Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

It is unlawful for anyone to practice law in the State of California without being a licensed member of the State Bar. It is particularly egregious for an unlicensed attorney to do this.

That having been said, it is not 100% clear that the attorney is practicing law here. If, for instance, the attorney is simply suggesting that he knows an excellent criminal defense language and "puffing" the attorney's skills, that would be permissible. On the other hand, if the attorney is suggesting that he represent you, or is giving you specific advice, the attorney has crossed the line.

The illegal practice of law can be reported either to the California State Bar or to your local District Attorney's office.