Judge Jesus G. Bernal
Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Document Limits
Courtesy Copies
All filings
- Upon Filing
Courtesy copies
- 1 copy
- Chambers Drop Off
- Chambers Drop Off • Within 24 Hours
- Hand Delivery
- Hand Delivery • Within 24 Hours
Discovery Motion
- Chambers Drop Off
Joint Rule 26(F) Report
- Hand Delivery
Adjournments
- Telephonic appearances require good cause and must be requested with proposed order one week before scheduling conference.
- Stipulations extending scheduling dates require court approval; continuances require good cause.
- Stipulations extending scheduling dates require Court approval; continuances granted only on good cause.
- Motions in limine must be noticed by Final Pretrial Conference date.
- +6 more
Request must include
- Motions must be filed at least 28 days before the cut-off deadline.
- Withdrawal of motion required at least 7 days before hearing.
- Parties must notify the Court about one week before hearing if a motion is resolved.
- Withdrawal of opposition required at least 7 days before hearing.
Communication
Chambers, Clerk
Court Reporter
Phone
Chambers, Clerk
Hand Delivery
Magistrate Judge
Website
Chambers
Letter via ECF
Chambers
Page & Word Limits7 rules
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Memoranda of Points and Authorities in support of or in opposition to motions shall not exceed 25 pages. Replies shall not exceed 12 pages.
Summary: Support/opposition memoranda limited to 25 pages; replies limited to 12 pages.
Brief
25 pages
Applies to: Attorney
Reply Brief
12 pages
Applies to: Attorney
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Memoranda of Points and Authorities in support of or in opposition to motions shall not exceed 25 pages. Replies shall not exceed 12 pages.
Summary: Motion memoranda limited to 25 pages; replies limited to 12 pages.
25 pages
Applies to: Attorney
Reply
12 pages
Applies to: Attorney
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Memoranda of Points and Authorities in support of or in opposition to motions shall not exceed 25 pages. Replies shall not exceed 12 pages.
Summary: Opening motion briefs limited to 25 pages; replies limited to 12 pages.
Brief
25 pages
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Memoranda of Points and Authorities in support of or in opposition to motions in limine shall not exceed 10 pages.
Summary: Motions in limine memoranda limited to 10 pages.
Brief
10 pages
Applies to: Attorney
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Each side is limited to five motions in limine.
Summary: Each party limited to 5 motions in limine.
Structured details unavailable. See the source text.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Memoranda of Points and Authorities in support of or in opposition to motions shall not exceed 25 pages. Replies shall not exceed 12 pages.
Summary: Support/opposition memoranda limited to 25 pages; reply memoranda limited to 12 pages.
Brief
25 pages
Applies to: Attorney
Reply Brief
12 pages
Applies to: Attorney
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?
Only in rare instances, and for good cause shown, will the Court grant an application to extend these page limitations.
Summary: Page limit extensions are granted only in rare instances for good cause.
Document Format Requirements16 rules
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
All chambers copies shall comply fully with the document formatting requirements of L.R. 11-3, including the 'backing' and 'tabbing' requirements of Local Rules 11-3.5 and 11-5.3,
Summary: Chambers copies must comply with L.R. 11-3 formatting requirements.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
As of January 1, 2008, the United States District Court for the Central District of California implemented mandatory electronic filing ("e-filing") of documents
Summary: Mandatory electronic filing implemented January 1, 2008.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
If such evidence exceeds 200 pages, the documents shall be placed in a binder, with an index and with each item of evidence separated by a tab divider.
Summary: Documentary evidence over 200 pages requires binder with index and tab dividers.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
If documentary evidence in support of or in opposition to a motion exceeds 50 pages, the evidence must be separately bound and tabbed and include an index. If such evidence exceeds 200 pages, the documents shall be placed in a binder, with an index and with each item of evidence separated by a tab divider.
Summary: Documentary evidence over 50 pages must be bound/tabbed with index; over 200 pages requires binder with tab dividers.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
As of January 1, 2008, the United States District Court for the Central District of California implemented mandatory electronic filing ("e-filing") of documents
Summary: Mandatory electronic filing implemented January 1, 2008.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The Court specifically directs litigants to L.R. 5-4.3.1, requiring that all electronically filed documents be created by publishing the document to PDF, and not by scanning paper documents.
Summary: Electronically filed documents must be created by publishing to PDF, not by scanning paper.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
All chambers copies shall comply fully with the document formatting requirements of L.R. 11-3, including the 'backing' and 'tabbing' requirements of Local Rules 11-3.5 and 11-5.3,
Summary: Chambers copies must comply with L.R. 11-3 formatting requirements.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
If documentary evidence in support of or in opposition to a motion exceeds 50 pages, the evidence must be separately bound and tabbed and include an index. If such evidence exceeds 200 pages, the documents shall be placed in a binder, with an index and with each item of evidence separated by a tab divider.
Summary: Documentary evidence over 50 pages must be bound/tabbed with index; over 200 pages requires binder with tab dividers.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The evidentiary objections should be presented in a three-column format and include the following columns: i. The first column shall contain the number of the fact objected to, using the numbering submitted in the moving party's SUF if applicable. ii. The second column shall identify the item objected to, including its page and line number if applicable. iii. The third column shall set forth a concise objection (e.g., hearsay, lacks foundation,
Summary: Evidentiary objections to SUF must use a three-column format with fact number, item description, and concise objection.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Counsel should insure that requested dates do not fall on a holiday.
