How to Confirm Your Lawyer’s Representation in Your U.S. Asylum Case
How can I verify the lawyer or legal representative registered on my U.S. asylum case?"
Expert Answer:
When navigating the complexities of the U.S. asylum process, it is essential to know which attorney or legal representative is officially handling your case. Legal representatives must file specific forms to notify U.S. immigration authorities about their representation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to verifying your lawyer’s registration:
1. Understanding Legal Representation in U.S. Immigration Cases
- Forms for Attorney Representation:
- Form G-28:
- Filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Serves as the "Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative."
- Form EOIR-28:
- Filed with the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR).
- Notifies immigration courts that an attorney is representing you in court proceedings.
The U.S. asylum system requires attorneys and accredited representatives to notify the government when they agree to represent you. This is done through official forms:
If your lawyer resigns or withdraws, they must notify the relevant agency or court through proper procedures, but it is also your responsibility to confirm your current representation status.
2. Steps to Verify Your Attorney or Legal Representative
- Check Your Copy of Form G-28 or EOIR-28:
- If your case is with USCIS (e.g., an asylum interview or application), your attorney should have submitted Form G-28. You can ask USCIS directly for the form on record.
- If your case is with the immigration court (e.g., removal proceedings), check the EOIR-28 form filed on your behalf.
- Contact USCIS:
- Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283.
- Provide your A-number (Alien Registration Number) and ask for information regarding the attorney associated with your case.
- Visit the Immigration Court:
- If your case is before an immigration judge, you can visit the court clerk in person with your A-number to confirm which lawyer is registered on your case.
- You can also call the court’s automated information system at 1-800-898-7180 for case details.
- Reach Out to Your Lawyer:
- If you suspect your lawyer has resigned or stopped representing you, contact them directly for clarification.
- Attorneys are obligated to inform their clients when they withdraw from a case.
- Verify With EOIR or USCIS Online Accounts:
- For USCIS cases, create or log into your USCIS online account to see updates related to your case.
- For EOIR cases, register for the EOIR Court Portal, where you can view case information, including the listed legal representative.
Legal Rights and Responsibilities
1. Right to Notification: Your lawyer must notify you and the relevant authority (USCIS or EOIR) if they withdraw or stop representing you.
2. Responsibility to Verify: It is your duty to confirm and update your legal representation status if changes occur. Without proper representation, you might miss critical notices or deadlines in your case.
Authoritative Resources
1. USCIS Form G-28
Form G-28 Instructions and Filing Information
2. EOIR-28 for Immigration Courts
EOIR Forms and Procedures
3. Immigration Court Information
Automated Case Information Hotline: 1-800-898-7180
Immigration Court Locations and Contact Information
4. USCIS Contact Center
USCIS Contact Information
5. Rights of Clients
American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) Guide
Conclusion:
If you are uncertain about your legal representation in your asylum case, the most reliable way to verify your lawyer is through USCIS or the immigration court using your A-number. Proactively maintaining clarity about your representation can prevent potential complications and ensure your case moves forward without delays. Always retain copies of your legal documents, including Form G-28 or EOIR-28, and stay informed about your rights and obligations under U.S. immigration law.
If you need further assistance, consult an experienced immigration attorney or accredited representative to guide you through the process.
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