Only two kinds of people may lawfully represent you before immigration authorities.
Knowing which is which protects you from the most common and most damaging fraud in this
system.
Who may represent you
Under 8 CFR 292.1, representation before DHS is limited to a defined set of people.
Everyone else — including notaries, consultants, travel agents and translators — may not
give legal advice or represent you, whatever they charge.
Licensed attorneys. An attorney admitted to the bar of any US state may
represent you before DHS anywhere in the country. Immigration is federal, so a lawyer
licensed in one state can help with a case in another.
EOIR-accredited representatives. Non-attorneys accredited by the
Department of Justice, working at a DOJ-recognized organization. Accreditation is tied to
the organization; it does not travel with the person.
DOJ-recognized organizations. Nonprofits recognized by the Department of
Justice, providing services at no cost or for nominal fees only.
Warning signs of notario fraud
In much of Latin America a notario público is a licensed attorney. In the United
States a notary public has no authority to give legal advice. Trading on that confusion is
the defining move of this fraud.
Calls themselves a notario or notario público
Guarantees a specific outcome — nobody can
Will not give you copies of what was filed on your behalf
Asks you to sign blank forms, or forms you cannot read
Advises you to lie, or fills in facts you did not give
Cash only, no written contract or receipt
Claims a special relationship with USCIS or a judge — no such thing exists
Pressures you to decide immediately
If it has already happened
Reporting is possible regardless of immigration status, and many agencies accept
anonymous reports. Report to the Federal Trade Commission, USCIS, or your state attorney
general.
This page will never be behind a paywall, and we will never take a fee for referring
you to anyone.