Summary: Requested dates must not fall on holidays.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The cut-off date for motions is the last date on which motions may be heard, not filed.
Summary: Motion cut-off date is when motions may be heard, not filed.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Each entry proposing Court dates shall fall on a Monday, except the trial date, which is a Tuesday.
Summary: Court dates must be Mondays except trial dates which are Tuesdays.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Each requested instruction shall (a) cite the authority or source of the instruction, (b) be set forth in full, (c) be on a separate page, (d) be numbered, (e) cover only one subject or principle of law, and (f) not repeat principles of law contained in any other requested instruction.
Summary: Jury instructions must cite source, be full text, separate page, numbered, single subject, no repetition.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Counsel are to prepare their exhibits by placing them in 3-ring binders that are tabbed down the right side with exhibit numbers. The spine portion of the binder shall indicate the volume number and contain an index of each exhibit including in the volume. The binders are to be prepared with an original for the Courtroom Deputy Clerk, which shall be tagged with the appropriate exhibit tags in the upper right hand corner of the first page of each exhibit, and one copy for the Court ("bench book"). Each binder shall contain an index of the included exhibits. The exhibits are to be numbered in accordance with Local Rule 26-3.
Summary: Exhibits must be in 3-ring binders with tabs, numbered per Local Rule 26-3, with original for Clerk and bench book for Court.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
All documents required to be "e-filed" in this matter can be found in General Order No. 10-07 and L.R. 5-4. The Court specifically directs litigants to L.R. 5-4.3.1, requiring that all electronically filed documents be created by publishing the document to PDF, and not by scanning paper documents. The Court may strike any pleading that does not comply with this requirement.
Summary: Electronically filed documents must be created by publishing to PDF, not by scanning; noncompliance may result in striking.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Note?
When citing to legal databases, wherever possible cite to Westlaw rather than Lexis.
Summary: Prefer Westlaw citations over Lexis when possible.
Document Filing Requirements91 rules
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
7. Presence of Lead Counsel. Lead trial counsel for each party must attend any scheduling and pretrial conferences set by the Court. Failure of lead trial counsel to appear for those proceedings is a basis for sanctions.
Summary: Lead trial counsel must attend scheduling and pretrial conferences.
Document Type
Scheduling Conference
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
6. Proposed Orders. Each party filing or opposing a motion or seeking the determination of any matter shall serve and electronically lodge a proposed order which sets forth the relief or action sought and a brief statement of the rationale for the decision with appropriate citations.
Summary: Proposed orders required with motions and other matters.
Document Type
Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The party opposing the summary judgment motion shall include with its opposition a Statement of Genuine Disputes of Material Fact that includes the moving party's table; but the opposing party shall add a fourth column to the moving party's table identifying those facts that are in dispute, briefly explaining the dispute, and citing the evidence supporting the dispute.
Summary: Opposing party must add fourth column to moving party's SUF table identifying disputed facts and evidence.
Document Type
Opposition
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
If a party fails to dispute a fact properly by offering evidence that does not contradict the proffered fact, the Court will deem the fact undisputed for purposes of the motion. See Fed. R. Civ. P. 56(e)(2), L.R. 56-3.
Summary: Failure to properly dispute facts results in them being deemed undisputed.
Document Type
Opposition
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Stipulations extending scheduling dates set by this Court are not effective unless approved by the Court. Continuances will be granted only upon a showing of good cause.
Summary: Stipulations extending scheduling dates require court approval; continuances granted only for good cause.
Document Type
Stipulation
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Parties offering evidence in support of, or in opposition to, a Rule 56 motion must cite to specific page and line numbers in depositions and paragraph numbers in affidavits.
Summary: Rule 56 evidence must cite specific page/line numbers in depositions and paragraph numbers in affidavits.
Document Type
Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Plaintiff shall serve the Complaint promptly in accordance with Fed. R. Civ. P. 4 and file the proofs of service pursuant to L.R. 5-3.1.
Summary: Plaintiff must serve complaint promptly and file proofs of service.
Document Type
Complaint
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Any answers filed in state court must be re-filed in this Court (separately) as a supplement to the petition. Any pending motions must be re-noticed in accordance with L.R. 6-1.
Summary: State court answers and motions must be re-filed in federal court.
Document Type
Removal Case
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
No party may file more than one motion pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 56 regardless of whether such motion is denominated as a motion for summary judgment or summary adjudication.
Summary: Only one Rule 56 motion allowed per party (summary judgment or summary adjudication).
Document Type
Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The moving party's brief shall be accompanied by a Statement of Undisputed Facts ("SUF"). The SUF shall be presented in a table format and include the following columns: i. The first column shall contain the number of the fact alleged to be undisputed.
Summary: Rule 56 moving party must include SUF in table format with numbered facts.
Document Type
Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Furthermore, such evidence must be authenticated properly.
Summary: Rule 56 evidence must be properly authenticated.
Document Type
Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
If this case came to the Court by noticed removal, the removing Defendant(s) shall serve this Order on all other parties.
Summary: Removing defendant must serve this order on all parties in removal cases.
Document Type
Removal Notice
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Plaintiff(s) shall immediately serve this Order on all parties along with the Summons and Complaint.
Summary: Plaintiff must serve this order with summons and complaint.
Document Type
Summons And Complaint
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Parties shall file any legal objections to the other party's proffered evidence under separate cover. The evidentiary objections should be presented in a three-column format and include the following columns: i. The first column shall contain the number of the fact objected to, using the numbering submitted in the moving party's SUF if applicable. ii. The second column shall identify the item objected to, including its page and line number if applicable. iii. The third column shall set forth a concise objection (e.g., hearsay, lacks foundation, Evidence or, where applicable, a case citation).
