Don't Lie to Your Immigration Lawyer! Why Honesty is Your Best Defence
Engaging an immigration lawyer can be beneficial for your visa matter, especially if you have a complex circumstance. Their expertise can guide you through intricate regulations and increase your chances of a favourable outcome. However, it is a two-way relationship; the effectiveness of their assistance relies heavily on one key element: your complete honesty. Misleading or withholding information from your lawyer can severely undermine your case and even jeopardise your future in Australia.
Why Engage an Immigration Lawyer?
There are several key benefits to engaging an immigration lawyer for your visa matter. They possess extensive knowledge of immigration law, legislation, regulations, and procedures. Assess your situation, identify potential challenges, and craft a customised strategy. Additionally, help determine which reasons are better and guide you on how to build evidence for a stronger claim. An immigration lawyer also ensure that all supporting documents and forms are completed and that the necessary documents are submitted. They can act on your behalf in dealings with the Department of Home Affairs (DoHA) and advocate on your behalf.
Why Honesty is Crucial?
Your lawyer can only provide the best possible advice if they have all the accurate facts from you. Hiding or distorting information prevents them from understanding the full scope of your case.
Knowing the truth allows your representative to prepare for potential challenges and develop strategies to mitigate any negative impacts.
Lying to your lawyer is not only unethical but also breaks trust and can lead to legal consequences. They are ethically and legally bound to act with integrity on behalf of their clients.
Public Interest Criterion (PIC) 4020 is a provision that can lead to visa refusal if you provide false or misleading information. Your lawyer can help you avoid unintentionally triggering PIC4020.
What is PIC4020 for a Visa Application?
As mentioned, PIC 4020 is a visa criterion that can refuse a visa application if an applicant:
Provides false or misleading information
Submits fraudulent documents
Fails to disclose relevant information
If it is too late, a PIC 4020 refusal can result in a 3-year or, in serious cases, a 10-year ban on applying for most visas, which can significantly impact your future migration pathway. Alternatively, your visa may be cancelled due to Section 109, and this could have consequences for a visa grant ban - PIC4013 for 3 years.
Transparent is key! Your relationship with your immigration lawyer should be built on trust and honesty. Read our clients’ testimonials on Agape Henry Crux and Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law, Jason Ling.
Related:
PIC 4020 Visa Refusal: Steps to Take After Your Visa is Rejected
Discovered a Mistake in Your Visa Application? How to Avoid PIC4020 Issues
Common Character Mistakes – Traffic Offences, Spent Convictions and More
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help
Providing complete and accurate information empowers your legal representative to develop the best and strongest possible case on your behalf. Transparency is your best defence! Speak with an immigration lawyer for tailored advice to meet your visa goals. Our team works closely with two of our Accredited Specialists in Immigration Law - Jason Ling or Angela De Silva at Agape Henry Crux. You can book a consultation with us by calling 02-8310 5230 or emailing us at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English, Mandarin and Cantonese. If this isn’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.
This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.
Client Testimonials
….we call it Support Network
Navigating the immigration law process may be difficult, and our former clients have agreed to share their experiences through telephone chats, emails, and in-person meetings.
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