Arkansas Multijurisdictional Practice (MJP)

Rules 5.5 (Unauthorized Practice of Law; Multijurisdictional Practice of Law) and 8.5 (Disciplinary Authority; Choice of Law) of the Arkansas Rules of Professional Conduct address MJP in Arkansas. See the MJP hub for general background.

Arkansas Rule 5.5 generally follows the ABA Model Rule 5.5. Out-of-state lawyers generally may not establish a systematic and continuous presence for the practice of law or hold themselves out as Arkansas-admitted except as authorized.

Temporary practice

Temporary services under Rule 5.5(c) typically include association with an Arkansas lawyer who actively participates; tribunal-related work with authorization or a reasonable expectation of authorization; ADR related to the lawyer’s home practice (when pro hac vice is not required); and other services reasonably related to the lawyer’s practice where admitted. Covered court appearances remain subject to pro hac vice.

House counsel and authorized practice

Arkansas has no separate house-counsel registration. Rule 5.5(d)(1) permits employer/affiliate services that do not require pro hac vice; Rule 5.5(d)(2) covers services authorized by Arkansas or federal law. See Arkansas House Counsel.

Confirm the current rule text and comments on the Arkansas Judiciary rules site before relying on a particular safe harbor.