The decision to migrate to a new country is one that will have a big impact on your life.
With Canada’s favorable position on immigration, there are approximately 400,000 to 450,000 immigrants each year in Canada. As of 2019, about 21.5 percent of our population are immigrants. That is about 8 Million people!
Even if you qualify, the process can be complicated based on your situation, and you may require assistance. This help can come from either an immigration lawyer or an immigration consultant.
Before you decide whether to hire an immigration lawyer or an immigration consultant, you should understand the key differences between these two groups.
Education
After they have completed an undergraduate degree (usually for 4 years), immigration lawyers are required to attend law school (usually for 3 years) where they undergo thorough training. They are then required to practice under the supervision of a senior lawyer for about 9-12 months. Finally, lawyers must pass the bar examination in order to be licensed to practice.
In contrast, Immigration consultants are only required to complete a relatively easy certificate course and relatively minimal other requirements.
Client Protection
Immigration lawyers are governed and regulated by the law society of the province in which they practice. As a result, they are required to follow strict rules and standards in their dealings with clients. Consultants are licensed by the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC). However, ICCRC regulations are not as rigorous as those that govern lawyers.
With the increasing interest in migrating to Canada, worldwide immigration fraud is not uncommon. Unfortunately, there is usually little practical recourse for victims. Given the strict regulations that govern immigration lawyers, lawyers are usually a safer option than consultants.
Services
An immigration lawyer can represent you in your appeal at the Federal Court as well as at the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada. Immigration consultants, however, cannot represent clients at the Federal Court.
Fees
Most assume that an immigration lawyer will be more expensive than a consultant, but consultants can be more expensive than lawyers!
Privacy Protection
What you tell a lawyer is strictly protected under Canadian law by solicitor-client privilege. Consultants cannot offer this protection since they are not lawyers. This means that the information that you give to a lawyer is much more secure and cannot be easily obtained by the authorities.
Finding an immigration lawyer in Canada
The immigration process can be overwhelming, but with the guidance of an experienced immigration lawyer, you can achieve the best possible outcome.
If you’re searching for an immigration lawyer in Canada, contact us at Goldman Associates. We are a Canadian immigration law firm with 27 years of experience in immigration law. Our friendly, capable, and efficient team will provide advice on the right immigration program for you, be your legal representative, and prepare you for interviews during the application process.
Allow us to guide you to success on your immigration journey. Call or visit our website today to schedule a consultation.