Legal G28 Agreement
What the Legal G-28 Agreement Is and When it’s Used
Why the Legal G-28 Agreement Matters
A completed G-28 formally establishes representation, ensures official communications go to the designated counsel or accredited rep, and helps prevent delays or missed deadlines caused by misdirected notices. It also documents the representative’s authority for case-related actions.
Who Typically Completes and Signs a Legal G-28 Agreement
The form is completed by the representative and the client; it must accurately identify both parties and the case.
- Immigration attorneys and law firms who will act on behalf of the applicant or petitioner.
- Accredited representatives from recognized nonprofit organizations authorized to practice immigration law.
- Applicants, petitioners, or beneficiaries who authorize a representative to receive correspondence and act in the case.
Keep the signed copy with the client file and include it whenever filing or updating USCIS on the client’s behalf.
Step-by-Step: Completing and Submitting the Legal G-28 Agreement
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01Gather case details: Collect A-number/receipt and client identity documents before starting.
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02Complete form: Fill representative and client sections accurately; include bar/accreditation number.
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03Obtain signatures: Representative and client must sign and date the form.
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04Submit with filing: Attach to the initial filing or upload to the case record per USCIS instructions.
How to Configure an Online G-28 Workflow
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Required fields | Representative name | Bar number | Client name | A-number |
| Signer role | Assign 'Client' and 'Representative' signer roles |
| Authentication | Email link plus optional SMS or ID verification |
| eFile compatibility | Export as PDF/A when attaching to USCIS case files |
Where the Signed G-28 Goes and What Happens Next
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Attach to filing: Include the signed G-28 with the initial immigration application or petition.
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USCIS processing: USCIS links the form to the case and updates correspondence routing.
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Receive notices: Representative receives official communications and requests for evidence.
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Update record: File new G-28 to change representation or contact details.
Digital Signing and File Formats for the G-28
Use e-signature tools that produce an auditable PDF and preserve a complete certificate of completion.
- File formats: PDF, DOCX, PDF/A
- Authentication: Email link or stronger verification
- Integrations: CRM and cloud storage support
Timelines and Timing Considerations for Filing a G-28
Initial filing timing:
Submit G-28 with the original application or petition.
After case opens:
File G-28 promptly when representation starts midcase to receive future notices.
Changes of counsel:
File an updated G-28 to reflect successor representation immediately.
E-file notes:
Follow USCIS e-file instructions when uploading G-28 electronically.
Receipt notices:
Allow normal USCIS processing time for address and correspondence updates.
Penalties and Risks of an Incorrect or Missing G-28
Common Preparation Mistakes to Avoid
- Leaving out the client’s A-number or a valid receipt number, which prevents USCIS from linking the G-28 to the correct case and delays routing.
- Providing an incorrect bar or accreditation number, which can cause USCIS to question representative authority and return correspondence to the applicant.
- Submitting an unsigned or undated G-28 or using initials in lieu of a full signature, which may render the form ineffective for representation purposes.
- Sending a standalone G-28 without attaching it to the underlying filing or notifying USCIS via the correct e-file channel, causing notices to continue going to the applicant.
Representative Use Cases for the Legal G-28 Agreement
Immigration Law Firm
A small immigration practice files a G-28 with every initial petition to receive USCIS notices directly
- Saves time on status checks and ensures timely responses
- The firm stores a signed PDF/A with an audit trail so any future verification request is supported by timestamped signature evidence and contact details.
Nonprofit Legal Clinic
A community legal clinic uses G-28 forms for public-benefit petitions and logs accreditation numbers on intake
- Ensures clinic receives all agency correspondence
- Maintaining organized G-28 records allows the clinic to demonstrate authorized representation when coordinating benefits, appeals, or FOIA requests.
eSignature Vendor Comparison for Managing the Legal G-28 Agreement
| 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, no credit card required | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor |
| Bulk Send | Yes (Business Premium) | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Practical Tips for Accurate and Efficient G-28 Completion
Who Signs the G-28 and What Authority Is Required
Attorney / Accredited Rep
The representative signs to accept appointment and must include professional identification such as bar number or accreditation ID; the signature confirms authority to receive correspondence and act in specified matters on the client’s behalf.
Applicant / Client
The client signs to authorize the representative; a client signature links the authorization to the case and demonstrates consent required under agency procedures and privacy rules.
FAQs: Common Questions About the Legal G-28 Agreement
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Is there a fee for filing a G-28?
No separate USCIS fee is charged for the G-28 itself; it is filed with the underlying application or petition and follows that filing’s fee rules. Confirm applicable fees for the primary form at USCIS fee guidance.
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Can the representative sign electronically?
Yes. Electronic signatures are generally valid under the ESIGN Act (15 U.S.C. ch. 96) and UETA where adopted, provided the signing platform captures intent, attribution, and retention. Follow USCIS e-file instructions when submitting electronically.
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Does the G-28 require notarization?
USCIS does not generally require notarization of a G-28. Notarization is not typical for representation forms; consult agency filing guidance or state-specific procedural rules if in doubt.
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How do I change or withdraw representation?
File a new G-28 reflecting the new representative or submit written withdrawal per USCIS guidance; ensure the client’s consent and timely notification so notices route correctly.
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What if I entered the wrong A-number or bar number?
Submit a corrected G-28 or contact USCIS to update the case record promptly; incorrect identifiers can prevent linkage and result in missed notices or processing delays.
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Are there professional risks for false representation?
Yes. Misrepresenting authorization can lead to disciplinary action for representatives and potential legal consequences; always verify credentials and maintain accurate records.