The Iowa Supreme Court’s Commision on the Unauthorized Practice of Law has warned residents in Iowa District 5, which includes Dallas and Guthrie counties, of an unauthorized lawyer who has been operating out of Des Moines.
According to a press release from the Commission, John Gilbert has been presenting himself as an individual who can provide discount legal services, but he is not licensed to practice law in the State of Iowa. Gilbert has been marketing himself as a “pro se litigation advocate” and operating a business known as Central Barristers Receipt. The Commission has notified the public to not accept legal advice or representation from Gilbert, including having him select and fill out legal forms for later filing by the individual.
If anyone is involved in a legal matter with Gilbert, they are advised to seek legal advice from a licensed lawyer. They are also asked to contact the Commission by calling 515-281-8072. A list of individuals licensed to practice law in the State of Iowa is available online. A link to the list can be found below.