Legal Definitions - multidisciplinary practice

Multidisciplinary practice refers to a type of law firm that offers both legal and non-legal services. This type of firm is made up of lawyers and non-lawyers who work together to provide a range of services to clients.

However, according to Rule 5.4 of the Model Rules of Professional Conduct, lawyers are not allowed to share legal fees with non-lawyers, form a partnership with non-lawyers that involves the practice of law, or allow non-lawyers to direct their professional judgment. This effectively bars multidisciplinary practice.

For example, a multidisciplinary practice might include lawyers, accountants, and financial advisors who work together to provide legal, accounting, and financial services to clients. However, under the current rules, these professionals would not be able to share fees or form a partnership that involves the practice of law.