How to Verify an Attorney’s License
Before you trust someone with your case, it makes sense to confirm they are actually allowed to practice law. Checking an attorney’s license takes only a few minutes and can tell you whether the lawyer is in good standing and whether there is any public record of discipline. It is a simple step that adds peace of mind to any hiring decision, whether you are considering an ELA-recognized firm or any other attorney.
Why Verifying a License Matters
A license means the attorney has met their state’s education, examination, and character requirements and continues to follow its professional rules. Licensed attorneys are also accountable to a disciplinary system if something goes wrong. Verifying the license confirms that the person you are speaking with is a lawyer, that they can practice in the state where your case is located, and that their status is current.
How to Check a License
Find your state’s licensing agency. In most states, attorneys are licensed through the state bar association or the state’s highest court. Searching for your state name along with “attorney search” or “lawyer lookup” will usually lead you to the official directory.
Search by name. Enter the attorney’s first and last name. Some directories also let you search by bar number or city.
Review the record. Look at the attorney’s admission date, status, and any notes about discipline. Common statuses include active, inactive, suspended, and disbarred. An active status in good standing is what you want to see for the lawyer handling your case.
Check other states if needed. Some attorneys are licensed in more than one state. If your case is in a different state from where the lawyer’s office is, confirm the lawyer is licensed in the state where the case will be heard.
How Licensing Works
Lawyers are licensed state by state, and in general an attorney must be licensed in the state where they practice and where the case is pending. A court may sometimes allow an out-of-state attorney to appear in a single case, usually alongside a local lawyer. Immigration law is federal, so an attorney licensed in any U.S. state may represent clients in immigration matters across the country. Only licensed attorneys and representatives accredited by the Department of Justice may give immigration legal advice. Notaries public in the United States are not lawyers and cannot provide legal advice or representation.
Other Ways to Learn About an Attorney
A license check confirms the basics. To get a fuller picture, review the attorney’s firm website, practice areas, and biography, read client reviews, and look at professional recognition such as the ELA Awards. Most importantly, speak with the attorney directly and ask about their experience with cases like yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean if an attorney is listed as inactive?
An inactive attorney is usually not permitted to practice law in that state, often by choice, such as after retirement. Make sure the lawyer handling your case has an active license.
Will a license search show past discipline?
Many state directories show public discipline such as suspensions or reprimands. Some states also keep separate records of disciplinary decisions.
Can a paralegal give me legal advice?
No. Paralegals can help with many parts of a case under an attorney’s supervision, but legal advice must come from a licensed lawyer.
What should I do if someone is practicing law without a license?
Report it to your state bar or attorney general. Unlicensed practice of law can cause serious harm, particularly in immigration matters.