Outline
For attorneys seeking to practice in Louisiana on a temporary basis, the Pro Hac Vice form serves as a crucial tool in the legal process. This application allows out-of-state lawyers to represent clients in Louisiana courts without needing to obtain a full license to practice in the state. The form requires detailed information, starting with the applicant's full name and the law firm where they currently practice. Furthermore, it necessitates the applicant's residence address and contact details, along with specifics about the case for which admission is sought. Key elements include the name of the court or agency involved, the docket number, and the contact information of the clients to be represented. The application also delves into the applicant's legal history, asking about prior admissions, any disciplinary actions, and whether they have faced contempt or criminal charges. A sponsor from the Louisiana bar is also essential, as they will support the application and confirm the applicant's qualifications. Additionally, applicants must submit a certificate of good standing from each state where they hold a license, ensuring they meet the ethical standards required to practice law. Understanding the intricacies of this form is vital for any attorney looking to navigate the Louisiana legal landscape effectively.
Sample - Louisiana Pro Hac Form
APPLICATION FOR PRO HAC VICE ADMISSION IN LOUISIANA1
1.Full name of Applicant:
2.Full name, address and telephone number of law firm in which the applicant practices:
3.Applicant’s residence address and telephone number:
4.Name of case in which admission is sought:
5.Court or agency and docket number of case:
6.Name, address and phone number of each client sought be to represented:
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
1If the spaces are not sufficient to allow for complete responses, please append any additional responses to this Application.
7.Please list every court before which you have been admitted to practice (excluding pro hac vice admissions), the respective period(s) of admission and your bar roll or other identifying number before the courts:
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
8.Please check the appropriate box indicating whether you:
(a)have been denied admission pro hac vice in this state
9 |
yes |
9 |
no |
(b)had admission pro hac vice revoked in this state
9 |
yes |
9 |
no |
(c)have otherwise formally been disciplined or sanctioned by any court in this state
9 |
yes |
9 |
no |
If you answered affirmatively to these questions, please specify:
The nature of the allegations:
The name of the authority bringing such proceedings:
The caption of the proceedings:
The date filed:
What findings were made:
What action was taken in connection with those proceedings:
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9.Have you ever been publicly disciplined by any lawyer disciplinary committee, state or federal court, or lawyer disciplinary agency in any other jurisdiction?
9 |
yes |
9 |
no |
If you answered affirmatively, as to each such discipline, please provide the following:
A summary of the allegations against you:
The name of the state or federal authority bringing such proceedings:
The date the discipline was imposed:
The style of the proceedings:
The findings made and discipline imposed in connection with the proceedings:
(A copy of any public Order of lawyer discipline imposed against the applicant shall be appended to this Application)
10.Please state whether you have been held formally in contempt or otherwise sanctioned by any court in a written order in the last five (5) years.
9 |
yes |
9 |
no |
If you answered affirmatively, as to each occurrence, please provide the following:
The nature of the allegations:
The name of the court before which such proceedings were conducted:
The date of the contempt order or sanction:
The caption of the proceedings:
The substance of the court’s rulings (a copy of the written order or transcript of the oral rulings shall be attached to this Application):
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11.Please state whether you have been convicted of any crimes (other than minor,
9 |
yes |
9 |
no |
If you answered affirmatively, as to each occasion, please provide the following:
The substance of the criminal charge(s)
The name of the court before which the proceeding was conducted:
The approximate date the proceeding was concluded:
The outcome of the proceeding:
(A copy of any such Judgment or Order of Conviction shall be appended to this Application.)
12.Are there any criminal charges (other than minor,
9 |
yes |
9 |
no |
If you answered affirmatively, as to each such pending criminal charge or lawyer disciplinary complaint or proceeding, please provide the following:
The name and address of the court or agency before which the criminal proceeding or lawyer disciplinary complaint or proceeding is pending:
The substance and nature of any criminal charge or lawyer disciplinary complaint or proceeding pending against you:
(A copy of any pending lawyer discipline complaint(s) or proceeding(s), or criminal charge(s), shall be appended to this Application.)
13.Please state the name and address of each court or agency and a full identification of each
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proceeding in which the applicant has moved a Louisiana Court or agency, and/or filed an application to appear pro hac vice, or appeared pro hac vice, in this state within the preceding two years; the date of each application; and the outcome of the application.
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
14.Please list the name, address, telephone number and bar number of an active member in good standing of the bar of this state who will sponsor your pro hac vice request. The bar member preferably will be the attorney of record for the client(s) you seek to represent.