Summary: Evidentiary objections must be filed separately in three-column format.
Document Type
Evidentiary Objections
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The moving party's declaration in support of an ex parte application shall show compliance with L.R. 7-19 and this Order and shall include a statement of opposing counsel's position. Failure to do so ensures the application will be DENIED.
Summary: Ex parte declaration must show compliance with L.R. 7-19 and include opposing counsel's position; failure results in denial.
Document Type
Ex Parte Declaration
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
If either party fails to provide a pincite to the supporting evidence, the Court will deem the proffered fact (or dispute) unsupported.
Summary: Failure to provide pincite results in fact being deemed unsupported.
Document Type
Statement Of Uncontested Facts
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
In the event that the parties resolve a pending motion, they must notify the Court approximately one week before the hearing date.
Summary: Parties must notify court one week before hearing if motion is resolved.
Document Type
Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Plaintiff(s) shall immediately serve this Order on all parties along with the Summons and Complaint.
Summary: Plaintiff must serve this order with summons and complaint.
Document Type
Summons And Complaint
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
If this case came to the Court by noticed removal, the removing Defendant(s) shall serve this Order on all other parties.
Summary: Removing defendants must serve this order on all parties in removal cases.
Document Type
Removal Notice
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Any answers filed in state court must be re-filed in this Court (separately) as a supplement to the petition. Any pending motions must be re-noticed in accordance with L.R. 6-1.
Summary: State court answers and motions must be re-filed in federal court.
Document Type
Removal Case
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Plaintiff shall serve the Complaint promptly in accordance with Fed. R. Civ. P. 4 and file the proofs of service pursuant to L.R. 5-3.1.
Summary: Plaintiff must serve complaint promptly and file proofs of service.
Document Type
Complaint
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Proposed Orders. Each party filing or opposing a motion or seeking the determination of any matter shall serve and electronically lodge a proposed order which sets forth the relief or action sought and a brief statement of the rationale for the decision with appropriate citations.
Summary: Proposed orders required with motions and other matters.
Document Type
Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Each party filing or opposing a motion or seeking the determination of any matter shall serve and electronically lodge a proposed order which sets forth the relief or action sought and a brief statement of the rationale for the decision with appropriate citations.
Summary: Parties filing or opposing a motion must electronically lodge a proposed order with relief sought and rationale.
Document Type
Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Lead trial counsel for each party must attend any scheduling and pretrial conferences set by the Court. Failure of lead trial counsel to appear for those proceedings is a basis for sanctions.
Summary: Lead trial counsel must attend scheduling and pretrial conferences.
Document Type
Notice Of Appearance
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Sanctions may issue for failure to comply with this requirement, or the broader requirement in L.R. 7-16 that any party who intends to withdraw a motion, not oppose a motion, or seek a continuance of the hearing date for a motion, must notify the court by noon on the Tuesday preceding the hearing date.
Summary: Failure to notify court by noon Tuesday before hearing may result in sanctions.
Document Type
Motion Withdrawal
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
No party may file more than one motion pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 56 regardless of whether such motion is denominated as a motion for summary judgment or summary adjudication.
Summary: Only one Rule 56 motion allowed per party (summary judgment or adjudication).
Document Type
Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Parties offering evidence in support of, or in opposition to, a Rule 56 motion must cite to specific page and line numbers in depositions and paragraph numbers in affidavits.
Summary: Rule 56 evidence must cite specific page/line numbers in depositions and paragraph numbers in affidavits.
Document Type
Motion Memorandum
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The moving party's brief shall be accompanied by a Statement of Undisputed Facts ("SUF"). The SUF shall be presented in a table format and include the following columns: The first column shall contain the number of the fact alleged to be undisputed.
Summary: Rule 56 moving party must submit SUF in table format with numbered facts.
Document Type
Motion Memorandum
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The party opposing the summary judgment motion shall include with its opposition a Statement of Genuine Disputes of Material Fact that includes the moving party's table; but the opposing party shall add a fourth column to the moving party's table identifying those facts that are in dispute, briefly explaining the dispute, and citing the evidence supporting the dispute.
Summary: Opposition must include Statement of Genuine Disputes with fourth column for disputed facts.
Document Type
Opposition
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
If a party fails to dispute a fact properly by offering evidence that does not contradict the proffered fact, the Court will deem the fact undisputed for purposes of the motion. See Fed. R. Civ. P. 56(e)(2), L.R. 56-3.
Summary: Failure to properly dispute a fact results in it being deemed undisputed.
Document Type
Opposition
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Parties shall file any legal objections to the other party's proffered evidence under separate cover. The evidentiary objections should be presented in a three-column format and include the following columns: i. The first column shall contain the number of the fact objected to, using the numbering submitted in the moving party's SUF if applicable. ii. The second column shall identify the item objected to, including its page and line number if applicable. iii. The third column shall set forth a concise objection (e.g., hearsay, lacks foundation, Evidence or, where applicable, a case citation).
Summary: Evidentiary objections must be filed separately in three-column format.
Document Type
Evidentiary Objections
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
If either party fails to provide a pincite to the supporting evidence, the Court will deem the proffered fact (or dispute) unsupported.
Summary: Failure to provide pincite results in fact being deemed unsupported.
Document Type
Statement Of Uncontested Facts
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The moving party's declaration in support of an ex parte application shall show compliance with L.R. 7-19 and this Order and shall include a statement of opposing counsel's position. Failure to do so ensures the application will be DENIED.
