Dear Attorney,

I would like to confirm if the attorney I am dealing with is legitimate. Could you guide me on the steps I can take to verify their credentials? I want to ensure that the person I am consulting is a duly licensed lawyer in the Philippines.

Sincerely,
Concerned Client

Insights

In the Philippines, verifying the legitimacy of a lawyer is essential to ensure proper legal representation. The law profession is regulated by the Supreme Court, and all practicing attorneys must be licensed by the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP). Here are the key steps to confirm if a lawyer is legitimate:

Check the Roll of Attorneys
The Supreme Court of the Philippines maintains an official Roll of Attorneys. This list includes all individuals who have passed the bar exam and are licensed to practice law. You can request confirmation of an attorney’s status by visiting the Office of the Bar Confidant or checking with the IBP.
Verify Membership with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP)
All practicing lawyers in the Philippines are required to be members of the IBP. The IBP is the national organization for all Filipino lawyers, and membership is mandatory. The IBP also issues identification cards to its members, which can serve as proof of their standing.
Request Proof of Identity
When in doubt, you may ask the lawyer to provide their IBP membership card or other identification showing they are in good standing. An attorney in good standing must regularly pay IBP dues and follow professional ethical standards.
Look for Professional Conduct
A legitimate lawyer adheres to the professional code of ethics and maintains transparency in dealings. Any suspicious behavior, such as refusing to provide basic credentials, should be considered a red flag.

By following these steps, you can protect yourself from unauthorized practitioners and ensure that your legal affairs are handled by a qualified attorney.