What To Do If My Immigration Lawyer Or Notario Took My Money And Disappeared: A 2025 Guide

By Richard T. Herman, Esq. — Herman Legal Group, The Law Firm for ImmigrantsBook a Consultation

Navigating the U.S. immigration system is complex and stressful—one wrong move can jeopardize your visa, green card, or asylum case, and put your family and loved ones at risk. Seeking help from unqualified or disappearing representatives can cause serious harm, leading to costly mistakes and devastating legal or personal consequences for you and your family.

Notarios often lack the legal training required to properly handle immigration cases, which increases the risk of mistakes and fraud.

At a Glance: Why This Matters

When your immigration lawyer or notario disappears after taking your money, it’s more than a financial loss—it can jeopardize your visa, green card, or asylum case. Each day lost may mean missing a USCIS deadline, falling out of status, or risking deportation.

If you are affected by lawyer or notario disappearance, seek support from reputable organizations such as AILA or ABA for trusted guidance and resources. Don’t wait to take action—delaying can make your situation worse and reduce your options.

Fast Fact:

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) receives thousands of immigration service-fraud complaints annually, especially involving unlicensed notarios who falsely promise “quick” work permits or green cards.

This article explains step-by-step what to do immediately, how to file complaints, how to protect your case and recover your funds, and how to find a trustworthy attorney—locally in Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio, and nationwide.

1. Why This Happens — Understanding the Risk of Lawyer and Notario Disappearance

The Notario Trap

In Latin America, a notario público is a high-level legal official. In the U.S., however, a “notario” has no legal authority to handle immigration matters unless they are also a licensed attorney. Unscrupulous notarios exploit this confusion by collecting thousands in fees, then disappearing after filing nothing—or filing false or incomplete paperwork that puts clients in removal proceedings. The term ‘notario público’ refers to legally trained individuals in Latin America, unlike in the U.S. where notaries serve a different function. Many immigrants may seek help from unqualified providers because the immigration process is long and complicated.

Important Note:

Only attorneys admitted to a U.S. state bar or accredited representatives recognized by the DOJ can legally represent immigrants before USCIS or immigration court.

When Licensed Lawyers Vanish

Sometimes the problem involves an actual attorney—suspended, overextended, or negligent—who stops responding to clients. They may move offices, lose their license, or simply disappear. While this scenario is less common than notario fraud, it can be just as devastating. If your case is in immigration court, immediately notify the court of your attorney’s disappearance to request a continuance. Every state has a bar association that investigates attorney misconduct, and you should file a complaint with them if your attorney has acted improperly.

Expert Tip:

Check your lawyer’s standing anytime at the American Bar Association Lawyer Directory or your state bar’s website. For Ohio, visit the Supreme Court of Ohio Attorney Directory.

2. At a Glance: Step-by-Step Immediate Actions

Step 1: Gather Every Document and Receipt

Collect all fee receipts, contracts, emails, texts, or filing proof (e.g., USCIS receipt numbers). You will need these to prove payment and representation. Be sure to fill out any necessary forms or questionnaires required for complaints, refunds, or new legal representation. Additionally, gather all documents related to your case, including retainer agreements and correspondence, for any new attorney.

Step 2: Try to Contact the Attorney or Office in Writing

Send a formal written request (certified mail or email) asking for:

• Your case file and copies of any USCIS receipts
• A status update and timeline
• Return of unearned fees

Keep copies of all correspondence and delivery receipts. Use certified mail for communication with your old representative to document your request for a refund and your client file.

Important Note: Bar associations often require proof you tried to resolve the issue before they open a disciplinary investigation.

Step 3: Protect Your Immigration Case

If you suspect no application was filed:

• Create a free USCIS online account to check any filings under your name.
• Call the USCIS Contact Center (1-800-375-5283).
• If your case is in immigration court, verify status at 1-800-898-7180 or use the EOIR Automated Case Information Portal. You need your Alien Registration Number (A-Number) to check immigration court case status. For cases before an immigration court, contact the court using the automated toll-free number at 1-800-898-7180 to check the status of your case. Submit a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to USCIS to get a copy of your “A-File” (your immigration record).

Need to Know:

Even if your lawyer vanished, you remain responsible for meeting immigration deadlines. Missing a filing can trigger inadmissibility or deportation.

Step 4: File Formal Complaints

• For attorneys: File a grievance with your state bar (e.g., Ohio Board of Professional Conduct).
• For notarios and scams: File complaints with the FTC and the DOJ Immigrant and Employee Rights Section.
• For immigration fraud: Use the USCIS Tip Form or email USCIS Fraud Detection & National Security (FDNS). You can also report immigration services fraud directly to USCIS using their online Tip Form. File a complaint with the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) using Form EOIR-44 for attorney misconduct in immigration courts.

Fast Fact:

The DOJ has a dedicated initiative to prosecute “notario fraud” cases that involve identity theft and unlicensed practice of law.

Step 5: Hire a New, Qualified Immigration Attorney

Do not delay. Find an experienced immigration law firm that can quickly evaluate the damage and rescue your case. Consumers are encouraged to get qualified immigration assistance to avoid being scammed.

• Look for verified bar membership and AILA (American Immigration Lawyers Association) membership.
• Ask for written scope of representation and flat fees.
• Consider whether the firm also offers family law services, which can be helpful if your legal needs overlap with immigration and family matters.

Book Consultation with Herman Legal Group to review your case immediately.

3. Ohio Focus: Cleveland, Columbus & Beyond

Ohio immigrants face the same risks as anywhere else—but they also benefit from strong state oversight and several established law firms with national reach.

