If you’re worried you’ll make a mistake in the process of getting a green card, it’s time to start taking action. You first need the guidance of a professional immigration lawyer who has the experience to make your case strong. If you want to be a permanent resident, later becoming a citizen, it’s time to know how to make it happen

Let’s go over 10 tips you’ll need in the green card process.

Hire an Experienced Immigration Lawyer
It bears mentioning again. You need professional counsel for your best chance at success. This means hiring someone you can trust to handle your case. A lawyer can be invaluable in saving you time and money. There are many firms online showing all their experience. Do not rush this part of the process.

Follow the Forms
You will be working with the the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS), filling out forms to apply. Follow all the guidelines on the document. If there is a question you are unsure of, consult with your lawyer. Never leave questions blank. Be thorough and have your lawyer check your forms.

Ask Questions
If you’re unsure of any part of the process, you can ask both the USCIS and your lawyer. There are no bad questions.

Ask for Help with the English Language
If you have trouble with English, you can ask for an interpreter. The USCIS will not reject you simply because English is your second language. You can get help.

If You Are Rejected
If you are rejected, that does not mean you have no chance of ever getting a green card. If there is trouble with your documents, if you’ve broke U.S. Laws, if you did not follow USCIS instructions, you need your lawyers help.

What to Tell Your Attorney
Tell your lawyer everything you can. This means that if you’ve been denied entry into the U.S., if you’ve failed to get a green card in the past, or if you broke laws, you need to tell your lawyer. It does not always mean your case won’t go through.

Avoid Crime
If you do commit a crime, even minor, it can hurt your case. The green card process can be difficult for those who break U.S. criminal laws. If you were here illegally, for example, you might have trouble getting your green card without proper guidance.

Never Lie
Be as honest as you possibly can be. Never lie to the USCIS or to your lawyer. Just because you make some mistakes does not mean you should make another. If you lie to the USCIS, it can severely hurt your case. You likely will not become a permanent resident.

If You Need Financial Assistance
If you’re going to be applying for public assistance, speak with your lawyer about this first. If the USCIS feels you will only be here as a public charge, they may delay or reject your application. This is not to say you lie, but that you speak with your lawyer first.

Follow the Rules
You  know not to lie, to fill out the necessary documentation, to hire a lawyer, but you should also know that if you break any major rules in the green card process, you risk losing your opportunity. If you’re unsure of the green card process, that’s what your lawyer is for.