H-1B Employer Sponsorship: Complete Guide for Indian Professionals (2026–2027)

Category:                             H1B Visa & H4 Visa

Published By:                      Alampata Travels

 H-1B Employer Sponsorship: Complete Guide for Indian Professionals (2026–2027)

Introduction: Understanding H-1B Employer Sponsorship

For many Indian professionals, working in the United States is an important career goal. However, finding a suitable US job is only one part of the process. In most H-1B cases, a qualified US employer must be willing and able to sponsor the worker through the required immigration process.

H-1B employer sponsorship allows eligible US employers to petition for foreign professionals to work in specialty occupations that generally require the theoretical and practical application of specialized knowledge and at least a bachelor's degree in a directly related specific specialty, or its equivalent.

Professionals in fields such as software engineering, data science, information technology, engineering, and certain other specialized occupations may explore H-1B opportunities when their qualifications match the position's requirements.

However, an employer offering a job does not automatically mean that the employer has agreed to sponsor an H-1B visa. Candidates should understand the employer's actual sponsorship policy, the position's eligibility, the applicable filing requirements, and any relevant restrictions before making career decisions.

This guide explains how H-1B employer sponsorship works, what employers are responsible for, how candidates can evaluate sponsorship opportunities, and what Indian professionals should consider when pursuing US employment in 2026–2027.

What Is H-1B Employer Sponsorship?

H-1B employer sponsorship is the process through which a US employer petitions the US government to employ an eligible foreign professional in an H-1B specialty occupation.

Unlike immigration categories in which individuals may file certain petitions on their own behalf, the standard H-1B employment process requires a qualifying employer to take the necessary sponsorship steps.

The employer generally needs to:

·        Offer a genuine position that qualifies as a specialty occupation.

·        Determine whether the candidate's education and experience satisfy the position's requirements.

·        Complete the applicable Labor Condition Application (LCA) process with the US Department of Labor.

·        Pay the required wage under applicable H-1B rules.

·        File the appropriate petition with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

·        Pay applicable employer-side filing fees and comply with other legal obligations.

·        Provide supporting documentation when required by the relevant authorities.

The exact requirements depend on the employer, position, candidate's immigration history, and type of petition.

Important: H-1B sponsorship is not simply a letter from a company. It is a formal immigration process involving employer obligations, government filings, eligibility requirements, and applicable fees.

Who Can Sponsor an H-1B Visa?

A US employer may potentially sponsor an eligible foreign professional if the employer and proposed employment satisfy the applicable legal requirements.

Possible employer categories include:

A. Established US Companies

Large and established companies may have dedicated immigration teams or external immigration attorneys who manage employment-based visa petitions.

Examples of potential employer categories include technology companies, financial institutions, healthcare organizations, engineering companies, and other businesses hiring qualified professionals.

However, a company's size or reputation alone does not establish that it sponsors every position. Candidates must check the employer's current hiring policy and the requirements of the specific vacancy.

B. Mid-Sized Businesses

Mid-sized businesses may also sponsor H-1B professionals when they have a genuine qualifying position and can meet the relevant immigration requirements.

The important factors are not simply the number of employees or the company's brand recognition. The proposed job, employer's ability to comply with the rules, and the overall petition matter.

C. Startups

Some startups hire specialized professionals and may consider H-1B sponsorship.

Before accepting an offer, candidates should evaluate the startup's financial position, the nature of the job, the employer's ability to pay the required wage, and whether the company has the resources and willingness to complete the sponsorship process.

A startup's willingness to hire a foreign professional should not be confused with an assurance that USCIS will approve the petition.

D. Consulting and Technology Services Companies

Consulting firms and technology services businesses may sponsor professionals for eligible positions.

Candidates should carefully review the actual job duties, work location, employer-employee relationship, project arrangements, and documentation requirements.

A sponsorship promise alone is not sufficient. The employer must be able to support the petition with appropriate evidence and comply with applicable requirements.

E. Universities and Qualifying Research Organizations

Certain qualifying institutions of higher education, related or affiliated nonprofit entities, nonprofit research organizations, and government research organizations may be eligible for H-1B cap-exempt treatment.

Cap-exempt eligibility depends on the employer and applicable statutory and regulatory requirements. Not every nonprofit organization or research-related business automatically qualifies.

