Because of the importance of ensuring a smoothly functioning legal system, the practice of law is closely regulated by the State of New Jersey. Individuals who are facing criminal charges for impersonating a lawyer need to trust that their attorney is trained and informed about their case. Those who rely on legal advice in business, matrimonial, or personal matters have a similar requirement that mandates a level of training and demonstration of competence before one can practice law.
Unauthorized Practice of Law (N.J.S.A. 2C:21-22) is a crime in New Jersey graded at two levels. In the first, a person can be charged with a crime of the fourth degree if they knowingly engage in the unauthorized practice of law. Conviction can result in an 18-month sentence and a $10,000 fine. When a person knowingly engages in the unauthorized practice of law and creates or reinforces the impression that they are licensed, derives a benefit from the unauthorized practice, or causes injury to another through the unauthorized practice, they can be charged at the third degree level. Penalties there can run as high as three to five years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
Defending against charges of Unauthorized Practice of Law in NJ requires an experienced attorney. Matthew Reisig has helped protect professional reputations in New Jersey for nearly 20 years. Call 732-625-9661 today and talk to an experienced New Jersey criminal defense lawyer for free.