Which term describes the restriction that only licensed lawyers may perform certain legal tasks?

• A. Confidentiality
• B. Conflict of interest
• C. Ethical wall
• D. Unauthorized practice of law

Answer: (D)

The restriction that only licensed lawyers may perform certain legal tasks is called unauthorized practice of law. This concept exists to protect the public by ensuring that anyone offering legal services has met required qualifications, remains subject to ethical oversight, and can be held accountable. It covers activities like giving legal advice tailored to a specific situation, drafting and filing legal documents, or representing a client in court. When a non-lawyer performs these tasks, it can mislead clients and create real legal risk, which is why jurisdictions prohibit it and may impose penalties. The other terms—confidentiality (keeping client information private), conflict of interest (avoiding representation where interests could clash), and ethical walls (barriers to information flow to manage conflicts)—deal with how lawyers operate within representation, not who is allowed to practice law.