Why You Should Choose an Immigration Lawyer Over a Notary Public (Notario)
For many immigrants, navigating the U.S. immigration system is confusing, overwhelming, and often frustrating. With complex paperwork, long wait times, and constantly changing policies, it’s understandable why people seek help wherever they can find it. Unfortunately, many turn to notarios (notaries public), believing they are a cheaper and faster alternative to an immigration lawyer.
While notarios may seem like a convenient option, the reality is that they are not licensed attorneys and cannot provide legal advice. In many cases, using a notario can cause serious delays, lead to application denials, and even put someone at risk of deportation. If you or a loved one need help with an immigration matter, working with a qualified immigration attorney is the safest and most reliable choice.
What’s the Difference Between a Notary Public and an Immigration Lawyer?
In many Latin American countries, a notario público is a highly trained legal professional with the authority to draft and certify legal documents. However, in the United States, a notary public is NOT a lawyer.
What Notaries Can Do in the U.S.:
✔ Verify signatures on documents.
✔ Witness the signing of contracts or forms.
✔ Administer oaths in some cases.
What Notaries CANNOT Do:
❌ Provide legal advice on immigration matters.
❌ Represent clients in court or before USCIS.
❌ File immigration applications on behalf of someone.
Despite these limitations, many notarios mislead immigrants into thinking they can handle their cases just like a lawyer would. Some even charge high fees while submitting incorrect paperwork or failing to provide the right guidance. This can result in denied applications, lost money, and even legal consequences.
The Risks of Using a Notary Instead of an Immigration Lawyer
Many people seek help from notarios because they believe it will save time and money. But in reality, using a notario often leads to more problems than solutions. Here’s why:
1. Incorrect Applications and Delays
Immigration applications are complex, and even a small mistake can cause significant delays. Notarios may fill out forms incorrectly or submit incomplete paperwork, leading to rejections, delays, or even loss of immigration status.
2. Receiving the Wrong Advice
Notarios are not trained in immigration law. They might give incorrect guidance that results in an applicant unknowingly disqualifying themselves from obtaining legal status. Some immigrants have even been placed in deportation proceedings because of mistakes made by notarios.
3. No Legal Representation
If USCIS or an immigration judge needs additional information, a notario cannot represent you in court. An immigration attorney, however, can speak on your behalf, present legal arguments, and advocate for your case.
4. Lost Time and Money
Many immigrants pay high fees to notarios, only to realize later that their case has been mishandled. In some cases, these errors are impossible to fix, and the person may lose their opportunity to obtain legal status. Hiring an experienced immigration lawyer from the beginning helps avoid these costly mistakes.
Why Working with an Immigration Lawyer is the Best Choice
A licensed immigration attorney is trained in U.S. immigration law and can provide legal advice, strategic planning, and representation. They understand the system, know how to handle challenges, and are committed to protecting your best interests.
What an Immigration Lawyer Can Do for You:
✔ Assess your situation and explain your options.
✔ Ensure all applications and paperwork are properly completed.
✔ Advocate for you in front of USCIS or immigration court.
✔ Help prevent delays and legal mistakes.
By working with a lawyer, you gain peace of mind knowing that your case is being handled correctly by someone who understands the law.
How to Protect Yourself from Notario Fraud
If someone offers to help with your immigration case, here’s how to check if they are legally allowed to do so:
• Ask for credentials – Only licensed attorneys or DOJ-accredited representatives can give legal immigration advice.
• Be cautious of promises – If someone guarantees success or fast results, be skeptical. Immigration cases take time.
• Never sign blank forms – A notario may ask you to sign incomplete forms—this is a red flag.
• Verify their qualifications – You can look up an attorney’s credentials through your state’s bar association.
If you think you’ve been misled by a notario, don’t wait—get legal help immediately. An immigration lawyer may be able to fix errors before they become permanent problems.
Get the Right Help—We’re Here for You
At DeLaTorre Law, we know how important your immigration case is, and we believe everyone deserves reliable and honest legal support. If you need help with your immigration process, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
📍 DeLaTorre Law
5835 Callaghan Rd, Ste 300, San Antonio, TX 78228
📞 Phone: (210) 640-9788
📧 Email: mayrise@mdelatorrelaw.com
🌐 Website: mdelatorrelaw.com
Don’t take risks with your future. Schedule a consultation today and get the right legal help.
