How to Build a Career as an Immigration Lawyer

If you are interested in becoming an immigration lawyer or if you have thought about changing careers, it is important to know the positive perks that the job can provide. It is also important for you to understand the education process required to become a specialist in immigration law.

The business of this field of law is a particularly fascinating one. Most people that go into this field enjoy a long and very rewarding career. As long as you are prepared to work long hours, you can expect to the same. As with any law degree or practice you will ultimately work long hours and likely carry a heavy caseload, at least for the first few years that you are in the business.

If you are in college now and have begun to think about a career as an immigration lawyer, there are a few things you can do to guarantee yourself success later. First off all, you should consider picking up a second language. Preferably this language should match the clientele you expect to work with as an attorney. For example, many immigrant law representatives end up working with Hispanic clients. Taking a major or minor in Spanish during undergraduate studies will put you ahead among these clients.

Knowing the language of the clients you plan to assist will provide you an edge on others lawyers in the same field. This is especially practical if you plan to practice privately. You won't have to pay to use an interpreter during meetings and appointments with your clients. You will also have an easier time understanding exactly the issues at hand. Drafting papers that your client can understand if English is not their first language will also be helpful for you.

Of course, you also have to prepare yourself for law school during your undergraduate studies. Think about majoring in international business, international studies or immigrant studies during your college years. These may transfer nicely to your time in law school applying directly to your certificate in immigrant law. If you are unsure what your school offers that may apply, talk to your college counselor for their opinion. They may have a better idea or they may be able to speak directly to admissions for the law schools that you are interested in.

Look for law schools that have a high success rate for those working as an immigration lawyer. Just as you want to attend an undergraduate program that is known for preparing people for topnotch law programs, you want to find a law school that is known for graduating law students that easily become working lawyers. Look for schools that have a reputation for excellence in immigrant law. This will give you a better chance at getting hired upon graduation and passing the bar.

Being an immigration lawyer is a good fit for people that have the desire to help others. As someone representing immigrants, you have the opportunity to be an excellent ambassador for the United States.