By Hiring an attorney is a serious decision, whether you need legal representation, contract assistance, or court defense. Unfortunately, fake attorneys—individuals posing as lawyers without proper credentials—are becoming more common.
Legal impersonators can cause financial losses, botched cases, and legal consequences for unsuspecting clients. This guide will help you identify fake attorneys, spot red flags, and take action if you’ve been scammed.
What is a Fake Attorney?
A fake attorney is someone who falsely claims to be a licensed lawyer without:
A law degree (Juris Doctor – JD)
Passing the Bar Exam
Being licensed by a state bar association
These fraudsters operate by:
- Offering legal services without a license
- Forging legal documents
- Scamming clients for upfront fees
- Providing poor or false legal advice
Did you know? In the U.S., practicing law without a license is illegal and punishable by criminal charges, fines, and jail time.
How Fake Attorneys Scam People
Charging Upfront Fees for Nonexistent Services
- Fake lawyers often demand large upfront payments before performing any work.
- They may disappear after receiving the money.
Offering Unrealistic Legal Guarantees
- Promising 100% case success (which real attorneys cannot guarantee).
- Claiming to have special connections with judges or government officials.
Using Fake Credentials and Law Firm Names
- Providing fake bar license numbers or credentials.
- Using phony law firm websites, emails, and office spaces.
Filing Fake Lawsuits or Legal Documents
- Submitting forged legal paperwork that has no real legal standing.
- Delaying or ghosting clients after taking their money.
Pro Tip: A real attorney will always be registered with a state bar association and provide verifiable credentials.
How to Spot a Fake Attorney: Red Flags to Watch For
- They Can’t Provide a Bar License Number
All real lawyers have a bar license number that you can verify online. - They Refuse to Show Proof of Their Law Degree
Legitimate attorneys have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school. - Their Office Location or Website Seems Suspicious
Scam attorneys often use fake office addresses or poorly made websites with generic legal images and vague contact details. - They Demand Cash-Only Payments
Most real law firms accept credit cards, checks, or online payments—not just cash. - They Pressure You to Sign Contracts Without Explanation
A real lawyer will always explain your rights, options, and legal fees in detail before asking for a signature.
How to Verify an Attorney’s Credentials
Check the State Bar Website
- Every licensed attorney must be registered with a state bar association.
- Search by name or bar license number at:
- American Bar Association (ABA): www.americanbar.org
- State Bar Websites (e.g., California Bar, Texas Bar)
Look Up Law Firm Reviews
- Check Google Reviews, Yelp, or Better Business Bureau (BBB) for complaints.
Ask for Proof of Their Degree
- A real lawyer will have a degree from an accredited law school.
Check Their Email & Office Location
- Real attorneys use professional email addresses (e.g., @lawfirmname.com, not @gmail.com).
- Verify their office address on Google Maps.
Warning: If an attorney refuses to show credentials or gets defensive, walk away immediately!
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed by a Fake Attorney
If you suspect legal fraud, take these steps immediately:
Stop Communication & Gather Evidence
- Save emails, texts, contracts, and payment receipts.
- Document everything they promised and failed to deliver.
Report Them to the State Bar Association
- File a complaint with the state bar disciplinary office where they claimed to be licensed.
Contact Law Enforcement
- Practicing law without a license is a crime.
- Report the fraud to local police or your state’s Attorney General’s office.
Consider Legal Action
- Hire a real attorney to help recover lost money.
- File a civil lawsuit for fraud or malpractice.
How to Protect Yourself from Fake Attorneys
Always Verify an Attorney’s Bar License before hiring.
Get a Signed Legal Contract outlining services and fees.
Avoid Cash-Only Payments—use traceable methods like credit cards.
Do Your Research—check online reviews and complaints.
Trust Your Instincts—if something feels off, walk away.
Conclusion
Hiring an attorney is a big decision, and falling for a fake lawyer can lead to financial and legal trouble. Always verify credentials, check reviews, and avoid attorneys who pressure you into quick decisions.
Need legal help? Do your research and hire a licensed attorney to protect your rights!
Want to check an attorney’s credentials? Visit www.americanbar.org for verification.
FAQs
1. What happens if someone pretends to be an attorney?
Practicing law without a license is illegal and can result in criminal charges, fines, and imprisonment.
2. How do I report a fake lawyer?
File a complaint with your state’s bar association or Attorney General’s office. You can also contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for fraud cases.
3. What are common signs of a fake attorney?
- No bar license number
- Fake or suspicious office locations
- Cash-only payment demands
- Guaranteed case wins (which real attorneys never promise)
4. Can I sue a fake lawyer for fraud?
Yes! You can sue for damages if they took money from you under false pretenses.
5. How do I find a real, trustworthy attorney?
- Search the state bar website
- Read online reviews
- Ask for referrals from trusted sources
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