Please warn immigrants with legal issues to make sure they don't get defrauded by people
without proper credentials who will take their money but NOT provide them with skilled legal representation.
This is advice from the WA State Attorney General's office, but the main points would apply to all states.
http://www.atg.wa.gov/immigration-services
Immigration law is one of the most complicated areas in the legal field. Thousands of Washington consumers require immigration-related legal services each year, but unfortunately many individuals, often times relying on referrals from family and friends, are unknowingly defrauded by people claiming to be experts. The consequences can be devastating for those seeking the opportunity to live and work in the United States.
Missing a deadline or not properly researching applicable law prior to submitting an application can cause an immigrant to lose their legal status or even face deportation.
Locating Legitimate Services
Only licensed attorneys and federally authorized practitioners can provide legal advice on immigration matters.
To find a licensed attorney or federally authorized professional who specializes in immigration law, contact these organizations for information:
American Association of Immigration Lawyers -Washington Chapter: www.ailawa.org/
You may also search for an immigration attorney, by city and state, at AILA’s immigration lawyer search page: www.ailalawyer.com/
Latino Bar Association of Washington (LBAW): www.lbaw.org/
Washington State Bar Association: www.wsba.org/
The Northwest Immigrant Rights Project provides legal services to immigrants and refugees and offers workshops for those who want to know if they are qualified to petition for their family members to get legal status in the U.S. Information is available online at www.nwirp.org.
Western Washington residents may call 800-445-5771 or 206-587-4009. In Eastern or Central Washington, call 888-756-3641. Calls are answered on weekdays; ask for the Citizenship Unit.
Your county bar association
