atlanta2008
Registered Users (C)
I don't mean to spoil your intentions, but I don't think having a lawyer present at an interview with a simple case increases your chances of approval, but for some it does offer a sense of security.
From what you describe, it sounds that perhaps your name triggers something in the DHS database (could be similar to another name on watch list) or you're a victim racial profiling.
I agree with what you say Bob, my chances dont get better with a lawyer present. Here's my personal experience at my GC interview. I had a lawyer at my GC interview(in L.A) who had accompanied several other candidates earlier and hence knew most of the Interviewing officers including the lady that interviewed me. He was able to create a friendly and relaxed atmosphere as soon as we got in the room with easy small talk as he knew the IO pretty well. We breezed through my application like as though it were an informal chat and she was almost about to stamp my approval when she found out about my country of birth and asked me for special registration. My lawyer tried to reason with her and she almost agreed to let go until a supervisor came in ( who perhaps did not know the rules himself) and over ruled. The same lawyer accompanied me to the special registration and subsequent interview and made sure i got through without any further hiccups.
I remember that experience to this day. I have a difficult time travelling in and out of the country everytime as my name seems to be on some kind of watchlist due to it resembling some one else's. I always get extra screening at airports so much so that i always go prepared for it.