Given the rough economic climate and vulnerable condition of the immigrant worker, there has been an increase of immigrant labor abuse.  Many immigrant workers generally accept these circumstances because of fear and lack of awareness of their rights.  If you feel you have been a victim of abuse or discrimination you may seek the services of an Attorney.   

The consultation with the lawyer is the most important factor in your decision to hire an attorney. Evaluate the attorney based on the following:

 -         Does he understand your problem or will he have to do research to answer your questions?

-         Is she a good listener?  

-         Can she explain the law in an understandable way and how it applies to your case?

-         Does he give you confidence that he can solve your legal problem in a cost-effective way?

-         Expect that whomever you hire will delegate a lot of responsibility to his or her staff. Therefore, evaluate how the lawyer’s staff treats you, since they are a reflection of how the lawyer practices. At a minimum, both the lawyer and his staff should treat you courteously and professionally.

-         Ask about conflicts of interest. Does the lawyer represent your employer or other interested party?

Ask for references. You should talk to people who could comment on the lawyer’s skills and trustworthiness. The best reference is one of the lawyer’s current or former clients. You can also check with other lawyers by going on the internet, your state’s bar association and local newspapers and publications.

Tags: Attorney, employment law, Hispanic, Immigrant, immigrant labor, Latino, Lawyer