Vulnerable Canadians are being scammed by practitioners with fraudulent degrees—including law degrees.
Speaking to CTV News, lawyer Tanya Walker says new immigrants may be among the most vulnerable to this practice, especially if there’s a language barrier.
Persons practicing law without the necessary qualifications can damage the outcome of court cases. In such situations, victims have to prove that a miscarriage of justice occurred. What’s more, verdicts are not automatically overturned if a lawyer lacked the proper credentials.
Because lawyers with genuine credentials are regulated by the law society, victims can pursue compensation. With fake lawyers, however, victims must collect by themselves if they decide to sue. Compensation depends on the defendant having the necessary assets to pay.
Walker warns about individuals posting offers too good to be true and lacking photos on their website. She adds that lawyers are only allowed to accept $7,500 in cash per file—larger amounts should raise alarm bells.