Court Rules
Judge

Judge Catherine Henry

Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies

Eastern District of Pennsylvania

Limits & Logistics

Document Limits

Discovery Motion Brief
5 pgs
Dispositive Motion
25 pgs
Reply Brief
10 pgs
Reply
10 pgs
Brief
5 pgs
Motion
25 pgs

Courtesy Copies

Courtesy copies

  • Not required

Adjournments

  • Continuance requests must be filed as motions with proposed order for joint requests
  • Opposition to continuance motion must be filed within 3 business days with reasons
  • Continuance requests must be in writing with reason and opposing party's position.
  • +3 more

Request must include

Proposed OrderReasons For OppositionReason For RequestAdversary PositionOriginal DateNumber Of Previous Requests
7Business Daysnotice
  • Joint discovery continuances granted if made 7+ business days before deadline and don't impact key dates
  • Complex motions in limine must be filed at least 7 business days before final pretrial conference.
  • Joint discovery continuance requests may be motion or stipulation; 7 business days notice required if no impact on trial/motion deadlines.
14Business Daysnotice
  • Continuances impacting oral argument or trial dates require 14+ business days notice and good cause
  • Continuances impacting oral argument or trial dates require 14 business days notice and good cause.
Reason For RequestOriginal DateAffects Other Dates
14Daysnotice
  • Continuance requests must be filed at least 14 days before trial.
Reason For RequestPosition Of Other SideAmount Of Time SoughtExisting Conflicts
14Calendar Daysnotice
  • Criminal trial continuance requests must be filed at least 14 days before the scheduled trial date.
7Calendar Daysnotice
  • Threshold motions must be filed at least 7 days before Rule 16 conference.
2Calendar Daysnotice
  • Expedited sentencing requests require 2-day advance notice to chambers and probation.

Communication

Email

Chambers

tanya_allender@paed.uscourts.gov
General Inquiries
Email

Chambers

chambers_of_judge_catherine_henry@paed.uscourts.gov
SchedulingEmergenciesTechnical Issues
Phone

Chambers

(610) 333-1836
General Inquiries
Email

Chambers

General InquiriesCase SettlementsSchedule ChangesSchedulingEmergencies
Letter via ECF

Chambers

Case CommunicationsSettlement Discussions
Letter via ECF

Clerk

Pro Se Communications
No status inquiries
Letter via ECF

Intake Unit

Internship Applications
Filters:AllMandatoryImportantFormattingMemorandaConferencesDiscoveryProposed OrdersPage LimitsSummary JudgmentExhibits

Page & Word Limits8 rules

Page Limits

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

A brief of up to five (5) pages that (1) outlines the efforts the parties have made to resolve the dispute and (2) cites any applicable legal authority.

Summary: Discovery motion brief limited to 5 pages.

Discovery Motion Brief

5 pages

Applies to: Attorney

henpol · p. 4
|SecIII. Civil Pretrial Procedure - C. Discovery
Page Limits

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

A brief of up to five (5) pages that (1) outlines the efforts the parties have made to resolve the dispute and (2) cites any applicable legal authority.

Summary: Discovery dispute briefs are limited to 5 pages.

Brief

5 pages

henpol · p. 4
|SecC. Discovery
Page Limits

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

One reply brief may be filed within fourteen (14) days of service of the opponent's brief in opposition; parties must seek leave from the Court to file any additional supplemental briefings. Reply or supplemental briefings must not exceed ten (10) pages and must be limited to new concerns raised by the response brief.

Summary: One reply brief (max 10 pages) allowed within 14 days of opposition.

Reply Brief

10 pages

Applies to: Attorney

henpol · p. 5
|SecMotions Practice and Oral Argument
Page Limits

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Any dispositive motion and its supporting memorandum of law must not exceed twenty (25) pages. This page limit applies to argument only.

Summary: Dispositive motions and supporting briefs limited to 25 pages.

Dispositive Motion

25 pages

Applies to: Attorney

henpol · p. 5
|SecMotions Practice and Oral Argument
Page Limits

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

One reply brief may be filed within fourteen (14) days of service of the opponent's brief in opposition; parties must seek leave from the Court to file any additional supplemental briefings. Reply or supplemental briefings must not exceed ten (10) pages and must be limited to new concerns raised by the response brief.

Summary: Reply brief limited to 10 pages, due within 14 days; supplemental briefings require leave.

Reply

10 pages

Page Limits

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Any dispositive motion and its supporting memorandum of law must not exceed twenty (25) pages. This page limit applies to argument only.

Summary: Dispositive motions and supporting memoranda are limited to 25 pages for argument.

Motion

25 pages

Page Limits

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?

If a filing exceeds these page limits due only to the size of pictures or charts embedded within the filing, then the party may file the oversize brief and must certify that that is why the brief is oversize. Otherwise, parties must seek leave from the Court to file an oversize brief at least three (3) business days prior to a filing deadline.

Summary: Oversize briefs allowed with certification if due to pictures/charts; otherwise leave required 3 business days before deadline.

