I came to the United States as an immigrant, just like many families I now represent. The immigration process is confusing, emotional, and often filled with fear of making one wrong move. When people are searching for help, they usually turn to those they trust most. Members of their own community. That is why many immigrants rely on notarios or agencies to guide them. I understand why. I also understand the risks.
In many Hispanic communities, notarios are seen as helpers. They speak our language, they understand our struggles, and they often offer services at a lower cost than law firms. Some may even believe they are doing good work by filling out forms and providing general guidance. The problem is not always intention. It is authority and knowledge. A notario is not a licensed attorney. They are not trained to analyze legal options, identify risks, or provide strategy. They cannot legally represent clients in court or communicate with immigration officials on a client’s behalf.
In today’s immigration climate, a misunderstanding about legal status or eligibility can have serious consequences. A missed deadline or incorrect form is not just a mistake. It can cost a person their chance to stay in the country. Many people who go to notarios do so because they believe they are saving money. But when things go wrong, they end up paying much more to fix the damage, and sometimes, it cannot be fixed at all.
Beyond the well-meaning notarios, there are also those who act with no regard for the people they claim to serve. These are the companies that take large amounts of money and promise quick work permits or guaranteed results. They prey on fear and desperation. They tell families what they want to hear and disappear when the situation becomes complicated. I have met clients who believed they were on a path to legal status, only to discover that no application was ever filed or that what was filed put them at risk of deportation.
As an attorney, I am held to ethical standards and legal accountability. Every decision I make carries responsibility. The law requires me to give accurate information and to act in my client’s best interest. That level of protection does not exist when someone works with an unlicensed provider. Immigration law is complex, and each case is different. What works for one person can harm another. Only someone trained in the law can determine the right path forward.
I do not say this to create fear but to encourage informed choices. Immigrants deserve real guidance, not promises that sound good but lead nowhere. Seeking help is not just about filling out forms. It is about protecting your future.
From one immigrant to another, I know how important this journey is. Trust is essential, but it must be placed in hands that are prepared to carry the weight of your case. When your status, your family, and your future are on the line, make sure the person helping you is qualified to stand with you every step of the way.
Diana M. Gomez
Founder MG Equity Law LLC
