Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about HALA, membership, and the upcoming Founding Event. If your question is not addressed here, please contact us.
About HALA
What is the Hungarian-American Lawyers Association?
HALA is a professional association that unites lawyers, legal scholars, judges, and law students with ties to both Hungary and the United States. Our mission is to strengthen transatlantic legal cooperation through diaspora mapping, student mobility, and scholarly exchange.
Who founded HALA?
HALA was founded by a group of academics, attorneys, and legal professionals committed to building a lasting network between the Hungarian and American legal communities. Leadership details will be announced at the Founding Event on April 28, 2026.
Is HALA affiliated with any government or political party?
No. HALA is an independent, non-partisan professional association. While we maintain respectful relationships with institutions in both countries, we operate independently of any government or political organisation.
Membership
Who can join HALA?
HALA welcomes lawyers, legal scholars, judges, law students, and professionals with a connection to Hungary or the United States. Non-lawyers may join as Supporting Members if they demonstrate professional standing. All applicants require a member sponsor and Board approval.
What are the membership tiers?
HALA offers four tiers: Fellows (lawyers who are Hungary-based, Hungarian in the U.S., or have Hungarian roots), Members (lawyers without Hungarian background who support HALA’s mission), Supporting Members (non-lawyer professionals who share HALA’s transatlantic mission), and Student Members (law students in either country seeking mentorship and exchange opportunities).
How do I apply for membership?
Visit the Apply page on our website and complete the membership application form. You will be asked to select a tier, provide your professional background, and indicate your areas of interest. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Is there a membership fee?
Founding membership is offered free of charge to those who join before the Founding Event. Membership fee details for subsequent periods will be announced after the association is formally established.
What are the benefits of membership?
Members gain access to a transatlantic professional network, invitations to HALA events and conferences, mentorship opportunities, collaborative research initiatives, and recognition as founding members of the association.
Founding Event
When and where is the Founding Event?
The HALA Founding Event will take place on April 28, 2026, at the Embassy of Hungary in Washington, D.C. The event commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States.
How do I attend the Founding Event?
The Founding Event is by invitation only. To be considered, apply for membership through our website. Approved members will receive an invitation with event details.
Is the event open to the public?
No. The Founding Event is a private, invitation-only ceremony for founding members and distinguished guests. Public programming and open events will be announced following the formal establishment of the association.
General
How do I contact HALA?
You can reach us by email at contact@hala.law. For specific inquiries — membership, media, or event-related — please visit our Contact page for directed email addresses.
Where is HALA based?
HALA is a transatlantic organisation with operational ties to both Hungary and the United States. Formal headquarters details will be announced at the Founding Event.
Ready to join?
Founding membership is now open. Apply today to become a founding member of HALA.
Apply for Membership