Court Rules
Judge

Judge Cindy Panuco

Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies

Rules last changed:
Los Angeles Superior Court

Limits & Logistics

Courtesy Copies

Courtesy copies

  • Not required

Jury Instructions

  • Before Jury Deliberations

Verdict Form

  • 12 copies • Before Jury Deliberations

Adjournments

  • Trial dates are firm and continuances are disfavored; any stipulation to continue must demonstrate good cause showing the continuance is essential, and stipulated continuance orders may be rejected without compelling factual support.
  • Requests for trial continuances must not be made on LASC CIV CTRL-242 or any other similar 'Optional' form.
  • Joint trial continuance requests may be made by electronically filing and lodging a stipulation and proposed order with a detailed declaration of grounds, and such proposed orders are not effective until the Court so orders.
  • +1 more

Request must include

Reason For Request

Communication

Email

Chambers

smcdept224@lacourt.ca.gov
Scheduling
Hours: before 8:30 am on the day of the hearing
No status inquiries
Phone

Chambers

(213) 633-0253
Scheduling
Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. (courtroom closed during the lunch hour)
Phone

Clerk

(213) 830-0800
Phone
(213) 830-0845
Filters:AllMandatoryImportantFormattingExhibitsBinders/TabsTRO/InjunctionEvidence/WitnessesJuryDiscoveryProposed Orders

Document Format Requirements19 rules

Formatting

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Format: The Trial Binder should have labels on the front and side, advising the Court as to the contents. The Trial Binder must have as the first page an Index to the Trial Binder.

Summary: The Trial Binder must be labeled on the front and side and must have an Index as its first page.

Formatting

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

The Joint Witness List shall be on one grid. There should not be separate grids for plaintiff and defendant. The witness names should be alphabetized by last name and there should be no duplicates. Note whether the witness needs an interpreter, a reasonable accommodation, or has another special need. Designate which party is calling each witness. All time estimates must be filled in and sub-totals and a grand total completed.

Summary: The Joint Witness List must be a single combined grid with alphabetized, deduplicated names, interpreter/accommodation notes, calling-party designations, and completed time estimates with sub-totals and grand total.

Formatting

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

In addition, documentary exhibits that consist of multiple pages must be internally paginated in sequential numerical order. This requirement is intended to facilitate clear and efficient reference to specific portions of an exhibit during the examination of witnesses.

Summary: Multi-page documentary exhibits must be internally paginated in sequential numerical order.

Formatting

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Place behind individual tabs the operative Complaint; Answer(s); Cross Complaint(s) and Answer(s); and Stipulation of Facts.

Summary: The operative Complaint, Answers, Cross Complaints and Answers, and Stipulation of Facts must each be placed behind individual tabs in the Trial Binder.

Layout & Binding
Binding Style
Tabbed Three Ring
Ca Lasc Courtroom LAM 224 · May 2026 · p. 14
|SecOperative Pleadings and Stipulations
Formatting

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

The Joint Verdict Form(s) shall not have any party's or counsel's name thereon. If the parties cannot agree on a Joint Verdict Form, or if the verdict form will depend upon circumstances at trial, separate proposed forms are permitted. In that case, each party's proposed form shall be preceded by a page marked, e.g., "Plaintiff's Proposed Verdict Form" or "Defendant's Proposed Verdict Form."

Summary: Joint verdict forms must not bear any party's or counsel's name, and any separate proposed forms must each be preceded by a page identifying the proposing party.

Ca Lasc Courtroom LAM 224 · May 2026 · p. 14
|Sec(Jury Trials Only) Joint Verdict Form(s)
Formatting

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

All non-document exhibits shall be identified with a page inserted after the tab with either a disc, a photograph or a description of the exhibit.

Summary: Non-document exhibits must be identified with a page after the tab containing a disc, photograph, or description of the exhibit.

Formatting

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

EACH Exhibit Binder shall have a conformed copy of the Joint Exhibit List in front, followed by all exhibits numbered and tabbed.

Summary: Each Exhibit Binder must have a conformed Joint Exhibit List in front followed by all exhibits numbered and tabbed.

Formatting

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Each page of each exhibit must be internally paginated, e.g., 1-1; 1 2; 2-1, etc. Exhibits should have only ONE page number showing, and all others (e.g., deposition exhibit numbers or document production Bates numbers) should be covered up or otherwise removed.

Summary: Each exhibit page must be internally paginated (e.g., 1-1, 1-2, 2-1) and show only ONE page number, with all other numbering covered or removed.

Formatting

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

The parties shall refrain from including uncommonly large exhibits as a single exhibit if only a few pages are likely to be used at trial. In that case, only those pages should be included in the Exhibit Binder(s). The Court will generally not permit the admission of partial exhibits without good cause.

Summary: Only pages of large exhibits likely to be used at trial may be included in the Exhibit Binder, and partial exhibits generally will not be admitted without good cause.

Formatting

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?

The Court requests that all electronically filed documents be bookmarked and searchable. (Local Rule 3.4.)

Summary: The Court requests that all electronically filed documents be bookmarked and searchable.

Formatting

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Note?

Where reasonably practicable, the Court strongly encourages parties to Bates stamp (or Bates number) documents produced in discovery.

Summary: The Court strongly encourages parties to Bates stamp documents produced in discovery where reasonably practicable.

Formatting

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Note?

The information may be produced in electronic form as a PDF at the option of the producing party.

Summary: Documents produced in discovery may be provided in electronic form as a PDF at the producing party's option.

Required Format

PDF

Formatting

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Note?

The most efficient system for numbering exhibits is to use Arabic numerals, with each party assigned a distinct block of numbers to be applied sequentially. For example, the plaintiff might be assigned numbers 1 through 200, the first defendant numbers 201 through 400, and the second defendant numbers 401 through 600.

Summary: The Court recommends numbering exhibits with Arabic numerals using distinct sequential number blocks assigned per party.