Summary: Ex parte declaration must show compliance with L.R. 7-19 and include opposing counsel's position; failure results in denial.
Document Type
Ex Parte Declaration
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Telephonic appearances will only be allowed upon good cause. To request a telephonic appearance counsel must file a request with a proposed order one week before the scheduling conference.
Summary: Telephonic appearances require good cause and a request with proposed order filed one week before scheduling conference.
Document Type
Telephonic Appearance Request
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Facts shall not be compound. If, for instance, the required response is that the fact is disputed in part, the fact is compound. Further, neither legal arguments nor conclusions constitute facts. iii. The third column shall contain a citation to admissible evidence the party believes supports the proffered fact.
Summary: Statements of Undisputed Facts must not contain compound facts, legal arguments, or conclusions, and the third column must cite admissible evidence.
Document Type
Statement Of Undisputed Facts
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The party opposing the summary judgment motion shall include with its opposition a Statement of Genuine Disputes of Material Fact that includes the moving party's table; but the opposing party shall add a fourth column to the moving party's table identifying those facts that are in dispute, briefly explaining the dispute, and citing the evidence supporting the dispute. The opposing party shall not set forth legal or evidentiary objections in the statement of genuine disputes of material fact.
Summary: Statement of Genuine Disputes must include moving party's table plus a fourth column for disputes, and must not contain legal or evidentiary objections.
Document Type
Statement Of Genuine Disputes
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The Joint Rule 26(f) Report, which shall be filed not later than 14 days before the scheduling conference, shall be drafted by plaintiff (unless the parties agree otherwise), but shall be submitted and signed jointly. “Jointly” contemplates a single report, regardless of how many separately-represented parties there are.
Summary: Joint Rule 26(f) Report due 14 days before scheduling conference; plaintiff drafts unless parties agree otherwise; single joint report required.
Document Type
Joint Rule 26(F) Report
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Lead trial counsel for all parties must be present. Counsel must be prepared to discuss the substantive issues in the case and authorized to address scheduling with the Court and opposing counsel.
Summary: Lead trial counsel must attend scheduling conference and be authorized to discuss scheduling.
Document Type
Scheduling Conference
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
As always, the parties must submit mandatory chamber copies to the Court. In addition, the parties must submit electronic versions (either Word or WordPerfect format) to the Court at the following e-mail address: JGB_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov.
Summary: Mandatory chamber copies and electronic versions (Word/WordPerfect) required for Final Pretrial Conference.
Document Type
Final Pretrial Conference
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Where the parties disagree on an instruction, the party opposing the instruction must attach a short (i.e., one to two paragraphs) statement supporting the objection and the party submitting the instruction must attach a short statement supporting the instruction. Each statement should be on a separate page and should follow directly after the disputed instruction.
Summary: Short statements (1-2 paragraphs) required for disputed jury instructions, each on separate page.
Document Type
Jury Instructions
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Accordingly, in addition to the file copies described above, the parties shall file with the Courtroom Deputy Clerk and shall email to chambers on the first day of the trial a "clean set" of joint and/or proposed jury instructions that contain only the text of each instruction set forth in full on each page, with the caption "Court's Instruction Number" (eliminating titles, supporting authority, indication of party proposing, etc.). This will be referred to as the "Jury Copy" of the jury instructions.
Summary: Clean set of jury instructions ("Jury Copy") required on first day of trial, filed with clerk and emailed to chambers.
Document Type
Jury Instructions
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Counsel shall prepare a joint statement of the case which will be read by the Court to the prospective panel of jurors prior to the commencement of voir dire. The statement should not be longer than two or three paragraphs. The statement shall be filed with the Court fourteen calendar days before the Final Pretrial Conference.
Summary: Joint statement of case (2-3 paragraphs) required 14 days before Final Pretrial Conference.
Document Type
Joint Statement Of Case
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
An index page shall accompany all jury instructions submitted. The index page shall indicate the following: ! The number of the instruction; ! A brief title of the instruction; ! The source of the instruction and any relevant case citations; and ! The page number of the instruction.
Summary: Index page required for all jury instructions with number, title, source, and page number.
Document Type
Jury Instructions
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Fourteen calendar days before the trial date, each party shall lodge two copies of its proposed Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law with the Court, also serving other parties if changes have been made.
Summary: Proposed Findings and Conclusions must be lodged 14 days before trial with 2 copies to court.
Document Type
Proposed Findings Conclusions
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Motions shall not be compound, i.e., each motion shall address only one item of evidence or witness.
Summary: Motions in limine must address only one item per motion.
Document Type
Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
C. At least 14 days before final pretrial conference • Proposed final pretrial conference order • Proposed jury instructions, and any objections • Proposed verdict forms • Statement of the case • Proposed voir dire questions, if desired
Summary: Multiple pretrial documents due at least 14 days before final pretrial conference.
Document Type
Pretrial Order
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
All counsel are to meet no later than 10 calendar days before trial and to stipulate to the extent possible to foundation, waiver of the best evidence rule, and which exhibits may be received into evidence at the start of trial. The exhibits to be received will be noted on the extra copies of the exhibit lists.
Summary: Counsel must meet 10 days before trial to stipulate on exhibit foundation and admissibility.
Document Type
Exhibit Stipulation Meeting
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
Electronic filing is mandatory in all civil cases in the Central District of California.
As of January 1, 2008, the United States District Court for the Central District of California implemented mandatory electronic filing ("e-filing") of documents in all new and pending civil cases.
