Fraud targeting immigrants has increased as enforcement actions rise and bad actors exploit communities seeking legal help. More sophisticated technology enables scammers to reach noncitizens and impersonate reputable organizations, using ABA branding and office addresses to charge thousands for services never provided. Common red flags include unsolicited contact through messaging apps, lack of in-person meetings, and failure to present proof of licensure. Victims are advised to verify attorney credentials, insist on face-to-face consultations, scrutinize communication methods, and retain situational awareness during legal interactions. Remaining cautious and confirming credentials can prevent exploitation and costly fraud.
The increase in fraud cases is attributed to rising enforcement actions, and bad actors are seeking to take advantage of immigrant communities desperately seeking legal assistance. The use of more sophisticated technology also has contributed to the growing number of fraud cases, particularly among noncitizens....Fraudsters are using ABA branding and office addresses to trade on the ABA's reputation, often charging thousands of dollars for services that are never provided, said Adonia R. Simpson, deputy director for policy and pro bono for the ABA Commission on Immigration.
Given the challenges in determining whether a person is competent at their job or just making their best out of an opportunity to grift without actual authority ( looking at you Alina Habba), the ABA offered some guidelines to suss out if the immigration attorney you're in communication with sees you as a future client or an easy lick. They include scrutinizing communication methods (your immigration lawyer shouldn't be reaching out to you through Whatsapp or Messenger),
Getting legal help is scary enough without the threat of being sent to Uganda looming over your head. And while it is understandable to feel lost in the sea of legalese that your (hopefully real) potential attorney is saying to you, do your best to stay focused on what's being said and your surroundings - you are not required to leave your street smarts at the entrance to an attorney's office. There are signs to look for if you think the person claiming to rep
Collection
[
|
...
]