Formatting

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The Court requests that all electronically filed documents be bookmarked and searchable. (Local Rule 3.4.)

Summary: All electronically filed documents must be bookmarked and searchable per Local Rule 3.4.

Formatting

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Requests for trial continuances shall not be made on LASC CIV CTRL-242 or any other similar “Optional” form.

Summary: Trial continuance requests must not use LASC CIV CTRL-242 or similar optional forms.

Formatting

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Format: The Trial Binder should have labels on the front and side, advising the Court as to the contents. The Trial Binder must have as the first page an Index to the Trial Binder.

Summary: Trial Binder must have front/side labels and an index as the first page.

Formatting

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Each page of each exhibit must be internally paginated, e.g., 1-1; 1 2; 2-1, etc. Exhibits should have only ONE page number showing, and all others (e.g., deposition exhibit numbers or document production Bates numbers) should be covered up or otherwise removed.

Summary: Exhibits must show only one page number per page; others must be covered.

Formatting

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

In addition, documentary exhibits that consist of multiple pages must be internally paginated in sequential numerical order.

Summary: Multi-page documentary exhibits must be internally paginated sequentially.

Formatting

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The parties shall jointly prepare three sets of evidentiary exhibit binders (a set for Judge, Judicial Assistant and Witness). The Exhibit Binders shall have labels on the front and side. EACH Exhibit Binder shall have a conformed copy of the Joint Exhibit List in front, followed by all exhibits numbered and tabbed.

Summary: Exhibit Binders must have front/side labels, conformed joint exhibit list first, exhibits numbered and tabbed.

Document Filing Requirements31 rules

Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

The request must be made by using the local form, Request for Court Reporting Services by a Party with Fee Waiver (LACIV 269), or Judicial Council form FW-020, and should be filed at least ten calendar days before the hearing or trial for which the reporter is requested.

Summary: A fee-waiver party's request for court reporting services must be made using local form LACIV 269 or Judicial Council form FW-020.

Document Type

Request For Court Reporting Services

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

For trials without court reporters, parties will be ordered to jointly prepare a settled statement of the testimony and list of evidence admitted each day of the trial.

Summary: In trials without court reporters, the parties must jointly prepare a settled statement of the testimony and evidence admitted each day of trial.

Document Type

Settled Statement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Unless the Court orders otherwise for good cause shown, evidence must be by declaration or request for judicial notice. (California Rules of Court, rule 3.1304.)

Summary: Evidence on law and motion must be by declaration or request for judicial notice unless the Court orders otherwise for good cause.

Document Type

Evidence

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Oral testimony will not be allowed without court permission. Parties seeking permission to introduce oral testimony must file a statement consistent with California Rules of Court, rule 3.1306. (Local Rule 3.7.)

Summary: Oral testimony is not allowed without court permission, and parties seeking permission must file a statement consistent with CRC rule 3.1306.

Document Type

Oral Testimony Permission Statement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

All civil actions filed after January 1, 2024 are subject to the initial discovery Disclosures requirements of CCP §2016.090. The Court may enforce the requirements of section 2016.090 on its own motion or on motion by a party.

Summary: All civil actions filed after January 1, 2024 must comply with the initial discovery disclosure requirements of CCP §2016.090, which the Court may enforce on its own motion or a party's motion.

Document Type

Initial Discovery Disclosures

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

The notice must include the hearing details (date, time, and location), and a statement of what relief the ex parte applicant is seeking.

Summary: The ex parte notice must state the hearing details (date, time, and location) and the relief sought.

Document Type

Ex Parte Notice

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

The ex parte applicant must file a declaration containing competent testimony detailing the information given in the notice

Summary: Ex parte applicants must file a declaration containing competent testimony detailing the information given in the notice.

Document Type

Ex Parte Application

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Notice of Settlement must be filed electronically by plaintiff using Judicial Council Form CM-200, even if the case settled at a judicial settlement conference.

Summary: The Notice of Settlement must be prepared on Judicial Council Form CM-200.

Document Type

Notice Of Settlement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Ca Lasc Courtroom LAM 224 · May 2026 · p. 10
|SecB. Notice Of Settlement And Requests For Dismissal
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

NOTE: If a party would like to introduce an exhibit on its direct case that was not exchanged as described herein, the party must file a written declaration containing competent evidence in support of any claim that the party was unable to comply with this Court's Trial Preparation Order and with these policies and procedures.

Summary: A party seeking to introduce an unexchanged exhibit on its direct case must file a written declaration containing competent evidence of its inability to comply with the Trial Preparation Order.

Document Type

Declaration

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Ca Lasc Courtroom LAM 224 · May 2026 · p. 11
|Sec15. FINAL STATUS CONFERENCES AND TRIAL PREPARATION
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

All documents in the Trial Binder, except the Jury Instructions (Full Text) and the Verdict Form(s) must be signed, filed and conformed before they are put into the Trial Binder.

Summary: All Trial Binder documents must be signed, filed, and conformed before being placed in the binder, except Jury Instructions (Full Text) and Verdict Form(s).

Document Type

Trial Binder

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Ca Lasc Courtroom LAM 224 · May 2026 · p. 12
|Sec16. TRIAL BINDER AND EXHIBIT BINDER REQUIREMENTS
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Pursuant to California Rule of Court, Rule 3.1110(f), and Los Angeles Superior Court Local Rules 3.52 and 3.53, all exhibits must be exchanged and pre-numbered, except those anticipated in good faith to be used for impeachment or rebuttal.

Summary: All exhibits must be exchanged and pre-numbered, except exhibits anticipated in good faith for impeachment or rebuttal.

Document Type

Exhibits

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

No exhibit may be referenced by counsel or a witness unless it has been pre-marked with an exhibit number.

Document Type

Exhibits

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Self-represented parties and counsel shall prepare a list of joint and disputed jury instructions, and must also prepare a complete set of printed, full-text and edited proposed jury instructions and include them in the Trial Binder.