These employers may be worth researching for professionals whose education and experience match their available positions.

What Does an Employer Need Before Sponsoring an H-1B Candidate?

An employer's willingness to sponsor is only the starting point. The proposed employment must also meet the relevant H-1B requirements.

1 A Qualifying Specialty Occupation

The position must satisfy the specialty-occupation requirements under applicable law.

The job should require specialized knowledge and qualifying education in a directly related specific specialty, or its equivalent, as applicable.

For example, some software engineering, engineering, and specialized analytical positions may qualify. However, a job title alone does not determine eligibility. The actual duties, degree requirements, and other relevant evidence must be evaluated.

2 Appropriate Candidate Qualifications

The candidate must meet the requirements for the offered position.

Relevant considerations may include:

·        Educational qualifications.

·        The relationship between the candidate's degree and the position.

·        Relevant professional experience.

·        Required licenses or other credentials, where applicable.

·        Evidence supporting equivalency, if relied upon.

A candidate with extensive professional experience may be a strong applicant for a particular job, but experience does not automatically replace every applicable educational or specialty-occupation requirement.

3 Labor Condition Application (LCA)

Before filing the relevant H-1B petition, the employer generally must obtain the required certified Labor Condition Application from the US Department of Labor.

The LCA includes attestations concerning matters such as the applicable wage and working conditions.

The employer must generally agree to pay the required wage, which is based on the applicable actual wage or prevailing wage, whichever is higher.

The LCA is an important part of the process, but it is not an H-1B visa approval.

4 Employer's Ability to Meet Its Obligations

The employer must be able to meet its applicable legal obligations and provide the required evidence.

Depending on the circumstances, relevant considerations may include the employer's business operations, the offered position, the proposed work arrangement, the ability to pay the required wage, and supporting documentation.

Candidates should be cautious about employers that promise sponsorship without explaining the position or the formal process.

5 Required Petition and Government Review

After completing the required preliminary steps, the employer generally files the appropriate petition with USCIS.

USCIS reviews the petition under the applicable requirements. It may approve the petition, issue a request for evidence, or deny it.

Even when an employer and candidate satisfy their respective responsibilities, approval is not guaranteed.

Does Every H-1B Sponsoring Employer Need to Use the Lottery?

No. The answer depends on whether the proposed employment is subject to the H-1B numerical cap or qualifies for an applicable exemption.

Cap-Subject Employment

Many private-sector employers must follow the H-1B cap process when seeking to hire workers under the regular H-1B cap or the US advanced-degree exemption.

Where registration and selection are required, an employer generally must complete the applicable registration process and the beneficiary must be selected before the employer can file a cap-subject petition, subject to the governing rules.

Selection does not guarantee petition approval.

Cap-Exempt Employment

Certain qualifying institutions and organizations may be exempt from the annual numerical cap.

Cap-exempt eligibility depends on the specific employer and the applicable legal criteria. Candidates should not assume that every university, nonprofit, hospital, or research organization is automatically cap-exempt.

For Indian professionals, understanding this distinction can help identify different types of employers to research.

What Should Indian Professionals Check Before Accepting a Sponsorship Promise?

Before investing time in an opportunity, candidates should evaluate whether the employer is genuinely considering H-1B sponsorship for the specific position.

Check the following:

1. Sponsorship policy: Does the employer sponsor H-1B candidates for this particular role?

2. Job requirements: Do your qualifications and experience match the position's requirements?

3. Employment terms: Are the job title, duties, compensation, and proposed work location clearly explained?

4. Employer credibility: Does the company have verifiable business operations and a genuine vacancy?

5. Immigration process: Can the employer explain how it intends to handle the required sponsorship steps?

6. Applicable costs and rules: Has the employer considered the filing fees and any additional requirements that may apply to the case?

7. Written offer: Are the employment terms and sponsorship arrangements clearly documented?

A company may be willing to interview an international candidate but unwilling to sponsor a visa. Candidates should therefore distinguish between a job opportunity and a confirmed employer commitment to pursue sponsorship.

Conclusion

H-1B employer sponsorship involves more than finding a US company that is willing to hire an international professional. The employer, position, candidate qualifications, required filings, wage obligations, and applicable immigration rules must all be considered.

