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Pathway · Find Accredited Help

Find accredited legal help

When you have questions about your case that go beyond procedure, consult a DOJ-recognized organization or licensed attorney. This page shows you where to find them.

About Pathway
Pathway is informational only and is not legal advice. For advice about your specific case, consult an accredited representative.
Who can legally help you — and who cannot
Immigration attorneys

Licensed lawyers admitted to a state bar who practice immigration law. Can advise you, represent you in court, and sign legal documents on your behalf. Verify bar membership through your state bar association.

DOJ-accredited representatives

Non-attorneys who have been formally approved by the Department of Justice to represent individuals before USCIS and immigration courts. They work for DOJ-recognized nonprofit organizations. Listed in the official DOJ Roster.

Notarios and unauthorized preparers — not authorized

In Latin America, a "notario" is a legal professional. In the U.S., that title has no legal standing for immigration purposes. Unauthorized document preparers can charge fees, fill out forms, but cannot give legal advice or represent you. Errors made by unauthorized preparers can harm your case. Check the DOJ Roster before paying anyone for immigration help.

Official government resources

Start here. All of these are free, official, and directly from USCIS or the Department of Justice.

DOJ Recognized Organizations & Accredited Representatives Roster

The official Department of Justice roster of organizations and individuals who are authorized to provide immigration legal services. Search by state to find accredited help near you.

USCIS Field Offices and Asylum Offices

Official directory of USCIS offices where you can attend appointments, submit documents, and speak with an officer. Includes asylum offices.

EOIR Immigration Court Locations

The official list of all immigration courts in the United States, with addresses and contact information.

EOIR Automated Case Information System (ACIS)

Look up your immigration court hearing date, court location, and case status online or by calling 1-800-898-7180.

USCIS Case Status Online

Check the status of a USCIS application or petition using your receipt number (the 13-character code on Form I-797).

USCIS Processing Times

Current processing time estimates by form type and service center. Use this to understand how long your pending application may take.

Free and low-cost legal aid finders

Third-party directories connecting low-income individuals with nonprofit legal aid organizations. Pathway does not endorse any specific organization — verify credentials independently.

American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) Lawyer Finder

Search for licensed immigration attorneys by location and specialty. Attorneys on AILA are licensed members of the bar — verify credentials independently.

Third-party directory — verify attorney's bar status independently

LawHelp.org — Immigration Legal Aid

LawHelp.org connects low-income individuals with free and low-cost legal aid organizations by state. Includes immigration-specific resources.

Third-party directory

National Immigration Legal Services Center

A directory of free and low-cost immigration legal services providers across the United States, maintained by the International Rescue Committee.

Third-party directory
Emergency: hearing tomorrow or deadline today?
If you have an immigration court hearing tomorrow or an imminent deadline and no representation, contact your nearest legal aid organization or call your immigration court directly. Some courts have day-of duty counsel programs. Do not miss the hearing while waiting to find a lawyer — appear on time and inform the judge you are seeking counsel.
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