Summary: Self-represented parties and counsel must prepare a list of joint and disputed jury instructions plus a complete set of printed, full-text edited proposed instructions for the Trial Binder.

Document Type

Proposed Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Ca Lasc Courtroom LAM 224 · May 2026 · p. 14
|Sec(Jury Trials Only) Joint and Disputed Jury Instructions List and Full Text
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

When deposition transcript(s) or videotape(s) are to be used in lieu of live testimony (not just for impeachment), a pleading must be prepared setting out all designated testimony, objections and cross-designated testimony.

Summary: If deposition transcripts or videotapes will be used in lieu of live testimony, a pleading must set out all designated testimony, objections, and cross-designated testimony.

Document Type

Deposition Designation Pleading

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Ca Lasc Courtroom LAM 224 · May 2026 · p. 14
|SecDeposition Transcript Designations
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Self-represented parties and counsel shall prepare and jointly file Joint Verdict Form(s).

Summary: Self-represented parties and counsel must prepare and jointly file Joint Verdict Form(s).

Document Type

Joint Verdict Form

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Ca Lasc Courtroom LAM 224 · May 2026 · p. 14
|Sec(Jury Trials Only) Joint Verdict Form(s)
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

END OF COURT DAY: At the end of each trial day counsel must meet and confer and submit to the Court's judicial assistant an agreed-upon list of all exhibits admitted that day.

Summary: At the end of each trial day, counsel must meet and confer and submit an agreed-upon list of all exhibits admitted that day to the judicial assistant.

Document Type

Daily Admitted Exhibit List

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Ca Lasc Courtroom LAM 224 · May 2026 · p. 15
|Sec17. SELECT TRIAL PROCEDURES
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

The parties shall jointly prepare three sets of evidentiary exhibit binders (a set for Judge, Judicial Assistant and Witness). The Exhibit Binders shall have labels on the front and side.

Summary: Parties must jointly prepare three sets of exhibit binders (Judge, Judicial Assistant, Witness), each labeled on the front and side.

Document Type

Exhibit Binder

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

COURT REPORTERS OR SETTLED STATEMENTS: The Court encourages the parties to bring a court reporter to the courtroom for trial. If no court reporter is used, the parties shall jointly prepare a summary of each day's proceedings, and lodge it in the courtroom before proceedings resume.

Summary: If no court reporter is used at trial, the parties must jointly prepare a summary of each day's proceedings and lodge it in the courtroom before proceedings resume.

Document Type

Summary Of Daily Proceedings

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Ca Lasc Courtroom LAM 224 · May 2026 · p. 15
|Sec17. SELECT TRIAL PROCEDURES
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?

Parties must comply with applicable law and rules like the requirement to file the appropriate form or forms to request a remote appearance. (See, e.g., California Rules of Court, rule 3.672, Code of Civil Procedure § 367.75.)

Summary: Parties must file the appropriate form(s) to request a remote appearance.

Document Type

Remote Appearance Request

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?

For Song-Beverly Warranty Act and related cases, the Court will usually order the parties to produce copies of the following documents unless there are case-specific reasons to deviate from the list:

Summary: In Song-Beverly Warranty Act and related cases, the Court will usually order production of ten categories of documents (purchase/lease contracts, repair orders and invoices, dealer/factory/call-center communications, warranty claims, Warranty Policy and Procedure Manuals, internal defect analyses, customer complaints, repurchase evaluation policies, Technical Service Bulletins/recall notices, and documents supporting damages claims) unless case-specific reasons justify deviation.

Document Type

Song Beverly Discovery Production

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?

Proponents of pattern jury instructions must note if they have been modified.

Summary: Proponents of pattern jury instructions must indicate whether the instructions have been modified.

Document Type

Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Ca Lasc Courtroom LAM 224 · May 2026 · p. 12
|Sec15. FINAL STATUS CONFERENCES AND TRIAL PREPARATION
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?

NOTE: All self-represented parties and counsel should strive to reach stipulations regarding all relevant facts that are not in dispute. These stipulations must be clearly documented and included in the Trial Binder.

Summary: Stipulations regarding undisputed facts must be clearly documented and included in the Trial Binder.

Document Type

Trial Binder

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Ca Lasc Courtroom LAM 224 · May 2026 · p. 12
|Sec15. FINAL STATUS CONFERENCES AND TRIAL PREPARATION
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?

To be helpful to the Court, the Trial Binder should include: Trial Briefs (optional but appreciated); Motions in limine; (Jury Trials Only) Joint Statement of the Case; Joint Witness List; Joint Exhibit List

Summary: The Trial Binder should include trial briefs (optional), motions in limine, and (in jury trials) the Joint Statement of the Case, Joint Witness List, and Joint Exhibit List.

Document Type

Trial Binder

Content & Formatting
Exhibit List
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?

The list of proposed additional questions should be included in the Trial Binder

Summary: The list of proposed additional voir dire questions should be included in the Trial Binder.

Document Type

Proposed Voir Dire Questions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Ca Lasc Courtroom LAM 224 · May 2026 · p. 14
|Sec(Jury Trials Only) Proposed Additional Court Voir Dire
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Note?

Requests for accommodation should be filed early using form MC-410 or any written format.

Summary: Accommodation requests should be filed early using form MC-410 or any written format.

Document Type

Request For Accommodation

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Ca Lasc Courtroom LAM 224 · May 2026 · p. 3
|Sec7. ACCESSIBILITY AND ACCOMMODATION
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Note?

Proposed orders must comply with California Rules of Court, rule 3.1312.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Ca Lasc Courtroom LAM 224 · May 2026 · p. 10
|Sec13. STIPULATIONS/PROPOSED ORDERS/JUDGMENTS
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Note?

Objections to proposed judgments must comply with California Rules of Court, rule 3.1590.

Document Type

Objection To Proposed Judgment

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Ca Lasc Courtroom LAM 224 · May 2026 · p. 10
|Sec13. STIPULATIONS/PROPOSED ORDERS/JUDGMENTS
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Note?