Some local organizations also provide job placement or employment support services for immigrants affected by legal fraud.

Reporting a Lawyer in Ohio

You can file a complaint through theSupreme Court of Ohio’s Office of Disciplinary Counsel.
Complaints can be submitted online or by mail; there is no fee.

Reporting a Notario in Ohio

Contact the Ohio Attorney General Consumer Protection Division or the local police. If you are undocumented, you can file without risk of immigration enforcement. File a police report for fraud and theft, providing all documents and correspondence.

Local Immigration Help Centers

• Cleveland Legal Aid Society –lasclev.org
• Community Refugee and Immigration Services (CRIS) – crisohio.org
• Catholic Charities Migration & Refugee Services – catholiccharitiescleveland.org
• American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and Immigration Advocates Network (IAN) offer directories of legal service providers. Use a reputable legal services organization like the Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) for assistance with immigration issues.

4. Recovering Your Money and Preserving Your Case

Refunds and Civil Claims

If you paid a licensed attorney who vanished, you may be entitled to a refund or restitution. File a fee-dispute complaint with the state bar. In Ohio, use theLawyers’ Fund for Client Protection to recover up to $75,000 in certain cases of attorney dishonesty. You can also sue an attorney in civil court to recover your funds due to negligence or fraud. You can contact your state’s Attorney General’s office to report fraud and seek civil lawsuits against fraudsters. You may also be able to file a claim with the surety bond company of a notary to recover financial losses.

Key Insight:

Bar recovery funds exist to protect victims of attorney misconduct — but you must file within the time limit.

Criminal Fraud and Police Reports

For notarios or non-lawyers, you can file a criminal complaint for theft or fraud. Keep evidence of payments and communications. You may need to sue the notary to recover your money if they caused financial losses. Additionally, contact your state’s notary regulating agency to report the missing notary and any losses incurred.

Essential Info:

Federal and state law enforcement agencies often collaborate to prosecute unlicensed immigration service fraud schemes. Victims can sometimes qualify for U-visas if they assist law enforcement.

Rebuilding Your Immigration Case

• File new forms with updated information and evidence.
• Include a cover letter explaining what happened and why you need forgiveness for any delays.
• Work with a reputable immigration lawyer to avoid further errors.

5. Choosing a Trustworthy Immigration Lawyer After Fraud

Verify Credentials

• Search your lawyer on the state bar’s directory.
• Confirm AILA membership (aila.org).
• Review online ratings and disciplinary history.

Demand Transparency

• Always request a written fee agreement, and ensure you are signing the agreement before any services begin.
• Avoid “guaranteed outcomes” or “connections inside USCIS.”
• Expect periodic updates and access to your file.

Avoid Red Flags

• Anyone calling themselves a “notario,” “immigration consultant,” or “paralegal” who offers legal advice without a license.
• Payment demands in cash only.
• Refusal to provide copies of documents or receipts.

Expert Tip:

Legitimate law firms like Herman Legal Group use secure client portals, written contracts, and clear fee structures so you always know your case status. Reputable law firms also often allow clients to access case updates and communicate securely with their attorney via phone or mobile app.

6. National Resources for Victims of Immigration Fraud

• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): reportfraud.ftc.gov
• U.S. Department of Justice – Immigrant Rights Section: justice.gov/crt/immigrant-and-employee-rights-section
• USCIS Fraud Detection: uscis.gov/report-fraud
• American Bar Association Find Legal Help: americanbar.org/public.html

7. Comparison of Trusted Immigration Law Firms (2025)

Some immigration law firms may also assist clients with legal services related to house purchases or real estate matters, helping immigrants navigate property ownership and real estate investing in the U.S.

Important Note:

This list is for informational purposes only and not an endorsement of other firms. Always verify credentials before hiring any attorney.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

What if my lawyer never filed my application?

You can refile immediately with new counsel. If deadlines passed, your attorney’s misconduct can sometimes be used to request equitable tolling or forgiveness from USCIS or the immigration court.

Can I get my money back?

Yes. For licensed attorneys, file a fee dispute or claim through the state bar or client protection fund. For notarios, use civil court or report to law enforcement for fraud. You can also report notary misconduct to the state office that commissioned them, often the Secretary of State.

What if I am undocumented and afraid to report fraud?

You can file a complaint without revealing immigration status. Law enforcement is not permitted to share your information with ICE when you report consumer fraud.

Should I report a notario to ICE?

Do not report to ICE directly. Instead, use the FTC or DOJ fraud portals. ICE focuses on enforcement against fraudsters, not victims.

How do I find a new lawyer quickly?

Start with an experienced firm that handles emergency cases and can contact USCIS on your behalf immediately — for example, Herman Legal Group.

9. Visual Snapshot: “Your Action Plan After a Lawyer or Notario Disappears”

10. Key Takeaways

• Don’t panic—but act immediately.
• Collect proof of payments and correspondence.
• Check if anything was filed with USCIS or the immigration court.
• Report the lawyer to the state bar or the notario to the FTC or DOJ.
• File for refunds through your state’s lawyer fund (Ohio offers up to $75,000).
• Rebuild your immigration case quickly with a verified immigration attorney.
• Cleveland and Columbus have reputable firms with national reach, including Herman Legal Group.
• Avoid “guaranteed approval” claims or unlicensed notarios.
• Always confirm attorney licensing through your state bar.
• The faster you act, the more likely you can recover funds and save your immigration status. To recover funds, report fraud to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Written by Richard T. Herman, Esq.
Founder, Herman Legal Group — The Law Firm for Immigrants
Serving Cleveland, Columbus, and clients nationwide in more than 10 languages.