The client is also protected by ethical rules which bind the attorney-client privilege as well as confidentiality and other conflicts of interest. The only person other than an attorney who can appear as representation is someone who represents themselves in court. Information obtained from depositions can be crucial to a case. Pleadings cannot be signed by anyone other than an attorney also. A pleading is considered a written appearance in court that only an attorney can employ.
Attorneys are also the only ones who can give legal advice to clients.
The line is very fine and it must not be overstepped or the supervising attorney could lose her license. If there is any doubt in the mind of someone not authorized to practice law, then questions should be asked to clarify and avoid any serious consequences. Inc. PageWise makes no representations about the content published on this site. PageWise hereby disclaims all warranties and conditions with regard to this information, and user agrees that all such use is at its own risk. If you are under 18, please do NOT opt-in to receive email offers on this page.