Indian professionals can make better career decisions by understanding these requirements before applying, evaluating employer claims carefully, and focusing on genuine opportunities that match their professional background.

How to Identify US Employers That Sponsor H-1B Visas

Finding an employer that sponsors H-1B workers requires more than searching for jobs with the words “visa sponsorship.” Indian professionals should research employers, understand their hiring requirements, and focus on positions that match their qualifications.

Here are practical ways to identify potential sponsoring employers.

1 Research Official Company Career Pages

Start with the official career pages of US companies in your industry.

Search for positions that match your professional background, including your skills, experience level, and preferred role.

Useful search phrases include:

·        H-1B sponsorship available

·        Visa sponsorship for qualified candidates

·        Immigration sponsorship considered

·        Software engineer visa sponsorship

·        Data scientist H-1B sponsorship

·        Experienced professionals visa sponsorship

Not every employer uses the same wording. Some companies evaluate sponsorship requests individually, while others may restrict sponsorship to particular positions.

Important: A job advertisement that does not mention sponsorship is not proof that sponsorship is unavailable. Check the employer's policy or the specific vacancy details before ruling out an opportunity.

2 Use Professional Job Platforms

Professional job platforms can help you discover vacancies and identify employers that may consider international candidates.

You can explore:

·        LinkedIn Jobs

·        Indeed

·        Glassdoor Jobs

·        Dice — particularly useful for technology-related opportunities.

Use filters for job title, location, seniority, and industry. Where available, search for visa sponsorship or international hiring.

Do not apply indiscriminately. Prioritize roles where your qualifications match the job requirements and the employer may be willing to consider your immigration circumstances.

3 Review Official H-1B Employer Data

The US Department of Labor publishes information about Labor Condition Applications and employer filings. This information can help candidates research organizations that have submitted H-1B-related applications.

Start with the official resources:

·        US Department of Labor — H-1B Program

·        OFLC Performance Data

Review relevant employer names, job titles, work locations, and filing periods where the data is available.

However, historical filing records must be interpreted carefully. A previous LCA filing does not guarantee that the employer is hiring now, that it will sponsor you, or that a petition will be approved.

Use this information as a research tool—not as a promise of future sponsorship.

4 Build a Target Employer List

Instead of applying randomly, create a list of companies that match your career goals.

Include these details in a simple spreadsheet:

Information	What to Record
Company name	Employer's official name
Career page	Link to the official job portal
Job title	Position you want to apply for
Location	City and state
Experience required	Required years and skills
Sponsorship policy	Confirmed, unclear, or unavailable
Application date	Date you applied
Recruiter contact	Name or professional profile
Follow-up date	Date to check the application
Status	Applied, interview, rejected, or pending

This approach helps you organize applications and spend more time on promising opportunities.

How to Approach Recruiters About H-1B Sponsorship

Recruiters may receive many applications, so your communication should be concise, professional, and relevant to the position.

Avoid sending long messages about your entire immigration history in your first contact. Begin by explaining your professional value and asking whether the employer considers candidates who require sponsorship.

Sample LinkedIn Message to a Recruiter

You can adapt the following message for your circumstances.

Subject: Experienced Professional Interested in Opportunities at Your Company

Hello [Recruiter's Name],

I am an experienced professional with a background in [your field] and experience working in the United States.

I am currently based in India and exploring suitable US opportunities. I would be interested in positions that align with my experience and where the employer may consider H-1B sponsorship.

I would appreciate being considered for relevant openings at your company.

Thank you for your time.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

What If the Recruiter Asks About Your Visa Status?

Answer honestly and concisely. Explain your current location and relevant immigration history without assuming that a previous approval automatically establishes current eligibility.

If you previously held H-1B status, have an approved I-140, or have other relevant immigration history, the implications may depend on your individual circumstances and current rules.

Avoid making definitive claims about your eligibility until the relevant details have been reviewed.

How to Present Your US Experience to Employers

Previous US employment can be a useful part of your professional profile. However, it should be presented in terms of the skills, responsibilities, and results you bring to a new employer.

Highlight Relevant Experience

Your resume should clearly explain:

·        Your most relevant job titles and responsibilities.

·        The technical or professional skills you used.

