If I practiced as in-house counsel in California before the effective date of November 15, 2004, will my application for registration be denied?
No, that fact alone is not a ground for denial.
If I leave my employment, do I have to notify the State Bar?
Yes. You must notify the State Bar within 30 days.
What happens if I change employers?
You must submit a Change of Employment Form if you wish to continue to practice law in California as in-house counsel.
Who qualifies as a non-litigating attorney under rule 9.48?
An attorney licensed to practice law in one or more U.S. jurisdictions other than California who is providing legal assistance or legal advice concerning a transaction or other non-litigation matter, a material aspect of which takes place in a jurisdiction in which the attorney is licensed, or on an issue of federal law or the law of a jurisdiction other than California. See General Information FAQs for additional information.
Am I eligible if I am a California resident?
No. (Rule 9.47 & 9.48)
Am I eligible if I am regularly employed, or regularly engage in substantial business or professional activities, in California?
No. (Rule 9.47 & 9.48)
Am I allowed to maintain an office in California for the practice of law?
No. You are not allowed to establish or maintain a resident office or other continuous presence in California for the practice of law. You must maintain an office in a U.S. jurisdiction other than California in which you are licensed. (Rule 9.47 & 9.48)
If I am eligible to practice in California under rule 9.47, am I allowed to appear in court in California?
No. Rule 9.47 applies only to litigation services in connection with litigation pending or anticipated either in California or another jurisdiction. If your anticipated authorization to appear in a formal legal proceeding serves as the basis for practice under rule 9.47, you must seek that authorization promptly once it becomes possible to do so. Failure to seek authorization promptly, or denial of that authorization, ends your eligibility to practice under rule 9.47.
How do I renew my registration?
The annual renewal packets are sent out the first week of December.
What happens if I don't submit my annual renewal on time? (Due Feb. 1)
Your registration will be canceled and will not be permitted to practice law in California as a registered in-house counsel or as a registered legal services attorney.
