There is another thing. Their application can even harm people they know. Why? Would they be officially mentioned there and especially used as an example of ties in Canada, somebody can come and question them, why did not seek police or immigration if they knew that somebody was overstaying that way. Same thing with the illegal work. Whoever was offering them work, might be question for fraud.
So hands away from such case.
When it comes to lawyer, he has a bit special status in the whole matter. But even he would have to do some formal steps.
Best advice for your friend is to return to the home country and not to spend 10k for nothing.