By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 8: Amid growing concerns over individuals illegally posing as lawyers, the District Council Courts Bar Association (DCCBA) has issued a strong warning to the public after several cases emerged of impostors offering legal services, including filing affidavits, through cyber cafés and one-stop centres.
These individuals have allegedly been advertising their phone numbers and soliciting clients, taking advantage of unsuspecting citizens in need of legal assistance.
The issue came to light after a judge of the District Council Court under the KHADC apprehended a man accused of forging a magistrate’s signature. In response, the KHADC Executive Member in charge of Legal Matters, Deity Herietta Majaw, filed an FIR.
Following the development, the court held discussions with the DCCBA and urged the association to take strict action against those impersonating advocates.
Speaking to reporters here on Monday, DCCBA secretary Saphira Marbaniang said such activities not only violate the Advocates Act but also tarnish the reputation of the entire legal fraternity.
“People without a licence have been acting as advocates and engaging in mischief. Worse, some cyber cafés and common service centres are supporting them by allowing illegal advertisements such as ‘affidavits done here’,” Marbaniang said.
She emphasised that advertising legal services is strictly prohibited under the Advocates Act.
“It is illegal to promote such services. That is why we are cautioning the public—do not rely on agents or middlemen. If anyone needs legal help, they must approach a licensed advocate directly,” she added.
Marbaniang said the association has encountered multiple cases where impostors pretended to help poor clients but later exploited them by overcharging.
“If the image of one advocate is tarnished, it affects the entire community of practising lawyers,” she said.
The DCCBA reiterated that anyone wishing to practice law must complete an LLB degree and obtain a valid licence from the Bar Council.
The association urged the public to remain vigilant, avoid unverified legal service providers, and report such fraudulent activities to prevent further exploitation and protect the integrity of the legal profession.