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Page 2 | 4. Electronic Filing
In removed actions, state-court answers must be re-filed as supplements; pending motions must be re-noticed per Local Rule 6-1.
Any answers filed in state court must be re-filed in this Court (separately) as a supplement to the petition. Any pending motions must be re-noticed in accordance with L.R. 6-1.
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Page 2 | 2. Removed Actions
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
Untimely default judgment motions may lead to dismissal with prejudice.
Failure to timely file motions for default judgment may result in dismissal with prejudice for failure to prosecute and failure to follow Court orders.
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Page 7 | 13. Motions for Default Judgment
Motions for default judgment must be filed within 14 days after default entry or claim resolution.
Unless otherwise ordered, motions for default judgment shall be filed no later than 14 days after the later of (1) entry of default against the last remaining defendant, or (2) resolution of all claims against all defendants who have not defaulted.
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Page 7 | 13. Motions for Default Judgment
Service and Proof of Service Rules
In removed actions, the removing defendant must serve the standing order on all other parties.
If this case came to the Court by noticed removal, the removing Defendant(s) shall serve this Order on all other parties.
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Page 1 | Standing Order
Plaintiff must serve the standing order on all parties with the summons and complaint.
Plaintiff(s) shall immediately serve this Order on all parties along with the Summons and Complaint.
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Page 1 | Standing Order
Plaintiff must serve the complaint promptly per FRCP 4 and file proof of service per Local Rule 5-3.1.
Plaintiff shall serve the Complaint promptly in accordance with Fed. R. Civ. P. 4 and file the proofs of service pursuant to L.R. 5-3.1.
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Page 2 | 1. Service of the Complaint
Courtesy Copy Requirements
One chambers copy required for specific document types.
5. Mandatory Chambers Copies. Counsel shall provide one conformed chambers copy of ONLY the following filed documents.
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Page 3 | 5. Mandatory Chambers Copies
Chambers copies must be delivered to Courtesy Box by 5:00 PM next day.
Chambers copies shall be delivered to the 'Courtesy Box,' located outside of Courtroom 1 on the 2nd floor at the United States District Court, 3470 Twelfth Street, Riverside, California 92501, no later than 5:00 p.m. on the day following the 'e-filing.'
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Page 3 | 5. Mandatory Chambers Copies
Conformed courtesy copies must be delivered to Courtesy Box outside Courtroom 1.
As with all motion papers, counsel must deliver a conformed courtesy copy of the papers to the 'Courtesy Box', located outside of Courtroom 1 on the 2nd floor
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Mandatory chambers copies required for civil motions, oppositions, replies, exhibits, ex parte applications, and Joint Rule 26(f) reports.
Civil matters: Motions and related documents (opposition, replies, exhibits); ex parte applications and related documents oppositions and exhibits); and Joint Rule 26(f) reports;
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 3 | 5. Mandatory Chambers Copies
Chambers copies must be delivered to the Courtesy Box by 5:00 p.m. the day after e-filing.
Chambers copies shall be delivered to the "Courtesy Box," located outside of Courtroom 1 on the 2nd floor at the United States District Court, 3470 Twelfth Street, Riverside, California 92501, no later than 5:00 p.m. on the day following the "e-filing."
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 3 | 5. Mandatory Chambers Copies
Chambers copies must be delivered to Courtesy Box by 5:00 PM next day.
Chambers copies shall be delivered to the 'Courtesy Box,' located outside of Courtroom 1 on the 2nd floor at the United States District Court, 3470 Twelfth Street, Riverside, California 92501, no later than 5:00 p.m. on the day following the 'e-filing.'
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 3 | Mandatory Chambers Copies
One chambers copy required for specific document types.
Mandatory Chambers Copies. Counsel shall provide one conformed chambers copy of ONLY the following filed documents.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 3 | Mandatory Chambers Copies
Conformed courtesy copies of all motion papers must be delivered to the Courtesy Box outside Courtroom 1.
As with all motion papers, counsel must deliver a conformed courtesy copy of the papers to the "Courtesy Box", located outside of Courtroom 1 on the 2nd floor
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 10 | Ex Parte Applications
Conformed courtesy copies of ex parte applications must be delivered to Courtesy Box outside Courtroom 1.
As with all motion papers, counsel must deliver a conformed courtesy copy of the papers to the 'Courtesy Box', located outside of Courtroom 1 on the 2nd floor.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 10 | Ex Parte Applications
Paper chambers copies of Joint Rule 26(f) Report required by 5:00 p.m. on first court day after e-filing.
Mandatory paper chambers copies of the Joint Rule 26(f) Report must be delivered to Judge Bernal's drop box outside the door of Courtroom 1 by 5:00 p.m. on the first court day following the e-filing.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Two courtesy copies of proposed Findings and Conclusions must be lodged with court 14 days before trial.
Fourteen calendar days before the trial date, each party shall lodge two copies of its proposed Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law with the Court, also serving other parties if changes have been made.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 13 | Proposed Findings and Conclusions
Mandatory chambers copy required for all motion-related documents.
A copy of every motion related document filed must be delivered to the chambers drop box outside Courtroom 1 ("the mandatory chambers copy").
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Counsel must provide one conformed chambers copy of motions, ex parte applications, and Joint Rule 26(f) reports.
