Practice Tip: Responding to a Request for Evidence

This Practice Tip explains how practitioners can turn a Request for Evidence (RFE) into an opportunity to strengthen the administrative record through a thoughtful and thorough response. It also includes advice about how to review the RFE, prepare the client, assess the evidence, obtain additional evidence, and structure the response. While the immediate goal of an RFE response is to obtain petition approval, building a strong administrative record is crucial if federal court review becomes a must.