Thread: State sues over ads aimed at immigrants

State sues over ads aimed at immigrants
May 3, 2009

NASHVILLE (AP) — The Tennessee Attorney General has filed three settlements and two lawsuits against companies for using misleading advertisements aimed at Hispanic immigrants.



The state said in a recent announcement that these companies and individuals calling themselves "notarios publicos" are not licensed to practice law in Tennessee and should include that disclaimer in all advertisements.

In many Spanish-speaking countries, a notario publico is an attorney who has been specially appointed to assist in certain common, everyday transactions. In America, notary publics can only administer oaths and witness signatures.

Immigration lawyers say the difference has allowed scam artists to prey on immigrants with limited English skills and little understanding of the American legal system by misrepresenting themselves as lawyers.

The businesses the state has entered settlements with have agreed to modify their advertisements and pay civil penalties and attorneys' fees.

The advertisements must include a disclaimer in English and in the language of the ad that states, "I am not an attorney licensed to practice law in the state of Tennessee and I may not give legal advice or accept fees for legal advice."

The state has filed two lawsuits alleging violations of the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act against Juan Hernandez, individually and doing business as Centro Azteca, a Chattanooga company; and Edison Roman, individually and doing business as Oficina Internacional in Memphis.

http://www.theleafchronicle.com/article ... 7/1002/rss

These slugs should be jailed.

Originally Posted by butterbean

These slugs should be jailed.

Could an American impersonate a Lawyer and not go to JAIL?
I think NOT!