What is Admission Pro Hac Vice? A Guide to Temporary Legal Practice

Definition & Meaning

Admission pro hac vice refers to the temporary permission granted to an out-of-state attorney to represent a client in a specific case within a state where they are not licensed to practice law. The phrase comes from Latin, meaning "for this occasion only." This process allows attorneys to appear in court for particular cases while ensuring that they comply with local legal requirements.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: An attorney licensed in California wishes to represent a client in a family law case in New York. They must seek admission pro hac vice by partnering with a New York attorney who will file the necessary motion.

Example 2: An out-of-state attorney specializing in environmental law is needed for a significant case in Texas. They can apply for admission pro hac vice to assist the local legal team (hypothetical example).

State-by-state differences

State Requirements for Admission Pro Hac Vice
California Requires the filing of a motion and a declaration from the local attorney.
New York Requires a motion, affidavit of good standing, and a fee.
Texas Requires a motion, local attorney sponsorship, and compliance with local rules.

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

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Admission Pro Hac Vice Temporary admission for out-of-state attorneys. Specific to cases; requires local sponsorship.
General Admission Permanent admission to practice law in a jurisdiction. Requires passing the bar exam; not case-specific.
Limited License Temporary license for specific legal tasks or cases. May not require local sponsorship; scope is limited.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are an out-of-state attorney seeking to represent a client in a different jurisdiction, follow these steps:

  • Find a local attorney who can sponsor your motion for admission pro hac vice.
  • Prepare the necessary documentation, including your qualifications and any required fees.
  • File the motion with the appropriate court and await approval.

For assistance, consider exploring US Legal Forms' ready-to-use legal form templates, which can help streamline the process. If your situation is complex, it may be wise to consult a legal professional.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Typical Fees Varies by state; may include court fees and local attorney fees.
Jurisdiction Specific to the state where the case is being heard.
Possible Penalties Practicing without proper admission can lead to disbarment.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It allows attorneys from other states to represent clients in specific cases without needing a full license in that state.