Scope of Services
Define precisely whether services include form completion, evidence organization, representation at USCIS interview, appeals, or only document review.
A clear engagement agreement defines responsibilities, avoids misunderstandings, and documents consent for electronic handling of sensitive records.
A written agreement ensures professional standards, helps manage evidence collection, and documents consent for electronic signatures where permitted.
An attorney drafts and reviews the N-400, advises on eligibility and evidence, represents the client before USCIS, and maintains client confidentiality consistent with state bar rules and applicable federal privacy law.
The client provides factual inputs, documents, and signatures, consents to electronic handling if applicable, pays agreed fees, and participates in interview and biometrics appointments as scheduled by USCIS.
Define precisely whether services include form completion, evidence organization, representation at USCIS interview, appeals, or only document review.
Specify flat fees, hourly rates, retainer amounts, payment schedule, refund policy, and who pays filing or biometrics fees.
List documents the client must provide, deadlines for responses, and consequences of missing or false information.
Include a consumer disclosure if consenting to electronic records and signatures, consistent with ESIGN (15 U.S.C. ch. 96) and applicable state law.
State how sensitive documents (medical records, criminal records) will be handled and any permitted disclosures to third parties.
Describe termination rights, file retention after closure, and the dispute-resolution process (mediation, arbitration, or court).
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signature | Enable e-signature with audit trail and date field |
| Authentication | Use email plus optional SMS or ID verification for higher assurance |
| Attachments | Allow uploads for IDs, passports, and medical records in PDF or image formats |
| Reminders | Set automated reminders for missing documents or unsigned agreements |
Confirm the platform meets ESIGN/UETA requirements and any industry-specific standards (for example HIPAA BAA for health records) before e-signature use.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Envelope Cap | No envelope cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
Five years generally; three years if married to a U.S. citizen
USCIS schedules a biometrics appointment after filing; attend with ID
USCIS will set an interview date; counsel should confirm client availability
Processing times vary by field office and workload
Keep evidence and filings until any appeal period or further counsel guidance
Client and attorney execute engagement agreement and confirm scope.
Counsel completes Form N-400 and gathers supporting evidence.
File with USCIS and attend biometrics appointment as scheduled.
Attend interview; if approved, schedule oath ceremony and finalize record.
A small firm drafts a written retainer to prepare a client's N-400 and gather evidence
A legal clinic uses a standard engagement form for pro bono N-400 assistance