Immigration Evaluation Process and Fees
Navigating immigration cases can be complex, and a thorough mental health evaluation can be crucial for your case. My immigration evaluations follow a structured process designed to provide accurate, supportive documentation tailored to the needs of each client’s immigration filing. Below is a detailed breakdown of fees, evaluation steps, discounts, and interpreter policies.
Evaluation Fees
Screening Fee: $200 (paid at booking)
This initial fee covers a case screening and review of your immigration needs in consultation with your attorney. The Screening Fee is non-refundable and required to schedule the evaluation process.Full Evaluation Fee: $1250
Includes comprehensive assessment, report preparation, and final report delivery.TOTAL FEE: $1450
The evaluation fee can be made in payments. Required payment at the initial meeting is $500 with the balance payable in payments over time that work for your budget. Please note that the evaluation fee must be paid in full before copies of your report are released to you and your attorney.
Immigration Evaluation Process
1. Screening Step ($200)
The evaluation process begins with an initial screening, where the following steps are completed:
Client completes self-assessment and immigration-focused personal history questionnaires provided by the evaluator.
Evaluator reviews all submitted materials to determine the presence of mental health factors that may impact the immigration case.
Evaluator coordinates with the client’s attorney to clarify the requirements of the immigration filing.
Note: If a full evaluation is needed, clarity on the immigration filing’s requirements from the attorney may be required before proceeding.
2. Evaluation Step ($1250)
Once the client’s case needs are confirmed, we move forward with scheduling and completing the mental health evaluation.
Client and evaluator schedule evaluation session(s) based on availability and case requirements.
Client and evaluator agree on the arrangements for a certified medical interpreter (if needed) for evaluation sessions.
Evaluation sessions are conducted, and the balance of $1000 is payable in one, two, or three installments as agreed upon at the time of scheduling. Cash, cashier’s check, money order, credit, and debit are accepted. Personal checks are not accepted.
3. Reporting Step
Upon completion of the evaluation sessions, the evaluator will finalize and prepare the report:
A signed, hardcopy report is sent directly to both the client and attorney once all fees are paid in full.
Family Discount for Asylum and Hardship Cases
I understand that immigration cases often impact multiple family members. To help alleviate the financial burden, I offer a $100 discount per evaluation for each family member needing an evaluation for asylum or hardship cases. This discount is available to family members being evaluated within the same case type and filing period. Please inform me during the initial consultation if you are seeking evaluations for multiple family members so that we can make appropriate arrangements.
Why Evaluation Fees Are an Investment in Your Case
While immigration evaluation fees may seem substantial, these evaluations are an investment in the strength of your case and can have life-changing benefits. Here’s why:
Expert Insight: My evaluations are tailored to the specific needs of immigration cases, providing a detailed psychological assessment that may reveal important factors to support your case.
Professional Collaboration with Attorneys: I work directly with your attorney to ensure that every report meets legal standards and supports your case requirements.
Credible and Objective Reporting: Immigration officials place significant weight on professional, well-documented evaluations, which lend credibility to your claims and present your personal experiences objectively and compassionately.
Comprehensive Documentation: My evaluations go far beyond surface-level assessments. Typically, I spend 6-8 hours completing each report. My typical report length is 15-20 pages. Each report documents your unique experiences and needs in thorough detail, improving the likelihood of a positive outcome.
With a professionally completed evaluation, you’re investing in an important document that may strengthen your case in ways that can positively affect you and your family’s future.
Each evaluation is priced as a package, so there are no additional fees for any extra communications with your attorney or extra evaluation sessions that may be needed. (NOTE: Expert testimony for immigration court appearances is not included in the evaluation package fee and are priced seperately.)
Interpreter Policies
Why Hire an Interpreter?
f you do not speak English, or if you feel that you could better expression your feelings and tell your story in your native language, I am experienced in working with professional interpreters to complete evaluation sessions.
Certified Medical Interpreter Requirement
It is highly recommended that clients arrange for a certified medical interpreter through an interpreting agency for evaluation sessions. Certified interpreters ensure that your words are accurately conveyed and uphold a high level of trust with immigration officials. Using a friend or family member as an interpreter may lead immigration officials to question the impartiality of the evaluation.
Minors (people under 18) cannot serve as interpreters for evaluation sessions.
Interpreter Recommendations
While clients may choose any interpreting service, the following are recommended providers due to their experience with immigration evaluation sessions:
Languagers.com: $69 per hour for Spanish, $89 per hour for other languages (1-hour minimum)
Phone: +1 (800) 527-3001CraneyInterpreting.com: $60 per hour for Spanish, $80-$125 per hour for other languages (minimum fees apply)
Phone: +1 (732) 768-8828(Prices listed are accurate as of 2024, but are subject to change at any time based on the policies of the respective services.)
If preferred, I can coordinate the interpreter for you at the most cost-effective rate, with interpreting fees added to your evaluation fee.
Schedule Your Immigration Evaluation
Start the process of securing a professional immigration evaluation by completing the form below. Once I have received your information, I will contact you personally to schedule your evaluation meeting(s)!