A partner in a law firm is permitted to practice law under the firm’s name even if not actively practicing, provided the name isn't misleading and complies with Rule 7.5. This statement is:

• A. Generally true
• B. False
• C. Only if the partner is listed as senior partner
• D. Only if the firm is a professional corporation

Answer: (A)

Under Rule 7.5, a law firm may practice under a name that includes the names of one or more lawyers, as long as the name is not false or misleading about who is practicing or about the firm’s status. The fact that a partner is not actively practicing does not automatically bar the use of that partner’s name in the firm’s name, because the use is allowed to reflect the firm’s identity and history as long as it doesn’t mislead clients about active involvement. The key constraint is honesty to the public: the designation must not imply that all named lawyers are currently practicing or that the firm’s structure or partnerships are the same as they actually are. Therefore, the statement is generally true. It isn’t limited to cases where the partner is senior or the firm is a professional corporation; those conditions aren’t required by Rule 7.5, so long as the name remains non-misleading.