Guest Column
IMMIGRANT LAW TIPS
- Watch out if someone says:
- • We can get you a work permit right away.
- • We offer no-risk immigration.
- • We can get U.S. visas for you and your family in a few weeks.
- • We know people at immigration and can get your papers done quickly.
- To protect yourself:
- • Never sign any blank application papers or forms you do not fully understand.
- • Always demand a written contract for any immigration services when you are not working with a recognized agency.
- • Watch out for anyone who wants you to pay immediately.
- • Always get copies of the papers prepared for you.
- • Never let anyone keep your original documents (example: birth certificates, marriage certificates).
- • Get a receipt for any money you pay.
- • Never work with someone who will not answer your questions.
- Someone cheat you?
- • If the person cheating you is a lawyer, call the Sstate Bbar association where he or she is licensed. In California, the number is 800-843-9053.
- • If the person cheating you is not a lawyer, you can call: Attorney General's hot line (Office of Immigrant Assistance): 888-587-0557, and your city's police department or district attorney's office.
- Where to go for immigration help:
- • Bar Association of San Francisco, 415-989-1616
- • International Institute, Oakland, 510-451-2846
- • Asian Pacific Islander Legal Outreach, San Francisco, 415-567-6255
- • American Immigration Lawyers Association, 800-954-0254
- • Catholic Charities, San Jose, 408-944-0362
- Source: Immigrant Legal Resource Center in San Francisco
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- Provided as a public service by the Contra Costa Times
- At: http://www.contracostatimes.com/mld/cctimes/news/local/states/california/13782114.htm
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