Practicing in federal court requires separate bar admission for each court. This comprehensive guide covers admission requirements, fees, and procedures for every federal court in the United States.
To be admitted to any federal court bar, you must first be a member in good standing of a state bar. Most federal courts require active bar membership in the state where the court is located, though some accept membership from any state.
Each court has its own application process. Many require sponsorship by an existing member of that court's bar. Applications typically include a background check, character and fitness review, and an admission fee ranging from $50 to $300+.
After approval, attorneys must take an oath of admission. Some courts hold formal admission ceremonies, while others allow admission by written motion. Once admitted, you may practice before that specific court.
If you need to appear in a federal court where you're not admitted, you may apply for pro hac vice admission for a specific case. This requires sponsorship by a local attorney and payment of a separate fee.
Admission to the Supreme Court Bar requires at least three years of practice before the highest court of a state, sponsorship by two current members of the Supreme Court Bar, and a $200 admission fee. Oral arguments require separate scheduling and approval.
Requirements
3+ years state bar membership, 2 sponsors, good standing
Admission Fee
$200 (waivable for government attorneys)
Process
Written application or in-person ceremony
Each circuit court of appeals has its own bar. Admission is generally required to file briefs and argue cases on appeal.
Washington, D.C.
View admission details
Boston, MA
View admission details
New York, NY
View admission details
Philadelphia, PA
View admission details
Richmond, VA
View admission details
New Orleans, LA
View admission details
Cincinnati, OH
View admission details
Chicago, IL
View admission details
St. Louis, MO
View admission details
San Francisco, CA
View admission details
Denver, CO
View admission details
Atlanta, GA
View admission details
Washington, D.C.
View admission details
Each of the 94 federal district courts maintains its own bar. Click any district to view admission requirements, fees, local rules, and find attorneys admitted to that court.
If you need to appear in a federal court where you are not a member of the bar, you may apply for pro hac vice admission. This allows an out-of-state attorney to appear in a specific case with the sponsorship of a local attorney who is admitted to that court's bar.
Pro hac vice requirements vary by court but typically include: a motion for admission, sponsorship by a local attorney, payment of a fee, and certification of good standing from your home state bar.
View Pro Hac Vice Guide by StateNavigate the complete federal legal landscape with our comprehensive resource hubs.
Browse 13 circuit courts and 94 district courts across the U.S. federal court system.
Explore 18 specialized federal practice areas and find lawyers by specialty.
Find federal courthouse locations, addresses, and nearby attorneys.