Become My Client

I consult clients on the telephone, via email, text messaging, IM, Skype™, in my office, at their office, at their house, or wherever it is convenient, including the nearest Starbucks. Becoming my client is so simple that I should probably make it more complicated so I can market to those who find scarcity and unavailability more appealing. Unless you are just calling to say hello, you either want to hire me to work on a particular case or you want to consult with me. First, we may talk on the phone or exchange emails and I can answer general questions. Then, if necessary, we will set up an in-depth consultation. Or perhaps it is already clear what we need to do so I can quote you a fee and start working on your case right away upon receipt of your retainer.

The value of a legal consultation is what a lawyer charges for it and what you get in return. During my in-depth consultation I will provide actionable legal advice and strategy. This will require me to spend time understanding your situation, analyzing your situation in the context of immigration laws and regulations, and developing a strategy to solve your problems or achieve your goals. What you get is a customized benefit of my judgment and experience without the pressure of commitment to further representation. And while judgment and experience are impossible to price, it is only fair that I charge a small fee for research and analysis. Though other immigration lawyers may advertise “free consultations,” these consultations rarely, if ever, contain meaningful legal advice or assistance beyond the usual “hmm, it depends,” so they can hardly be called consultations at all. Instead, the lawyer will spend a few minutes with you to ask questions primarily to determine how much profit they can derive from your situation or give you a summary of his service menu with an eye to steering you toward more expensive items. The truth is most lawyers offering these so called “free consultations” will not fully answer your questions on legal strategy or provide practical guidance on its implementation until you have already made a commitment to representation and paid the retainer.

By contrast, my consultation will give you a detailed summary and step-by-step analysis of all your options along with their timeframe and all anticipated legal fees and expenses. The cost of this initial consultation is $250, but if you go on to become my client and hire me to work on your case, I will credit your consultation fee towards my fees for any subsequent work. To schedule a consultation, please (1) send me an email to albrecht.jan@gmail.com with your preferences (in-person meeting, consultation by phone, consultation by email); (2) provide a summary of your situation with specific questions and concerns and 2-3 appointment times that are convenient for you and your preferred location (for in-person consultations); and, (3) make a payment using the PayPal link below or send a check or money order to my office. I respond to all consultation requests the same day I receive them and, normally, will be ready to schedule a meeting right away or discuss your case on the phone or by email within 24-48 hours.