·        Major projects and measurable achievements.

·        Leadership, client management, or specialized expertise.

·        Industry knowledge and relevant qualifications.

Use specific results wherever possible. For example, describe how you improved system performance, reduced operating costs, managed projects, or delivered measurable business outcomes.

Do not exaggerate achievements or include confidential information from former employers.

Explain Your Current Location Clearly

If you are applying from India, make your current location clear in your resume or application where appropriate.

This helps recruiters understand your circumstances and determine whether the position and the employer's hiring process can accommodate your situation.

If an application asks about current work authorization or future sponsorship requirements, provide accurate answers.

Do Not Treat an Approved I-140 as a Job Offer

An approved I-140 may be relevant to an individual's employment-based immigration history. However, it is not itself a job offer, an H-1B petition approval for a new employer, or a guarantee of a visa.

The potential implications of an approved I-140 depend on the case history and applicable immigration rules. Candidates should obtain case-specific advice before relying on it when planning a return to the United States.

How to Evaluate an H-1B Sponsorship Offer

Before accepting an offer, check the following points.

A. Is the Job Genuine?

Confirm that the company exists, the position is real, and the proposed responsibilities are clearly explained.

Be cautious if a recruiter refuses to identify the employer, provides inconsistent job details, or promises guaranteed visa approval.

B. Is Sponsorship Actually Included?

A company may be willing to hire a candidate but may not be willing to sponsor the required immigration petition.

Clarify whether sponsorship is available for the particular role and whether the company will undertake the required process if you are selected.

C. Are the Employment Terms Clear?

Review the job title, responsibilities, salary, work location, reporting arrangements, and other important conditions.

Make sure the written offer reflects the terms discussed with the employer.

D. Are Immigration Responsibilities Being Handled Properly?

The employer should follow applicable filing, wage, fee, and documentation requirements.

Do not rely solely on verbal assurances from a third-party recruiter. Ask for a clear explanation of the employer's process and seek qualified legal advice when needed.

E. Are You Being Asked to Pay Suspicious Fees?

Be cautious of anyone who demands money in exchange for a guaranteed H-1B approval, a fabricated job offer, or an assured position on an immigration selection list.

Recruitment and immigration arrangements can involve legitimate professional services and lawful expenses, but any proposed charge should be transparent and legally appropriate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Seeking H-1B Sponsorship

Indian professionals should avoid these common mistakes.

Mistake 1: Applying to every available vacancy

Applying without checking the job requirements wastes time. Focus on roles that match your experience and qualifications.

Mistake 2: Assuming every large company sponsors every role

Sponsorship policies can differ by position, business unit, and hiring circumstances. Verify the policy for the specific vacancy.

Mistake 3: Relying only on job-board claims

Job postings and third-party sponsorship lists can be incomplete or outdated. Cross-check important information with the employer's official career page and relevant government data.

Mistake 4: Ignoring the actual job requirements

A familiar job title does not guarantee that a position qualifies for H-1B classification. The duties and applicable specialty-occupation requirements matter.

Mistake 5: Treating previous US employment as automatic eligibility

Previous employment and immigration approvals may be relevant, but they do not guarantee that a new petition will be approved. Individual circumstances must be evaluated.

Mistake 6: Paying for guaranteed sponsorship

No legitimate service provider should promise a guaranteed H-1B approval or employment outcome. Evaluate any paid service according to its actual deliverables, written terms, and credibility.

Conclusion

Finding a potential H-1B sponsoring employer requires focused research, a strong professional profile, and clear communication with recruiters.

Indian professionals can improve their search by reviewing official employer data, targeting relevant vacancies, tracking applications, and confirming sponsorship policies before investing substantial time in an opportunity.

Frequently Asked Questions About H-1B Employer Sponsorship

Q1. Can a US employer sponsor an H-1B visa for someone living in India?

Yes. A US employer may petition for an eligible professional living in India, provided the position, employer, and candidate satisfy the applicable H-1B requirements.

The process depends on whether the position is subject to the annual H-1B cap, whether the candidate has relevant previous H-1B history, and whether any applicable exemption or other provision is available.

Living outside the United States does not automatically prevent someone from being considered for an H-1B position.

Q2. Can I find an H-1B sponsoring job without currently working in the USA?

