What is Admission on Motion? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Q: How do I know if my state has a reciprocal agreement?

You can check with your state s bar association or legal regulatory body for a list of states with reciprocal agreements.

Q: Can I practice law in multiple states simultaneously?

Yes, if you are admitted in those states and meet all legal requirements.

Definition & Meaning

Admission on motion refers to the process that allows a lawyer to be permanently admitted to practice law in a state without taking that state's bar examination. This process is typically available to lawyers who are in good standing with the bar association of another state. Admission on motion is often facilitated through reciprocal agreements between states, enabling lawyers to practice in multiple states more efficiently.

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Legal Use & context

This term is commonly used in the legal profession, particularly in the context of professional licensing and bar admissions. It is relevant in various legal areas, including civil, criminal, and family law. Lawyers seeking to relocate or expand their practice to another state can utilize this process to avoid the burden of taking multiple bar exams. Users can manage some aspects of this process through legal templates and forms available on platforms like US Legal Forms.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

(Hypothetical example) A lawyer licensed in California wishes to practice in New York. They are in good standing with the California Bar and find that California and New York have a reciprocal agreement. They can file a motion for admission on motion to practice in New York without taking the New York bar exam.

State-by-state differences

State	Reciprocal Agreement	Additional Requirements
California	Yes	Good standing, moral character check
New York	Yes	Good standing, moral character check, and additional documentation
Texas	No	Must take the Texas bar exam

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Description	Key Difference
Admission by Examination	Process of becoming a licensed lawyer by passing the bar exam.	Requires passing a state-specific exam, unlike admission on motion.
Pro Hac Vice	Temporary admission for a lawyer to practice in a different state for a specific case.	Limited to specific cases and not permanent like admission on motion.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a lawyer considering practicing in a new state, first check if there is a reciprocal agreement between your current state and the new state. Ensure you meet all requirements, including good standing and moral character assessments. You can use legal forms from US Legal Forms to assist with the motion process. If your situation is complex, it may be beneficial to consult a legal professional for guidance.

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Quick facts

Typical fees: Varies by state, often includes application fees.
Jurisdiction: Varies based on state laws.
Possible penalties: Denial of application if requirements are not met.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What is the process for admission on motion?

The process involves filing a motion with the bar association in the new state, demonstrating good standing, and passing a moral character check.