Client Interview Structure for Legal Allegations

Client Interview Structure for Misrepresentation Allegation

• Introduction & Rapport Building:
• Establish confidentiality and assure the client of support.
• Initiate by confirming the client's understanding of the discussion's nature and the consultant's role.
• Stress the importance of open communication.
• Explicitly state that the consultant will keep the client informed throughout the process.

Information Gathering Phase

• Reviewing the Sponsorship Application:

• Guide the client through their application process, focusing on the submission timeline and details.

• Question specifics about the submission process to highlight potential challenges or gaps in the application, such as any difficulty procuring requested documents.

• Delve into the presented evidence supporting the relationship, including specific documentation, such as corroborative evidence of cohabitation.

• Understanding the Allegation:

• Focus on the rationale for the immigration officer's concern.

• Explore the specific aspects questioned by the officer, and clarify if there are any misunderstandings.

• Establish whether the errors were intentional or unintentional.

• Examining the Relationship Details:

• Gather data on the relationship's background, from meeting to the start of cohabitation and length of time.

• Emphasize the importance of supporting proof, including photos, joint financial accounts, and correspondence to build a robust picture.

• Identify potential gaps or ambiguities in the application materials from the client's perspective.

Clarifying Facts

• Validation of Information:
• Highlight any perceived omissions or ambiguities in applying information.
• Clarify the potential for unintentional errors, such as wrong dates or missing documents.
• Confirm the accuracy of presented information, highlighting the importance of full disclosure to immigration authorities.

Explaining the Allegation & Consequences

• Understanding Misrepresentation:
• Define misrepresentation in immigration law as providing false, misleading, or incomplete information.
• Emphasize that misrepresentation can be intentional or unintentional, and the serious implications of such a violation, including immigration process denial, ban from immigration applications, and potential further scrutiny.
• Demonstrate the consultant's commitment to assisting the client in mitigating the consequences.

Next Steps & Strategy

• Gathering Additional Evidence:

• Emphasize the importance of additional evidence to strengthen the client's case and address any concerns.

• Propose acquiring additional corroborating documentation, such as photos, affidavits from relevant parties and financial or travel records.

• Outline the strategy for addressing unintentional errors—including clarifying and providing supplementary documentation to counter these omissions.

• Drafting a Response:

• Suggest an explanation letter outlining the process and specific details to be addressed, including omissions and potential errors.

• Emphasize the importance of prompt action given the time-sensitive nature of such cases.

Closing the Interview

• Addressing Stress:

• Acknowledge the client's stress, highlighting the consultant's commitment to support.

• Reiterate the consultant's commitment to handling the allegation and providing the necessary evidence.

• Follow-up & Transparency:

• Confirm the client's preparedness to begin gathering documentation and drafting the response.

• Ensure the client is aware of the consultant's ongoing communication and support.

• Offer to answer any client questions or concerns.