Rule 5.5 Unauthorized Practice of Law

Lawyers have to follow the licensing rules of any state or place where they practice law. This means a lawyer cannot practice law somewhere they are not licensed or approved to work. It also means a lawyer cannot help someone else break these licensing rules, like helping a non-lawyer act as an attorney or helping a lawyer practice in a place where they are not allowed to.

This rule exists to protect the public. Practicing law without proper licensing can put clients at risk, since it means the person handling their legal matter has not met the requirements set by that state or jurisdiction. If a lawyer breaks this rule, they could face discipline, including losing their license to practice law.

For someone hiring a lawyer, this rule matters because it helps confirm that the person representing them is actually qualified and allowed to work on their case in that location. If you are unsure whether a lawyer is licensed to help you in your state, you can check with your state's bar association.