Form G-28: Attorney Representation in Immigration Cases

Dive Right Into

Key Takeaways

Form G-28 authorizes legal representatives to act on behalf of individuals in U.S. immigration-related matters, ensuring formal recognition.
It allows representatives to access records, receive communications, submit forms, and accompany clients in immigration proceedings.
Recent updates include electronic filing, scanned signatures, and potential changes to accommodate multiple attorneys, enhancing efficiency and accessibility.

Form G-28, officially called the Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, is a key document in the U.S. immigration system. Issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), this form allows you to formally name a legal representative to act on your behalf in immigration-related matters. Whether you’re applying for a green card, responding to requests from government agencies, or appealing a decision, having a legal representative often makes the process smoother and more manageable.

What is Form G-28 and Its Purpose?

Form G-28: Attorney Representation in Immigration Cases

Form G-28 enables applicants, petitioners, or respondents to designate a trusted legal representative. This representative can be either an attorney licensed in the United States or an accredited representative authorized by the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). By submitting this form, you formally notify USCIS, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), or U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that your representative is authorized to act on your behalf in immigration proceedings.

The primary purpose of Form G-28 is to establish a formal relationship between the client and their legal representative. This document is essential for several reasons:
– It grants legal representatives the authority to access your confidential immigration records.
– It allows your representative to receive communications from immigration authorities.
– It permits your legal representative to submit forms or applications on your behalf.
– It enables your representative to accompany you to interviews or hearings.

This level of legal assistance is invaluable in navigating the often-complicated immigration process. Filing Form G-28 accurately ensures that your legal representative is officially recognized by immigration agencies, avoiding unnecessary complications.

Who Can File Form G-28?

Only specific, qualified individuals can serve as your legal representative through Form G-28:
– Attorneys: These must be lawyers licensed by the bar association in any U.S. state, territory, or commonwealth. They must also maintain good standing.
– Accredited Representatives: Non-attorneys who have been specifically authorized by the BIA to represent clients in immigration cases. Typically, these representatives work for nonprofit organizations that provide legal aid to immigrants.
– Law Students or Graduates: Under some conditions, law students or graduates can represent you if they are supervised by a licensed attorney or accredited representative.

For the form to take effect, both you and your chosen legal representative must sign it. This signature confirms your consent and their willingness to act on your behalf.

What Does the Form Look Like?

Form G-28 is structured into several sections to gather key details about you and your legal representative:

Part 1: Information About the Attorney or Accredited Representative
This section asks for the representative’s name, contact information, and licensing details, such as a bar number for attorneys.
Part 2: Eligibility Information
Here, the representative confirms they meet the qualifications to practice law or offer accredited representation.
Part 3: Notice of Appearance
This section specifies the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agency handling your case (such as USCIS, ICE, or CBP). It also details the scope of representation and includes your case information.
Part 4: Client Consent
This part is where you give formal consent and specify how you want sensitive documents and notifications to be handled—either sent to you directly or routed through your legal representative.

When Should You Use Form G-28?

Form G-28 is required any time you involve a legal representative in U.S. immigration proceedings. It should accompany applications, petitions, or appeals where representation is involved. Common situations include:
– Applying for green cards, work permits, or naturalization.
– Responding to Requests for Evidence (RFEs) issued by USCIS.
– Representing clients in removal proceedings involving ICE.
– Appealing decisions made by USCIS or other immigration-related agencies.

However, if you’re handling your case independently and without formal representation, you do not need to file Form G-28.

Benefits of Filing Form G-28

There are multiple benefits to filing Form G-28:
1. Direct Communication: Immigration agencies will send all notices and correspondence to your legal representative. This ensures faster responses to requests and avoids delays.
2. Better Organization: Legal representatives often use well-maintained case management systems to avoid issues like lost mail or missed deadlines.
3. Expertise in Legal Matters: A legal professional can explain complex terms in correspondence and guide you in addressing specific issues.
4. Backup for Important Documents: Even if notifications are sent directly to you, having a legal representative ensures no critical information is overlooked.

Recent Updates to Form G-28

Efforts are underway to make immigration processes more efficient, and Form G-28 has been part of these updates. A significant development is the introduction of ERO eFile, a new digital system launched by ICE in November 2024. This system allows legal representatives to electronically submit Form G-28 for cases involving detained noncitizens. This transition to a digital platform is aimed at speeding up processes and improving security.

Furthermore, USCIS now accepts scanned copies of signed forms instead of requiring original signatures. These advancements help reduce administrative burdens on both clients and representatives.

