California State Bar Seizes Chino Immigration Business
Authorities shuttered the North American Immigration Center on October 2 following allegations of unauthorized practice.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Immigration
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The California State Bar seized the North American Immigration Center in Chino on October 2, 2026, after investigators alleged the business owner practiced law without a license. Owner Wendy Dong allegedly charged clients thousands of dollars while using an attorney's name without authorization.
Why it matters
The seizure protects the public from legal fraud by stopping a firm accused of misrepresenting its qualifications to vulnerable immigrants. The intervention prevents further unauthorized legal practice while state investigators examine seized records.
Investigators confiscated 14 boxes of files, three USB drives, and two computers from the facility. The business was initially incorporated in 2018.
The players
California State Bar
This is the administrative arm of the California Supreme Court that regulates the practice of law in the state.
Wendy Dong
She is the owner of the North American Immigration Center who stands accused of practicing law without a license.
North American Immigration Center
This is the Chino-based business that was seized by state authorities following client complaints.
The details
State investigators moved to secure the Chino office after a client reported being charged for services by Wendy Dong, who is not licensed to practice law in California. A letter sent to the client allegedly contained an attorney's signature that was never authorized.
Timeline
The business was incorporated in 2018.
The State Bar obtained the court seizure order on October 1, 2026.
The State Bar carried out the business seizure on October 2, 2026.
The State Bar announced the enforcement action on October 19, 2026.
Political Context
Opponents of stricter oversight often argue that such seizures can disrupt legitimate document-preparation services that assist those navigating complex systems. Critics of the State Bar note that these interventions must be balanced against the need for accessible, affordable immigration assistance.
Residents seeking immigration services should verify that any representative is an active member of the California State Bar. Those who believe they were charged for unauthorized legal services are encouraged to report their experience to state oversight agencies.
The takeaway
Always confirm the professional credentials of any individual claiming to provide legal representation before paying fees. Verifying a license through official state registries can prevent financial loss and ensure that your legal documents are handled by authorized experts.
Further reading
Learn more about local oversight at the Chino Immigration section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Sacramento Bee.
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