Question 1

What is 'unauthorized practice of law'?

Accepted Answer

The unauthorized practice of law (UPL) is when someone who isn't a licensed attorney gives legal advice, selects legal forms, prepares or files legal documents on your behalf, or represents you in a legal matter. Every U.S. state prohibits it — and most treat it as a crime.

Question 2

Is a notario the same as a notary public?

Accepted Answer

No. In Latin America a 'notario' is a highly trained lawyer. In the United States a 'notary public' can only verify signatures — nothing else. Anyone advertising as a 'notario' to sell legal services is committing fraud.

Question 3

Can an immigration consultant help me with my green card?

Accepted Answer

Only a licensed attorney or a federally accredited representative (usually working for a recognized nonprofit) can advise on immigration matters. An 'immigration consultant' who chooses forms, drafts arguments, or files on your behalf is practicing law without a license.

Question 4

What about legal document preparers?

Accepted Answer

In most states, doc preparers can only fill in blanks with information you provide word-for-word. They cannot pick which form, advise on strategy, or file for you. When they cross that line, it's UPL.

Question 5

What if the person was once a lawyer but got disbarred?

Accepted Answer

Disbarred and suspended attorneys can no longer practice law — period. If someone represented themselves as an attorney (or 'legal expert', 'consultant', etc.) after losing their license, that is UPL and often criminal.

Question 6

How do I know if my lawyer is real?

Accepted Answer

Every state bar has a free online license lookup. Search for the person by name; you'll see their license status, admission date, and any discipline history. If they aren't listed as active, they cannot practice law in that state.

Question 7

What can I get back?

Accepted Answer

At minimum, a refund of what you paid. Depending on your state, you may also be entitled to statutory damages, actual damages (the cost of fixing the harm they caused), and in some states punitive damages or attorneys' fees.

Question 8

What if my case is already denied?

Accepted Answer

You may still have a strong claim against the person who caused the denial. In many cases we can also work with a licensed attorney to reopen or refile the underlying matter.

Question 9

I'm undocumented — is it safe to report?

Accepted Answer

Your report is confidential. UPL claims against notarios and immigration consultants are routinely brought by clients regardless of immigration status. Courts and state AG offices don't ask about, or share, that information as part of these cases.

Question 10

How much does it cost me?

Accepted Answer

The review is free. Cases are typically handled on contingency by partnering attorneys — you generally pay nothing unless there's a recovery.

Everything about fake lawyers and UPL

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