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HB 260

Unauthorized Practice of Law Amendments

2026 General Session Introduced by Brady Brammer and 1 co-sponsor

HB 260 redefines Utah's unauthorized practice of law rules, likely expanding non-lawyer legal service opportunities while addressing concerns about consumer protection and professional boundaries.

Draft of Enrolled Bill Prepared
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Bill Summary · HB 260

Legislative bill overview

HB 260 amends Utah's unauthorized practice of law statutes to clarify what constitutes illegal practice of law and potentially create exceptions or safe harbors for certain non-lawyer activities. The bill has passed through House Judiciary Committee with a substitute version, indicating substantive revisions were made during the review process.

Why is this important

This legislation directly affects who can provide legal-adjacent services (document preparation, legal advice, representation) without a law license. Depending on the specific amendments, it could expand opportunities for legal service accessibility and affordability, or conversely, strengthen protections of the legal profession's monopoly. The substitute version suggests contentious negotiations occurred over the final language.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of non-lawyer services: Defining precisely which activities constitute "unauthorized practice" versus permissible legal assistance (self-help, document preparation, paralegal services)
  • Consumer protection vs. professional autonomy: Balancing public safety from unqualified practitioners against barriers that prevent affordable legal services for low-income Utahns
  • Implementation and enforcement: Who monitors compliance and how violations are prosecuted, potentially affecting small document preparation services and legal tech companies

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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