First, make sure the person is actually a licensed attorney. You may check if a person is a licensed attorney in the state of Florida by visiting the Florida Bar website (www.floridabar.org). Since immigration law is extremely complex, make sure the attorney is experienced in practicing predominantly – if not exclusively – in this area of law. Use Avvo and other similar review websites to confirm the attorney’s reviews online and read testimonials from previous clients.

A notario is not a licensed professional in the United States. It is merely a person who paid a fee to be able to notarize your signature. It is illegal for a notario to assist you in anyway in your case as this constitutes the unlawful practice of law. A paralegal may or may not have obtained a degree. In either case, he/she must be supervised by a licensed attorney at all times. An attorney is a licensed professional regulated by a state bar who may represent you in any type of legal matter.

A large firm might provide a larger staff to help manage your case. This may result in an impersonal and mechanical experience. A smaller firm may not have the same number of personnel to assist with your case. This may, however, create a more personalized and tailored experience. At the end of the day, it is your relationship and connection with the attorney and his/her staff that matters.

An attorney that charges you for their time takes his/her time seriously. When seeking to hire an attorney, this trait is critical as it will translate to your case being managed with the utmost seriousness.