Although not required, it is highly recommended to hire a lawyer to file your mandamus petition. Filing a writ of mandamus is a complex process that can result in an immediate decision on your immigration case if executed properly. For more information on filing a mandamus, you can read “Mandamus Magic: Litigating Immigration Delays in Federal Court”, an article written by Managing Attorney Nicole M. Whitaker that was published in the Trial Reporter, the Journal of the Maryland Association for Justice.