Attorney General Anil Nandlall has issued a stern warning against citizens posing as legal counsel, promising stronger laws to deter unauthorised persons from performing functions reserved for attorneys.
Addressing the matter on his Issues in the News programme on Tuesday, Mr Nandlall highlighted strengthened legislation to curb the illegal practice, following numerous public complaints.
“We can’t continue to have these fraudulent representations taking place openly… action will be taken; the laws will be strengthened to address these issues,” Nandlall stated.
He noted that among those posing as lawyers are Justices of the Peace and Commissioners of Oaths to Affidavits who not only perform these functions but also illegally advertise such services.
He said these offices are confined to geographic locations and were never intended to operate as elaborate businesses.
“So if you are appointed in Region Three… you are not to come to Georgetown to perform these services,” the Attorney General clarified.
Nandlall highlighted that this illegal activity has undermined trust in the legal profession and created situations where citizens have lost property, finances and even their freedom on the advice of wannabe attorneys.
He added that the revised Legal Practitioners’ Act will also provide for disciplinary action against legitimate lawyers who conspire with imposters by signing off on documents for a fee, thereby validating transactions that would otherwise be illegal.
