Business Philosophy
I founded Achcar Law out of desire to offer legal services in a unique and rare setting to an immigrant community with very specific needs. Over the past four years, Achcar Law has attempted to bridge the widening gap between non-profit organizations and larger law firms.
Providing Alternative
Achcar Law reaches out to clients who are otherwise unable to access free legal services from non-profit organizations because their source of funds do not allow them to represent people in immigration proceedings, undocumented individuals or persons with criminal records, to mention a few examples. Similarly, our firm affords the necessary time for extensive and detailed communication and frequent in-person meetings with clients, whenever they want, which is often not the case with underfunded and understaffed non-profit organizations.
Reaching Out
Achcar Law has a strong presence in the rural immigrant communities of southeast Minnesota, offering an office in Owatonna for consultations and frequent visits to other rural communities for workshops, presentations and consultations. Larger law firms are frequently unaccessible to immigrant communities, particularly ones located in rural areas of the state, given that most firms are in downtown Minneapolis, downtown St. Paul or the general metropolitan area. This requires families to endure long commutes to unfamiliar urban areas. Frequently, families feel intimidated by the drive into town or cannot afford to take a full day off work for a legal consultation.
Providing Access
Achcar Law offers affordable consultation fees (roughly a third of the average fee), flat fee legal representation (no billable hourly rates), and payment plans over the duration of cases, all of which afford predictability and flexibility for clients. Our system is a fresh alternative to high hourly rates, which make it extremely difficult for many working class families to afford representation.
Bilingual and Bicultural Setting
Beyond geographical and economic accessibility, Achcar Law provides bilingual and culturally competent representation and services in a trusting setting where clients feel safe and respected. Our clients have the option to communicate and discuss their legal circumstances in their native language, which allows them greater participation and understanding of their cases and how it affect their lives. In addition, our cultural proficiency results in effective representation because we understand underlying cultural elements that affect immigration work and the choices that our clients ultimately make.
Empowering Clients
Achcar Law applies a philosophical working method that engages and empowers clients through education, participation and accountability. We view our clients, not as helpless victims, but as talented and resourceful partners, whom we guide through the legal system to make sound decisions about their lives. The firm encourages clients to learn about their rights and responsibilities, to understand their place in society and the power of their choices. Although the firm engages in pro bono work for the community through free access to presentations, workshops and short consultations, we believe that the healthiest and most sustainable professional relationships require that our clients invest in their cases through their own work, resources, time and money. In this manner, our clients evolve no only to succeed in their legal cases but to become accountable participants of society.