Unauthorized Practice of Law Complaint

If someone gives legal advice without a license, that’s called the unauthorized practice of law (UPL.) In California, only attorneys can give legal advice. If an attorney loses their license to practice, but continues to take and advise clients, that’s also considered the unauthorized practice of law.

There is no charge to file a complaint. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to file a complaint. The State Bar does not ask for or track immigration or citizenship status.

Complaint forms

The State Bar offers unauthorized practice of law complaint forms in multiple languages.

For questions, call the State Bar’s multilingual complaint hotline at 800-843-9053.

The State Bar works with other law enforcement agencies to investigate when someone violates the law. Here are some situations where you may want to file a complaint:

  • You’ve consulted someone about immigration who pretends to be a lawyer, but the person does not hold a license. Immigration consultants can give only non-legal help, such as translating answers on forms. They cannot suggest answers or advise you on which forms to fill out.
  • You’ve hired an attorney who says they can practice in California, but only holds a license in another state.
  • You discover that the attorney you hired worked on your case while their license was suspended by the State Bar.

How to protect yourself

  • Ask for the attorney’s State Bar number. Look them up on the State Bar website to see if their license is active and whether they have any history of discipline. Consumers can also call the State Bar at 800-843-9053.
  • Be wary of those who call themselves notarios  – this is not authorized in California. The law also requires non-lawyer immigration consultants to file a bond of $100,000 with the Secretary of State. More information about immigration consultants or notarios.
  • Make sure to get your contract in writing as well as receipts for payments you make.
  • Be wary if someone requires cash payments. 
  • Keep a paper trail. If you don't have a bank account, use a cashier's check.
  • If you’ve already made a payment, you are entitled to ask for an accounting of your bills.

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