Immigration Center = Immigration Scam

Watch out. I just had a client of mine get a call from an "agent" at the "immigration center." He sounded official. He scared her to death. She saved his number. So I gave him a call.

"Hi, I'm Sarah. I'm an immigration attorney. I heard that you contacted my client. What is the "immigration center," anyway? Is it some kind of immigration form center?"

Response: "That's none of your business." click. He hung up on me.

Well, actually, sir. IT IS MY BUSINESS. It is my business to protect my clients from scum bags like you -- who steal peoples' money and impersonate government officials.

Here are some steps that you can use to protect yourself:

1. Have an attorney. If it is USCIS, they won't have a problem talking to an attorney. It happens all of the time. Moreover, a licesnsed attorney will steer you clear of scams. While there are jokes about unethical attorneys - the reality is: attorneys cannot (or should not) practice without their licenses. They are directly accountable to the states in which they are licensed with strict ethical obligations. Immigration consultants, notarios, or in this case immigration centers, don't have ethical obligations to you. It's difficult to shut them down. They will take your money, give you wrong legal information and most of the time: not pay any consequence.

2. USCIS doesn't take money over the phone. Don't give your card numbers for immigration purposes (unless you're paying a licensed, legit ATTORNEY). Even if it is an attorney, you should get a detailed attorney-client contract with attorney responsibilities clearly outlined.

3. USCIS, in most cases, won't be calling you. Most of the interaction happens via mail. Be very cautious if someone is reaching out to you via phone or internet.

Be aware. Be informed. Be represented. You only immigrate to the United States once. Do it right.