________________________________ |
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Name |
Bar number |
________________________________ |
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Address |
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________________________________ |
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Telephone number |
15.Please list your prior or continuing representation in other matters of one or more of the clients you propose to represent and any relationship between such other matter(s) and the proceeding for which you seek admission.
16.Please list any special experience, expertise, or other factor deemed to make it particularly desirable that you be permitted to represent the client(s) you propose to represent.
17.Please attach to this application a current (issued within 90 days) certificate of good standing from every state you are presently licensed to practice in.
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VERIFICATION
Our signatures serve as verification that (1) the information contained in this application is true and correct, to the best of our information and belief; (2) the application fee required by Louisiana’s pro hac vice admission rule been remitted to the Louisiana Attorney Disciplinary Board (unless an exemption is applicable); (3) the
_________________________________
|
Full Name of Applicant |
_________________________________ |
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_________________________________ |
|
Business Address and Phone Number |
Signature of Applicant |
of Applicant |
|
_________________________________ |
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Full Name of Louisiana |
_________________________________ |
Associated Attorney |
_________________________________ |
|
Business Address, Phone Number, |
Signature of Louisiana |
and Bar Roll Number of |
Associated Attorney |
Louisiana Associated Attorney |
|
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Form Information
| Fact Name | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | The Louisiana Pro Hac form allows out-of-state attorneys to represent clients in specific cases within Louisiana courts. |
| Governing Law | This form is governed by Louisiana Supreme Court Rule XX, which outlines the procedures for pro hac vice admissions. |
| Application Requirements | Applicants must provide their full name, law firm details, and the case they wish to be involved in. |
| Client Information | Details about the clients being represented must be included, including their names and contact information. |
| Prior Admissions | Applicants must list all courts where they have been admitted to practice, excluding pro hac vice admissions. |
| Disciplinary History | The form requires disclosure of any past denials or revocations of pro hac vice admissions, as well as any disciplinary actions. |
| Criminal Convictions | Applicants must disclose any criminal convictions beyond minor traffic violations, along with relevant details. |
| Good Standing Certificate | A current certificate of good standing from each state where the applicant is licensed must be attached to the application. |
| Sponsorship Requirement | An active Louisiana bar member in good standing must sponsor the application, providing their contact details and bar number. |
Detailed Guide for Filling Out Louisiana Pro Hac
Completing the Louisiana Pro Hac form is an important step for attorneys seeking temporary admission to practice in Louisiana courts. To ensure a smooth process, follow these clear steps to fill out the application accurately.
- Begin by entering your full name in the designated space.
- Provide the full name, address, and telephone number of the law firm where you practice.
- Fill in your residence address and telephone number.
- State the name of the case for which you are seeking admission.
- Include the court or agency name and the docket number of the case.
- List the name, address, and phone number of each client you wish to represent.
- Detail every court where you have been admitted to practice, including the period(s) of admission and your bar roll or identifying number.
- Indicate whether you have ever been denied admission pro hac vice, had it revoked, or faced formal discipline in Louisiana. Check the appropriate boxes.
- If applicable, provide details regarding any affirmative answers related to disciplinary actions.
- Answer whether you have been publicly disciplined in any other jurisdiction. If yes, include relevant details.
- State whether you have been held in contempt or sanctioned by any court in the last five years. Provide necessary details if applicable.
- Indicate if you have been convicted of any crimes other than minor traffic violations. Provide details if applicable.
- Answer whether there are any pending criminal charges or disciplinary complaints against you. Provide details if applicable.
- List the name and address of each court or agency where you have filed a pro hac vice application or appeared pro hac vice in the last two years, including the outcomes.
- Provide the name, address, telephone number, and bar number of an active member in good standing of the Louisiana bar who will sponsor your request.
- Detail any prior or ongoing representation of the clients you wish to represent and any relevant relationships.
- List any special experience or expertise that supports your request to represent the clients.
- Attach a current certificate of good standing issued within the last 90 days from every state where you are licensed to practice.
After completing the form, review all entries for accuracy. Ensure that any required documents, like certificates of good standing, are included. Once everything is in order, submit the application as instructed. Following these steps carefully will help facilitate your request for pro hac vice admission.
Obtain Answers on Louisiana Pro Hac
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What is the Louisiana Pro Hac form?
The Louisiana Pro Hac form is an application used by attorneys seeking temporary admission to practice law in Louisiana for a specific case. This form allows out-of-state lawyers to represent clients in Louisiana courts without needing to obtain full licensure in the state.
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Who needs to fill out the Pro Hac form?
