Calif. Tries Again to Check ‘Notarios’ Immigration Consultants

Only lawyers and federally licensed experts could act as immigration consultants under a revived proposal in the California Legislature aimed at curtailing what proponents say is the unlicensed practice of law.

The measure approved by the Assembly and backed by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors and pushed by the California Bar is aimed at banning so-called “notarios,” consultants offering immigration assistance and translating who aren’t licensed to practice law. The practices of immigration consultants often blur the line between assisting with immigration documents and offering legal advice, which amounts to the illegal practice of law, an Assembly analysis ...