Pro Hac Vice
Key Takeaway
A temporary admission to practice in a jurisdiction where the attorney is not licensed, granted by the court for a specific case. Most courts require proof of malpractice insurance as a condition of pro hac vice admission.
Definition
A temporary admission to practice in a jurisdiction where the attorney is not licensed, granted by the court for a specific case. Most courts require proof of malpractice insurance as a condition of pro hac vice admission. Some malpractice policies automatically cover pro hac vice appearances, while others require notice to the carrier.
Why This Matters for Law Firms
Regulatory requirements vary by state and are evolving rapidly. Law firms must stay current with these terms to maintain compliance with bar association rules, state insurance regulations, and client disclosure obligations. Non-compliance can result in disciplinary action, fines, or uninsured exposure.
Example Usage in Context
An attorney completing their annual bar registration might see this referenced: "The state bar asks about pro hac vice status. Make sure our firm's records are current and our response is accurate."
Related terms
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