Short answer: Keep a delivery log showing what you sent, when you sent it, how you sent it, and whether you received confirmation. Keep your own copy and do not assume that sending something to an attorney means it was filed with the government.
This page provides general information and organization guidance only. It does not decide whether evidence is legally sufficient, tell you what to file, or replace advice from a licensed immigration attorney or DOJ-accredited representative.
Keep a delivery log
For each delivery, record the date, method, recipient, folder or file names, and any confirmation you received. If you upload documents through a law firm's portal, save the confirmation screen or email when available. If you deliver paper documents, note what was delivered and keep a copy.
A simple list can prevent repeated sending and make it easier to identify whether a document was never received.
Keep your own copy of important records
Do not make the attorney's office your only storage location. Keep your originals or a secure copy of what you provided unless the attorney specifically needs an original. Ask for a copy of important filings and receipt or acceptance information when appropriate.
If you later change lawyers, a well-organized delivery log can make transferring the file easier.
Sent to the attorney is not the same as filed
A document can be in the attorney's possession without having been submitted to USCIS, Immigration Court, or the BIA. Treat those as separate events in your records.
When a filing is made, retain any filing receipt, portal confirmation, stamped copy, or other official confirmation available for that filing. EOIR provides guidance on filing delivery and receipt; the exact confirmation method varies by filing system.
A practical way to organize this
Use a simple evidence index with columns for date, source, file name, short description, language/translation status, and where the original is stored. Keep uncertain information marked as uncertain. Do not change an original document to make it fit a timeline or another record.
If you are preparing for an attorney meeting, bring the index and the records you already have. You can also use the free Evidence Toolkit to organize a timeline, evidence inventory, missing-evidence list, witness list, and attorney questions.
Check current sources before filing
Agency rules can change, and the rules for USCIS, Immigration Court, and the Board of Immigration Appeals are not identical. Verify the current source that applies to the forum handling the case.
- EOIR Policy Manual: Filing - Delivery and Receipt
- EOIR Policy Manual: Documents
- Immigration Justice Campaign: Asylum application and supporting evidence
For case-specific questions about relevance, disclosure, authentication, safety, deadlines, or how a document should be presented, use the Legal Help Center or speak with a qualified immigration representative.