Common Errors to Watch For

Filing Form G-28 might seem straightforward, but mistakes can lead to delays or rejections:
– Missing Signatures: Both the client and legal representative must sign the form.
– Incomplete Information: All sections need to be filled out completely and accurately.
– Outdated Forms: Always ensure you’re using the latest version of the form. You can verify this on the official USCIS website.
– Unclear Mailing Preferences: Specify how correspondence should be handled in Part 4 to avoid confusion.

To avoid these errors, you should double-check all entries and review filing instructions on the USCIS website. For additional peace of mind, consult with a qualified attorney.

What Does the Future Hold?

Form G-28’s role is expected to evolve as U.S. immigration policies adapt to technological changes and the growing demand for legal representation. Innovations like ERO eFile highlight the shift toward more digital, streamlined processes. Proposed updates to the form may allow multiple attorneys from the same firm to participate in one case, expanding options for legal representation.

Improved accessibility through technology, combined with policy adjustments, underscores the importance of legal representation in an increasingly complex immigration environment. Staying updated on changes to Form G-28 and its filing processes is essential for applicants and legal professionals alike.

Real-World Impact and Trends

Statistics show how applicants benefit from involving attorneys using Form G-28. According to data from fiscal year 2024, more than 64% of naturalization applicants aged 40 or older sought professional legal help. This trend reinforces the view that experienced legal assistance is crucial for navigating U.S. immigration procedures successfully.

Final Thoughts

Form G-28 ensures your attorney or accredited representative can represent you effectively in immigration affairs. Secure communication, seamless case management, and expert guidance are just a few advantages of filing this form. With modern tools such as ERO eFile reflecting a broader push for efficiency, it’s crucial to stay informed on recent updates.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, staying updated on changes and requirements for Form G-28 is vital for safeguarding your rights during intricate legal processes. For official and detailed information about this form, you can visit the USCIS Form G-28 page to ensure you’re using the correct version and remain compliant with filing procedures.

With immigration policies constantly evolving, Form G-28 serves as a bridge for applicants seeking reliable legal representation. Knowing how to correctly file and update this form can greatly impact the success of your case.

G-28: The Key to Legal Representation in U.S. Immigration

Form G-28, issued by USCIS, officially designates an attorney or accredited representative to act on behalf of someone in immigration matters. It ensures proper legal advocacy and smoother case management.

Why it matters:
Navigating U.S. immigration processes can be complex and error-prone without proper guidance. Form G-28 gives legal representatives the authority to directly engage with agencies like USCIS, ICE, and CBP, ensuring clients’ cases are handled effectively.

The big picture:
– Who can file: Only licensed attorneys, accredited representatives authorized by the BIA, or supervised law students/graduates can act as legal representatives.
– Client consent required: The form must be signed by the client to confirm agreement to the representation.

What it does:
Filing Form G-28 enables legal representatives to:
– Access confidential case files.
– Receive correspondence directly.
– Submit documents and represent clients in interviews or hearings.

By the numbers:
– 64% of naturalization applicants represented by attorneys using Form G-28 in FY 2024 were aged 40 or older – showcasing growing reliance on legal help among older applicants.

Recent updates:
– Digital filing: ICE introduced the ERO eFile system in late 2024 for electronic submissions of Form G-28, aiming to modernize immigration filing processes.
– Streamlining signatures: USCIS now accepts scanned copies of signed forms instead of requiring original signatures, reducing administrative delays.

Yes, but: Filing mistakes can cause delays.
– Missing signatures, incomplete or outdated forms, and unclear mailing preferences are common issues.
– Solutions include double-checking entries, consulting attorneys, and reviewing USCIS filing tips.

The bottom line:
Form G-28 is essential for securing effective legal representation in U.S. immigration cases. With digital advancements and evolving policies, it’s critical for applicants and legal professionals to stay updated to minimize errors and improve case outcomes.

Learn Today

Form G-28: A document allowing individuals to designate a legal representative for U.S. immigration-related matters.
USCIS: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services; the government agency managing immigration and naturalization processes.
Accredited Representative: A non-attorney authorized by the Board of Immigration Appeals to provide legal representation in immigration cases.
Requests for Evidence (RFEs): Notices issued by USCIS requesting additional information or documentation to assess an immigration application or petition.
ERO eFile: A digital system by ICE for electronically submitting Form G-28, improving efficiency and security in immigration cases.

This Article in a Nutshell

Form G-28 empowers immigrants by formally designating a legal representative to act on their behalf. Whether navigating green card applications or appeals, this document ensures direct communication, expert guidance, and smoother case handling. Filing it correctly safeguards your rights, avoiding delays. Stay informed—Form G-28 is your ally in complex immigration processes.
— By VisaVerge.com