Pro Hac Vice in Federal Court: What Lawyers Must Know

By Caroline M. Adler

Pro hac vice admission allows out-of-state attorneys to appear in a federal district court for a specific case. Each district has unique local rules governing sponsorship, fees, and required disclosures.

Requirements for Admission

Most federal courts require the following for pro hac vice admission:

1. Association with local counsel who is admitted in the district
2. Certificate of good standing from the attorney's home jurisdiction
3. Disciplinary disclosure of any past or pending disciplinary actions
4. Filing fee payment (varies by district, typically $100-$500)

Timing and Strategy

Filing early avoids delays in case scheduling. Attorneys should review:

• Standing orders specific to the assigned judge
• Electronic filing requirements (CM/ECF registration)
• Local counsel obligations — some districts require local counsel to attend all hearings

Common Pitfalls

Failure to comply with local rules can result in:

• Denial of admission
• Sanctions
• Delays in case proceedings
• Potential malpractice exposure

Best Practices

• Review the specific district's local rules before filing
• Confirm fee amounts and payment methods
• Ensure your certificate of good standing is current
• Establish a working relationship with local counsel early
• Register for electronic filing in advance

Pro hac vice admission is a privilege, not a right. Courts retain broad discretion to deny admission.