Invalidation of Residency Requirements for Admission to the Bar: Opportunities for General Reform

Individuals must jump several major hurdles to earn the right to practice law. One hurdle state bars have traditionally imposed is the requirement that applicants demonstrate their residency in that state. This must be done either upon application, prior to admission, or upon admission. A residency requirement has been imposed on both applicants applying for admission by examination, and attorney applicants admitted on motion without exam.