State Bar Seeks Public Comment on a Special Admissions Rule for Military Spouses

SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 4, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The State Bar of California is seeking public comment on special admissions rules including a proposed rule change regarding admission for military spouses. Currently, 30 states and U.S. territories have incorporated a special admissions policy for military spouses.

The proposed new Registered Military Spouse Attorney Rule creates a new special admissions category for the spouse of an active duty member of the military who is stationed in California and a licensed attorney in another state. The proposed rules address the following areas:

• Ensuring definition of spouse conforms to California law
• Creating consistency with Multijurisdictional Practice rules
• Ensuring good standing of attorney in their home state
• Guaranteeing public protection by requiring supervision
• Accommodating multiple bar exam attempts

For many states, the ability to allow special admission to military spouses has been facilitated by the reciprocity rules that exist between states, which allow an attorney to waive into the state (admitted on motion) based on admission in another state. California, however, does not have reciprocity with any other state, and does not currently have any special admissions rules unique to military spouses.

Additional details, including how to submit public comment, can be found on the State Bar's website.

The deadline for public comment is November 5, 2018.

SOURCE The State Bar of California

Related Links

www.calbar.ca.gov