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Would appreciate any insights on entering immigration law. I practiced in other areas for a few years before joining the State Department as a Foreign Service Officer adjudicating visas overseas. I have adjudicated across all visa classes in immigrant and non-immigrant visas. I have one more tour in me (currently deciding where to go now).

I have some say in where I get posted next. Thinking about going to Latin America so I can learn Spanish and set me up for entering immilaw. I also apeak an Asian language (not Chinese).

After my next tour, I either hope to join a reputable immilaw firm (Fragomen, BAL, etc.) and practice business immigration or start my own solo practice and do lots of petitions. I am not particularly interested in deportation defense and court appearances, but will do it if necessary.

Any thoughts on my chances of lateraling into one of these larger firms? Or starting my own immilaw practice in California, either Bay Area or SoCal? Thanks in advance!

One thing of which to be wary if you strike out on your own is that it can be difficult to collect fees from immigration clients, especially if you're dealing with deportation matters. The larger firms often have institutional clients who retain them on behalf of employees, so collection is usually less of a problem.

Aeon wrote:One thing of which to be wary if you strike out on your own is that it can be difficult to collect fees from immigration clients, especially if you're dealing with deportation matters. The larger firms often have institutional clients who retain them on behalf of employees, so collection is usually less of a problem.

And this is why a lot of smaller shops charge a flat fee for immigration clients...

OP the biggest problem I foresee trying to get hired is that you haven't been in traditional legal practice for a while. However, a firm might still value your other experience.

If going solo, you will need to network a lot and it would help if you have family/friends who know people needing immigration work.

Learning Spanish, though not required, will certainly help.

Thanks for the replies. Yes, flat fees for petitions sounds like the way to go. Biting the bullet and working at a small firm for a couple years might be the smart move before opening up shop.

How do you feel about the future of immigration work?