With due respect, I beg to differ. Not sure if a lawyer makes a big difference. unless and until there are some complex issues involved. My application was vetted by a lawyer, for correctness and completeness. IRCC categorically states a legal representation does not make much of a difference. Yes, if these big shot lawyers are able to influence by having inside connection, it’s totally a different storythank you. It is not random at all, There are a lot of people on this forum from August and September and in other forums who have received their AORs.
having said that, Some officers need more time to work on some files - especially those that are filed by individuals. If you have a lawyer that represents you, and especially if it’s a big law firm, they take over the entire responsibility and your file is served like ‘ready to eat’ food in front of the officer. That’s why you see so many cases move quickly while some take time.
i know not everyone can afford a hot shot lawyer, but unfortunately that’s the reality. The officers too have service level targets and they too just like other humans, want to get the ‘easier tasks’ done first.