Work with Your Lawyer or Other Legal Representative

Be honest

Be open and honest with your legal representative. It will be difficult for them to help you if you hide information. They are your guide.

Be prepared

Prepare before every meeting with your legal representative. You may want to email them questions first or make a list of questions to take to the meeting. This will help you use your time well.

This is your refugee claim

Remember that this is YOUR claim for refugee protection. Even if you have a legal representative, you should be involved in all the steps before your hearing. Keep track of the deadlines. If you miss one, the IRB may say that you have abandoned your claim.

Take control of what you can. Make sure you understand the process. This will make you more comfortable with what happens.