J FG
Jun 5, 2025
NIW approved. Switching law firms for next stage
Hi everyone,
My NIW finally got approved. My PD suddenly became current and I just paid for PP. After 11 days, my NIW got approved with no further RFE.
My law firm didn't do a great job, though. I got a RFE on all three prongs that could have been avoided if they had provided the existing evidence when they filed my case in 2023. They didn't do a thorough job. For the RFE, I basically did everything myself. No paralegal help at all.
Now, I seek to hire a competent law firm to support my green card application. I am probably doing consular processing since I am currently in the US on a G visa. I don't think I can't do a change of status inside the US while on this visa.
Would you recommend any law firms? How much should I expect to pay for this process? How long would it take to obtain a green card?
Thanks in advance.
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Alyssa KeysJun 5, 2025
Congratulations. you have passed the most difficult stage. if I were you, I wont use any lawyer for the adjustment phase
T AJun 5, 2025
@J FG Congratulations.
The most difficult huddle has been crossed. Please take your time to file your i485 application by yourself.
Bruna LJun 5, 2025
What law firm did you use?
Kar NIW i140-Nov 2023’Jun 5, 2025
Congratulations @J FG on your approval! Choosing to go for the PP was certainly a smart move!
Regarding the I-485, I have to admit that I’m not very savvy with legal matters and I often struggle with paperwork. In my case, Since this stage of my life depends on this process 99%, I really don’t want to take any chances by trying to file it myself. I’ve looked into DIY options and even watched some YouTube videos on how to submit the forms. However, given how crucial this is and the fact that a single mistake could result in a denial, I’ve decided to stick with my lawyer.
I usually don’t make recommendations, but if you're in academia, research, or similar fields, I suggest you go with Chen or Ellis and make sure to indicate that it’s for the AOS or Consular process. Additionally, if I were you, I would consider enrolling in a school for a term and then pursue AOS then you can get the “Pending Status” or stay in your school as an F1.
I believe being within the U.S. offers a bit more security, and if anything comes up, we would be here.
Hope this helps,
ps: Go to Reddit and check how many DIY I485 have been denied recently, and make your decision.
ps2: I k ow this might sound weird due to the fact your lawfirm “didn’t do a great job”, they have already all your scans, papers, info. I wouldn’t change, just be an step ahead of them and check everything with them! My lawfirm wasn’t good either, even they sent me a cover letter with mixed info, that I had to change and fix, and this issues happens with almost everyone.
James BondJun 5, 2025
Agreed, they have your file, easier for you to stick with them but triple check everything before filing
Pat PatJun 7, 2025
@J FG Congrats! looks like we are getting the 11 days after payment PP. happened to me and user k m too
c medJun 7, 2025
Can I ask you a question? how long did USCIS take to review your RFE response under PP?
J FGJun 7, 2025
two full weeks upon submission
B OOJun 8, 2025
Ellis Porter is a good lawyer firm. How, u really don't need a lawyer for this stage. I will suggest you go thru the requirements first. All u will do is to fill the required forms
B OOJun 8, 2025
submit along with medicals
