A man Halton police say is not licensed to practise law has been charged with fraud. Police allege people looking for help with work permits and permanent residency sent him multiple payments.
Kishorbhai Patel, 55, of Etobicoke, also known as "Kishor Patel," was arrested in Oakville on Thursday, Oct. 8. He faces one count of fraud over $5,000. The allegations have not been tested in court.
Police allege Patel portrayed himself as a lawyer and legal expert, operating under the names ProLaw Canada Corporation LLP and Canadian International Business Corporation. They allege the payments were made between October 2025 and January 2026.
Police are urging anyone paying for immigration help to check who they are dealing with first. A lawyer's licence and practising status can be looked up in the Law Society of Ontario's online directory at lso.ca, and immigration consultants can be checked through the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants.
They also advise getting a written agreement that spells out the services and fees, asking for receipts for payments, and being wary of anyone who guarantees an immigration outcome or pushes you to pay right away.
Anyone with information, or who believes they may also be a victim, is asked to call the Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) Financial Crimes Unit at 905-825-4777, ext. 8742.