Counsel shall provide one conformed chambers copy of ONLY the following filed documents: Civil matters: Motions and related documents (opposition, replies, exhibits); ex parte applications and related documents (oppositions and exhibits); and Joint Rule 26(f) reports;
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Page 2 | 5. Mandatory Chambers Copies
Chambers copies must be delivered to the Courtesy Box by 5:00 p.m. the day after e-filing.
Chambers copies shall be delivered to the "Courtesy Box," located outside of Courtroom 1 on the 2nd floor at the United States District Court, 3470 Twelfth Street, Riverside, California 92501, no later than 5:00 p.m. on the day following the "e-filing."
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Page 3 | 5. Mandatory Chambers Copies
Discovery-related chambers copies must be delivered to the Magistrate Judge, not the District Judge.
Counsel shall deliver mandatory chambers copies of discovery-related papers to the Magistrate Judge assigned to the case rather than to this Court.
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Page 3 | 9. Discovery
Failure to deliver compliant chambers copies may result in rescheduling or sanctions.
If the filing party and their counsel fail to deliver a mandatory chambers copy in full compliance with this Order and L.R. 11-3, the Court may, on its own motion, reschedule any related hearing and impose sanctions.
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Page 3 | 5. Mandatory Chambers Copies
A conformed courtesy copy of all motion papers must be delivered to the Courtesy Box.
As with all motion papers, counsel must deliver a conformed courtesy copy of the papers to the "Courtesy Box", located outside of Courtroom 1 on the 2nd floor at United States District Court, 3470 Twelfth Street, Riverside, California 92501.
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Page 8 | 14. Ex Parte Applications
Failure to comply with chambers copy requirements may result in hearing rescheduling and sanctions.
If counsel fails to deliver a mandatory chambers copy in full compliance with this Order and L.R. 11-3, the Court may, on its own motion, reschedule any related hearing and impose sanctions.
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Page 4 | 5. Mandatory Chambers Copies
Chambers copies must comply with L.R. 11-3 formatting, including backing and tabbing requirements.
All chambers copies shall comply fully with the document formatting requirements of L.R. 11-3, including the "backing" and "tabbing" requirements of Local Rules 11-3.5 and 11-5.3
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Page 3 | 5. Mandatory Chambers Copies
Failure to comply with chambers copy requirements may result in hearing rescheduling and sanctions.
If a party fails to deliver a mandatory chambers copy in full compliance with this Order and L.R. 11-3, the Court may, on its own motion, reschedule any related hearing and impose sanctions.
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Page 4 | Mandatory Chambers Copies
Chambers copies must comply with Local Rules 11-3 and 11-5 formatting requirements.
All chambers copies shall comply fully with the document formatting requirements of L.R. 11-3 and L.R. 11-5.
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Page 3 | 5. Mandatory Chambers Copies
Filing Bundling Requirements
Two sets of jury instructions required: agreed upon and disputed with objections.
The parties must submit one set of agreed upon jury instructions. At the same time, the parties must submit another set of jury instructions containing the instructions upon which the parties disagree and the objections to those instructions.
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Page 9 | Final Pretrial Conference
Documentary evidence over 200 pages must be placed in a binder with index and tab dividers.
If such evidence exceeds 200 pages, the documents shall be placed in a binder, with an index and with each item of evidence separated by a tab divider.
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Page 4 | 10. Motions
Documentary evidence over 50 pages must be separately bound, tabbed, and indexed.
If documentary evidence in support of or in opposition to a motion exceeds 50 pages, the evidence must be separately bound and tabbed and include an index.
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Page 4 | 10. Motions
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
Rule 26(f) discovery plan conference required 21 days before scheduling conference; Joint Rule 26(f) Report due 14 days before.
Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. The parties are reminded of their obligations under Rule 26(f) to confer on a discovery plan not later than 21 days before the scheduling conference and to e-file a “Joint Rule 26(f) Report” with the Court not later than 14 days before the conference.
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Pro per parties are not exempt from Local Rule 16 requirements.
This Court does not exempt pro per parties from the requirements of Local Rule 16.
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Settlement conference under Court-Directed ADR Program required by court-set date.
Counsel must complete a settlement conference under the Court-Directed ADR Program (Local Rule 16-15.4) no later than the date set by the Court above.
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Trial cannot proceed without personal appearance at settlement conference by all parties and principals.
No case will proceed to trial unless all parties, including the principals of all corporate parties, have appeared personally at a settlement conference and complied with Local Rule 16-15.5.
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Final Pretrial Conference required; lead trial counsel must represent each party.
The Court will conduct a Final Pretrial Conference pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 16 and Local Rule 16-1 on the date and tim e listed above. Each party appearing in this action shall be represented at the Final Pretrial Conf erence and at all pretrial meetings by the lead trial counsel.
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Only one Rule 56 motion for summary judgment or adjudication is allowed per party.
No party may file more than one motion pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 56 regardless of whether such motion is denominated as a motion for summary judgment or summary adjudication.
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Page 4 | 12. Motions for Summary Judgment or Partial Summary Judgment
Ex parte applications are only for extraordinary relief; misuse may result in sanctions.
Ex parte applications are considered on the papers and are not usually set for hearing. Counsel are advised that this Court allows ex parte applications solely for extraordinary relief. Sanctions may be imposed for misuse of ex parte applications.
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Page 7 | 14. Ex Parte Applications
Ex parte applications only for extraordinary relief; sanctions for misuse.
Counsel are advised that this Court allows ex parte applications solely for extraordinary relief. Sanctions may be imposed for misuse of ex parte applications.
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Ex parte applications allowed only for extraordinary relief; misuse may result in sanctions.
