Before I pay a consultant: the law checklist
A printable from Consultant Rules Checklist. Fill it in by hand. Nothing you write is collected by this website.
Before I pay a consultant: the law checklist
Check first
- I found their bond on the Secretary of State search. Bond number: ____________
- I asked a nonprofit or lawyer whether I need legal advice first
In the office
- Large sign: name, address, bond, "not an attorney," fees, each consultant's name
- Sign: no fees for referrals
Before I pay
- Written disclosure in my language: name, address, phone, agent for service, bond number
- Contract in English AND my language (if not, it is void)
- Each service and cost listed
- Each form listed: purpose, cost, agency, time
- Bold statement: "not an attorney"
- Where to complain: EOIR and State Bar, with phone and website
- My right to cancel in 72 hours, in both languages
Red lines (stop if you see these)
- They told me which form or program fits me
- They promised a result without putting it in writing
- They said they know someone at immigration
- They called themselves a notario or lawyer
- They took money for a law or program that is not open yet
After I pay
- Signed receipt for each payment
- Statement every two months, translated
- My originals returned
- A copy of every form, with their name and address
Signed on: ________ 72 hours ends: ________ Cancel in writing. Keep a copy.
From Consultant Rules Checklist. Facts checked October 21, 2026. Free information, not legal or medical advice.