The Court may assume there is no objection to a proposed order and sign the order without delay, if the non-proposing party has not timely objected or the proponent has filed a statement that the non-proposing party failed to timely object per California Rules of Court, rule 3.1312.

Summary: The Court may sign a proposed order without delay if no timely objection is filed or the proponent files a statement that the non-proposing party failed to timely object under CRC 3.1312.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Ca Lasc Courtroom LAM 224 · May 2026 · p. 10
|Sec13. STIPULATIONS/PROPOSED ORDERS/JUDGMENTS
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The ex parte applicant must file a declaration containing competent testimony detailing the information given in the notice as well as the information required by California Rules of Court, rule 3.1204.

Summary: Ex parte applicants must file a declaration with competent testimony detailing notice information and rule 3.1204 requirements.

Document Type

Ex Parte Application

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

All documents in the Trial Binder, except the Jury Instructions (Full Text) and the Verdict Form(s) must be signed, filed and conformed before they are put into the Trial Binder.

Summary: All Trial Binder documents except jury instructions and verdict forms must be signed, filed, and conformed.

Document Type

Trial Binder

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

We could not find this wording in the court's document. Open the source before relying on it.Important?

The total time testimony portion of the trial.

Machine summary and details

Summary: The Joint Witness List total time appears subject to a cap tied to the testimony portion of the trial, but the sentence is truncated across the page break and the numeric limit is missing.

Document Type

Joint Witness List

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.

Filing & Service rules

Electronic Filing Rules

Parties must reserve dates for all law and motion hearings through the Court Reservation System (CRS).

Parties must reserve a date for all law and motion hearings through the Court Reservation System (“CRS”).

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 4 | 9. LAW AND MOTION

Self-represented litigants and parties exempt from e-filing must file ex parte applications in person at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse by 11:00 a.m. on the day of the hearing.

Self-Represented Litigants and those exempt from electronic filing must file the ex parte application in person at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse by 11:00 a.m. on the day of the hearing. (Local Rule 3.4).

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 8 | 11. EX PARTE APPLICATIONS

Ex parte applications generally must be filed electronically by 10:00 am on the court day prior to the ex parte hearing.

Generally, ex parte applications must be filed electronically by 10:00 am on the court day prior to the ex parte hearing. (Local Rules 3.4(a) and 3.5.)

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 8 | 11. EX PARTE APPLICATIONS

Stipulations and proposed orders/judgments must be filed electronically.

Stipulations and proposed orders/judgments are filed electronically.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 10 | 13. STIPULATIONS/PROPOSED ORDERS/JUDGMENTS

Plaintiffs must file the Notice of Settlement electronically, even if the case settled at a judicial settlement conference.

Notice of Settlement must be filed electronically by plaintiff using Judicial Council Form CM-200, even if the case settled at a judicial settlement conference.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 10 | B. Notice Of Settlement And Requests For Dismissal

All proposed jury instructions must be submitted to the Court electronically at or before the FSC.

All proposed Jury Instructions shall be submitted to the Court electronically at or before the FSC.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 14 | (Jury Trials Only) Joint and Disputed Jury Instructions List and Full Text

Self-represented litigants may file documents in person (paper/counter) in Room 102 at Stanley Mosk Courthouse.

Self-represented litigants may file documents in Room 102 at Stanley Mosk Courthouse.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 16 | 18. CLERK'S OFFICE AND SELF-REPRESENTED LITIGANT SUPPORT SERVICES

Self-represented and e-filing exempt parties must file ex parte applications in person by 11:00 am on hearing day.

Self-Represented Litigants and those exempt from electronic filing must file the ex parte application in person at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse by 11:00 a.m. on the day of the hearing. (Local Rule 3.4).

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 7

Stipulations, proposed orders, and judgments must be filed electronically.

Stipulations and proposed orders/judgments are filed electronically.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 10

Plaintiff must file Notice of Settlement electronically using Form CM-200.

Notice of Settlement must be filed electronically by plaintiff using Judicial Council Form CM-200, even if the case settled at a judicial settlement conference.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 10

Self-represented litigants may file documents in person at Room 102, Stanley Mosk Courthouse.

Self-represented litigants may file documents in Room 102 at Stanley Mosk Courthouse.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 18

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

The settled statement of testimony and admitted evidence must be lodged with the Court no later than the next court session.

This settled statement must be lodged with the Court no later than the next court session.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 3

Court reporter requests should be filed at least ten calendar days before the hearing or trial, or as soon as practicable if the party receives less than ten days' notice.

The request must be made by using the local form, Request for Court Reporting Services by a Party with Fee Waiver (LACIV 269), or Judicial Council form FW-020, and should be filed at least ten calendar days before the hearing or trial for which the reporter is requested. If the requesting party receives less than ten days' notice of the hearing or trial, the requesting party must file the request as soon as practicable.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 3

The party securing a court reporter must provide the Judicial Assistant with the required completed form before the proceedings commence.

The party securing the court reporter must provide the Judicial Assistant with the required, completed form prior to the commencement of the proceedings.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 3

A party responding to a Request for Informal Discovery must file, five days before the IDC, either a short brief or the LACIV-094 Form describing why the requested discovery should be denied, including the facts and legal arguments at issue.

Five days before the IDC, a party responding to the Request for Informal Discovery, must file either a short brief, or use the LACIV-094 Form, to briefly describe why the Court should deny the requested discovery including the facts and legal arguments at issue.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 5 | C. Informal Discovery Conferences (“IDCs”)

Requesting an IDC does not toll the deadline to file a motion to compel; parties are expected to stipulate to extend statutory deadlines until after the IDC, and if they cannot agree, the motion must be filed on time.

