Overview
- The Tokyo Metropolitan Police conducted search-and-seizure operations on October 22 at Albatross’s Shinagawa headquarters and at two Tokyo law firms linked to the service.
- Investigators suspect Albatross introduced some clients to attorneys who then paid remuneration, a practice police say could breach the Attorney Act’s ban on paid referrals by non-lawyers.
- Authorities seized materials and are analyzing the evidence to determine whether to pursue criminal charges against the company and cooperating lawyers.
- The Tokyo Bar Association previously issued a public advisory warning that certain resignation-agency activities, including negotiating legal claims or arranging legal services for pay, may constitute prohibited non-lawyer acts.
- Albatross’s representative earlier denied illegality and said no money was exchanged with lawyers; the service launched in 2022, advertises 24/7 support, and lists fees of ¥22,000 for full-time workers and ¥12,000 for part-time or temporary workers.