Massachusetts House Counsel

Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Rule 4:02(9) requires out-of-state lawyers who are not admitted in Massachusetts but practice law in the Commonwealth as house counsel for an employer to register with the Board of Bar Overseers. Confirm current forms and fees on the BBO site.

Eligibility and registration
Registrants must be admitted and in good standing elsewhere, practice law solely for the employer (and permitted affiliates), and comply with BBO registration and annual renewal requirements.

Practice limits
Registration does not authorize holding out to the public as a Massachusetts lawyer or appearing in Massachusetts courts without pro hac vice or other admission. See also Massachusetts MJP.