Legal Question in Immigration Law in California
corrupted paralegal
I am working with four Armenian families that were taken advantage of by a ''paralegal'' individual. The reason for the '' '' marks is because we are not sure she really is one. She claims that she does immigration work under the auspices of an Attorney but she gave a name of a non-existing Attorney, refused to specify where the''Attorney'' practices. But the main problem is that she took several thousands dollars from each of the families and is doing nothing. She also refuses to give files to clients, even copies of the documents allegedly filed with the INS.
Assuming she is a paralegal and not a scam artist, what are the options right now to force her, at least, to return money and/or files back to the clients??
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: corrupted paralegal
Are you an attorney representing her? If you are, you know all about these scam artists or "notarios," at least in California. Nothing surprising -- happens all the time here.
Go to the local DA to complain. File a civil lawsuit against her.
Liem Doan, Esq.
Re: corrupted paralegal
Correction: "Are you an attorney representing the families?"
Re: corrupted paralegal
I suggest you get in touch with the California Bar Association (their web site is www.calbar.org). While the bar association generally regulates attorneys, they would probably be interested in knowing about this person and should be able to give useful advice.
It is unconscionable for her to withhold files. Attorneys are not permitted to withhold client files, even where they have not been paid.
As a matter of information, it is now illegal in California for someone to call him/herself a "paralegal" unless they actually work under the supervision of an attorney. Under the new law, paralegals are not permitted to quote fees or collect money or provide advice to clients. There are other restrictions.
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