Requesting an IDC does not toll any applicable deadline to file a motion to compel. If there is a statutory deadline by which a motion must be filed, the Court expects the parties to stipulate to extend the statutory deadline until after the IDC has been completed. If the parties are unable to agree to extend the deadline, a party should file their motion in compliance with all applicable deadlines. The Court may exercise its discretion to conduct an IDC before hearing the pending motion.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 5 | C. Informal Discovery Conferences (“IDCs”)

A proposed protective order must be served and filed within five (5) days after the party serves discovery responses.

If a party believes any of this information should be subject to a protective order, that party shall serve and file a proposed protective order within five (5) days of serving discovery responses

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 6 | 10. DISCOVERY

Ex parte applications are due by 10:00 am on the court day prior to the ex parte hearing.

Generally, ex parte applications must be filed electronically by 10:00 am on the court day prior to the ex parte hearing. (Local Rules 3.4(a) and 3.5.)

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 8 | 11. EX PARTE APPLICATIONS

The Trial Binder must be lodged with Department 224 at least five days before each Final Status Conference.

Counsel or self-represented parties must lodge the Trial Binder with Department 224 at least five days before each FSC.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 11 | 15. FINAL STATUS CONFERENCES AND TRIAL PREPARATION

Lodged trial binders must be picked up within two weeks of filing the Notice of Settlement or they will be discarded.

If trial binders were lodged prior to settlement, they must be picked up within two weeks of filing the Notice of Settlement or they will be discarded.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 10 | C. Disposition Of Lodged Binders, Exhibits, Etc.

The Court holds proposed judgments for 10-15 days (depending on the manner of service) before signing them to consider any timely objections.

The Court is required to hold proposed judgments for 10-15 days and proposed orders for 5-10 days (depending on the manner of service) before signing them, to consider any timely objections.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 10 | 13. STIPULATIONS/PROPOSED ORDERS/JUDGMENTS

Court reporter requests by fee waiver parties must be filed at least 10 calendar days before hearing/trial, or as soon as practicable if less than 10 days' notice.

The request must be made by using the local form, Request for Court Reporting Services by a Party with Fee Waiver (LACIV 269), or Judicial Council form FW-020, and should be filed at least ten calendar days before the hearing or trial for which the reporter is requested. If the requesting party receives less than ten days’ notice of the hearing or trial, the requesting party must file the request as soon as practicable.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 3

Ex parte applications must be filed electronically by 10:00 am on the court day before the hearing.

Generally, ex parte applications must be filed electronically by 10:00 am on the court day prior to the ex parte hearing. (Local Rules 3.4(a) and 3.5.)

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 7

Trial Binder must be lodged with Department 224 at least 5 days before each Final Status Conference.

Counsel or self-represented parties must lodge the Trial Binder with Department 224 at least five days before each FSC.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 11

Service and Proof of Service Rules

A party submitting on the tentative must provide notice to opposing counsel (or the self-represented party).

If the parties wish to submit on the tentative, please email the courtroom at SMCDept224@lacourt.ca.gov with notice to opposing counsel (or self-represented party) before 8:30 am on the day of the hearing.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 4 | 9. LAW AND MOTION

Both parties must serve verification along with the documents they produce in discovery.

Plaintiff and Defendant shall serve verification with the documents they produce.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 7 | 10. DISCOVERY

Ex parte applicants must notify all parties no later than 10:00 a.m. the court day before the ex parte appearance, absent exceptional circumstances.

Absent exceptional circumstances, parties filing an ex parte application must notify all parties to the action no later than 10:00 a.m. the court day before the ex parte appearance. (California Rules of Court, rule 3.1203.)

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 7 | 11. EX PARTE APPLICATIONS

Ex parte applicants must notify all parties by 10:00 am the court day before the hearing.

Absent exceptional circumstances, parties filing an ex parte application must notify all parties to the action no later than 10:00 a.m. the court day before the ex parte appearance. (California Rules of Court, rule 3.1203.)

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 7

Filing Fees and Waivers

Parties with a CRC rule 3.55 fee waiver may request an official court reporter, while parties without a fee waiver may independently arrange a certified shorthand reporter to serve as an official pro tempore reporter.

A party who has not received a fee waiver pursuant to California Rules of Court, rule 3.55 (6), independently may seek a verbatim record by arranging for a certified shorthand reporter to serve as an official pro tempore reporter. A party who has received a fee waiver pursuant to California Rules of Court, rule 3.55 (6) may request an official court reporter pursuant to California Rules of Court, rule 2.956(c)(2).

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 3

Courtesy Copy Requirements

Courtesy copies are not required but will be accepted by the Court.

The Court does not require, but does accept, courtesy copies.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 4 | 9. LAW AND MOTION

The Court may require one party to make 12 copies of the verdict form on white paper (one per juror) and one copy on blue paper for the Presiding Juror before jury deliberations.

Before the Jury retires for its deliberations, the Court may require one party to make 12 copies of the verdict form on white paper (so each juror may keep track of their own votes on each question) and one copy of the verdict form on blue paper for the Presiding Juror to record the final answers of the entire Jury and to sign.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 14 | (Jury Trials Only) Joint Verdict Form(s)

The Court may require one party to make multiple copies of the final jury instructions for the Jury before deliberations.

Before the Jury retires for deliberation, the Court may require one party to make multiple copies of the final jury instructions for the Jury to use in its deliberations.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 14 | (Jury Trials Only) Joint and Disputed Jury Instructions List and Full Text

Courtesy copies are not required but are accepted by the Court.

The Court does not require, but does accept, courtesy copies.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 4

Sealing & Redaction Procedures

A party who believes Song-Beverly discovery material should be subject to a protective order must serve and file a proposed protective order within five days of serving discovery responses.

If a party believes any of this information should be subject to a protective order, that party shall serve and file a proposed protective order within five (5) days of serving discovery responses

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 6 | 10. DISCOVERY

Pre-Motion Conference Requirements

Self-represented parties and all trial counsel must meet and confer no later than 15 calendar days before the initial and any succeeding Case Management Conference to address the CRC 3.724 and 3.727 issues.

