A notario, consultant or lawyer hurt my case
Protect your case, report it and try to get your money back.
4 steps
Step 1 of 4: Protect your case first
Find out where your case stands and get a qualified person to review it.
- Notario CheatedYou trusted someone, paid them, and your case went wrong. That is not your fault, and it is not the end of your case. Protect your case first, get your papers back, then report them and go after your money. Here is how, step by step, in California.Guide
- Lawyer Lost LicenseYour lawyer was suspended, disbarred, disappeared, or hurt your case with a serious mistake. That is scary, and it is not your fault. Your case does not end with your lawyer. Protect your dates, get your file, and find new help. Here is how.Guide
- Report packet: what to gatherPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 2 of 4: Try to get your money back
Small claims court is one option.
- Small Claims Against a ConsultantYou paid a notario or consultant and did not get what you paid for. Small claims court is built for people like you. No lawyers, low fees, and a judge who hears your side. Here is how to file, step by step, in San Mateo and Santa Clara counties.Guide
- Small claims checklist: getting my money backPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 3 of 4: Find someone you can trust
Check licenses and accreditation before you pay again.
- Find a Trusted LawyerCheck before you pay. A few minutes can protect your money and your case. Here is how to look up a lawyer or a Department of Justice accredited representative, what a fair agreement looks like, what to ask at the first meeting, and what to do if something goes wrong.Guide
- Questions for your first meetingPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 4 of 4: Get help from a person
You do not have to do this alone. Ask about cost, languages and current openings before you share documents.
- Avoid immigration scams and notario fraudGuidance from the California Attorney General on spotting immigration services fraud. Only lawyers, accredited representatives and recognized organizations can give immigration legal advice; notarios and consultants cannot.Organization
- ImmigrationLawHelp.orgA national directory of free or low-cost nonprofit immigration legal service providers. Search by ZIP code, county or the name of a detention facility.Organization
This page puts DNLH guides in a useful order. It is general information, not legal advice. Each guide shows its sources and the date its facts were checked.
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