Counsel are advised that this Court allows ex parte applications solely for extraordinary relief. Sanctions may be imposed for misuse of ex parte applications.
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Page 10 | Ex Parte Applications
Ex parte applications are decided on papers without hearing.
Ex parte applications are considered on the papers and are not usually set for hearing.
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Ex parte applications are decided on papers without hearing.
Ex parte applications are considered on the papers and are not usually set for hearing.
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Page 10 | Ex Parte Applications
If Pretrial Conference is waived, counsel must follow Local Rule 16-11.
In rare cases where the Pretrial Conference is waived by the Court, counsel must follow Local Rule 16-11.
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Motions noticed for a holiday are automatically reset to the next Monday.
Any motion noticed for a holiday shall automatically be set to the next Monday without further notice to the parties.
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Page 4 | 10. Motions
Motions are heard on Mondays at 9:00 a.m.
Motions will be heard on Mondays commencing at 9:00 a.m.
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Page 4 | 10. Motions
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
Telephonic appearances require good cause and must be requested with proposed order one week before scheduling conference.
Telephonic appearances will only be allowed upon good cause. To request a telephonic appearance counsel must file a request with a proposed order one week before the scheduling conference.
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Page 11 | Telephonic Appearances
Stipulations extending scheduling dates require Court approval; continuances granted only on good cause.
Stipulations extending scheduling dates set by this Court are not effective unless approved by the Court. Continuances will be granted only upon a showing of good cause.
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Page 11 | Stipulations
Stipulations extending scheduling dates require court approval; continuances require good cause.
Stipulations extending scheduling dates set by this Court are not effective unless approved by the Court. Continuances will be granted only upon a showing of good cause.
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Page 11 | Stipulations
Telephonic appearances require good cause and must be requested with proposed order one week before scheduling conference.
Telephonic appearances will only be allowed upon good cause. To request a telephonic appearance counsel must file a request with a proposed order one week before the scheduling conference.
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Page 12 | Telephonic Appearances
Discovery must be initiated at least 45 days before cut-off date; no late responses except for good cause.
Counsel shall initiate all discovery other than depositions at least 45 days before the cut-off date. The Court will not approve stipulations between counsel which permit responses to be served after the cut-off date except in unusual circumstances and for good cause shown.
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Motions in limine must be noticed by Final Pretrial Conference date.
All motions in limine and other trial-related motions must be properly noticed for hearing no later than the date of the Final Pretrial Conference.
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Withdrawal of motion required at least 7 days before hearing.
Any moving party who intends to withdraw the motion before the hearing date shall file and serve a withdrawal of the motion, not later than seven (7) days preceding the hearing.
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Motions must be filed at least 28 days before the cut-off deadline.
The cut-off date for hearing motions is the last day on which motions will be heard, i.e., the motion must be filed at least 28 days before the deadline in accordance with the requirements of Local Civil Rule 6-1.
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Withdrawal of opposition required at least 7 days before hearing.
Any opposing party who no longer intends to oppose the motion, shall file and serve a withdrawal of the opposition, not later than seven (7) days preceding the hearing.
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Depositions must be completed by cut-off deadline; originals lodged with clerk on first day of trial.
All depositions must be completed by the discovery cut-off deadline. Counsel shall lodge all original depositions that will be used in trial with the Courtroom Deputy Clerk on the first day of trial.
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Expert disclosures required 70 days before discovery cut-off date.
If not separately set forth above, the required expert disclosures shall be made 70 days before the discovery cut-off date.
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Parties must notify the court by noon on the Tuesday before the hearing date to withdraw, not oppose, or continue a motion.
Sanctions may issue for failure to comply with this requirement, or the broader requirement in L.R. 7-16 that any party who intends to withdraw a motion, not oppose a motion, or seek a continuance of the hearing date for a motion, must notify the court by noon on the Tuesday preceding the hearing date.
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Page 4 | 10. Motions
Preliminary injunction hearings require in-person attendance unless remote leave is sought at least one week in advance.
Hearings on motions for preliminary injunctions are excluded from this rule; counsel must attend preliminary injunction hearings in person unless counsel seeks, for good cause, leave to appear remotely not less than one week in advance of the hearing.
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Page 8 | 17. Remote Appearances
Stipulations extending scheduling dates require court approval; continuances require good cause.
Stipulations extending scheduling dates set by this Court are not effective unless approved by the Court. Continuances will be granted only upon a showing of good cause.
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Page 8 | 15. Stipulations
Failure to provide settlement notification may result in sanctions.
Failure to comply with this notification requirement may result in the imposition of sanctions on counsel for one or more parties, or their clients, or both.
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Parties must notify the Court about one week before hearing if a motion is resolved.
In the event that the parties resolve a pending motion, they must notify the Court approximately one week before the hearing date.
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Page 4 | 10. Motions
Chambers Communication Rules
Discovery matters referred to Magistrate Judge; chambers copies go to Magistrate.
8. Discovery. All discovery matters have been referred to a United States Magistrate Judge. The Magistrate Judge's initials follow the District Judge's initials in the case number assigned to the matter. The words 'DISCOVERY MATTER' shall appear in the caption of all documents relating to discovery to insure proper routing. Counsel shall deliver mandatory chambers copies of discovery-related papers to the Magistrate Judge assigned to the case rather than to this Court.
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Page 4 | 8. Discovery
Counsel prohibited from ex parte contact with court or staff unless specifically requested.
Unless requested to do so, counsel shall not attempt to contact the Court or its staff by telephone or by any other ex parte means.
