Rhode Island Military Attorneys
Article II, Rule 2(f) and (g) of the Rhode Island Supreme Court Rules allows military attorneys on active duty of the armed forces, and attorneys in the Rhode Island National Guard, that are admitted to the bar of the highest judicial court of a state, district, or territory of the United States and to appear in Rhode Island courts. Rhode Island National Guard attorneys may practice pursuant to the legal assistance program established under 10 U.S. Code ยง 1044 (Legal Assistance).
Time spent practicing under the armed services or National Guard exceptions do not qualify for the practice requirement of the Rhode Island Modified Bar Exam.
Military attorneys must obtain the written authorization of the senior legal officer of such service to represent, in civil or criminal causes, junior non-commissioned officers and enlisted personnel of such service who might not otherwise be able to afford proper legal assistance. The written authorization may be general and must be filed and updated annually with the Clerk of the Rhode Island Supreme Court.
Attorneys admitted to another jurisdiction that are on extended active duty with the Rhode Island National Guard may appear in Rhode Island courts with written authorization from the State Judge Advocate of the Rhode Island National Guard. Such attorneys may represent the Rhode Island National Guard, its officers, members, and employees acting in their official capacities. The written authorization may be general and must be filed and updated annually with the Clerk of the Rhode Island Supreme Court.