Self-represented parties and all trial counsel are required to meet and confer by videoconference, telephone or in person no later than 15 calendar days before the date set for the initial and any succeeding Case Management Conference to consider each of the issues identified in California Rules of Court, rules 3.724 and 3.727.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 3 | 8. CASE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE

Before filing any discovery motion, counsel with authority to compromise the dispute (preferably trial counsel) must meet and confer by telephone, videoconference, or in person; exchanging letters or emails alone is insufficient.

Pursuant to Code of Civil Procedure section 2016.040, the parties and counsel are ordered to meet and confer to make reasonable, good faith efforts to informally resolve discovery disputes. Before filing a discovery motion, counsel with authority to compromise the dispute (preferably trial counsel) must meet and confer by telephone, videoconference, or in person to resolve or narrow the discovery dispute. Merely exchanging letters or emails is insufficient. The Court expects the parties to work together in good faith to resolve discovery issues.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 5 | C. Informal Discovery Conferences (“IDCs”)

Parties must meet and confer before filing any motion in limine, and motions in limine should be noticed to be heard at the final status conference.

Motions in Limine: Los Angeles Superior Court Local Rule, Rule 3.57 requires the parties to meet and confer before filing any motion in limine. The motions should be noticed to be heard at the final status conference, Los Angeles Superior Court Local Rule, Rule 3.25(f)(2).

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 12 | 15. FINAL STATUS CONFERENCES AND TRIAL PREPARATION

Before filing a discovery motion on an unresolved dispute, the parties are requested to schedule an Informal Discovery Conference (heard Mondays and Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m.) by filing a Form LACIV-094 request describing the discovery at issue, the legal authorities, and any applicable statutory deadlines.

If the dispute remains unresolved, and the deadline to file a motion to compel has not lapsed, the Court requests that the parties schedule an Informal Discovery Conference (“IDC”) prior to filing any discovery motion. The Court hears such conferences Mondays and Wednesdays starting 10:00 a.m., unless it is in trial at which point the Court will reschedule the conference. The parties can reserve IDCs on the Court Reservation System and are instructed to file their Request for an IDC using Form LACIV-094. The IDC Request Form should include information about the discovery at issue, and list the legal authorities relied upon by parties to compel or resist discovery. When filing a request, please indicate whether any statutory deadlines apply and the specific date by which a motion must be filed.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 5 | C. Informal Discovery Conferences (“IDCs”)

Parties must meet and confer before the FSC to resolve exhibit objections and attempt stipulations to authenticity, foundation, and/or admission, with the Court expecting most exhibits to be stipulated.

The parties are to meet and confer before the FSC to resolve objections and to attempt to stipulate to authenticity, foundation and/or admission of exhibits. The Court expects that most if not all exhibits will be stipulated to for admission, or at least as to authenticity and foundation. To the extent possible, the Court expects to resolve any final objections at the time of the FSC, to avoid protracted arguments.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 13 | Joint Exhibit List

In jury trials, parties must meet and confer before the FSC regarding proposed additional court voir dire questions tailored to the case type.

The parties must meet and confer prior to the FSC regarding additional proposed questions for the Court to ask that are tailored to the type of case, without attempting to precondition prospective jury members to favor one side or the other.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 14 | (Jury Trials Only) Proposed Additional Court Voir Dire

Parties must meet and confer before the FSC to agree on any stipulations of fact that may be read to the Jury.

The parties are to meet and confer before the FSC to agree on any stipulations of fact that may be read to the Jury.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 14 | Operative Pleadings and Stipulations

Counsel must meet and confer in person, by phone, or videoconference to resolve discovery disputes before filing a discovery motion.

Before filing a discovery motion, counsel with authority to compromise the dispute (preferably trial counsel) must meet and confer by telephone, videoconference, or in person to resolve or narrow the discovery dispute. Merely exchanging letters or emails is insufficient.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 5

Parties are encouraged to schedule an Informal Discovery Conference before filing a discovery motion if dispute is unresolved.

If the dispute remains unresolved, and the deadline to file a motion to compel has not lapsed, the Court requests that the parties schedule an Informal Discovery Conference (“IDC”) prior to filing any discovery motion.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 5

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

Trial dates are firm and continuances are disfavored; any stipulation to continue must demonstrate good cause showing the continuance is essential, and stipulated continuance orders may be rejected without compelling factual support.

To ensure the prompt disposition of civil cases, the dates assigned for a trial are firm." California Rule of Court, rule 3.1332(a). All parties and their counsel must regard the date set for trial as certain. The Court has a strong interest in keeping scheduled dates certain. Changes in dates are disfavored. Therefore, a stipulation to continue the date must be supported by a sufficient basis demonstrating good cause (C.R.C. 3.1332(c)) why the continuance is essential. Without such compelling factual support, stipulated orders continuing dates may be rejected.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 10 | 14. TRIAL CONTINUANCES

Requests for trial continuances must not be made on LASC CIV CTRL-242 or any other similar 'Optional' form.

Requests for trial continuances shall not be made on LASC CIV CTRL-242 or any other similar "Optional" form.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 11

Joint trial continuance requests may be made by electronically filing and lodging a stipulation and proposed order with a detailed declaration of grounds, and such proposed orders are not effective until the Court so orders.

Parties jointly requesting a trial continuance may electronically file and lodge a stipulation and proposed order, including a detailed declaration of the grounds for the requested continuance or extension of time. California Rule of Court, rule 3.1332(c)-(d). Proposed orders regarding continuances do not become effective unless and until this Court so orders.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 11

Trial continuance stipulations must demonstrate good cause per CRC 3.1332(c).

a stipulation to continue the date must be supported by a sufficient basis demonstrating good cause (C.R.C. 3.1332(c)) why the continuance is essential.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 10

Chambers Communication Rules

To submit on a tentative ruling, parties must email SMCDept224@lacourt.ca.gov, with notice to opposing counsel or the self-represented party, before 8:30 am on the day of the hearing.

