??Lawyer vs Migration agent. Which one should I chooses?
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??As of the 22nd of March 2021, Australian lawyers can work with migration law without a relevant migration license (OMARA). The question is should you choose a lawyer or migration agent to deal with your visa related matters? Let's explore!
??Lawyers are licensed professionals who complete relevant Bachelor or higher Degree, undergo practical legal training and supervised practice. Law qualification is very broad and covers all compulsory subjects needed to obtain licence. Lawyers usually choose area of practice later in the career.
???Lawyers intending to provide migration assistance will receive their own unique identification number, called the Law Practitioner Number (LPТ) in November 2021. Using this number everybody can determine their experience and the legitimacy of their migration services.
?????♀?On the other hand, registered migration agents specialise only in migration law, narrowing the industry to particular topics. To become a migration agent, you have to complete Graduate Diploma in Australian Migration Law and Practice, maintain a professional library, complete professional development courses every year to stay up to date with the continuously evolving industry. Each agent has its own MARN number and you can check its status at any time.
??Immigration is a complex and strategic process that requires deep knowledge. Given that lawyers don't have to obtain relevant narrow qualification to work with migration law, their knowledge might not be as comprehensive as those who are in the industry and constantly upskilling.
??Professional lawyers with good education and reputation cost a lot of money. Their job is to handle very complicated cases and sort out serious problems. On the other hand, immigration agents have the right to represent you before the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. Nevertheless, a migration agent's license costs less than a lawyer's license, and accordingly, their services can be cheaper.
???????I am currently studying law and I constantly widen my knowledge of migration matters based on legal principles I learn. I won several AAT matter against qualified lawyers and I can certainly tell that qualification is not the main thing here. Any professional should love what they do and go it thoroughly, under ethical principles.
????Hiring a professional to handle your immigration matters is already a good idea. It's totally up to you to decide which professional will be the best choice. Our suggestion is to do your research, read reviews and get a consultation before the commitment!???