BRENTWOOD, Tenn. - State investigators are suing a Brentwood businesswoman claiming she pretended to be an attorney and created legal chaos for thousands of people, mostly illegal immigrants.

Martha Salazar's business was the focus of a NewsChannel 5 hidden camera investigation years ago. The investigation uncovered how some businesses were making the problem of illegal immigration even worse.

The state has now cracked down on one of those businesses called Comunidad Hispana on Nolensville Road in Nashville.

In 2008, we sent a decoy in who was given legal advice, and how much it would cost her.

State investigators have now discovered what we found back in 2008, and they are suing Comunidad Hispana owner Martha Salazar.

They said the business did custody agreements that were not properly done, as well as immigration petitions, and contracts.

Investigators said this situation creates serious legal consequences, especially surrounding the immigration issue, and can even lead to deportation.

NewsChannel 5 presented our findings to state investigators back in 2008, but they were unable to prosecute right away due to a shortage of victims to prove a case.

"It's difficult sometimes to find witnesses, because sometimes the victims don't know they have been given legal advice by someone who is not an attorney," said Jeff Hill with the Tennessee Attorney General's office.

Another problem is that someone who is in the country illegally would not want to reveal themselves to state investigators.

The feds have now launched a major initiative that may help crack down on these immigration counselors who want to take advantage of immigrants trying to stay here.

They will step up education efforts to help immigrants avoid these scams, and direct them to resources where they can find legitimate legal advice.

http://www.newschannel5.com/story/14908 ... e-attorney