Law firm in MA; live in RI? Forum

[Anonymous User]

Hi:

I am currently clerking and am admitted in NY. My husband and I will likely be relocating to Rhode Island after my clerkship, and I’ll be applying to firms in Boston. I can waive into MA with my UBE score but can’t waive into RI (my UBE score is too old). Does anyone have guidance as to whether it’d be permissible for me to live in RI but practice at an MA firm if I’m admitted only in MA but not RI?

Thanks!

[Dcc617]

Is there any requirement to live where you’re licensed/practicing? I’ve never heard of that.

[Iowahawk]

Is there any requirement to live where you’re licensed/practicing? I’ve never heard of that.

I believe they’re illegal under the dormant commerce clause, NH had one that was struck down

[1styearlateral]

Plenty of attorneys work in NYC and live in NJ/PA/CT and are only licensed in NY. I think more broadly, the rules on UPL are becoming more blurred especially with WFH.

[Anonymous User]

It's pretty common for MA attorneys to live in RI. But RI generally has very strict unauthorized practice of law rules. Its hit lawyers at out-of-state firms who spend months at their RI vacation homes with cease and desists. Also, not sure on where specifically in RI you need to be, but because its so small, you could just live right over the line in MA. Many towns in MA are closer to Providence than towns in RI.