Immigrants prepare for reform, warned to beware of fraud

SANTA ANA, Calif. (AP) -- Immigration reform is stalled in Congress but that's not stopping immigrants from contacting lawyers, filling out paperwork and making other preparations in hopes of getting a head start should laws change.

That's got some advocates concerned that immigrants, who have been duped before by unscrupulous attorneys and others, could be snookered again.

California lawmakers last week passed a bill to ban the practice of charging fees for services related to immigration reform before Congress approves an overhaul.

Immigrant supporters are warning people to be wary of anyone offering to help fill out paperwork for a still-non-existent legalization program.

Yet some advocates say immigrants should get their personal documents in order ahead of time to make the process smoother if a bill is passed in Washington.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2013/9/265697