Any attorney who is not licensed to practice law in Louisiana but wishes to represent a client in a Louisiana court must complete this form. This applies to attorneys from other states or jurisdictions who have relevant expertise or experience related to the case.
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What information is required on the Pro Hac form?
The form requires various details, including:
- Your full name and contact information.
- The name and address of your law firm.
- The case name and court details where you seek admission.
- Your admission history and any disciplinary actions.
- Details about your clients and any relevant prior representation.
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How long does it take to process the Pro Hac application?
Processing times can vary based on the court's workload and specific circumstances of the application. Generally, it is advisable to submit the application well in advance of any scheduled court dates to allow sufficient time for review and approval.
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What happens if my Pro Hac application is denied?
If your application is denied, you will receive a notification outlining the reasons for the denial. You may have the option to address the issues raised and reapply, or you may need to seek alternative representation options for your client in Louisiana.
Common mistakes
Filling out the Louisiana Pro Hac form can be a straightforward process, but many applicants make common mistakes that can delay their admission. Understanding these pitfalls can help ensure a smoother application experience.
One frequent error is failing to provide complete information. Each section of the form requires specific details, such as the full name of the applicant and the law firm. Omitting any of this information can lead to unnecessary delays. Always double-check that every field is filled out accurately and completely.
Another common mistake is neglecting to append additional responses when the provided space is insufficient. If there isn’t enough room to provide all necessary information, applicants must attach a separate sheet. Failing to do so may cause the application to be rejected or returned for more information.
Some applicants mistakenly leave out the required disclosures regarding past disciplinary actions. The form asks whether you have been denied admission, sanctioned, or publicly disciplined. If the answer is “yes” to any of these questions, it’s crucial to provide detailed explanations. Transparency is key, and failing to disclose this information can lead to serious consequences.
In addition, many people overlook the importance of including a current certificate of good standing. This document must be issued within 90 days of the application. Not providing this certificate can result in immediate disqualification from the process.
Another mistake involves the sponsor section. Applicants often forget to list an active member of the Louisiana bar who can sponsor their request. This sponsor should ideally be the attorney of record for the client. Without a sponsor, the application cannot proceed.
Some applicants may also misinterpret the question about prior representations. It’s essential to clearly outline any previous or ongoing representation of the clients you wish to represent in the current case. This helps establish a connection and demonstrates your qualifications.
Another frequent oversight is not detailing any special expertise or experience that could benefit the case. Including this information can strengthen your application and show why you are particularly suited for the representation.
Additionally, failing to check the boxes accurately can create confusion. Each question requires a simple “yes” or “no” response. Misreading or mischecking these boxes can lead to misunderstandings and complications in processing the application.
Lastly, applicants sometimes forget to review their application before submission. A final check can catch any errors or omissions that may have been overlooked. Taking the time to proofread can make a significant difference in the success of your application.
Documents used along the form
When applying for pro hac vice admission in Louisiana, several additional forms and documents may be required to support your application. These documents help provide a complete picture of your qualifications and any relevant history. Below is a list of commonly used forms that accompany the Louisiana Pro Hac form.
- Certificate of Good Standing: This document verifies that the applicant is in good standing with the bar in their home state. It must be issued within 90 days of the application.
- Affidavit of Sponsorship: This is a sworn statement from a Louisiana attorney who agrees to sponsor the applicant's pro hac vice admission. It includes the sponsor's contact information and bar number.
- Client Consent Form: This form indicates that the client has consented to the applicant representing them in the specific case. It must be signed by the client.
- Notice of Motion: A formal notification to the court that a motion for pro hac vice admission will be filed. This document outlines the request and the reasons for it.
- Motion for Pro Hac Vice Admission: This is a formal request submitted to the court, detailing the reasons for granting the applicant permission to appear in the case.
- Proof of Service: This document shows that all necessary parties have been notified about the pro hac vice application. It is crucial for maintaining transparency in the process.
- Criminal Background Check: Some jurisdictions may require a report confirming the applicant's criminal history, ensuring no disqualifying offenses exist.
- Prior Disciplinary Actions Disclosure: A statement detailing any past disciplinary actions against the applicant in any jurisdiction, which is essential for full disclosure.
- Case Information Sheet: This document provides a summary of the case, including parties involved, nature of the case, and court details.
- Additional References: Letters or documents from other attorneys or judges attesting to the applicant's qualifications and character may also be included to strengthen the application.
Gathering these documents ensures a smoother application process and helps the court make an informed decision regarding your pro hac vice admission. Being thorough and transparent in your submission can foster trust and facilitate your representation in Louisiana.
