Federal Lawyers Reviewing Immigration Cases Amid Allegations
Federal attorneys are currently examining over 800 intake documents from immigrants who fear their cases may have been mishandled. This scrutiny comes in the wake of a federal lawsuit that is rapidly gaining traction against a well-known immigration attorney in the Seattle area.
Expanded Legal Action Against Immigration Lawyer
SEATTLE — A lawsuit alleging misconduct by Alexandra Lozano, a Tukwila-based immigration lawyer, has prompted concern among many immigrants. Lawyers involved in this case report that a growing number of individuals are stepping forward with worries about their immigration applications.
Public Gathering of Plaintiffs
Last week, plaintiffs convened at the office of South Seattle attorney Omar Barraza to voice their grievances over allegations against Lozano and her firm. Among those present was Gabriel Martínez García, who was reportedly on the verge of obtaining legal status before his case encountered complications.
Concerns About Legal Guidance
García stated that Lozano encouraged him to apply for VAWA, a federal immigration option designated for certain victims of domestic abuse. However, he expressed his frustration at the lack of clarity provided: “She didn’t explain to me what VAWA was; I had to research it myself online.” Currently, García is working to amend his immigration status while navigating deportation proceedings.
Surge in Reported Cases
Attorneys Barraza and Aric Bomshtyk, who initiated the federal lawsuit, noted a significant influx of inquiries following both the lawsuit and an investigation by KING 5 News. A website, lozanocivilaction.com, has been established to facilitate communication with former clients, and Bomshtyk noted that at least 300 additional individuals have reached out since the lawsuit’s initiation.
Legal Allegations Against Lozano
The lawsuit alleges that Lozano’s firm directed clients toward inappropriate immigration applications, mishandled cases, and submitted documentation without ensuring clients fully understood the process. Although Lozano has denied any wrongdoing, underlying concerns about her practice persist.
Community Concerns Regarding Oversight
A previously uncovered complaint filed with the Washington Attorney General’s Office echoes similar issues, including fraudulent signatures and refund disputes. While the Washington State Bar Association (WSBA) maintains that attorney complaint records are confidential unless public actions ensue, several local immigration attorneys voiced their apprehensions about the oversight of state attorneys, particularly in light of Lozano’s history.
Call for Accountability
Legal professionals have raised issues regarding potential conflicts of interest, citing the past marital relationship between Lozano and Henry Crews, a senior disciplinary advisor at WSBA. In their statements, they stressed the necessity for full accountability, urging that Lozano be treated like any other attorney facing allegations that have adversely affected immigrant communities. They criticized the WSBA for its lack of transparency and questioned its failure to act despite the significant concerns voiced by countless affected individuals.
WSBA’s Position and Future Implications
The WSBA reiterated its commitment to confidentiality in disciplinary matters, explaining that investigations are thorough and subject to strict protocols. The organization stated that measures are in place to avoid conflicts of interest involving its personnel. As the lawsuit remains civil rather than criminal, plaintiffs’ attorneys continue to consider adding more individuals to the litigation, underscoring the wide-reaching implications of this case within the immigration community.
