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How do I transfer my evidence file to a new attorney?

A practical checklist for transferring a complete asylum case file to new counsel while keeping a secure master copy and preserving originals.

Published August 24, 2026Last reviewed August 24, 2026General information
Not legal advice.US Asylum Help provides general information, research links, and organization tools. We do not determine eligibility, deadlines, strategy, evidence sufficiency, or what anyone should say or file in an individual immigration matter.

How do I transfer my evidence file to a new attorney?

Last reviewed: August 24, 2026

General information only. This article covers client-record organization, not the legal procedures for changing counsel in a pending case.

Create a complete handoff copy before transferring anything. Include filed applications, notices, court orders, correspondence, chronology, evidence index, translations, source files, and a list of pending or missing items. Keep your own master copy.

Use the transfer method the receiving attorney approves. For large electronic files, confirm that the upload completed and that the attorney can open the files. Avoid sending highly sensitive evidence through a public link or insecure channel merely because it is convenient.

Do not alter the file to remove embarrassing, inconsistent, or unfavorable material. A new lawyer needs the complete record to evaluate the matter responsibly. Keep a transfer log showing what was sent, when, by what method, and whether receipt was confirmed.

If representation before EOIR is changing, the attorneys must handle applicable appearance or withdrawal procedures. This page is only about transferring the client's records.

Official resources

Ask the receiving attorney which records and transfer method the office prefers.

Official sources & current information

Verify changing requirements at the source.

This section identifies government links contained in this guide. The government page, form instructions, court notice, or other controlling document should be checked for current requirements.

U.S. Department of Justice / EOIRjustice.govU.S. Department of Justice / EOIRjustice.gov
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