In recent months, we have seen a disturbing increase in immigration “notario” fraud and dishonest filings by people pretending to understand immigration law. Unfortunately, many immigrants do not realize they are being misled until it is too late. In some cases, individuals are paying thousands of dollars for applications they were never eligible to file in the first place, only to end up in removal proceedings.
Notarios are not attorneys and do not have a license to give legal advice or prepare immigration applications. Also, many attorneys do not have the experience or training necessary to properly handle the ever-changing world of immigration law. Immigration law is complex, and the consequences of a bad filing can be life changing.
One of the most concerning trends involves fraudulent or reckless VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) filings. VAWA exists to protect victims of abuse by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, parent, or child. However, we are increasingly seeing non attorneys and unethical practitioners filing VAWA cases for people who do not qualify at all, sometimes simply because they have U.S. citizen children. In many situations, the applicant does not even fully understand what VAWA is or what allegations are being submitted on their behalf.
The current administration has made the immigration system far more aggressive and unforgiving. Cases that may once have resulted in denials are now far more likely to lead to detention and even deportation proceedings. USCIS is sharing information more aggressively, enforcement priorities have expanded, and many immigrants are finding themselves placed into proceedings after bad filings or careless advice. This is not the time to take risks with your future, your family, or your immigration record.
Before filing anything with immigration, make sure you are getting advice from a qualified and experienced immigration attorney who understands both the law and the real world consequences of the immigration process. At Love Immigration Firm, we know what we are doing, and we believe in honest answers and strategic guidance throughout the process. It’s immigration as it should be.