#28
During RepresentationHigh Risk
The lawyer asks you to sign blank documents or powers of attorney
Blank Document Trap
Why It's Dangerous
Signing a blank document is extremely dangerous — once signed, anything can be written in. You could unknowingly sign an unfavorable settlement, a withdrawal of your case, or even a promissory note. No blank document should ever be signed, regardless of the lawyer's excuse.
Real Case
A lawyer convinced a client to sign a blank power of attorney, claiming 'the court requires a special format.' The client later discovered the lawyer had used it to sign a highly unfavorable settlement on their behalf, waiving most of the claims.
* This case has been anonymized. Details have been adjusted to protect privacy.
What To Do
1
Never sign any blank document, regardless of the reason given2
All documents must be completely filled in before you sign3
Read every page carefully before signing — make sure there are no blank pages4
If the lawyer insists on blank documents, switch lawyers immediately and report to the bar association