Protect Yourself from Notarios and Immigration Consultants
Many noncitizens who would otherwise qualify for immigration benefits discover they will never be
successful because an immigration “consultant” destroyed their dreams. Don’t let this happen to you.
While many legitimate community and religious organizations provide immigration-related services,
non-lawyers who advertise as legal “consultants” or “notarios” are not authorized or qualified to help with
immigration matters.
It is against the law for “public notaries” or even foreign lawyers who are not licensed in the United States to
provide immigration advice—even “just” filling out forms is something that only a licensed, properly trained
lawyer or accredited representative should do.
Only a U.S. licensed lawyer or accredited representative is authorized and qualified to assist with your
immigration case. Unlike consultants, lawyers have completed extensive education and training before being
licensed to represent clients. You can verify whether a lawyer is in good standing and licensed to help you by
contacting your state bar association.
Lawyers are also required to maintain high ethical standards—and if they don’t, you can contact your local
bar association for action. When a consultant promises to help—but doesn’t deliver—the damage may not
be fixable, and there may be no one to turn to.
Have You Been Harmed By a Consultant or Notario?
By promising too much—and knowing too little—unauthorized consultants often shatter immigrants’
dreams. They will promise low-cost, quick results, but often do not know the law. Even if they actually do
the work and file papers, they may do it wrong and cause permanent harm. Furthermore, many are little
better than scam artists, taking their client’s trust—and money—and never having to answer for the results.
To learn more about the damage caused by notarios and unauthorized consultants,
and to find out how to file complaints in your state, visit
Stop Notorio Fraud.
How Can You Find Qualified Immigration Assistance?
If you need help finding a qualified immigration attorney in your area, you can contact the American
Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) toll-free at 1-800-954-0254 or search online at www.ailalawyer.com.
An accredited representative works with a nonprofit community or religious organization that has been
recognized as having the skill and training to assist people with their immigration matters. You can find a
list of accredited representatives at the U.S. Department of Justice website.
Don’t be fooled! If you consult a lawyer, make sure the lawyer is licensed. If you work with an accredited
representative, ask to see the accreditation.