play into their salary, such as the location where they are employed, who they are employed by, how many years of experience they have, as well as what type of benefits package you have. If you are able to obtain a license to practice immigration law in locations where there is a higher demand, such as in Denver, CO, you may make above the national average.
Immigration Lawyer Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for lawyers is expected to grow 13% over the next 10 years. However, new graduates who wish to pursue this area of law should move to areas where the demand is the greatest: Henderson, NV; Belknap, NH; New York, NY; Denver, CO. Immigration lawyers with the best academic record, as well as sufficient experience should be able to have the best job opportunities. While in law school, internships in firms or organizations that deal specifically with immigration issues and immigration law should be sought after. This can provide students with contacts, as well as immigration-related training.
Joining the AILA, or American Immigration Lawyers Association right out of law school, or while in law school, is a great place to start when trying to find job opportunities in your area. In fact, most immigration lawyers are members of the AILA. The AILA is the national professional organization for immigration attorneys that provides immigration advocates resources, training, and connection to their communities. If you don’t know where to start, start there.
For a link to the AILA website, please visit our Law Associations page.
