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LA County warns of immigration attorney fraud. Here's what to know
Christian Contreras, attorney for the family confronted by ICE agents in their vehicle Wednesday morning, speaks at a rally against immigration raids at Salazar Park on June 11, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
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Gina Ferazzi/Los Angeles Times via Getty Imag
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Los Angeles Times
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Topline:
Los Angeles County is telling people to beware of immigration attorney fraud in the wake of sustained ICE sweeps in California.
Why now: With immigration enforcement actions continuing to take place in Southern California people are proactively seeking legal advice on what to do if they’re caught up by federal agents.
Why it matters: The Office of Immigrant Affairs recommends those seeking legal advice on immigration-related matters avoid using “consultants, notaries, and tax preparers.”
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What else? Beware of promises of work permits, green cards, and visas that could appear on social media. The OIA says only licensed attorneys and professionals accredited federally are authorized to give legal advice.
The office also advises to avoid self-proclaimed “attorneys” that:
- Won’t meet with you in person.
- Have you sign blank forms and fail to provide you with a written contract.
- Tell you to provide false information on an application.
- Claim to have special connections with Immigration officials.
- Keep your original documents.
What if I encounter fraud: The Department of Consumer Business Affairs can help once you report the fraud. You can call (800) 593-8222, go in person, or report it online at dcba.lacounty.gov.
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