Which of the following best describes the unauthorized practice of law?

The unauthorized practice of law refers to activities that involve providing legal advice or services without proper authorization, typically because the individual is not a licensed attorney. Preparing documents and giving advice about them falls squarely into this definition. This practice requires a legal understanding of the implications of the documents, the laws surrounding them, and the specific circumstances of the clients, which can lead to the provision of incorrect or misleading information. This situation can be harmful to clients who may rely on that advice for legal matters.

Assisting clients with court filings may also be construed as the practice of law, but it typically involves following established procedures rather than providing legal advice. Witnessing signatures and administering oaths are functions performed by notaries that do not require legal expertise, therefore, they are not considered the practice of law. These actions are administrative in nature and do not involve the interpretation or application of legal principles.