Virtual Series: Immigration, Enforcement & Unrest

Legal Services: Avoiding Scams

Calbar.ca.gov • (800) 843-9053

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Immigration-related legal services are in demand, and with that comes some looking to take advantage. Here are some things to consider: 

• Only work with a licensed attorney

• Notarios are not lawyers and cannot provide legal representation

• Ask where a lawyer is licensed and for their bar number

• Get everything in writing

• Do not pay cash — use a cashier’s check if needed

• Avoid anyone asking for cash

• Verify lawyers with the State Bar of California

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What to Know

Federal enforcement has expanded beyond targeted investigations to also include broad enforcement, with federal agents from various agencies (DHS, CBP, ICE) out in our community and others across the region.

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Targeted enforcement can occur at homes, neighborhoods, and businesses with a judicial or administrative warrant and can involve deportation orders or suspicion of criminal activity.

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Broader enforcement efforts include questioning of "collaterals" — others onsite at the scene of enforcement who are not the initial focus of the enforcement. Or by "consensual stops," where an officer asks someone out in public if they can talk to them.

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Both types of federal enforcement activity is happening in Orange and across the region. Those concerned should know what their rights are in either situation.

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It is important to know that federal agencies have the legal right to conduct enforcement operations based on actions taken by Congress, recent court decisions, and the U.S. Government Code.

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You can see the U.S. Code section here.