What Questions Should I Ask a Partner Visa Lawyer Before Hiring Them?

What should I ask about the lawyer's qualifications?

The first question to ask about a lawyer's qualifications is whether they hold a current practising certificate, which can be checked on the public register kept by the legal profession regulator in their state. It is also reasonable to ask how much of their practice involves migration law and partner visas in particular. Our article on migration agent versus immigration lawyer explains how lawyers and registered migration agents are regulated, and both can lodge visa applications.

What should I ask about the risks in my case?

The most useful question about risk is simply, "What is the weakest part of our case, and what would you do about it?" A lawyer who has listened properly will name a specific issue, such as a short relationship, time living apart, separate finances, a past refusal or a visa condition, and explain the evidence or legal step that addresses it. Couples can also ask whether they should lodge onshore or offshore and why. Our article on partner visa refusal reasons helps couples know what to raise.

What should I ask about the fee and scope of work?

The key questions about the fee are whether it is fixed, what stages it covers and what would cost extra. Couples should ask whether the fee includes the permanent stage, responses to section 56 requests and section 57 letters, and preparation of the relationship statement and Form 888 statements. They should also ask for the fee and scope to be set out in a written costs agreement. Our article on partner visa lawyer fees lists further points to check.

What should I ask about refusals and review?

The questions to ask about refusals and review are how the lawyer would respond if the Department raised concerns, whether they act at the Administrative Review Tribunal, and how they decide between review and a new application. Time limits for review are short and strictly applied, so it helps to know in advance that the lawyer can act quickly. The firm's page on partner visa refusals shows what review work involves.

What should I ask about communication?

The questions to ask about communication are how the lawyer will keep the couple informed, whether advice will be confirmed in writing, and how urgent matters such as Department deadlines are handled. Couples living in different places should also ask whether consultations can be held by video. It is also sensible to ask how documents will be shared and checked, because many delays come from evidence sent in pieces or in the wrong format. Our article on the immigration lawyer consultation explains what to expect from a first meeting.

How does My Migration Lawyers answer these questions?

My Migration Lawyers answers these questions at the first consultation and confirms the key points in writing, including the pathway it recommends, the risks it sees and the fixed fee and scope of work in a costs agreement. The firm is led by Principal Lawyer Weiwei Zhang, consults by video and email, and can consult in Mandarin. Couples are encouraged to bring their own list of questions, and can read about the firm's partner visa lawyers beforehand.