You must first register as an attorney applicant with the State Bar's Office of Admissions. ACC provides a summary of state rules for practicing as in-house counsel in a state where you are not admitted to the bar.New York State permits admission on motion, without examination, for applicants who have practiced for five of the preceding seven years. To apply for House Counsel, complete and submit the application through the WSBA Online Admissions Portal. Screenshot 2024-12-27 155407. The California State Bar permits nonCalifornia admitted lawyers to practice as inhouse counsel in the state under certain circumstances. All attorneys practicing in New York State are required to complete continuing legal education (CLE) credits. However, private state bar associations regulate the right to practice law in a few states. To practice in a private law firm, foreign-trained attorneys must become licensed to practice law in that US state. You do not need to be a NY lawyer, nor a U.S. lawyer, to join the NY State Bar Association.