Do I Need a Lawyer to File Form I-751?
You are not legally required to hire a lawyer to file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, but having an experienced immigration attorney can be very helpful, especially in certain situations.
When You May Not Need a Lawyer:
If your case is straightforward, for example:
- You are still married to the same U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse.
- You are filing jointly.
- You have no criminal history or prior immigration issues.
In these cases, many people complete and file Form I-751 on their own by following USCIS instructions carefully and submitting all required documentation.
When a Lawyer Is Strongly Recommended:
You should seriously consider hiring a lawyer if:
- You’re filing for a waiver (e.g., you’re divorced, widowed, or experienced abuse).
- You’re filing late and need to explain “good cause” for the delay.
- You have a criminal record or past immigration violations.
- You’ve received a Request for Evidence (RFE) or Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID).
- You’re currently in or at risk of removal proceedings.
Benefits of Hiring a Lawyer:
- Helps ensure the petition is complete and well-documented.
- It can help avoid delays or denials caused by missing evidence or mistakes.
- Offers legal strategy and representation if complications arise.
Bottom Line:
While not mandatory, hiring a lawyer can give you peace of mind and improve your chances of success, especially if your situation is complex. If you’re unsure, it’s worth scheduling a consultation to evaluate your case.