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Page 11 | Communications with Chambers
Discovery matters referred to Magistrate Judge; chambers copies go to Magistrate Judge.
Discovery. All discovery matters have been referred to a United States Magistrate Judge. The Magistrate Judge's initials follow the District Judge's initials in the case number assigned to the matter. The words 'DISCOVERY MATTER' shall appear in the caption of all documents relating to discovery to insure proper routing. Counsel shall deliver mandatory chambers copies of discovery-related papers to the Magistrate Judge assigned to the case rather than to this Court.
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Page 4 | Discovery
Ex parte contact with court or staff is prohibited unless specifically requested.
Unless requested to do so, counsel shall not attempt to contact the Court or its staff by telephone or by any other ex parte means.
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Page 11 | Communications with Chambers
Provide court reporter with unusual words list 7 days before trial via email.
At least 7 days before the commencement of trial, counsel for the parties shall provide the court reporter with a list of unusual words, phrases, and spellings that may come up during trial. This information should be emailed to the reporter at Phyllis_Preston@cacd.uscourts.gov.
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Settlement notification required by Wednesday before Tuesday jury trial date.
In all cases set for jury trial, the parties must notify the Court, no later than the Wednesday preceding the Tuesday trial date, of any settlement, so that the necessary arrangements can be made to bring in a different case for trial or notify the members of the public who would otherwise be reporting for jury duty that their services are not needed that date.
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Equipment installation requests must be made to Courtroom Deputy Clerk by 4:00 p.m. two days before trial.
If counsel for any party need to arrange for the installation of their own equipment, such as video monitors, notebooks, or overhead projectors, counsel shall notify the Courtroom Deputy Clerk no later than 4:00 p.m. two days before trial so that the necessary arrangements can be made.
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Counsel must not contact the Court or staff ex parte unless requested.
Unless requested to do so, counsel shall not attempt to contact the Court or its staff by telephone or by any other ex parte means.
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Page 8 | 16. Communications with Chambers
Counsel may only contact chambers by phone or email when information cannot be found through other resources; ex parte contact is prohibited unless requested.
Unless requested to do so, counsel shall not attempt to contact the Court or its staff by telephone or by any other ex parte means. Counsel are directed to review the Central District's website at http://www.cacd.uscourts.gov for the Local Rules, filing procedures, judges' procedures and schedules, calendars, forms, and Pacer access. Counsel may contact the Courtroom Deputy Clerk, Maynor Galvez, by telephone at (951) 328-2254 or by email at maynor_galvez@cacd.uscourts.gov only in the event that counsel cannot find the desired information through all available resources.
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Page 11 | Communications with Chambers
Non-opposing counsel must notify the Courtroom Deputy Clerk about ex parte applications.
If counsel does not intend to oppose an ex parte application, counsel must inform the Courtroom Deputy Clerk, (951) 328-2254.
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Page 8 | 14. Ex Parte Applications
Counsel may contact the Courtroom Deputy Clerk by phone or email only as a last resort for information.
Counsel may contact the Courtroom Deputy Clerk, Maynor Galvez, by telephone at (951) 328-2254 or by email at maynor_galvez@cacd.uscourts.gov only in the event that counsel cannot find the desired information through all available resources.
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Page 8 | 16. Communications with Chambers
Counsel must review Central District website for rules, procedures, and forms.
Counsel are directed to review the Central District’s website at http://www.cacd.uscourts.gov for the Local Rules, filing procedures, judges' procedures and schedules, calendars, forms, and Pacer access.
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Page 11 | Communications with Chambers
Contact Courtroom Deputy Clerk only if information cannot be found through available resources.
Counsel may contact the Courtroom Deputy Clerk, Maynor Galvez, by telephone at (951) 328-2254 or by email at maynor_galvez@cacd.uscourts.gov only in the event that counsel cannot find the desired information through all available resources.
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Page 11 | Communications with Chambers
Counsel must notify Courtroom Deputy Clerk if not opposing ex parte application.
If counsel does not intend to oppose an ex parte application, counsel must inform the Courtroom Deputy Clerk, (951) 328-2254.
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Counsel must inform Courtroom Deputy Clerk if not opposing ex parte application.
If counsel does not intend to oppose an ex parte application, counsel must inform the Courtroom Deputy Clerk, (951) 328-2254.
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Page 10 | Ex Parte Applications
Counsel must review Central District website for rules, procedures, and forms.
Counsel are directed to review the Central District’s website at http://www.cacd.uscourts.gov for the Local Rules, filing procedures, judges' procedures and schedules, calendars, forms, and Pacer access.
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Page 11 | Communications with Chambers
Contact Courtroom Deputy Clerk only if information cannot be found through available resources.
Counsel may contact the Courtroom Deputy Clerk, Maynor Galvez, by telephone at (951) 328-2254 or by email at maynor_galvez@cacd.uscourts.gov only in the event that counsel cannot find the desired information through all available resources.
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Page 11 | Communications with Chambers
Courtroom Deputy Clerk will notify counsel of rulings or hearing dates.
Counsel will be notified by the Courtroom Deputy Clerk of the Court’s ruling or of a hearing time and date should the Court determine that a hearing is necessary.
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Page 11 | Communications with Chambers
Court orders and local rules available on Central District of California website.
Copies of this and all other orders of this Court that may become applicable to this case are available on the Central District of California website, at www.cacd.uscourts.gov, under “Judge’s Procedures and Schedules.” Copies of the Local Rules are available on the website.
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Page 7 | Court’s Website