Encouraging Adoption of Rules Regarding Admission of Attorneys Who Are Dependents of Service Members
Resolution 15: Encouraging Adoption of Rules Regarding Admission of Attorneys Who Are Dependents of Service Members
WHEREAS, the states' highest courts regard an effective system of admission and regulation of the legal profession as an important responsibility for the protection of the public; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Defense has recognized that military spouses face unique licensing and employment challenges as they move frequently in support of the nation's defense; and
WHEREAS, the American Bar Association adopted a policy in February 2012 recognizing that these short-term, compulsory moves for attorneys married to military service members result in unique problems that should be addressed by amending traditional bar admission rules; and
WHEREAS, state bar admission authorities and state supreme courts remain responsible for making admission decisions and enforcing their own rules for admission; and
WHEREAS, issues relating to knowledge of local law can be addressed through a mandatory educational component;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Conference of Chief Justices urges the bar admission authorities in each state and territory to consider the development and implementation of rules permitting admission without examination for attorneys who are dependents of service members of the United States Uniformed Services and who have graduated from ABA accredited law schools and who are already admitted to practice in another state or territory.
Adopted as proposed by the CCJ Professionalism and Competence of the Bar Committee at the 2012 Annual Meeting on July 25, 2012.