Finding out that your migration law firm has suddenly closed can be overwhelming. Whether you have a visa application pending with the Department of Home Affairs or an appeal before the Administrative Review Tribunal, it's natural to feel uncertain about what happens next.
Many people immediately start asking questions such as:
- Has the firm shut down completely?
- Is my visa application still being processed?
- Will I miss an important deadline?
- How do I get access to my file?
- Can another migration agent take over my matter?
- What happens to the documents I provided to the previous firm?
The good news is that in most cases, your immigration matter will continue. However, it is important to act promptly to ensure your interests remain protected.
We've Helped Clients Through Similar Situations Before
The closure of a law firm is not as uncommon as many people think. Because of this, we understand the practical difficulties that can arise when a client unexpectedly loses access to their lawyer.
The First Step: Recovering Your File
One of the biggest challenges after a law firm closure is obtaining access to your records.
Your file may contain important documents, visa applications, correspondence with the Department of Home Affairs, Tribunal documents, supporting evidence, legal submissions, and previous advice.
Depending on the circumstances, these records may be held by:
- An appointed manager;
- Another law practice; or
- The former firm itself.
Obtaining the file can sometimes be a real process, and in some cases it may take a lot of time and require communication with multiple parties. That's why it is important that you consider appointing a new registered migration agent.
Understanding Where Your Matter Stands
Once a new migration agent obtains your file, the next priority is understanding exactly where your case is up to.
A thorough review is usually required to identify:
- Applications that have already been lodged;
- Requests for further information issued by the Department or the Tribunal;
- Upcoming deadlines;
- Interviews scheduled;
- Tribunal hearings;
- Outstanding evidence issues;
- Previous legal advice; and
- Any risks that require immediate attention.
Every migration matter is different, which is why a careful assessment is so important. We recommend hiring a registered migration agent without delay.
Timeframes Matter
Australian migration law is heavily deadline-driven. Sometimes when a deadline is missed, there is not much that can be done. You may need to act quickly.
A missed request from the Department or a missed Tribunal deadline can potentially affect the outcome of a case. For this reason, clients should not assume that everything is under control simply because an application was lodged before the law firm closed.
It is important to ensure that the Department of Home Affairs or the Tribunal has your current contact details and that you continue receiving all future correspondence. A registered migration agent can assist you to ensure that current contact details are provided to relevant parties.
Making the Transition as Smooth as Possible
Changing lawyers unexpectedly is rarely something a client plans for. Understandably, many people feel frustrated, anxious, or confused about what happens next. That is normal. Don't panic, but act quickly.
Our approach at AMA is to make the transition as straightforward as possible. We work with clients to understand their circumstances, obtain relevant documents, assess the current status of their matter, and provide practical advice about the next steps.
Whether you have a visa application, sponsorship matter, partner visa, skilled visa, employer-sponsored visa, protection visa, citizenship application, or Tribunal appeal, obtaining clear advice early can help prevent unnecessary complications later.
Act now!
Need Help After Your Firm Has Closed?
If your migration law firm has ceased trading, entered liquidation, or is no longer able to represent you, obtaining independent legal advice can help you understand your options and ensure your matter continues moving forward.
While every case is different, taking action sooner rather than later can help minimise disruption and provide peace of mind during what is often an already stressful immigration process.
Call AMA on 1300 419 785 without delay. We are here for you.
[free_consultation]
Book a Consultation
If you are interested in getting more information about a visa, get in touch with Australian Migration Lawyers for a consultation.
[/free_consultation]
%402x.svg){kind=icon}
