Self filing vs using a lawyer?

[Rearviewmirror 397]

Hi all,

 

We just received our green card (yay!) and I was wondering what people's thoughts were on self filing for ROC vs using a lawyer? We used a lawyer for our AOS process and it went smoothly, but honestly don't really want to spend another $3k for the ROC.

 

Am I right in thinking that ROC packet is very similar to AOS, only we will need to include 2 years 9 months of new evidence of bonafide relationship?

 

Thanks!

[Crazy Cat 41,979]

Filing the I-751 package is quite easy.  Just follow the guide here on VJ.

 

[elmers 293]

1 minute ago, Rearviewmirror said:

Hi all,

 

We just received our green card (yay!) and I was wondering what people's thoughts were on self filing for ROC vs using a lawyer? We used a lawyer for our AOS process and it went smoothly, but honestly don't really want to spend another $3k for the ROC.

 

Am I right in thinking that ROC packet is very similar to AOS, only we will need to include 2 years 9 months of new evidence of bonafide relationship?

 

Thanks!

RoC packet is actually simpler than AoS. Just need one form and supporting evidence.

[USC4SPOUSE 506]

@Rearviewmirror, you do not need a lawyer to file the I-751. You just have to make sure that you are thorough. It is best to follow the instructions and include evidence of bona fide marriage since the date of the marriage. 

 

[sweetadams 138]

1 hour ago, Rearviewmirror said:

Hi all,

 

We just received our green card (yay!) and I was wondering what people's thoughts were on self filing for ROC vs using a lawyer? We used a lawyer for our AOS process and it went smoothly, but honestly don't really want to spend another $3k for the ROC.

 

Am I right in thinking that ROC packet is very similar to AOS, only we will need to include 2 years 9 months of new evidence of bonafide relationship?

 

Thanks!

I have always followed the guides here on VJ, it is simpler and easier. Just fill the form and attach necessary evidence to support your marriage.

[captain chickpea 31]

I used a lawyer for the initial GC application, and used the same one for submitting my removal of conditions. I’m a super anxious person and my SO isn’t great with paperwork, so having someone to look over everything, tell us what is needed and take care of the mailing is so helpful for me. Using the same lawyer also meant that she knew our case, and was able to add the new evidence we provided to our original folder of supporting evidence. 
 

the cost for this was much less too as it’s less work for the lawyer. I believe ours charged around $3000 for the GC app versus $900 for this. 
 

 

[Mike E 11,740]

On 5/24/2021 at 11:44 AM, Rearviewmirror said:

Am I right in thinking that ROC packet is very similar to AOS, only we will need to include 2 years 9 months of new evidence of bonafide relationship?

1 year, 9 months, not 2 years, 9 months, and that is assuming the “resident since” date on the gc is the same as the AOS interview date.  

[USC4SPOUSE 506]

@Rearviewmirror, it is best to follow the instructions and include evidence of bona fide marriage since the date of the marriage and not since the resident since date. As you inferred, there is overlap between the evidence you send for AOS and ROC. While it may seem redundant and repetitive to send the same evidence, that is fine - still send it since the date of your marriage.

 

Congrats on your green card!

 

 

[aznhouston 132]

Self. Many lawyers are stupid.

[Just Paul 4,595]

ROC is super easy.   Only include "extra" evidence since you last filing.  In your case since the AOS.   N-400 is easy too - next year.

[ms_bobdog 501]

If your case is straightforward then just do it yourself. From my i130 to my i751, I did everything myself. Already received my 10-year GC in hand. If you have questions, VJ members are more than happy to chime in to help you out!