How to check if a lawyer is licensed in the US

Lawyers in the US are licensed by each state, usually through the state bar or the state's highest court. Checking a lawyer's license takes a couple of minutes, and it is the best protection against unqualified or disciplined practitioners and outright scams.

Step 1: Find the right state

For most matters, the lawyer must be licensed in the state where your case is, or where the legal work concerns. Lawyers can be licensed in several states. Federal matters, such as immigration, bankruptcy and federal tax court, can involve lawyers licensed in any state.

Step 2: Search the state's attorney directory

Search for "[state] bar attorney search" or "[state] attorney registration lookup" and use the official .org or .gov site. Search by name, and check that:

• the license status is active (not inactive, suspended or disbarred);
• the name, address and bar number match what the lawyer gave you;
• there is no recent public discipline, or that you understand any that is listed.

Some states (for example New York) keep the register with the courts rather than the bar association. The American Bar Association's website links to every state's licensing authority.

Step 3: Watch out for scams

• Notario fraud: in many Latin American countries a "notario público" is a lawyer, but in the US a notary public is not, and cannot give legal advice. Only lawyers and DOJ-accredited representatives may help with immigration cases.
• Fake law firms: scammers copy real firms' names. Call the number listed with the state bar, not the one in an unexpected email.
• Wire fraud: in real estate closings, confirm wiring instructions by phone before sending money.

About listings on Lawfindo

US listings on Lawfindo come from public business data and are not verified against state bar records. Use the steps above to confirm a lawyer's license before you hire them.