Lainey Duan, Immigration Attorney in Santa Monica, California

Lainey concentrates on immigration. Each area below outlines the kind of case Lainey handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Immigration

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Lainey's primary office is at 808 Wilshire Blvd, Ste 200, Santa Monica, CA, 90401. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new immigration attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Lainey usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Lainey discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in immigration practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Lainey for a immigration case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Lainey walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Lainey offer a free consultation?

  Lainey charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Lainey's office. Some immigration attorneys offer free consults — check Lainey's current terms during booking.

• How long do immigration cases in California typically take?

  Simple immigration matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Lainey gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Lainey take my case if I'm outside Santa Monica?

  Lainey is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Lainey will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Lainey?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Lainey will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Lainey accepting new immigration clients right now?

  Lainey's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.