Hi Paula!
I was in Colombia while we filed for my I-130.
1. We only sent affidavits, photos, flight itineraries, hotel reservations, and chat screenshots because that’s all we had.
2. I don’t think a lawyer is necessary; just take your time to do your research and ask for any doubts you might have.
3. No, my I-130 took 7 months to get approved, and then dealing with the U.S. embassy in Bogota + 4 months, altogether 11 months - a year!
Check out my website, there’s excellent information on what I did in Bogota for biometrics, medical appointment and interview review
Vsjourneys.Wordpress.con/inmigr/