But of course.
pulykamell, I’d say a fake cc: is certainly deceptive but not illegal. I’m not familiar with any bar complaint or UPL case in which that’s been an issue.
The fake carbon copy line seems kind of pointless. If you’ve already engaged counsel, you get them to send the letter.
I agree with two exceptions. First Kimmy’s point about the FDCPA may cover that sort of thing in consumer collection cases. If it’s a letter you are sending to a business, the FDCPA generally does not apply, but if you’re trying to collect from a consumer, it might. Second, I think it might be unethical for a lawyer to do it, at least under some circumstances. I’ve had clients ask me to include fake cc’s in letters I’m sending, and I usually refuse to do it on “appearance of impropriety” grounds. I’ve never seen anybody actually get in trouble for it, but I don’t want to be the guy whose name is on the leading case, either. I also think it’s generally an ineffective tactic, but that’s another story.
ETA: Hi Campion!
I may know someone who is doing this. How would I go about turning them in? I live in another state from them.
Me have law degree. But never call self lawyer. Bad mojo.
Me have law degree too. Me pass bar. Me no join bar. Me still have trouble explaining to me-in-laws why me no help with law problems. Me have MPRE nightmares.
Good mojitos.
I quibble with this definition. It might be true of some informal uses of the word “lawyer.”
… but Gfactor’s citation from Michigan law would seem to support the assertion that a “lawyer” is someone who is qualified and authorized to practice law in Michigan (license, member of the bar, etc.), not just someone who has studied law. And I suspect that many if not most state laws would be similar to this.
I would sue him civilly for harassment, report him for UPL, and have him criminally prosecuted.
I originally thought he was saying he was responding to a collection agency until I realized he WAS the collection agency.
Good job for banning him.
Thread reported for closure.
It’s a five-year old zombie by an OP that’s been banned probably two years. And TBH, heaping your condemnation on the OP isn’t particularly enlightening or value-added in a General Questions thread.
Moderator Action
Since the OP has been banned it is probably best just to close this.
Thread closed.