Can a lawyer from germany practice law in the USA?

[Zambat]

Can a lawyer that graduates from a law school in germany practice law in the USA? In say california and NY?

[adjusterjack]

No. He must pass the Bar and be licensed in whatever state he chooses to practice on a regular basis.

However, on rare occasions and with strict guidelines he may be allowed to practice on a one time basis (pro hac vice).

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pro_hac_vice

Though I don't know if that would apply to attorneys from other countries.

Google pro hac vice for each state to find out the requirements and procedures.

[Guest]

Anybody can take the Cal bar, you don't even have to have gone to law school.

Might be hard to pass but the option exists.

[adjusterjack]

Anybody can take the Cal bar, you don't even have to have gone to law school.

That's partly true, as written, but applicants for the California must have a "legal education" that can include four years of study under the supervision of a state judge or attorney in lieu of law school.

http://www.calbar.ca.gov/Admissions/...ents/Education

So, not just "anybody" can take the Cal bar.