Pro Hac Vice

Term from Legal Practice industry explained for recruiters

Pro Hac Vice is a legal arrangement that allows a lawyer to practice law temporarily in a state where they aren't permanently licensed. Think of it like getting a temporary visitor's pass to practice law in another state. Lawyers need to request permission from the court and usually work with a local attorney who is licensed in that state. This is common when a client wants to keep working with their trusted lawyer even when the case is in a different state, or when a lawyer has special expertise needed for a specific case.

Examples in Resumes

Obtained Pro Hac Vice admission in 12 different state courts for complex litigation cases

Served as Pro Hac Vice counsel in a multi-state class action lawsuit

Successfully managed Pro Hac Vice applications and local counsel relationships across 8 jurisdictions

Typical job title: "Litigation Attorneys"

Also try searching for:

Trial Attorney Litigation Lawyer Outside Counsel Civil Litigation Attorney Corporate Counsel Legal Counsel

Where to Find Litigation Attorneys

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you manage complex Pro Hac Vice admissions across multiple jurisdictions?

Expected Answer: A senior attorney should discuss their experience coordinating with local counsel, managing different state requirements, ensuring timely submissions, and handling any potential complications or objections to admission.

Q: What challenges have you faced with Pro Hac Vice admissions and how did you overcome them?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate problem-solving abilities with specific examples, such as dealing with urgent deadlines, coordinating across time zones, or managing relationships with local counsel.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Explain your process for preparing Pro Hac Vice applications.

Expected Answer: Should be able to outline the basic steps of preparing and submitting applications, working with local counsel, and ensuring compliance with state-specific requirements.

Q: How do you maintain good relationships with local counsel in Pro Hac Vice cases?

Expected Answer: Should discuss communication strategies, respect for local practice customs, and methods for effective collaboration.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is Pro Hac Vice admission and when is it needed?

Expected Answer: Should explain that it's temporary permission to practice in another state and typically required when representing a client in a jurisdiction where they're not licensed.

Q: What are the basic requirements for Pro Hac Vice admission?

Expected Answer: Should mention working with local counsel, being in good standing in their home state, and filing appropriate paperwork with the court.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-3 years)

  • Basic understanding of Pro Hac Vice procedures
  • Ability to prepare admission applications
  • Knowledge of court filing procedures
  • Understanding of ethical requirements

Mid (3-7 years)

  • Managing multiple Pro Hac Vice admissions
  • Working effectively with local counsel
  • Handling application complications
  • Understanding various state requirements

Senior (7+ years)

  • Strategic planning for multi-jurisdiction cases
  • Managing complex litigation across states
  • Training junior attorneys on procedures
  • Developing relationships with local counsel networks

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No experience working with local counsel
  • Unfamiliarity with court filing procedures
  • Poor understanding of different state requirements
  • History of denied Pro Hac Vice applications
  • Lack of experience in litigation practice

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