A skeptical Florida Supreme Court Tuesday said it may be powerless to let an undocumented immigrant practice law in the state.

In a case that has drawn national attention, the Board of Bar Examiners asked the high court to decide whether Jose Godinez-Samperio can become a bar member while living in the U.S. illegally.

Godinez-Samperio passed the bar exam last year but has not yet been admitted. Justice Charles Canady said federal law seems to ban non-citizens from gaining licenses.

"Doesn't this court have the obligation to follow the federal law that is applicable” asked Canady. “And hasn't the Department of Justice taken the position that that federal law would preclude the issuance of a license to practice law in circumstances such as are before us?"

Former American Bar Association President Sandy D'Alemberte said his client Godinez-Samperio was a model student and Eagle Scout who has met all other requirements.

President Barack Obama recently suspended deportation for young undocumented immigrants who were brought to the country as children. Before, Godinez-Samperio would have had to leave the country for ten years and then apply for citizenship, but Obama's actions may allow him to remain.

He's now going through the process to work legally in the U.S.