Whether you are an attorney specializing in immigration law or a legal immigrant looking for immigration resources, you would do well to partner with association of immigration lawyers to strengthen your knowledge and credibility. Organizations bring together professionals and/or individuals with similar goals and challenges; all members share the same objective of expanding their knowledge.

Becoming a member of the right immigration lawyer group opens the door to a wealth of expertise. You will be exposed to many networking opportunities, information and resources. Additionally, immigration law associations may also provide invaluable services that include new products, education opportunities and industry support. If you're a lawyer looking for membership with a professional immigration law group, remember the following:

1. Make sure the immigration lawyer association you're interested in is credible. Check the American Bar Association or other industry accreditations.

2. Most organizations charge fees for memberships, so make sure you’re getting your money’s worth before you pay.

3. An organization for immigration lawyers may not stipulate membership for certification.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Become a member of an immigration attorney group to enhance your firm's credibility

Although many immigration law organizations offer information, tools and resources to non-members, as an immigration law attorney or firm, you can benefit substantially from becoming a member. Membership opens the door to additional service, product and representation. Register as a firm rather than as just an individual, if possible, so your employees can benefit from the membership.

I recommend: The American Bar Association provides professional development and practice assistance among its membership benefits, and maintains a blog on the latest issues in immigration law. The California Association of Immigration Consultants offers networking opportunities and education.

Join immigration law groups that offer a full schedule of events and conferences

Events and conferences are a boon to any professional. They give you an opportunity to network and share issues with industry peers. More importantly, they give your company exposure within the industry, and provide you an opportunity to further your relationships with other businesses. Try and pick organizations with nationally-recognized events.

I recommend: The American Immigration Lawyers Association and the Los Angeles Bar Association are groups for immigration lawyers. Both provide a calendar of events for educational and networking opportunities. The Los Angeles Bar Association dedicates a section of its site to immigration lawyers and associated issues.

Pick an immigration help organization with resources and tools to help adjust as a legal immigrant

You can find groups to help your transition into the United States as a legal immigrant. These groups often offer online access to member tools and resources. Many organizations offer newsletters containing up-to-date industry news on industry issues and trends. Additionally, you have access to a job center, industry publications and industry mentors.

I recommend: The Legal Immigrant Association offers newsletters and an online forum as part of its online resources. The Immigration Association provides application kits to individuals interested in modifying status or other requests. The American Immigration Law Foundation sponsors international trainees. The Alliance of Business Immigration Lawyers is a group dedicated to advising companies that hire immigrants.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you are considering an immigration lawyer association for its online resources, look for one with a current forum where you can discuss issues with industry experts in real time.