WATERTOWN, N.Y. (Legal Newsline) - New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman issued a notice of proposed litigation, a cease and desist letter and a subpoena for business records on Monday to a business that allegedly practiced law illegally.
Derek Distenfield, the owner of Legal Docs By Me LLC, allegedly engaged in the unauthorized practice of law.
"It is critical that New Yorkers receive strong legal advice from knowledgeable and qualified attorneys," Schneiderman said. "My office will take whatever steps necessary to ensure that anyone practicing law in New York state is licensed to do so."
Distenfield recently launched Legal Docs By Me LLC in Watertown with the motto to "provide another key to the courthouse." Distenfield announced plans to open a second location in Syracuse, with other locations planned near military bases around the U.S.
Distenfield allegedly served as the senior vice president of sales and marketing for a similar business called We're The People. We're The People allegedly engaged in the unauthorized practice of law, materially prejudiced the interests of its clients and forged client signatures.
Distenfield was allegedly involved with his father and stepmother, Ira and Linda Distenfield, in We're The People. Ira and Linda Distenfield are also allegedly involved with Legal Docs By Me LLC.
Schneiderman asked anyone who thinks they were a victim of fraudulent legal practices to call his consumer fraud helpline.
N.Y. AG taking action against Legal Docs By Me
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