Moderators + Guru's - Solicitor Capabilities?

[pkumar]

Moderators and Guru's,

I think your input in this regard will be greatly appreciated.

Almost everybody who is scared, sceptic, not-so-confidence of immigration goes to Solicitor. Some times thousands of pounds are given to Solicitor's to get job done. So what is that solicitor does for Tier 1 and ILR that person who knows what to submit can't? What extra edge can solicitor do apart from asking for paperwork? (Please disregard appeal) ..... my understanding is Solicitor cannot talk to case worker, cannot verbally convince ... ALL THEY DO IS GET QUICK DATES and ask you to SUBMIT RIGHT PAPERS ... what else they do? .... I am sure good conversation here would benefit many people ... as many think that solicitor has this magic stick which he/she can use in any circumstances!!!! Solicitor inputs appreciated as well :) ....

NOTE: I am referring to role of solicitor for Tier 1 + Extention + ILR only.

[mulderpf]

The only difference is that hopefully a solicitor has dealt with more than one case before. Applying on your own, you are on your own - going through a solicitor, you are apparently using the services of someone who's been doing it for years.

With all the constant changes though, getting someone who's done it for years, may not always be such a good thing. (I remember specifically speaking to an immigration consultant about applying for a Tier 1 visa and they had their facts completely screwed up - this was from someone from one of the largest firms processing UK visas...)

[Sushil-ACCA]

Professional help alwys-- pays well

[vinny]

See also Consultant or Self Apply.

[pkumar]

Still don't get it.
Here are people who go to Solicitor for ILR ... anyone please ... how do solicitor makes difference? ... apart from helping fill application and get dates? .....

[krazydude]

Well if you think that your application is simple, straight-forward and you understand all the risks and implications, then self-apply is the best option. However if there are complications and factors that might affect your application result and you are not confident as to how these factors might take shape, then good professional help should be sought.

[drjabberwocky23]

Still don't get it.
Here are people who go to Solicitor for ILR ... anyone please ... how do solicitor makes difference? ... apart from helping fill application and get dates? .....

It comes down to an individual's preference. There are those who are less confident in reading and understanding the law/regulations with respect to visa applications and choose to have someone help them with this. The hope is that if the lawyers/advisors deal with such applications on a regular basis, they will have a better chance of submitting a fully valid application.

[pkumar]

Apart from helping for documentation , guiding you what document to submit ..... and get early date ...... do they do ANYTHING else?

[Greenie]

Apart from helping for documentation , guiding you what document to submit ..... and get early date ...... do they do ANYTHING else?

They advise you on the law. If the application is complicated they can draft representations to include with your application. They will have dealt with many applications and will know what to look out for. If you are refused they prepare your appeal and represent you in court.

As others have said, in many cases there is no need for a solicitor or immigration advisor, but in many cases a suitably qualified and experience professional can add value to your case and can help to ensure it is successful.