Legal Question in Family Law in Alabama

Re: dependecy case

Need a lawyer.

Re: dependecy case

Only a licensed attorney can represent another person in legal matters. If this "someone" "who is not bar certified" attempts to represent you in a legal matter, s/he is engaged in the unauthorized practice of law.

I found one situation in which it may or may not be acceptable to be represented by a "lay advocate", and that is in a special education due process hearing (under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1997). There may be other exceptions of which I am not aware.

A person who is allegedly engaged in the unauthorized practice of law (UPL) in FL will be investigated by the FL Bar. If found guilty, the penalty is an injunction against that person's continued UPL. Violation of the injunction is contempt of court and punishable by jail time.

It is in your best interest to hire a real lawyer who is licensed to practice law.