Unauthorized Practice of Law

In order to practice law in South Carolina, an attorney must be licensed or otherwise authorized by the Supreme Court of South Carolina. Practicing law without a license is a felony, and may be punished by either a fine of up to $5,000, imprisonment for not more than five years, or both, according to the SC Code of Laws.

The South Carolina Bar is not empowered to enforce this statute. However, our Unauthorized Practice of Law (UPL) Committee may share information about such incidents with other people and agencies in an effort to improve the protection of residents.

The Committee also promotes education of Bar members and the public about unauthorized practice of law in South Carolina. If you or your group would like to arrange for one of our members to give a presentation on this topic, please contact Eileen Carrouth. 

How to File a UPL Complaint

The South Carolina Attorney General’s Office investigates UPL Complaints. Please see their website for more information and the UPL Complaint Form: https://www.scag.gov/inside-the-office/criminal-division/general-prosecution/unauthorized-practice-of-law/