The Truth About Notarios: Don’t Let Immigration Scams Ruin Your Future
Many immigrants seeking a green card, visa, or citizenship unknowingly put their future at risk by trusting notarios públicos for legal help. While the term notario público suggests a legal expert in some countries, in the United States, notarios are NOT lawyers.
Falling for notario fraud can result in:
- Incorrectly filed applications that lead to denials
- Missed deadlines that delay your case for years
- Fraudulent filings that can lead to deportation
- Thousands of dollars lost to unqualified individuals
If you’re working on your immigration status, knowing the risks of notarios and choosing the right legal help can protect your future.
What Is a Notario Público?
In many Latin American and European countries, a notario público is a licensed legal professional, similar to an attorney. However, in the U.S., a notary public is simply someone who witnesses signatures—they are not trained or authorized to provide legal advice or representation.
Unfortunately, many notarios take advantage of this confusion by:
• Pretending to be attorneys or “abogados”
• Claiming they can legally represent you before USCIS or immigration courts
• Filling out immigration applications incorrectly or fraudulently
• Charging high fees for services they are not qualified to provide
These false claims can destroy your immigration case.
How Notarios Can Jeopardize Your Immigration Case
1. Incorrect or Incomplete Filings
- Many notarios lack legal training, leading to:
- Application denials due to errors
- Requests for more evidence, delaying your case for months or years
- Permanent ineligibility for immigration benefits if false information is submitted
A licensed immigration attorney ensures accuracy and prevents costly mistakes.
2. Immigration Fraud and Deportation Risks
Some notarios submit false claims without telling their clients, making it seem like they qualify for immigration benefits. If the government discovers this, you could face:
- Deportation and removal from the U.S.
- Permanent bans on getting a green card or citizenship
- Civil or criminal charges for fraud
A real immigration attorney protects your legal rights and ensures your case is handled properly.
3. Financial Loss with No Legal Protection
Notarios often charge hundreds or even thousands of dollars, but when things go wrong:
They cannot fix legal problems or represent you in court
They do not have malpractice insurance, so you can’t recover your money
Many disappear, leaving you with a denied case and no way to fix it
A licensed immigration attorney is accountable and has the qualifications to fight for your case.
How to Protect Yourself from Immigration Scams
- Verify credentials – Always check if an attorney is licensed through your state bar association.
- Avoid anyone who “guarantees” success – Immigration approvals are decided by USCIS and immigration courts, not legal representatives.
- Seek help from accredited legal organizations – Many DOJ-recognized nonprofits offer affordable legal services.
- Ask questions – A real attorney has a law degree, license, and experience handling immigration cases.
Final Thought: Do It Right the First Time—Trust a Licensed Attorney
Your green card, visa, or citizenship is too important to risk with unqualified individuals. A single mistake can lead to years of delays, legal trouble, or deportation. Protect yourself and your family by working with a licensed immigration attorney who has the knowledge and experience to handle your case the right way.
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