What is a lawyer not allowed to do concerning legal practice in a jurisdiction?

A lawyer is prohibited from assisting another in illegal practice as this directly contravenes the ethical standards set forth in the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct. Rule 5.5 specifically addresses unauthorized practice of law, stating that a lawyer shall not assist someone in practicing law in a jurisdiction where they are not authorized to do so. This rule is rooted in the importance of maintaining the integrity of the legal profession and protecting the public from unqualified individuals providing legal services.

This prohibition is critical because it ensures that only licensed and competent practitioners can engage in legal representation, thereby safeguarding clients' interests and the justice system as a whole.

While establishing a firm without local counsel may raise issues regarding compliance with local laws and regulations, it doesn't inherently involve assisting in illegal practice. Promoting services outside one’s state of admission may have implications regarding advertising and jurisdictional law, but it isn't a direct violation of ethical standards concerning unauthorized practice. Joining professional organizations in multiple jurisdictions, while it may present complexities in terms of ethical obligations, does not constitute illegal practice in itself.