The rule 9.46 in California is also known as the California Rule of Court 9.46.
The rule 9.46 in California or California Rule of Court 9.46 governs Registered In House Counsel or RICHC, and allows out of state licensed attorneys to practice law in California for a single qualifying California based employer, like a non profit or corporation, without becoming a full member California State bar.
This is provided that the out of state licensed attorneys meet the specific requirements for the institution and themselves.
These specific requirements that the out of state licensed attorneys must meet include registering and fulfilling MCLE requirements.
It also defines "qualifying institution" and sets conditions for attorneys to provide legal services in house and focuses on non litigation matters for their employer.
For attorneys, under the 9.46 rule in California the attorney must be licensed and in good standing in another United States Jurisdiction, reside in California and work for a qualifying entity.
For the qualifying institution, they must have an office in California and employ at least 5 full time employees or an active California licensed attorney.
The scope of practice under the 9.46 rule in California is usually limited to legal for the specific employer and usually for non litigation matters, although it's part of a broader MJP or Multijurisdictional Practice Program.
And registration requires an annual registration with the State Bar, moral character review, and fulfilling Continuing Legal Education or MCLE requirements.
And in essence, the Rule 9.46 in California provides a pathway for corporate counsel to work in California without full bar admission, but also under strict rules and supervision by the State Bar.