Representation of the Parties

(a) Representation. A defendant may represent himself or herself, or may employ an attorney representative who is authorized to act as defense counsel. Defendants who are not represented by an attorney may obtain information about representing themselves in ALR proceedings on SOAH's public website at www.soah.texas.gov. SOAH cannot appoint an attorney or provide legal advice for a self-represented litigant.

(b) Appearance of Counsel. Defense counsel who has not otherwise entered an appearance as a matter of record in the proceeding at SOAH shall electronically file a notice of representation that contains the attorney's mailing address, email address, and telephone number. At the time of filing, defense counsel shall enter and verify their service contact information within eFile Texas, including the designation of lead counsel.

(c) Designation of Lead Counsel.

(1) Each party represented by counsel shall designate the lead counsel who is primarily responsible for the representation.

(2) When more than one attorney makes an appearance on behalf of a party, the attorney whose signature first appears on the initial pleading for a party shall be designated as lead counsel for that party unless another attorney is specifically designated in writing and/or within eFile Texas.

(3) If necessary to promote efficiency due to the large number of ALR cases, DPS may designate the lead attorney for the DPS region to which the case is assigned as lead counsel within eFile Texas, even if another DPS attorney appears on behalf of the Department at the hearing.

(4) All delivery of service of process and case-related communications shall be sent to the lead counsel as designated within eFile Texas.