Unauthorized Practice of Law in Maine

Overview

There are almost no areas related to title insurance and closings in Maine that require the involvement of attorneys at law. The only time an attorney must be involved in the process is when a lender specifically requires an attorney certification of a title search.

Attorney Certifications of Title Searches

Attorney Certifications of title searches are not required, but if a lender requires one, the borrower has the option of choosing their own attorney to provide such a certification to the lender. Title 9-A M.R.S.A. §3-311.

Attorney Opinions of Title

Attorney Opinions of Title are not required and rarely used.

Document Preparation

Title companies and their agents may prepare deeds and other documents in connection with the issuance of a title insurance policy. This includes preparation of limited Powers of Attorney for closing purposes.

Closings and Escrow

Closings are not required to be done by attorneys. Attorneys are not required to be represent any parties to the transaction.

Disbursement

Disbursement of files in Maine is not required to be done by or supervised by attorneys.

Recording

Recording of documents in Maine is not required to be done by or supervised by attorneys.