Advisory Opinion: 1190

Year Issued: 1988

RPC(s): RPC 5.5(b)

Subject: Nonlawyer assistants; use of title "International trade consultant"

The Committee reviewed your inquiry concerning the use of the title "international trade consultant" on business cards and letterhead to identify an individual employed by your firm. The Committee was of the opinion that the use of such term to identify a nonlawyer would not be improper so long as there is no unauthorized practice of law by the nonlawyer, which would cause the law firm to violate RPC 5.5(b) and so long as the title truthfully identified the person's capacity.

Advisory Opinions are provided for the education of the Bar and reflect the opinion of the Committee on Professional Ethics (CPE) or its predecessors. Advisory Opinions are provided pursuant to the authorization granted by the Board of Governors, but are not individually approved by the Board and do not reflect the official position of the Bar association. Laws other than the Washington State Rules of Professional Conduct may apply to the inquiry. The Committee's answer does not include or opine about any other applicable law other than the meaning of the Rules of Professional Conduct.