[wazu]

What could have they done in this situation?

[chrisper]

Assuming that they acutally are legally in the country, they could have talked to a lawyer and try to find a new job.

[gotrecruit]

and the lawyer would tell them "don't bother, just go" unless the lawyer just wants to make free money. honestly, getting H1B is tough enough already - trying to secure an extension or transfer of H1B when your first one is entangled in fraud, practically impossible.