Cover Motion
A concise motion formally requesting admission pro hac vice that cites the controlling local rule and states the limited scope of the requested appearance.
Proper completion preserves counsel’s ability to represent a client in a jurisdiction where they are not admitted, protects against accusations of unauthorized practice, and helps courts evaluate counsel’s fitness and contact with local counsel.
Typical users range from small‑firm litigators to corporate and government attorneys who need temporary local admission.
An attorney licensed in one state seeking temporary admission in another for a specific case. The narrative should explain the attorney’s role, provide exact bar admission details and bar number, and include a certificate of good standing from the admitting jurisdiction.
A locally admitted attorney who sponsors or associates with the out‑of‑state lawyer, accepts service, and assists with local rules and court procedures. Courts frequently require a local counsel declaration and contact information on the application.
A concise motion formally requesting admission pro hac vice that cites the controlling local rule and states the limited scope of the requested appearance.
Signed statement by the applicant confirming bar admissions, disciplinary history, and compliance with local rules, often sworn or notarized per court requirements.
Official verification from the attorney’s home jurisdiction demonstrating active status and no disbarment, usually dated within a specified period.
A written acceptance or sponsorship from a member of the local bar, including contact details and agreement to accept service of process.
Evidence that opposing parties and the court clerk received the motion and attachments consistent with local service rules.
Payment confirmation for the court’s filing fee, which varies by tribunal and may require a separate motion for waiver in limited circumstances.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Document Format | PDF/A recommended for court submission when permitted; include bookmarks for exhibits. |
| Signer Authentication | Use email plus SMS code or identity verification where court rules allow electronic signatures. |
| Signature Type | Capture intent with electronic signature and maintain an audit trail; use PKI/digital signature where required. |
| Retention | Store copies of signed documents and the audit trail in a secure repository for the required retention period. |
Courts vary on acceptable electronic signature types; ensure the platform produces a retrievable audit trail and supports required file formats.
Start at least 14 days before a scheduled hearing when possible.
Allow several business days for issuing authorities to provide good‑standing certificates.
Serve opposing parties within the period specified by local rules, commonly the same day or shortly after filing.
Opposing parties may file objections per the court’s briefing schedule.
Court may rule at hearing or issue written order; timing varies.
Assemble motion, affidavit, certificate, and local counsel consent.
Submit filing to clerk and include required fee.
Provide opposing counsel and the court with proof of service.
Court hears motion or issues written ruling on admission.
A boutique environmental litigator needs courtroom experience in a neighboring state
In‑house counsel for a national corporation requires temporary admission for a multi‑district dispute
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day trial | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Envelope Cap | No cap | 100 envelopes/user/yr | Varies | Varies | Varies |