How to spot a notario scam before it costs you

In many countries, a notario público is a trained legal professional. In the United States, a notary public is someone licensed only to witness signatures. That difference has cost families in Siouxland their savings, their time and sometimes their chance at a green card. Only a licensed attorney or a representative accredited by the U.S. Department of Justice may give you advice about immigration law.

Six warning signs

• They promise a green card, a work permit or a fast result. No honest professional can guarantee what USCIS will decide.

• They say they have a special contact at USCIS or at the immigration court.

• They charge you for blank government forms. Every USCIS form is free at uscis.gov.

• They ask you to sign a blank form, or one with information you know is not true.

• They keep your original passport, birth certificate or other documents.

• They will not give you a written contract, a receipt or copies of what they filed in your name.

Check before you pay

You can confirm that a lawyer is licensed through the state's attorney licensing office, and you can find accredited representatives on the Department of Justice's public roster of recognized organizations and accredited representatives. If a name is on neither list, do not hand over money or documents.

Where to report fraud

In Iowa, you can report immigration services fraud to the Consumer Protection Division of the Iowa Attorney General. In Nebraska, contact the Consumer Protection Division of the Nebraska Attorney General. Anyone can also report to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. If you are worried about reporting, talk with us first, in confidence.