Yes. You can apply to US employers while living in India.

Focus on positions matching your qualifications and professional experience. Confirm whether the employer considers candidates who need immigration sponsorship and whether the role can support the required H-1B process.

An employer's willingness to interview you does not necessarily mean it will sponsor you.

Q3. Does every employer need to register a candidate in the H-1B lottery?

No. The process depends on whether the employment is subject to the annual numerical cap.

Many private-sector positions are cap-subject. Certain qualifying institutions and organizations may qualify for cap-exempt treatment under applicable rules.

Candidates should verify the employer's actual eligibility rather than assuming that every university, nonprofit organization, or research employer is exempt.

Q4. Can a small company sponsor an H-1B visa?

A small company may potentially sponsor an H-1B professional if the employer and proposed position meet the applicable requirements.

Company size alone does not determine eligibility. The employer must have a genuine qualifying position and comply with the relevant wage, filing, and documentation obligations.

Candidates should evaluate the employer's credibility and ability to meet its responsibilities before accepting an offer.

Q5. Does previous US work experience improve my chances of getting an H-1B sponsoring job?

Previous US experience can strengthen your professional profile when it demonstrates relevant skills, industry knowledge, and familiarity with US workplace practices.

However, it does not guarantee a job offer, H-1B sponsorship, selection, or petition approval.

Your qualifications, the position, the employer's hiring policy, and your immigration circumstances all matter.

Q6. Can an employer sponsor someone who previously held H-1B status?

Potentially, yes. The applicable process depends on the person's previous H-1B history, time spent in H-1B status, prior approvals, and other relevant circumstances.

Some individuals may have options that differ from those available to first-time H-1B applicants. However, previous H-1B employment does not automatically guarantee that a new employer can file a petition without further requirements.

A qualified US immigration attorney can assess the person's specific case.

Q7. Does an approved I-140 guarantee a new H-1B visa?

No. An approved I-140 is an employment-based immigrant petition approval. It does not automatically provide a new H-1B approval, a current job offer, or permission to work in the United States.

Depending on the circumstances, an approved I-140 may be relevant to certain employment-based immigration options. The implications depend on the case history and applicable rules.

Candidates should not assume that an approved I-140 resolves every issue relating to a new employer or return to the United States.

Q8. Can I ask an employer about H-1B sponsorship before an interview?

Yes. It is reasonable to check whether an employer considers sponsorship for a particular position.

You can review the job posting first and then ask the recruiter a short, professional question.

For example:

"Does your company consider H-1B sponsorship for this position?"

This can help you avoid spending time on opportunities that do not fit your circumstances.

Q9. Can I rely on online lists of H-1B sponsoring companies?

Online lists can be useful starting points, but they may contain outdated or incomplete information.

A company that sponsored workers previously may not be sponsoring for every current vacancy. Use official career pages, current job postings, and government filing data to research potential employers.

Historical filing information is evidence of past activity, not a guarantee of future sponsorship.

Q10. Does an H-1B job offer guarantee visa approval?

No. A job offer and an employer's willingness to sponsor do not guarantee selection or petition approval.

The relevant process may involve employer registration, cap selection where applicable, an employer-filed petition, USCIS review, and additional visa or admission requirements depending on the case.

Candidates should make career and financial decisions without assuming that approval is guaranteed.

Q11. Can a recruiter guarantee H-1B sponsorship?

A recruiter may help identify opportunities and coordinate communication with employers. However, candidates should be cautious of anyone promising guaranteed H-1B approval or claiming that payment alone can secure a visa.

Verify the employer, the vacancy, the actual sponsorship commitment, and any proposed service fees before making payments.

Q12. How long does the H-1B sponsorship process take?

The timeline depends on the type of case, the relevant cap cycle, employer preparation, government processing, and whether additional evidence is requested.

Cap-subject cases may also depend on the registration and selection process. Visa appointment availability and other consular requirements can affect the overall timeline for applicants outside the United States.

Check current USCIS and Department of State information before making travel or employment plans.

Practical Checklist for Finding H-1B Sponsoring Employers

Use this checklist when researching US employment opportunities from India.

Before Applying

·        Identify job titles that match your skills and qualifications.

·        Prepare an updated resume highlighting relevant achievements.

