You paid. You trusted. You waited. And now, instead of a green card or interview notice, you’re holding a terrifying letter—or worse, nothing at all.
For thousands of immigrants, this is the heartbreaking reality of trusting the wrong person with something as important as adjusting their status. Many believed they were doing the right thing by working with a notario—someone who spoke their language, promised fast results, and came highly recommended by a friend or family member. But now, they find themselves facing the consequences of a serious mistake: nothing was ever filed, or what was filed was completely wrong.
What makes this worse is that most people don’t even realize there’s a problem until it’s too late. Deadlines have passed. Hearings were missed. And now there’s panic, confusion, and fear of deportation—all because someone they trusted wasn’t qualified to help.
This article explains how to fix adjustment of status after notario mistake, before it’s too late.
How to Fix Adjustment of Status After Notario Mistake
The moment you suspect something went wrong with your immigration paperwork, time becomes your most important resource. Fixing an adjustment of status after a notario mistake isn’t impossible—but it does require immediate and strategic action by an immigration attorney. The longer you wait, the fewer options you may have.
Step 1: Collect Every Piece of Evidence
Start by gathering everything the notario gave you: receipts, copies of forms (even if fake), appointment letters, text messages, business cards—anything. These documents might not seem important, but they can help prove what happened and build your case. If they submitted anything, there may be tracking numbers or file copies. If not, the absence of these documents can be equally telling.
Step 2: File a FOIA Request
One of the most overlooked but essential tools is a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. This allows you to obtain your complete immigration file directly from USCIS. It’s the only way to confirm if anything was ever filed on your behalf. The form you’ll need is G-639. You can submit it online or by mail.
Step 3: Speak to a Licensed Immigration Attorney
Once you have your documents and FOIA results, consult with a real immigration attorney. Not all mistakes are fixable—but many are, especially if you act quickly. You may be able to file a motion to reopen your case, submit a new adjustment of status application, or seek other relief depending on your immigration history, family situation, and the type of error made.
Fixing adjustment of status after notario mistake is possible, but you need legal expertise—not just hope.
What You Might Be Entitled To (Even After a Notario Mess)
Many people wrongly assume that once a notario ruins their adjustment of status case, their chance to fix it is gone forever. That’s not always true. Depending on your immigration history, family ties, and how the mistake occurred, you may still qualify for a valid legal pathway—and sometimes even protection.
You May Still Qualify for Adjustment of Status
If you entered the U.S. legally—even if your visa expired—you may still be eligible to adjust status through a family member, such as a U.S. citizen spouse or parent. In some cases, people qualify for 245(i) protection, allowing them to adjust status despite unlawful entry, if they had a petition or labor certification filed before April 30, 2001. This exception is often overlooked by both notarios and inexperienced consultants.
Other forms of relief may include:
- I-601 waivers for certain inadmissibility issues.
- U visas for victims of crimes who assist law enforcement.
- VAWA self-petitions for those abused by a U.S. citizen or green card holder.
- Motions to reopen or reconsider if a case was denied because of notario fraud.
In some cases, courts have recognized immigration fraud as a valid reason to reopen removal proceedings under Matter of Lozada, a legal precedent that outlines what’s needed to claim ineffective assistance.
Even if the original application was never filed or was denied due to errors, you may be able to rebuild your case correctly. Fixing adjustment of status after notario mistake starts by understanding your real eligibility—not the false promises made before.
5 Biggest Fears After a Notario Scam (And What to Do About Them)
The emotional fallout after realizing a notario mishandled your immigration case can be overwhelming. Many people feel paralyzed by fear, unsure whether speaking up will make things worse. But understanding these fears—and separating fact from fiction—can be the first step toward fixing adjustment of status after notario mistake.
Fear #1: “If I tell anyone, I’ll be deported.”
This fear is understandable, especially if a removal order was issued without your knowledge. But coming forward with the help of a licensed attorney may actually protect you. Courts have reopened cases based on ineffective assistance or fraud, especially when supported by proper documentation and affidavits. This overview from the American Immigration Council discusses the backlog in immigration courts—one reason early action is critical.
Fear #2: “I missed a court date—it’s over.”
Not necessarily. If the missed hearing was due to notario fraud or you never received a notice, a motion to reopen may still be possible. Time is critical, so don’t delay.
Fear #3: “I can’t afford a lawyer now.”
Many reputable immigration attorneys offer payment plans or low-cost consultations. Some nonprofit organizations also provide legal help to victims of fraud.
Fear #4: “I don’t speak English well.”
Immigration courts and attorneys frequently use certified interpreters. Many firms are bilingual and accustomed to helping Spanish-speaking clients.
Fear #5: “I don’t know who to trust anymore.”
Trust has been broken, but rebuilding your case starts with verifying credentials. Licensed attorneys will have a state bar number you can check. Avoid anyone who refuses to put things in writing or makes promises of guaranteed results.
Facing these fears head-on with real support is the only way to begin fixing the damage—and building a future you can count on.
What a Perfect Outcome Looks Like
When someone is searching for how to fix adjustment of status after notario mistake, they’re not just looking for legal steps—they’re looking for peace of mind. They want a way to reclaim control of their future, restore their family’s safety, and find someone they can actually trust this time.
You’re Finally Working with a Real Immigration Attorney
The biggest shift comes when you meet with a licensed professional who explains your options clearly, answers your questions patiently, and gives you a step-by-step plan tailored to your case.
