You are here

Attorneys FAQ

Where can I obtain a Certificate of Good Standing from the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals?

A Certificate of Good Standing from the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals must be requested through Cm/ECF.  Instructions may be found here.
When do I need to be admitted to the Sixth Circuit bar?

Any attorney who causes a case to be docketed in the Court or who enters an appearance in this Court, and who is not already admitted to the bar of the Court, shall apply for admission unless you are: 

  1. A government attorney representing the United States or its officer or agency 6 Cir. R. 46(a)(1)(B). 
  2. An attorney employed by the Federal Public Defenders Office 6 Cir. R. 46(a)(1)(C).  
  3. An attorney for Amicus Curiae 6 Cir. R. 46(a)(1)(D). 
What is the current fee for admission?

The current fee schedule is available on the Court's website. All attorney admissions fees must be made via PACER effective September 1, 2024.
May I submit a photocopy or picture of a framed bar certificate as my certificate of good standing for the application?

No. An original certificate of good standing dated within one year of the application date evidencing admission to the Supreme Court of the United States, any United States Court of Appeals, any United States District Court, the District Court of the Virgin Islands, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, or the highest court of a state is required.  For electronic applications submitted via PACER, a PDF version of the original certificate of good standing is permitted.
I would like to become admitted to the Sixth Circuit. How do I apply for admission?

You must apply for admission by submitting an electronic application through PACER.  The instructions for submitting your application electronically can be found here.
I have completed my application but still cannot file in CM/ECF, what should I do?

File an attorney appearance form in the case.  An attorney appearance must be accepted by the clerk’s office before additional options will appear for e-filing.
How do I update my contact information?

If you are a registered Sixth Circuit ECF filer, any updates to name, address, e-mail, phone numbers, etc. should be done through PACER using the My Account tab.
How do I check my current status with the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals?

An attorney may use the Attorney Admission Status Checker to check his or her current status.
Does the Sixth Circuit require bar renewal?

No, once you are admitted to the Sixth Circuit bar, you are admitted for life unless you are suspended or disbarred for disciplinary reasons.
Does the Court permit admission Pro Hac Vice?

No, the court does not permit admission in this way.
Does my application need to be notarized?

Yes.
Do I need a Certificate of Good Standing and a Movant’s signature?

No, you only need a Certificate of Good Standing from another court (state or federal) wherein you are admitted to practice OR a motion for admission signed by an attorney previously admitted to the Bar of the Sixth Circuit in good standing.
Can the signatures on my application for admission be electronic signatures?

Your signature and the signature of your sponsor can both be electronic signatures. However, the signature of your notary needs to be a wet signature.