Arizona House Counsel

Arizona Supreme Court Rule 38(a) requires lawyers not admitted in Arizona who are employed in Arizona as in-house counsel (or a related position) to obtain a Certificate of Registration of In-House Counsel. Confirm current forms, fees, and eligibility on the State Bar of Arizona site.

Eligibility
Applicants generally must be admitted to practice in another jurisdiction, meet Rule 38(a) educational/good-standing conditions, and be employed in Arizona as in-house counsel for a single for-profit or nonprofit corporation, association, or other organizational entity (including parents, subsidiaries, and affiliates) whose business is lawful. Apply within 90 days of commencing employment.

Practice
Registered in-house counsel may provide legal services for the employing entity only (not to third parties). Activities that require pro hac vice remain subject to that rule. Registrants have the benefits and responsibilities of active State Bar members for disciplinary purposes.

Application, renewal, and reporting
File the State Bar verified application, certificates of good standing, and the required fee. Renew on or before February 1 each year while employed as in-house counsel in Arizona (renewal fee set by the Supreme Court). Report status changes, discipline, and employment changes that affect eligibility within the time limits in Rule 38(a). See also Arizona MJP (ER 5.5).