Immigrants living in Kentucky and other parts of the country will typically need help navigating the immigration process when they desire a change in their present status. These immigrants and their families need to know where they can find the help they need.
Notarios explained
Many immigrants trust the services of “notarios.” However, these immigration consultants often possess no formal training with immigration law and are known for making false promises to immigrants. The Spanish word notario translates to “notary public” in English.
The confusion for immigrants stems from the fact that notary publics in other countries are often practicing lawyers. Notary publics in the United States are only authorized witnesses to document signings. These circumstances have revealed an opportunity for unscrupulous individuals who achieve notary public status in the United States to misrepresent themselves as someone qualified to provide legal counsel on immigration matters.
Why notarios are not a good choice
Immigrants should understand that even a notario who means them no harm may seriously damage their immigration status. A notario who does not possess the knowledge needed to oversee the immigration process may file documents in a way that causes the immigrant they represent permanent harm.
On the other end of the spectrum, some notarios take money from immigrants with no intention of ever filing paperwork. In either event, poor advice in immigration matters can result in additional fees, delays or removal from the country for immigrants.
Where to find help with immigration matters
Immigrants who need help with the immigration process have two recommended avenues to find the assistance they need. The first is to find a practicing attorney who is licensed in the state that the immigrant presently calls home. The second is to reach out to a representative who works for an organization that has received a Board of Immigration Appeals approval.
The immigration process in the United States includes complex regulations that are sometimes difficult for immigrants to navigate. Immigrants and their families have a lot riding on this process and need things to go as smoothly as possible. An immigration attorney may be able to improve the chances of positive results for individuals involved with the immigration process.