If you have a lawsuit you would like to bring in federal court, it is imperative that you consider where to file your action. There are 94 federal district courts in the United States, and each one has its own procedural rules and preferences. Importantly, many districts have special rules for allowing “foreign” attorneys who are not barred in that particular district from appearing and litigating there. This can cause significant issues if the facts of your case necessitate filing in a district where you are not barred. Thankfully, most courts have a procedure for attorneys to appear temporarily called Pro Hac Vice. In order to take advantage of appearing Pro Hac, attorneys typically have to be sponsored by local counsel who is barred in that district. This local counsel is often times responsible for not only sponsoring the foreign attorney, but also making sure that all local rules and practices are complied with, appearing at hearings and conferences, and reviewing and collaborating on written submissions to the court. An experienced local attorney can help guide you through this often complex process and provide assistance to achieve your desired outcome. The attorneys at Onal Gallant and Partners are barred in the District of New Jersey and have appeared extensively before the court, both from the government side and the private sector side. If you are interested in bringing a lawsuit in the District of New Jersey but are not barred to practice there, our attorneys can consult with you and serve as local counsel to help you achieve your goals.