If the parties wish to submit on the tentative, please email the courtroom at SMCDept224@lacourt.ca.gov with notice to opposing counsel (or self-represented party) before 8:30 am on the day of the hearing.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 4 | 9. LAW AND MOTION

Emails to the Department 224 address receive a response only regarding tentative rulings; emails on any other subject will not be answered.

SMCDept224@lacourt.ca.gov (emails regarding anything other than tentative rulings will not receive a response)

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 1 | Courtroom Information, Policies and Procedures

Parties must use CRS to continue or withdraw motions and must also telephone the courtroom so it is aware of any changes.

Parties must use CRS to continue or withdraw motions; please also telephone the courtroom so we are aware of any changes.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 4 | 9. LAW AND MOTION

Parties must not contact the department to inquire about the status of proposed judgments or orders until the applicable holding period (10-15 days for judgments; 5-10 days for orders) has expired.

Prior to these time periods, please refrain from contacting the department to inquire on the status of your documents.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 10 | 13. STIPULATIONS/PROPOSED ORDERS/JUDGMENTS

Department 224's courtroom telephone number is (213) 633-0253, and the courtroom is open 8:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m., closed during the lunch hour.

Telephone Number: (213) 633-0253 Courtroom Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Courtroom is closed during the lunch hour)

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 1 | Courtroom Information, Policies and Procedures

The Clerk's Office can be reached at (213) 830-0800.

Clerk's Office: (213) 830-0800

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 16 | 18. CLERK'S OFFICE AND SELF-REPRESENTED LITIGANT SUPPORT SERVICES

Self-Help Services for self-represented litigants can be reached at (213) 830-0845.

Self-Help Services: (213) 830-0845

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 16 | 18. CLERK'S OFFICE AND SELF-REPRESENTED LITIGANT SUPPORT SERVICES

To submit on a tentative ruling, email the courtroom before 8:30 am on hearing day with notice to opposing party.

If the parties wish to submit on the tentative, please email the courtroom at SMCDept224@lacourt.ca.gov with notice to opposing counsel (or self-represented party) before 8:30 am on the day of the hearing.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 4

Chambers phone number is (213) 633-0253, available during courtroom hours (8:30 AM-12 PM, 1:30 PM-4:30 PM, closed 12-1:30 PM).

Telephone Number: (213) 633-0253 Courtroom Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Courtroom is closed during the lunch hour)

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 1

Courtroom email only responds to tentative ruling emails; other emails receive no response.

SMCDept224@lacourt.ca.gov (emails regarding anything other than tentative rulings will not receive a response)

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 1

Proposed judgments are held 10-15 days, proposed orders 5-10 days before signing; do not inquire before these periods.

The Court is required to hold proposed judgments for 10-15 days and proposed orders for 5-10 days (depending on the manner of service) before signing them, to consider any timely objections. Prior to these time periods, please refrain from contacting the department to inquire on the status of your documents.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 10

Junior Lawyer Participation Incentives

The Court encourages (but does not require) senior counsel to let a junior lawyer who substantially helped draft motion papers or prepare a trial examination speak, practice before the Court, or examine a witness.

The Court encourages and welcomes active participation by less-experienced attorneys. When more than one attorney represents a client, and where a more junior lawyer has played a substantial part in drafting motion papers or preparing a trial examination, the Court encourages (but does not require) the more senior lawyer to allow the more junior lawyer to speak and practice before the Court and/or to examine a witness.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 16 | 20. LESS-EXPERIENCED ATTORNEYS

Documents of departments with no single judge listed

About Judge Cindy Panuco

Judge Cindy Panuco is a judge on the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles, the state trial court serving Los Angeles County.

Judge Panuco's procedures are published through the court's general rules.

Common questions about Judge Cindy Panuco's rules

Are courtesy copies required for Judge Cindy Panuco?

The rule limits courtesy-copy delivery rather than stating a blanket requirement before Judge Cindy Panuco. Courtesy copies are not required but will be accepted by the Court.

View ruleSource: page 4, section 9. LAW AND MOTION

Does Judge Cindy Panuco require a pre-motion conference or letter before filing a motion?

Judge Cindy Panuco's rules set a pre-motion procedure for covered motions. Self-represented parties and all trial counsel must meet and confer no later than 15 calendar days before the initial and any succeeding Case Management Conference to address the CRC 3.724 and 3.727 issues.

View ruleSource: page 3, section 8. CASE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE

What formatting rules apply to filings before Judge Cindy Panuco?

Judge Cindy Panuco's formatting rule includes labels on the front and side advising the court as to the contents and first page must be an index to the trial binder. The Trial Binder must be labeled on the front and side and must have an Index as its first page.

View ruleSource: page 13, section Format - Trial Binder

What must be included with request for court reporting services filings before Judge Cindy Panuco?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. A fee-waiver party's request for court reporting services must be made using local form LACIV 269 or Judicial Council form FW-020.

View ruleSource: page 3

What must be included with settled statement filings before Judge Cindy Panuco?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. In trials without court reporters, the parties must jointly prepare a settled statement of the testimony and evidence admitted each day of trial.

View ruleSource: page 3

How may parties contact Judge Cindy Panuco's chambers?

The rule addresses email communications with Judge Cindy Panuco's chambers. The rule lists email SMCDept224@lacourt.ca.gov. To submit on a tentative ruling, parties must email SMCDept224@lacourt.ca.gov, with notice to opposing counsel or the self-represented party, before 8:30 am on the day of the hearing.

View ruleSource: page 4, section 9. LAW AND MOTION

How does Judge Cindy Panuco handle sealed or redacted filings?

A motion to seal is required for covered sealed filings before Judge Cindy Panuco. A party who believes Song-Beverly discovery material should be subject to a protective order must serve and file a proposed protective order within five days of serving discovery responses.

View ruleSource: page 6, section 10. DISCOVERY

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge Cindy Panuco?

