Someone Promised to Fix Your Immigration Case. What Should You Check First?
A convincing social-media post can make an immigration service seem trustworthy before you have spoken to anyone. For Chicagoland families, the safest first step is to establish who will handle the matter, what authority they have and exactly what they propose to file.
Unsure about an immigration offer? Request a consultation to discuss your circumstances with the bilingual team at Lopez & Sanchez LLP.
Key takeaways
- Check professional authorization independently.
- Government connections and guaranteed outcomes are warning signs.
- Review completed paperwork before signing.
- Keep a written agreement and payment records.
Credentials matter more than followers
USCIS distinguishes authorized legal advice from general assistance completing paperwork. A notary title alone does not authorize immigration legal advice. An accredited representative must work within the scope of the accreditation and through a DOJ-recognized organization.
Start with these questions
| Question | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Who will represent me? | Identify the responsible professional |
| What does the fee cover? | Separate representation from government charges |
| Can I review the submission? | Understand what will be filed in your name |
| How will I receive updates? | Establish a dependable communication channel |
Be cautious with unexpected payment requests
USCIS warns about impersonators, misleading websites and requests for payments to individuals. Verify a sender through independently obtained contact information. Do not assume a familiar logo or urgent tone makes a message legitimate. Avoid sending identity documents through an unsolicited social-media conversation.
Already paid? Build a clear record
Put messages, receipts, agreements and application copies in chronological order. Identify what was promised, what you paid and whether anything was actually filed. Do not guess at a correction or submit another application simply to undo a suspected mistake. A lawyer can assess the available records and explain possible next steps. Read about our immigration practice.
Frequently asked questions
Does being a notary authorize immigration legal advice?
No. A notary title alone does not provide that authorization.
Can a lawyer guarantee approval?
No. Hiring a lawyer does not guarantee a favorable government decision.
What records should I preserve?
Keep messages, receipts, written agreements and copies of submitted applications for an individual review.
Official sources: USCIS authorized-help brochure, USCIS newcomer guide, USCIS fraud-prevention flyer. Checked October 19, 2026; this is prevention guidance, not an announcement of a new rule.
This article provides general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Individual circumstances require review.
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For informational purposes only. This content is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship.