You no longer have to be a lawyer to practice law in Arizona.

Opinion: New rules in Arizona allow non-lawyers to practice law and invest in a lawfirm. There may be benefits but also plenty of unintended consequences.

Maya Steinitz and Victoria Sahaniopinion contributors

New rules allow nonlawyers to practice law and own law firms in Arizona. This welcomed revolution in access to justice will have profound effects on the justice system and legal profession.

And like all broad reforms, it has possible unintended consequences.

The new rules allow nonlawyers to invest in and manage Arizona law firms structured as “Alternative Business Structures” — business entities that provide legal services and include nonlawyers with economic interests or decision-making authority.