On February 3, 2026, the president of the company operating the rapidly growing resignation agency service “Momuri” and his wife were arrested by the Metropolitan Police Department.
The charges are “violation of the Attorney Act (unauthorized legal collaboration and solicitation).”
What happened to this company, once one of the industry’s largest players with over 40,000 cumulative users?
This article explains the incident’s background, the reasons for the arrests, and “how to choose a safe resignation agency” – essential knowledge for anyone currently considering resignation.
- 1. Overview of the Arrest of the President of Resignation Agency “Moomuri”
- 2. Why was Moomuri’s operation deemed illegal?
- 3. Impact and Precautions for Current Users and Those Considering Use
- 4. How to Identify a Safe Resignation Agency Service That Won’t Fail You
- Summary: The Resignation Agency Industry Faces a Major Turning Point
1. Overview of the Arrest of the President of Resignation Agency “Moomuri”
According to reports, those arrested are the president of the operating company, Albatross Co., Ltd., Shinji Tanimoto (37), and his wife and employee, Shiori Tanimoto (31).
Reason for Arrest: What is Violation of the Attorney Act?
The primary reason for the arrest is suspicion of “unauthorized legal collaboration (brokering).”
- Content
Suspected of referring legal matters, such as retirement negotiations, to attorneys for the purpose of receiving compensation (referral fees) despite lacking a legal license. - Method
It has been reported that approximately ¥16,500 was received from the attorney for each referral. - Background
The Metropolitan Police Department conducted a search of the premises in October 2025, and authorities were carefully proceeding with corroborative investigations.
Furthermore, on February 5th, lawyers representing the referred parties were also indicted, escalating the case into a situation that has shaken the entire industry.
2. Why was Moomuri’s operation deemed illegal?
Resignation agency services themselves are not illegal.
However, there are strict restrictions on what private companies are permitted to do.
What private companies “can” and “cannot” do
Japanese law (Article 72 of the Attorney Act) prohibits anyone other than lawyers from conducting “negotiations” for remuneration.
| Operating Structure | What can be done | Prohibited Activities (Unauthorized Practice of Law) |
| private sector | Merely “conveying” the intention to resign (via a messenger) | Negotiating paid leave usage and salary payments |
| labor union | Negotiations based on the right to collective bargaining are possible | Legal representative in court proceedings, etc. |
| Attorney | All negotiations and legal actions are possible. | No restrictions |
Issues with Momuri
Media reports point out that beyond mere “communication of intent,” the business model itself—connecting clients to lawyers for referral fees—constituted the legally prohibited act of “brokering.”
3. Impact and Precautions for Current Users and Those Considering Use
Following this incident, many voices express concerns like, “I’m afraid to use resignation proxy services now.”
Can users get arrested?
To put it simply, users will not be arrested or punished.
However, be aware of the following risks:
- Service Suspension
The risk that continued operation becomes difficult, leading to delays in refund processing and other responsibilities. - Resignation Invalidation
The risk of legal disputes where resignations obtained through unauthorized practice of law (illegal negotiations) are claimed by the company to be “invalid.”
4. How to Identify a Safe Resignation Agency Service That Won’t Fail You
When using a resignation agency service in the future, be sure to check the following three points:
- Are they compliant with the Attorney Act?
If “negotiation” is required, always choose a service operated by attorneys or affiliated with a labor union. - Is the fee structure transparent?
Confirm that no additional fees or separate attorney referral fees will be charged. - Is the operator clearly identified?
Check if the company name, responsible party, and location are clearly stated on the official website.
Summary: The Resignation Agency Industry Faces a Major Turning Point
The arrest of “Momuri” clearly demonstrated the police’s “tough stance” toward the resignation agency industry, which had operated in a significant gray area.
Going forward, compliance—specifically, “the extent to which an agency operates within legally recognized boundaries”—will become the primary selection criterion for users, surpassing considerations of affordability and convenience.
