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Seal of The State Bar of California The State Bar of California

Nonattorney Actions

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Complaints of the unauthorized practice of law (UPL) are reviewed by the State Bar's Office of Chief Trial Counsel (OCTC).

Complaints from outside parties and matters that the State Bar initiates itself that allege UPL by a nonattorney are then investigated by the State Bar's dedicated UPL team.

Where the investigation uncovers an isolated instance of UPL, OCTC sends a "Cease and Desist" (CND) letter. Recent CND letters appear in this section. The CND letter serves as a warning and puts the respondent on notice that certain services/actions may violate the law and constitute the unauthorized practice of law.

Complaints raising repeated or multiple violations do not receive a CND letter but may result in the State Bar taking action in Superior Court to obtain an order to shut down the unlawful law practice.

Complaints about the unauthorized practice of law? Let the State Bar know here.

  • Diana Mata of Beverly Hills: UPL Cease and Desist Notice sent on May 31, 2019
    Los Angeles County
  • David Greene Lilly of Los Angeles: UPL Cease and Desist Notice sent on May 28, 2019
    Los Angeles County
  • Jesse Esparza of Pico Rivera: UPL Cease and Desist Notice sent on May 30, 2019
    Los Angeles County
  • One Stop Immigration of Pico Rivera: UPL Cease and Desist Notice sent on May 30, 2019
    Los Angeles County
  • Eduardo Alvarado of Pico Rivera: UPL Cease and Desist Notice sent on May 30, 2019
    Los Angeles County
  • Tom Binford of Fresno: UPL Cease and Desist Notice sent on May 9, 2019
    Fresno County
  • Ronald Wayne Sampson of Sherman Oaks: UPL Cease and Desist Notice sent on May 8, 2019
    Los Angeles County
  • Jody Williams of Van Nuys: UPL Cease and Desist Notice sent on May 7, 2019
    Los Angeles County
  • Jesus Cruz of Chula Vista: UPL Cease and Desist Notice sent on May 1, 2019
    San Diego County
  • Danielle Flowers of Poway: UPL Cease and Desist Notice sent on May 9, 2019
    San Diego County
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