LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (Legal Newsline) - A Pulanski County, Ark., business owner allegedly sold $70 ID cards as legal identification, according to a lawsuit filed on Monday by Arkansas Attorney General Dustin McDaniel.
Micaela Hernandez, of North Little Rock, allegedly sold ID cards that she claimed were valid for four years and acceptable as another form of identification. Hernandez allegedly sold the ID cards to at least customers, though the ID cards can't be used as a form of identification.
In addition, her business, M. Hernandez Multiservices, also sold notary (notario) services though she hasn't maintained state certification. The certification ensures that both English- and Spanish-speaking customers know she isn't a lawyer, which is required by Arkansas law to ensure customers know the notario can't provide legal advice in regards to immigration.
“Many of those who promote themselves as notarios exploit the trust of consumers who believe them to be licensed attorneys who can assist with immigration services,” McDaniel said. “In Arkansas and across the country, consumers have lost both their money and their opportunity for aid because they’ve fallen victim to notario schemes. Others have bought useless ID cards that are not legally recognized. These actions are unacceptable in the consumer marketplace.”
McDaniel is seeking refunds to all affected customers, attorneys fees and civil penalties.