SAN ANTONIO -- The process has now begun for thousands of undocumented immigrants to apply for deferred action and while that’s good news for them, some are trying to capitalize on the situation, ultimately hurting the applicant.
They’re called dreamers and for many Wednesday was day one in the ultimate step of obtaining the ultimate dream of citizenship. That’s because thousands upon thousands brought to the country as children are now able to apply for deferred action.
Deffered action would allow them to live and work in the United States for 2 years without fear of deportation. However, some say there are people trying to capitalize on their needs and that could turn their dream into a nightmare according to San Antonio immigration attorney Alfredo Lozano.
“I think that’s very unethical. That’s not correct, especially when you are an attorney and you’re advertising otherwise, that’s not right,” Lozano said.
Lozano has heard other attorneys make false promises they can’t possibly keep.
Even though Lozano said its best to seek legal advice when applying for deferred action, he also urged people to do their own research on the law so they don’t waste their time, or money.
Even though Lozano said its best to seek legal advice when applying for deferred action, he also urged people to do their own research on the law so they don’t waste their time, or money.
“If you’re going to do it, do it with open eyes and know what you’re getting yourself into,” said Lozano.
“Know what the benefits are and know what the risks are.”
“Know what the benefits are and know what the risks are.”
And real attorneys making false promises isn't the only issue facing undocumented immigrants.
William Wise is Executive Director for the San Antonio Immigrant Youth Movement and said applicants seeking legal advice can easily be tricked by people not even qualified to practice immigration law.
William Wise is Executive Director for the San Antonio Immigrant Youth Movement and said applicants seeking legal advice can easily be tricked by people not even qualified to practice immigration law.
“We are warning to not talk to a notary public, or what the Spanish community knows as notarios,” said Wise.
“Notarios” or public notaries are not accredited in immigration law and could charge money for help that’s ultimately not any good.
Lozano said people should also be mindful of how much an attorney is charging for legal advice.
Also it’s best to check the government’s website www.uscis.gov.
Also it’s best to check the government’s website www.uscis.gov.