Advance notice is not fully stated in the structured details. The request must include reason for request. Trial dates are firm and continuances are disfavored; any stipulation to continue must demonstrate good cause showing the continuance is essential, and stipulated continuance orders may be rejected without compelling factual support.

View ruleSource: page 10, section 14. TRIAL CONTINUANCES

Is electronic filing required before Judge Cindy Panuco?

Yes. Electronic filing is required for the covered filings. Parties must reserve dates for all law and motion hearings through the Court Reservation System (CRS).

View ruleSource: page 4, section 9. LAW AND MOTION

Are filing fees or waivers addressed before Judge Cindy Panuco?

The rule identifies fee waiver availability. Parties with a CRC rule 3.55 fee waiver may request an official court reporter, while parties without a fee waiver may independently arrange a certified shorthand reporter to serve as an official pro tempore reporter.

View ruleSource: page 3

What filing deadlines does Judge Cindy Panuco set?

Court reporter requests should be filed at least ten calendar days before the hearing or trial, or as soon as practicable if the party receives less than ten days' notice.

View ruleSource: page 3

What rule applies to service by email for the opposing party before Judge Cindy Panuco?

The rule addresses service method, recipient, or timing requirements. Details: method: service by email, recipient: the opposing party. A party submitting on the tentative must provide notice to opposing counsel (or the self-represented party).

View ruleSource: page 4, section 9. LAW AND MOTION

Does Judge Cindy Panuco encourage junior lawyer participation?

Yes. Judge Cindy Panuco's rules include a junior lawyer participation incentive. The Court encourages (but does not require) senior counsel to let a junior lawyer who substantially helped draft motion papers or prepare a trial examination speak, practice before the Court, or examine a witness.

View ruleSource: page 16, section 20. LESS-EXPERIENCED ATTORNEYS
Complete rules summary for Judge Cindy Panuco

Emails to the Department 224 address receive a response only regarding tentative rulings; emails on any other subject will not be answered.

Department 224's courtroom telephone number is (213) 633-0253, and the courtroom is open 8:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m., closed during the lunch hour.

Parties must file the appropriate form(s) to request a remote appearance.

Parties with a CRC rule 3.55 fee waiver may request an official court reporter, while parties without a fee waiver may independently arrange a certified shorthand reporter to serve as an official pro tempore reporter.

A fee-waiver party's request for court reporting services must be made using local form LACIV 269 or Judicial Council form FW-020.

Court reporter requests should be filed at least ten calendar days before the hearing or trial, or as soon as practicable if the party receives less than ten days' notice.

The party securing a court reporter must provide the Judicial Assistant with the required completed form before the proceedings commence.

In trials without court reporters, the parties must jointly prepare a settled statement of the testimony and evidence admitted each day of trial.

The settled statement of testimony and admitted evidence must be lodged with the Court no later than the next court session.

Accommodation requests should be filed early using form MC-410 or any written format.

Self-represented parties and all trial counsel must meet and confer no later than 15 calendar days before the initial and any succeeding Case Management Conference to address the CRC 3.724 and 3.727 issues.

Parties must reserve dates for all law and motion hearings through the Court Reservation System (CRS).

Parties must use CRS to continue or withdraw motions and must also telephone the courtroom so it is aware of any changes.

The Court requests that all electronically filed documents be bookmarked and searchable.

Courtesy copies are not required but will be accepted by the Court.

To submit on a tentative ruling, parties must email SMCDept224@lacourt.ca.gov, with notice to opposing counsel or the self-represented party, before 8:30 am on the day of the hearing.

A party submitting on the tentative must provide notice to opposing counsel (or the self-represented party).

Evidence on law and motion must be by declaration or request for judicial notice unless the Court orders otherwise for good cause.

Oral testimony is not allowed without court permission, and parties seeking permission must file a statement consistent with CRC rule 3.1306.

The Court strongly encourages parties to Bates stamp documents produced in discovery where reasonably practicable.

All civil actions filed after January 1, 2024 must comply with the initial discovery disclosure requirements of CCP §2016.090, which the Court may enforce on its own motion or a party's motion.

Before filing any discovery motion, counsel with authority to compromise the dispute (preferably trial counsel) must meet and confer by telephone, videoconference, or in person; exchanging letters or emails alone is insufficient.

Before filing a discovery motion on an unresolved dispute, the parties are requested to schedule an Informal Discovery Conference (heard Mondays and Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m.) by filing a Form LACIV-094 request describing the discovery at issue, the legal authorities, and any applicable statutory deadlines.

Requesting an IDC does not toll the deadline to file a motion to compel; parties are expected to stipulate to extend statutory deadlines until after the IDC, and if they cannot agree, the motion must be filed on time.

A party responding to a Request for Informal Discovery must file, five days before the IDC, either a short brief or the LACIV-094 Form describing why the requested discovery should be denied, including the facts and legal arguments at issue.

In Song-Beverly Warranty Act and related cases, the Court will usually order production of ten categories of documents (purchase/lease contracts, repair orders and invoices, dealer/factory/call-center communications, warranty claims, Warranty Policy and Procedure Manuals, internal defect analyses, customer complaints, repurchase evaluation policies, Technical Service Bulletins/recall notices, and documents supporting damages claims) unless case-specific reasons justify deviation.

A party who believes Song-Beverly discovery material should be subject to a protective order must serve and file a proposed protective order within five days of serving discovery responses.

A proposed protective order must be served and filed within five (5) days after the party serves discovery responses.

Documents produced in discovery may be provided in electronic form as a PDF at the producing party's option.

Both parties must serve verification along with the documents they produce in discovery.

More Judges in Los Angeles Superior Court

Michelle Lim
Judge
A. Ashley Tabaddor
Judge
Alan B. Honeycutt
Judge
Alexander C. D. Giza
Judge
Alison Mackenzie
Judge
Allison L. Westfahl Kong
Judge
Andrew E. Cooper
Judge
Andrew Esbenshade
Judge