# How to compare immigration legal providers

Start with the DOJ registers this site draws from. Check the provider type, then compare the fee level, languages and case types the source states, and ask each provider about the rest.

Updated 2026-10-20. Also on the [web page](https://immigrationhelp.fyi/guides/how-to-compare-immigration-providers).

Start with the DOJ registers that this site draws from. The two registers are the DOJ EOIR Recognition and Accreditation roster and the EOIR List of Pro Bono Legal Service Providers. Both are US federal government works in the public domain, and this site republishes their facts.

First, know who may help you. In the United States a notario or immigration consultant is not a lawyer and cannot represent you. Only a licensed lawyer, or a DOJ-accredited representative working for a DOJ-recognized organization, may give you immigration legal advice. This site never lists notarios or unlicensed consultants. If someone outside these registers offers help, use the immigration fraud warning checklist on this site before you pay.

Check the provider type on each listing. There are three types. A DOJ-recognized organization is a non-profit that the DOJ EOIR Recognition and Accreditation Program recognizes to give immigration legal services through attorneys or accredited representatives. An accredited representative is a person the DOJ accredits to represent individuals in immigration matters while working for a recognized organization. Both appear on the Recognition and Accreditation roster. A pro bono provider is on the EOIR List of Pro Bono Legal Service Providers. That list covers each immigration court. From it, this site lists only the non-profit organizations the list marks with an asterisk.

Open two or three listings from the same city. Compare the provider type first. Then check the fee level if the listing shows one. The fee level appears only when the source says the service is free or low-cost. An empty fee field means the fee is unknown, so ask the provider directly.

Compare languages. A listing shows only the languages the source states. If you need help in a language that is not listed, ask the provider. An empty field means unknown, not English only.

Compare case types. The listing shows only the case types the source states. Examples on this site include asylum, removal defense and family-based petitions. If you need help with a type that is not listed, ask.

Check remote services. This field is marked only when a source states that the provider serves clients remotely. An empty field means unknown. Ask the provider.

Read the source note on each listing. It names the register each fact came from and the date the site checked it. A listing with more fields filled in is not better. It only means the source published more facts. This site plans to check the roster monthly. The pro bono list is published quarterly, in January, April, July and October.

Call your shortlist. Use the phone number on the listing. Ask about fees, languages and case types. Ask how to get started and ask for a written contract and a receipt for every payment.

Confirm each provider on the DOJ register before you pay. This site is a directory, not a law firm. Nothing on it is legal advice, and a listing is not a recommendation. For advice about your case, ask a qualified professional: a licensed lawyer or a DOJ-accredited representative.

## Sources

- [US DOJ EOIR Recognition & Accreditation roster](https://www.justice.gov/eoir/recognized-organizations-and-accredited-representatives-roster-state-and-city)
- [US DOJ EOIR List of Pro Bono Legal Service Providers](https://www.justice.gov/eoir/list-pro-bono-legal-service-providers)

## Questions

### How many providers should I contact?

Two or three is a good start. Ask each one the same questions about cost, languages and the case type you need help with.

### Can I change providers after the first contact?

That is your choice. Before you sign, ask each provider about its terms, and get the contract in writing. Ask what the provider charges for a first consultation before you book one.

### Does a paid plan on this site mean the provider is better?

No. A paid plan adds a badge and a place higher on the page. The provider type and contact facts always come from the public source.

> **Not legal advice.** ImmigrationHelp is a directory, not a law firm. Nothing on this site is legal advice, and using it does not create an attorney-client relationship. A listing is not a recommendation. Every provider listed is authorized by the US Department of Justice as shown in the source named on each listing; confirm details with the provider before you share information or pay. Beware of immigration fraud: a 'notario' or immigration consultant is not a lawyer and cannot represent you. To report a mistake, write to hello@immigrationhelp.fyi.