Is a Lawyer Really Necessary for the AOS Process and Interview?

Hi everyone,

I’m a U.S. citizen in California and just about to file for Adjustment of Status (AOS) for my Canadian spouse. We’ve already gotten married (legally in Canada), and we’re preparing the I-130, I-485, and all accompanying forms ourselves.

So far, the paperwork seems manageable with a lot of online research and checklists — but I keep going back and forth on whether hiring an immigration lawyer is actually necessary, especially when it comes to: • Reviewing the full AOS packet before submission • Preparing for or even attending the AOS interview with us

We don’t have any red flags (no overstays, no criminal records, no previous immigration denials, etc.), but we’re just wondering if having a lawyer would really make a difference, or if most couples in straightforward cases get through fine on their own.

For those of you who: • Did NOT use a lawyer — did you have any issues, regrets, or hiccups during the interview or approval process? • DID use a lawyer — was it worth it, or did you feel like you could’ve handled it without one?

Would love to hear real-world experiences before we make the decision. Thanks in advance for any insight 🙏