Similar forms
- Application for Admission to the Bar: This document is similar to the Louisiana Pro Hac form as it requires the applicant to provide personal information, including their legal history and current status. Both documents assess an applicant's qualifications to practice law in a specific jurisdiction.
- Motion for Admission Pro Hac Vice: This motion is often filed in various jurisdictions when an attorney seeks temporary admission to practice in a case outside their home state. Like the Louisiana Pro Hac form, it requires details about the case and the attorney's qualifications.
- Certificate of Good Standing: This document verifies that an attorney is licensed and in good standing with their home jurisdiction's bar. The Louisiana Pro Hac form also requests a similar certificate to confirm the applicant's eligibility to practice law.
- Bar Reciprocity Application: Attorneys may use this application when seeking admission in another state based on their existing credentials. Similar to the Louisiana Pro Hac form, it evaluates the applicant's legal background and standing in their home jurisdiction.
- Request for Special Admission: This request is made to allow attorneys with specific qualifications to represent clients in specialized cases. Both documents require detailed information about the attorney’s experience and the nature of the case.
- Lawyer Disciplinary Complaint Form: This form is used when an attorney faces disciplinary actions. The Louisiana Pro Hac form similarly asks about any past disciplinary actions, ensuring transparency about the applicant's legal history.
- Application for Temporary Restraining Order: This application may require an attorney to establish their qualifications to represent a client in urgent matters. Like the Louisiana Pro Hac form, it often includes details about the attorney’s prior experience and the case at hand.
- Client Representation Agreement: This document outlines the terms of representation between an attorney and their client. The Louisiana Pro Hac form also emphasizes the attorney-client relationship, requiring information about the clients the applicant intends to represent.
Dos and Don'ts
Filling out the Louisiana Pro Hac Vice Admission form can be a straightforward process if you know what to do and what to avoid. Here are some essential dos and don'ts to keep in mind:
- Do provide accurate and complete information in every section of the form.
- Do double-check your contact details to ensure they are current and correct.
- Do attach any required documents, such as a certificate of good standing, to your application.
- Do list all prior disciplinary actions or sanctions honestly, as transparency is crucial.
- Don't leave any sections blank; if more space is needed, attach additional pages as instructed.
- Don't provide misleading information or omit relevant details, as this could jeopardize your application.
By following these guidelines, you can navigate the application process more effectively and increase your chances of a successful outcome.
Misconceptions
Here are eight common misconceptions about the Louisiana Pro Hac form:
- Pro Hac Vice is a one-time process. Many believe that once admitted pro hac vice, they can represent clients indefinitely. In reality, each pro hac vice admission is case-specific and temporary.
- Only Louisiana attorneys can sponsor an out-of-state lawyer. Some think that only local attorneys can sponsor a pro hac vice application. However, any active member in good standing of the Louisiana bar can serve as a sponsor.
- Criminal history does not affect eligibility. Many assume that a past criminal conviction is irrelevant. In fact, the application requires disclosure of any criminal charges, as they may impact the admission decision.
- Pro Hac Vice admission is guaranteed. Some applicants believe that filing the form ensures admission. Admission is at the discretion of the court, and meeting the requirements does not guarantee approval.
- Only large law firms can apply for Pro Hac Vice. There is a misconception that only attorneys from big firms can be admitted. Any licensed attorney, regardless of their firm's size, can apply for pro hac vice admission.
- Pro Hac Vice is only for trial attorneys. Some think that this admission is limited to trial lawyers. In reality, attorneys in various practice areas can apply, depending on the case's nature.
- The application process is simple and quick. Many underestimate the complexity and time required for the application process. Completing the form accurately and gathering supporting documents can take time.
- Once admitted, an attorney can represent any client in Louisiana. Some believe that being admitted pro hac vice allows them to represent any client in the state. However, the admission is specific to the case listed in the application.
Key takeaways
Here are some key takeaways for filling out and using the Louisiana Pro Hac form:
- Ensure that all personal information is accurate, including your full name, residence address, and contact details.
- Provide complete information about the law firm where you practice, including its address and phone number.
- Clearly state the name of the case and the court or agency where you are seeking admission.
- List all courts where you have been admitted to practice, excluding any pro hac vice admissions.
- Be honest when answering questions about prior denials, revocations, or disciplinary actions. If applicable, provide detailed explanations.
- Attach any required documents, such as a certificate of good standing from your current states of practice, issued within the last 90 days.
- Include the contact information of a Louisiana attorney who will sponsor your application. This attorney should ideally be associated with the client you wish to represent.
- Review the entire application for completeness and accuracy before submission to avoid delays in processing.