Find an Attorney

The International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) is able to provide general immigration information, but we are not able to provide specific legal advice. Our obligation to UT Dallas F-1 and J-1 students is to interpret the regulations as best as we can when presented with a specific set of facts. Specific legal advice is available, should students seek such advice, through dedicated channels outside ISSO.

Legal Resources

Campus Resources

• Attorney Services for currently enrolled students: An immigration attorney is available on campus to provide free legal advice for currently enrolled UT Dallas students. These services are not available to prospective students or alumni. These attorney services are free of charge, funded by student service fees, and sponsored by the UT Dallas Student Government. Contact Student Government to make an appointment.

Off-campus Resources

• AILA: AILA is the professional organization for immigration lawyers. Visit aila.org to find an immigration lawyer in your area who can assist with complicated immigration matters.
• Dallas Bar Association Community Legal Resources: Includes links to community legal resources including the American Civil Liberties Union of North Texas, Catholic Charities Immigration, Dallas Volunteer Attorney Program, and more.
• Texas Legal Clinic Calendar: A legal clinic is an event where a person can go to get free legal advice on their issues, in person. Different clinics will provide legal advice on different subjects. Make sure to check with each organization before going to a clinic.
• Proyecto Inmigrante: Proyecto Inmigrante provides legal representation and immigration counseling services. For more information, contact their Dallas office.
• Catholic Charities of Dallas: The Immigration and Legal Services (ILS) of Catholic Charities of Dallas provides a broad range of immigration counseling and representation to immigrants and their families.
• The Concilio has compiled a list of local resources in North Texas for Latino and immigrant families.

Tips for Finding an Attorney

Seeking legal assistance is similar to seeking any professional service. You will want to carefully research your options and hire someone who you trust. Choosing to hire an attorney is a personal choice. Many individuals successfully file petitions for immigration benefits on their own, while others prefer to enlist the assistance of an attorney. If you have a complex immigration situation, you may want to consult with an attorney.

• Decide if you need legal assistance. You may wish to review the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website and speak with an ISSO advisor before deciding to hire an attorney.
• Request a consultation. Many attorneys offer a free short consultation by email or phone. You may consult with more than one attorney, to decide which attorney is best equipped to assist you.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions. It’s important to understand the attorney’s area of expertise, as well as the fee structure for their services. Some questions to ask:
  • Are you specialized and/or experienced in my type of problem?
  • Do you charge a flat rate or hourly fee for this type of work?
  • Can you give me an estimate of the cost?
  • Can you estimate the amount of time it will take?
• It’s your choice. It’s important to feel comfortable with the attorney you hire. Some things to consider:
  • Are you able to communicate effectively with the attorney? Do they understand you, and do you understand them?
  • Can the attorney explain how they will assist you with your issue? Is there a clear plan?
• Read all contracts carefully before signing. Everything you and the attorney agree on should be documented in writing. Read all contracts carefully before signing.
• If you’re not satisfied with an attorney’s credentials, communication style, or expertise, don’t hire them.