If I’m not an attorney but have extensive legal knowledge, can I sit next to someone in court who is representing themself and advise them?
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If I’m not an attorney but have extensive legal knowledge, can I sit next to someone in court who is representing themself and advise them?
My fiance has received a municipal ticket for 2.0 grams of marijuana. He wants me to represent him in court but knows that since I am not a lawyer, I am unable to. However, due to the widespread corruption in our area, he does not want a public defender. Especially for a case that I have managed to poke over 2 dozen holes in within 12 hours. (Although not a lawyer I do have extensive legal knowledge.) Is there a way he can represent himself, with me sitting with him in court as an adviser?
Asked on May 10, 2013 under Criminal Law, Illinois
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 10 years ago | Contributor
No, there is not. Giving someone legal advice--especially in court--constitutes the practice of law or, in your case, the unauthorized practice of law. You would be removed from the courtroom and be unable to participate, and could potentially face sanctions as well. Your father should hire a private attorney to help him.
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