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JP Unauthorized Practice of Law

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July 27, 2006, 08:46
PLF
JP Unauthorized Practice of Law
what criminal charge, if any, might apply to a JP that is preparing wills (and supposedly divorce documents) for compensation. This JP is not a lawyer. In addition, the JP allegedly uses the courhouse office for this practice and personnel as witnesses. PC 38.122 and 38.123 do not apply because the JP is not held out as a lawyer and the incidents do not involve PI or Property claims. Might a violation of Judicial Conduct be a "violation of law" relating to public servant's office so that PC 39.02 applies? BTW, the info is going to the State Bar and for Judicial Conduct review. Any ideas?
July 27, 2006, 09:02
Gretchen
It looks like if he's using government property, personnel, etc., 39.02(a)(2) works for you.

And how is he "not held out as a lawyer" but able to get away with preparing legal documents? I've heard that the DIY fill-in-the-blank forms are not considered "document preparation" but if you're paying someone to fill them in for you, I would think that the person paying for the service would be trusting the person filling them in to do them legally and correctly.