Wednesday, September 9, 2009

MEDIA ADVISORY

For Immediate Release: September 9, 2009

Contact: Petula McShiras
Office: (303) 321-4287 ext. 215
Cell: (812) 201-5196

Unauthorized Practice of Law rampant in Colorado: Learn how You can avoid becoming a victim of Legal Fraud

WHAT: The Dangers of Notario Fraud presentation is designed especially for those immigrants who are most vulnerable to the exploitation and risks associated with the use of “notarios” or “immigration consultants” who are not authorized to give immigration advice. The presentation will cover what constitutes the practice of law, the difference between a notario publico in Mexico and a notary public in the United States, how immigrants can find licensed attorneys to help them, and how they can file a claim against someone who falsely represented that he or she could give immigration help.

WHEN: Monday, September 21st 2009, 1:00 pm

WHERE: Joseph Law Firm, P.C., 12203 E. Second Ave. Aurora, CO. 80011

WHO: Rocky Mountain Survivors Center, the Colorado Supreme Court Office of Attorney Regulation, and the Colorado Attorney General’s Office, Consumer Fraud Unit will be giving the presentation. Joseph Law Firm, P.C. will be hosting, and any immigrants or immigrant advocates are welcome to attend

WHY: To increase awareness amongst immigrant communities in Colorado about the dangers of using someone unauthorized to practice law in the United States for assistance with their immigration case.

Recently in Colorado, many immigrants have fallen prey to what is often called “notario fraud” or the unauthorized practice of law. These immigrants have lost thousands of dollars, been denied legal status, and faced deportation proceedings all because someone who was not licensed to practice law either gave them bad advice or fraudulently took limited financial resources from them. Immigrants in the Denver community are invited to come hear a presentation put on by the Rocky Mountain Survivors Center on the dangers of notario fraud, how to find competent help, and how to file a claim against someone who has fraudulently represented them.