Massachusetts Multijurisdictional Practice (MJP)

Massachusetts Rules of Professional Conduct (SJC Rule 3:07) and Rule 8.5 address unauthorized and multijurisdictional practice. See the MJP hub for general background.

Massachusetts Rule 5.5 generally tracks ABA Model Rule 5.5. Out-of-state lawyers practicing as house counsel in Massachusetts must register under SJC Rule 4:02(9) rather than relying solely on RPC 5.5(d)(1).

Temporary practice

Temporary services under Rule 5.5(c) typically include association with Massachusetts counsel, tribunal-related work with authorization or a reasonable expectation of authorization, ADR related to the lawyer’s home practice, and other services reasonably related to practice where admitted. Court appearances remain subject to pro hac vice.

Confirm current SJC rules and RPC text before relying on a particular safe harbor.