Many people do not realize that paralegal services generally cannot be offered or advertised directly to the public. According to the American Bar Association (ABA), a person may use the title “paralegal” only when working under the supervision of a licensed attorney.
Therefore, someone who does not work for an attorney should not advertise paralegal services or hold themselves out as an independent paralegal. Doing so may constitute the unauthorized practice of law, which is illegal.
Who Can Provide Paralegal Services?
Paralegal support services are typically provided within a law firm and under the supervision of an attorney. In that setting, a paralegal may assist with document preparation, research, and other legal support tasks.
On the other hand, individuals who help with legal forms and documents without working for an attorney should identify themselves as legal document preparers or legal document assistants.
What Can Legal Document Preparers Do?
Legal document preparers may assist with forms related to:
- Small claims
- Simple divorces
- Evictions
- Adoptions
- Simple probates
- Immigration forms
- Other document preparation matters
However, these services are limited to document preparation and do not include legal advice or legal representation.
What If You Were Misled?
If someone offered paralegal services independently, provided legal advice without being an attorney, or charged for services they were not authorized to provide, you may have been the victim of an illegal practice.
In that situation, you may wish to:
- File a complaint with the The Florida Bar.
- Contact the Florida Attorney General’s Office if you believe you were defrauded.
- Consult an attorney to discuss your rights and possible remedies.
Legal Document Preparation Services in Southwest Florida
PennySmart Group helps individuals and families with legal document preparation throughout Sarasota, DeSoto, Lee, and Charlotte Counties. We also assist with USCIS immigration forms nationwide. Our goal is to help clients complete forms accurately, affordably, and efficiently.
Take Action Today
If you need help preparing legal documents in Sarasota, DeSoto, Lee, or Charlotte Counties, contact PennySmart Group today.
Call or text 941-282-5787, chat with us online, or email info@pennysmartgroup.com to get started.