Stay Vigilant Against Scams

As scams become more sophisticated, we would like to remind our members to stay safe and exercise caution. Learn more about a recent scam targeting attorneys.

Last month, a RIBA member was contacted by an individual claiming to represent a solar energy company seeking legal assistance with a solar lease matter in Rhode Island. The RI attorney sent an engagement agreement that clearly required electronic payment for services rendered and specified that no upfront retainers would be accepted.

Shortly thereafter, the individual sent a draft agreement and asked the attorney to review it for compliance with Rhode Island law. The attorney reviewed and revised the document and issued an invoice for approximately $865, again noting that electronic payment was required under the engagement agreement.

Instead of paying the invoice electronically, the attorney later received a courier-delivered envelope containing a letter from a finance company along with a check for $385,000 drawn on a U.S. bank. The attorney recognized the check as fraudulent due to irregularities and did not deposit it.

This type of scam typically attempts to pressure attorneys to deposit a fraudulent check and quickly disburse funds before the bank determines the check is invalid. Members are encouraged to remain cautious when approached by unknown parties seeking legal services, particularly when unsolicited checks or requests to transfer funds are involved.