For-Profit Self Help Chain Invades NYC
Here’s a taste of the story from the NYT article:
“Twenty-six of the lawsuits have been dismissed or have been won by We the People, and it is starting to gain grudging acceptance in law circles. And now it has a business ally who may help it win even greater respectability: Rudolph W. Giuliani.” [through his consulting firm, Giulini Partners]
“‘They tout themselves as a document-typing service,’ said William Anaya, a Chicago lawyer who represents the Illinois State Bar Association in the case. ‘It’s our position that they are more than that. They are making a profit on the marginal practice of law, putting clients at risk.’”
‘Mr. Distenfield says he thinks he knows why opponents may go to such lengths. ‘Because of us, some lawyers are Maytag repairmen waiting for their phone to ring,’ he said. ‘We’re the only large company out there that offers affordable legal access to the underserved.’”
“[WtP attorney Jason E.] Searns also cited a recent public opinion letter issued by the Federal Trade Commission and endorsed by the Justice Department that criticizes the American Bar Association’s definition of practicing law as overly restrictive. The letter, he said, urges a balance between protecting consumers and giving them access to alternative forms of legal assistance.”
Find the FTC/DOJ Statement here, and much more on our UPL resource page. The bar needs this competitive spur and the People need competent service options that are affordable. .