No fake promises. No confusing paperwork. Just honesty, transparency, and protection.
You’ll know they’re real because they’re listed on their state bar’s website and can show proof of licensure.
Your Case is Back on Track
A proper adjustment of status case includes:
- A receipt notice from USCIS (Form I-797),
- A scheduled biometrics appointment,
- Communication from your attorney with regular updates.
Each of these steps means your case is in motion—not sitting in a drawer somewhere.
You’ve Regained a Sense of Safety
Perhaps most importantly, a successful outcome means you’re no longer living in fear. You know what to expect, your family feels supported, and you’re moving closer to permanent legal status in the United States. This emotional relief is just as important as the paperwork—and it’s what every person deserves after being taken advantage of.
A perfect outcome isn’t just legal—it’s personal. It’s the restoration of trust, dignity, and the belief that you’re finally being seen, heard, and helped.
Take Action Before It’s Too Late
When dealing with a notario’s mistake, the worst thing to do is wait. Immigration law is built around strict deadlines and unforgiving consequences. If you’ve realized something is wrong with your case—even if you’re unsure what—taking action now is the only way to preserve your options.
Fixing adjustment of status after notario mistake isn’t just about correcting paperwork; it’s about protecting your right to stay in the country legally.
Every Day Matters
The longer a case sits unresolved, the more risk you face. If you’ve missed a court hearing, you could already be under a removal order. If a notario submitted incorrect information, you may be facing denial or ineligibility due to false claims.
Time-sensitive relief options, like motions to reopen or waivers, often come with hard deadlines—some as short as 90 days. According to this guide by CLINIC Legal, acting quickly can make the difference between staying or being deported.
What to Do Right Now
- Stop all communication with the notario. Do not give them more money or documents.
- Gather all paperwork, receipts, and any notices you’ve received.
- Request your immigration file via FOIA to verify what was actually submitted.
- Call a licensed immigration attorney immediately for a case review.
Choose a Legal Team That Listens and Acts
Find a law office that speaks your language, listens with patience, and understands the emotional toll of what you’ve gone through. Fixing the problem starts with finding someone who will fight to make it right.
Your path forward starts today—not after the next letter arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I do if a notario didn’t file my immigration papers?
Stop working with the notario immediately and collect any documents or receipts they gave you. File a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request with USCIS to see if anything was filed. Then, consult with a licensed immigration attorney to determine your legal options.
How can I find out if my adjustment of status application was ever submitted?
Submit Form G-639 to request your immigration records from USCIS. This will confirm whether anything was filed under your name. If there’s no record of submission, your case may need to be started from scratch.
Can I still adjust my status if the notario filed it incorrectly?
Possibly, yes. It depends on your eligibility and the nature of the error. In some cases, you may be able to refile or request a motion to reopen the case if it was denied due to fraud or misinformation.
What is a FOIA request and why is it important?
A FOIA request allows you to obtain a full copy of your immigration file from USCIS or ICE. It’s a critical step when fixing adjustment of status after a notario mistake because it shows exactly what was—or wasn’t—filed.
Can I sue a notario for immigration fraud?
You may be able to file a complaint with your state’s attorney general, the bar association (if the notario falsely claimed to be an attorney), or even pursue a civil claim. Legal action won’t always recover lost time but can help prevent others from being harmed.
Will I be deported if I admit I worked with a notario?
Simply admitting you were misled is not grounds for deportation. In fact, many people who’ve been victims of notario fraud are able to reopen their cases or seek waivers. Taking legal steps with the help of a licensed attorney may actually protect you.
How do I choose a real immigration lawyer and avoid fraud again?
Check for a bar license in your state and avoid anyone who won’t give you their credentials in writing. Use directories like AILA’s Immigration Lawyer Search or verify with your state bar association.
What happens if I missed an immigration court hearing because of a notario?
You may already have a deportation order against you. However, if the no-show was due to fraud or a lack of proper notice, a motion to reopen your case may still be possible—especially if filed quickly with supporting evidence.
How long does it take to fix a notario mistake on my case?
It varies based on your situation. Some cases can be refiled within weeks, while others (like those requiring motions to reopen or waivers) can take several months or longer. Acting fast gives you the best chance at resolving things sooner.
Can I apply for a green card again after a denial caused by a notario?
In many cases, yes. If the denial wasn’t your fault and you are otherwise eligible, an immigration attorney may help you refile correctly or apply for an exception like an I-601 waiver or a motion to reopen.
You Deserve Better Than This
There’s nothing more terrifying than realizing the person you trusted with your family’s future lied to you.
You thought your papers were being processed. You believed your case was in good hands. Instead, months—or years—have passed with no progress, and now you’re staring at rejection letters, missed court notices, or worse, a silent case that never even existed.
The fear is real: What if I get deported? What if I can’t fix this? What if it’s too late?
But here’s the truth: it’s not too late—if you act now.
Fixing adjustment of status after a notario mistake is possible, but every day you wait puts your case, your work permit, and your family’s security further at risk.
You don’t have to figure this out alone—and you absolutely shouldn’t trust another unlicensed “helper” to do it for you.
We offer a free, confidential consultation to review your situation, explain your real options, and help you take the next right step—without fear, judgment, or empty promises.
Schedule your free case review. Let’s make sure your future is finally in the right hands.
