I-9 Compliance
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I-9 Compliance Attorney Serving Clients Nationwide
Every U.S. employer is required by law to verify employee identity and work authorization through Form I-9. Errors in completion, storage, or maintenance can lead to audits, fines, enforcement actions, and potential criminal liability.
At Haim Vasquez Legal Group, we partner with employers across the United States to ensure full compliance with federal employment eligibility laws. From onboarding to government audits, we help implement best practices, correct errors, and reduce risk.
About I-9 Compliance
Form I-9 is required for every employee hired in the United States, regardless of citizenship. Employers must complete the form accurately and on time, verify acceptable documentation, and retain records for the required period.
The rules are strict, time sensitive, and frequently enforced. Even technical errors such as missing signatures, incorrect dates, or improper document review can result in fines or audits.
Our role is to make I-9 compliance clear and manageable by identifying risks, correcting deficiencies, and helping your business meet its obligations with confidence and transparency.
What Is Form I-9?
Form I-9 is used to verify both an individual’s identity and their authorization to work in the United States. Employers must complete the form within three business days of an employee’s start date. The form must be:
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Accurately completed by both employer and employee
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Supported by valid, acceptable documentation
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Properly stored and retained for inspection
- Made available if requested by government agencies
Failure to follow these requirements can expose employers to serious consequences.
I-9 Compliance Services
I-9 Compliance Audits
We conduct internal audits to identify and correct issues before government inspections occur. We assist with:
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Reviewing existing I-9 forms for errors and omissions
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dentifying compliance gaps and risk exposure
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Correcting technical and substantive violations
- Implementing remediation strategies to reduce penalties
Proactive audits are one of the most effective ways to protect your business.
Training for HR & Hiring Teams
We provide hands-on training tailored to your workforce and hiring practices. Training includes:
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Proper completion and review of Form I-9
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Document acceptance rules and common pitfalls
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Re-verification and retention requirements
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Guidance on remote hiring and virtual verification
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Updates on changing I-9 regulations and policies
Well-trained teams reduce risk and ensure consistent compliance.
Assistance With Government Audits & Investigations
If a government agency contacts your business, immediate legal guidance is critical. We represent employers during audits and investigations by:
- Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
- Department of Labor (DOL)
We assist with Notices of Inspection (NOIs), audit responses, negotiations, and penalty mitigation.
E-Verify Registration & Guidance
Participating in E-Verify carries responsibilities and risks if not handled correctly. We assist with:
- E-Verify registration and compliance setup
- Evaluating whether E-Verify is appropriate for your business
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Handling tentative nonconfirmations (TNCs) properly
- Developing compliant internal procedures
Policy Development & Ongoing Compliance Support
Compliance is an ongoing responsibility, not a one-time task. We help employers with:
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Creating internal I-9 policies and compliance manuals
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On-call legal guidance for day-to-day questions
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Periodic compliance reviews
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Risk-management strategies as laws and enforcement change
Why I-9 Compliance Matters
Failure to comply with I-9 regulations can result in:
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Civil fines ranging from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars per violation
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Criminal penalties for knowingly hiring unauthorized workers
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Reputational damage and business disruption
- Increased audit risk if violations are discovered
Being proactive is not only smart—it is essential for long-term business stability.
Who Should Speak With an I-9 Compliance Attorney?
You should seek legal guidance if you:
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Employ workers in the United States
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Have never conducted an internal I-9 audit
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Are expanding or hiring remotely
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Use or are considering E-Verify
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Received a Notice of Inspection or audit notice
- Want to reduce risk before enforcement occurs
We help businesses of all sizes understand their obligations and protect their operations.
Step-by-Step Support
01 — Initial Contact
You first speak with a client care assistant who collects your information and schedules a free consultation with an attorney. Consultations are available by phone, video call, or in person.
02 — Attorney Consultation
The attorney reviews your case, answers your questions, and explains your legal options and next steps.
03 — Fees & Case Intake
If you proceed, our intake team will explain the fees and services, and your case will be formally opened.
04 — Case Preparation & Representation
e prepare and file your case with the appropriate government office and represent you throughout the process.
What to Expect
When you contact our firm, we start by listening. We explain your options clearly, assess your case honestly, and help you understand what comes next. Our goal is to make deportation defense transparent and strategic, so you never feel in the dark about your case or your future.
Why Work With Haim Vasquez Legal Group
When your safety and future are at stake, trust and experience matter.
- Immigrant-Led Perspective — Our firm is led by an immigrant attorney who understands the fear and hope behind asylum cases on a personal level.
- Bilingual Support — We provide clear legal guidance in English and Spanish, so language is never a barrier to understanding your case.
- Honest, Human-Centered Guidance — We do not make false promises. We offer realistic advice, clear expectations, and steady support.
- Strong Legal Advocacy — Our team brings extensive experience in asylum law, removal defense, and complex immigration cases.
Common Questions About I-9 Compliance
Do all employees need a Form I-9 completed?
Yes. Every employee hired in the United States must have a completed Form I-9, regardless of citizenship or immigration status. This includes full-time, part-time, and temporary employees.
How long must employers keep I-9 forms on file?
Employers must retain Form I-9 for either three years after the date of hire or one year after employment ends, whichever is later. Proper storage and timely destruction are essential for compliance.
What happens if my business is audited by ICE or another agency?
If your business receives a Notice of Inspection, you may have a limited time to produce I-9 records. Legal guidance is crucial for responding correctly, correcting issues as permitted, and minimizing potential penalties.
Can I fix mistakes on existing I-9 forms?
In many cases, yes. Certain errors can be corrected through a compliant audit process. However, improper corrections can increase risk, which is why employer-guided remediation is strongly recommended.
Move Forward With Confidence
I-9 compliance protects your business, your workforce, and your future. Get clear answers and trusted legal guidance from a team that understands what is at stake.