Abstract
The label “non-attorney representative” is an oxymoron. Attorneys—members of state bars who have specialized training in the law—represent people; laypersons who attempt to do so can be charged in most states with a misdemeanor or felony offense. And yet before federal administrative agencies, it is a common, everyday occurrence. This article not only explores why that is, but more importantly examines the consequences for both individuals and our federal administrative justice system. Focusing on the Social Security Administration, this article examines how the agency has failed to implement the safeguards other agencies have to ensure the competency and ethics of non-attorneys who represent individuals before it. This failure of the agency has negative consequences for the individuals represented, the taxpayer, and most of all, the disabled.
Recommended Citation
Drew A. Swank,
Non-Attorney Social Security Disability Representatives and the Unauthorized Practice of Law,
36
S. Ill. U. L.J.
223
(2012).
Available at:
https://opensiuc.lib.siu.edu/siulj/vol36/iss2/1