Avoiding Notary Fraud

Avoiding Notary Fraud: Protect Yourself and Your Future

Immigrating to the United States is a complex and often overwhelming process. Sadly, many of the immigrants I speak with are scared and desperate for help. This desperation can make them vulnerable to scammers who claim they can help—but instead, they take advantage of people in need, leaving them in even worse legal situations.

Beware of Immigration Fraudsters

One of the most dangerous scams comes from individuals known as "notarios" or notary publics who falsely present themselves as legal experts. In many Latin American countries, a "notario" is a licensed attorney, but in the U.S., a notary public is not a lawyer and cannot provide legal immigration assistance. These individuals fill out forms incorrectly, submit applications that lead to deportation, or even mislead people into leaving the country with no chance of return.

DO NOT FALL FOR THEIR SCAMS.

Notarios Are Breaking the Law

Any "notario" who fills out immigration forms or provides legal advice is illegally practicing law in California. This is a serious crime, and they should be prosecuted and sent to jail for taking advantage of vulnerable individuals.

Would you trust someone with no medical training to perform life-saving surgery? Of course not.

Then why trust a fraudulent notary—a person whose entire business is illegal—with your immigration case? It will not end well.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Only work with licensed immigration attorneys. A legitimate attorney is trained in immigration law, can properly file your paperwork, and will guide you through the process legally and ethically.
2. Verify credentials. Check if the lawyer is licensed with the California State Bar (www.calbar.ca.gov) or if they are accredited by the U.S. Department of Justice to handle immigration cases.
3. Be skeptical of promises that sound too good to be true. No lawyer can guarantee a green card or citizenship—if someone does, they are lying.
4. Never sign blank or incomplete forms. Scammers may alter them later to include false information, putting your future at risk.
5. Report fraudulent notarios. If you or someone you know has been a victim of notary fraud, report them to the California Attorney General’s office or the State Bar of California.

Free Consultations: Know Your Options

At Sweeney Law, I firmly believe that everyone deserves honest and experienced legal advice. This is why I have always—and will always—offer free consultations for immigration cases. I want you to ask questions, understand your options, and make informed decisions without fear of being scammed.

During our consultation, I will give you candid, straightforward advice about your chances of success and what the best course of action is for your case. And it costs you nothing.

Your Future Is Too Important to Trust a Scam Artist

Immigration law is complicated, and bad legal advice can have devastating consequences. Don’t let a fraudulent notary jeopardize your future. Protect yourself, seek proper legal counsel, and always verify the credentials of anyone offering you immigration help.

If you have questions, I am here to help. Call Sweeney Law today for a free consultation and let’s find the best path forward for you and your family.

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