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While recipients can fight the allegations before an administrative law judge, successful penalties can add up: first offenses can cost up to $4,730 for each fraudulent document or act, while subsequent offenses can reach up to $11,823 per document or act, according to the Justice Department.

The government could also seek a cease-and-desist order against certain targets. For attorneys, any fraud finding could be referred to disciplinary authorities and potentially lead to suspension or expulsion from practice before the immigration courts. In more serious cases, prosecutors might even consider criminal charges.