How to find a lawyer who speaks your language in the US

Explaining a legal problem is hard enough in your first language. In a second one, small misunderstandings can turn into missed deadlines, signed papers you didn't fully understand, or money spent on the wrong kind of help. If you've moved to the United States, finding a lawyer who speaks your language is one of the most useful things you can do before you need one urgently.

This guide covers where to look, how to check that someone is qualified, and what to ask at the first meeting.

Why the language matters

A lawyer needs your whole story: dates, names, what was said and by whom. When you're translating in your head, details get lost or simplified. A lawyer who speaks your language can also catch things you might not think to mention, and can explain your options in words you'll remember after the meeting.

Even if your English is good, legal English is its own language. It's normal to want someone who can switch to your language when it gets complicated.

Know what kind of lawyer you need

Lawyers specialise, so start by naming the problem:

• Immigration: visas, green cards, citizenship, work permits, family petitions
• Family: divorce, custody, child support
• Housing: leases, deposits, eviction notices
• Employment: unpaid wages, unfair dismissal, workplace injuries
• Business: starting a company, contracts, licences
• Criminal defence: if you or a family member has been charged with something

If you're not sure, a general practice lawyer can point you in the right direction.

Where to look

Ask your community. Friends, relatives, your place of worship or a cultural association often know someone. Word of mouth is how most people find help, and it's still a good start.

Search by language. On ReRoot you can browse legal services and filter by the language you want to speak, then message the lawyer directly. You can also search by city to find someone near you.

Look for nonprofit help. Many cities have legal aid organisations that offer free or low-cost help, often in several languages, for people who qualify.

Check that they're qualified

Before you share documents or pay anything:

• Confirm they're licensed. Every US state has a bar association with a public lookup. Search the lawyer's name to see that their licence is active and whether they've been disciplined.
• For immigration, be careful with "notarios." In some countries a notario is a qualified lawyer. In the US, a notary public is not, and cannot give legal advice. Only licensed attorneys and accredited representatives working for recognised organisations can represent you in immigration matters.
• Never hand over original documents like your passport. Give copies.

Questions to ask at the first meeting

Many lawyers offer a short first consultation. Bring your documents and a written timeline, and ask:

1. Have you handled cases like mine before?
2. What are my options, and what are the risks of each?
3. How do you charge: a flat fee, by the hour, or a share of what I recover?
4. What will the total cost likely be, and what's included?
5. Who will I speak to day to day, and in which language?
6. How long will this probably take?

Ask for the fee agreement in writing, and don't sign anything you haven't understood. If it's only in English, it's fine to ask them to walk you through it in your language.

Keep a simple record

Keep a folder with copies of everything you send and receive, plus notes from every call with the date. If your case moves to a different person at the firm, you'll be glad you did.

Find a lawyer who speaks your language on ReRoot

ReRoot lists lawyers and other professionals by the languages they actually work in. Search by service, city and language, read what each person does, and message them directly. It's free to join ReRoot.

This article is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your situation, speak to a licensed lawyer.