·        Research employers in your professional field.

·        Review the company's official career page.

·        Check whether the vacancy mentions sponsorship.

·        Identify whether the position matches your qualifications.

·        Research historical employer filing data where relevant.

·        Prioritize genuine vacancies with clear job descriptions.

During the Application Process

·        Submit accurate information in your application.

·        Tailor your resume to the position.

·        Explain your relevant professional experience clearly.

·        Answer immigration and work-authorization questions honestly.

·        Ask the recruiter whether sponsorship is considered for the role.

·        Keep a record of applications and follow-up dates.

·        Avoid employers or intermediaries promising guaranteed visa approval.

Before Accepting an Offer

·        Verify the employer and job offer.

·        Review the salary, job duties, location, and employment terms.

·        Confirm the employer's sponsorship intentions.

·        Understand the expected immigration process.

·        Review any proposed fees and contractual terms carefully.

·        Seek qualified legal advice if your previous immigration history creates questions about eligibility.

A structured approach helps candidates focus on genuine opportunities and make better-informed decisions.

Official Resources for H-1B Employer Sponsorship

The following government resources can help you verify important information.

1. USCIS — H-1B Specialty Occupations

Official information about H-1B eligibility, specialty occupations, and petition requirements.

https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/h-1b-specialty-occupations

2. USCIS — H-1B Electronic Registration Process

Information about the electronic registration process and applicable cap procedures.

https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-workers/h-1b-specialty-occupations/h-1b-electronic-registration-process

3. US Department of Labor — H-1B Program

Information about the H-1B program and employer obligations under the Department of Labor's rules.

https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/foreign-labor/programs/h-1b

4. Office of Foreign Labor Certification — Performance Data

Government data that can help with historical research into labor certification filings.

https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/foreign-labor/performance

5. US Department of State — Visas

Official information about US visa categories and consular procedures.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas.html

Important: Immigration rules, fees, registration procedures, and government policies can change. Always verify the latest requirements through the relevant official government source before acting.

How Alampata Travels Can Help

Indian professionals seeking US employment may need a structured approach to identifying potential sponsoring employers, evaluating vacancies, and communicating with recruiters.

Alampata Travels provides general information and guidance related to H-1B and H-4 visa processes.

Our guidance may include:

·        Understanding the general H-1B employer sponsorship process.

·        Researching potential employers and relevant job opportunities.

·        Identifying official career pages and available employer information.

·        Understanding how to evaluate sponsorship statements in job advertisements.

·        Preparing a practical job-search strategy.

·        Identifying questions that may require advice from a qualified US immigration attorney.

The scope of any assistance should be agreed upon in advance. Job-search guidance does not guarantee interviews, employment, employer sponsorship, H-1B selection, or immigration approval.

For legal advice about your individual immigration circumstances, consult a qualified US immigration attorney.

Final Conclusion

H-1B employer sponsorship can provide a route for eligible foreign professionals to work in the United States, but the process requires careful planning and an understanding of employer obligations.

For Indian professionals, the most useful starting points are:

·        Research employers with relevant vacancies.

·        Verify sponsorship policies for specific positions.

·        Present qualifications and professional achievements clearly.

·        Understand the difference between cap-subject and cap-exempt employment.

·        Treat previous US employment and immigration approvals as relevant background—not as automatic guarantees.

·        Use official government resources to verify requirements.

·        Avoid fraudulent job offers and promises of guaranteed visa approval.

A focused job search, accurate information, and realistic expectations can help candidates approach potential employers more effectively.

Disclaimer: This article provides general informational and educational content. It is not legal advice and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. H-1B eligibility and procedures depend on individual circumstances and the rules applicable at the relevant time. Consult a qualified US immigration attorney for case-specific advice.

Alampata Travels
Website: www.alampatatravels.com
Email: info@alampatatravels.com
Contact: +91-9319105828
USA Visa Guides: blog.alampatatravels.com
F1 Visa Guides: f1.alampatatravels.com
H1B/H4 Visa Guides: h1b.alampatatravels.com

Independent H1B & H4 Visa Information Resource

— Team Alampata Travels

Your Visa... Our Responsibility.

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. H-1B requirements and immigration policies may change. Consult a qualified US immigration attorney for advice about an individual case.