Brief

Page Limits

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Note?

These factual statements must be brief and generally nonargumentative and cannot be used to evade page-limit requirements for briefs; factual statements do not count towards the 25-page limit for briefings unless there are substantial argumentative passages.

Summary: Factual statements on summary judgment do not count toward 25-page limit unless substantially argumentative.

Motion

25 pages

Document Format Requirements3 rules

Formatting

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

All Pre-Sentence Investigation Reports and Sentencing Memoranda shall also be promptly delivered to chambers in Microsoft Word Format by email to Chambers_of_Judge_Catherine_Henry@paed.uscourts.gov.

Summary: Pre-Sentence Investigation Reports and Sentencing Memoranda must be delivered to chambers in Microsoft Word format via email.

Required Format

DOCX

henpol · p. 10
|SecG. Sentencing
Formatting

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?

One additional set of exhibits that are not hole punched or marked with anything besides exhibit numbers, which may be presented to witnesses and jurors.

Summary: Additional trial exhibit set for witnesses and jurors must not be hole punched or marked except for exhibit numbers.

henpol · p. 8
|SecF.2 Trial Exhibits
Formatting

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?

One full set of exhibits that is organized in a tabbed binder with all exhibits numbered consecutively (not separately numbered by party).

Summary: Full set of trial exhibits must be organized in a tabbed binder with consecutive numbering.

Layout & Binding
Binding Style
Tabbed Three Ring
henpol · p. 8
|SecF.2 Trial Exhibits

Document Filing Requirements34 rules

Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Parties are also expected to submit all possible threshold motions no later than (5) days before the Rule 16 conference, including any motions to dismiss, transfer, or add parties.

Summary: Threshold motions (dismiss, transfer, add parties) due 5 days before Rule 16 conference.

Document Type

Threshold Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 3
|SecIII. Civil Pretrial Procedure - A. Rule 26(f) Meeting and Report
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The motion must specify (1) the attorney's admissions, (2) why the party desires that attorney to participate in litigation, and (3) why that attorney is particularly qualified to represent the party.

Summary: Pro hac vice admission motions must specify the attorney's admissions, reasons for participation, and qualifications.

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 3
|SecOther General Policies
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The Rule 26(f) report must be submitted no later than five (5) days before the Rule 16 conference.

Summary: Rule 26(f) report due 5 days before Rule 16 conference.

Document Type

Rule 26f Report

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 3
|SecIII. Civil Pretrial Procedure - A. Rule 26(f) Meeting and Report
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Parties who use Artificial Intelligence in preparing papers filed with the Court must declare the use of AI, which AI was used and must certify that the signer checked that all cited authorities are proper.

Summary: AI use must be declared and cited authorities verified.

Document Type

All

Content & Formatting
Ai Disclosure
henpol · p. 3
|SecE. Artificial Intelligence
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The parties are expected to meet at least fourteen (14) days before the Rule 16 Conference.

Summary: Rule 26(f) meeting must occur at least 14 days before Rule 16 conference.

Document Type

Rule 26f Meeting

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 3
|SecIII. Civil Pretrial Procedure - A. Rule 26(f) Meeting and Report
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Parties must fill out the Rule 26(f) form available on Judge Henry’s Court webpage (https://www.paed.uscourts.gov/sites/paed/files/documents/procedures/henpolb.pdf).

Summary: Specific Rule 26(f) form must be used from Judge Henry's webpage.

Document Type

Rule 26f Report

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 3
|SecIII. Civil Pretrial Procedure - A. Rule 26(f) Meeting and Report
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Parties who use Artificial Intelligence in preparing papers filed with the Court must declare the use of AI, which AI was used and must certify that the signer checked that all cited authorities are proper.

Summary: Parties using AI to prepare court filings must declare which AI was used and certify that cited authorities were verified.

Document Type

All

Content & Formatting
Ai Disclosure
henpol · p. 3
|SecE. Artificial Intelligence
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

A motion that (1) complies with Local Civil Rule 26.1(f) by certifying that the parties, after reasonable effort, are unable to resolve the dispute, and (2) specifies whether the parties request a telephone conference with Judge Henry to resolve the matter;

Summary: Discovery motion must certify good faith efforts and request phone conference if desired.

Document Type

Discovery Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 4
|SecIII. Civil Pretrial Procedure - C. Discovery
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

A motion that (1) complies with Local Civil Rule 26.1(f) by certifying that the parties, after reasonable effort, are unable to resolve the dispute, and (2) specifies whether the parties request a telephone conference with Judge Henry to resolve the matter; • A proposed order

Summary: Discovery dispute motions must include certification of efforts to resolve, request for telephone conference specification, and a proposed order.

Document Type

Discovery Motion

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
henpol · p. 4
|SecC. Discovery
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

A proposed order;

Summary: Proposed order required with discovery motion.

Document Type

Discovery Motion

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
henpol · p. 4
|SecIII. Civil Pretrial Procedure - C. Discovery
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Multiple plaintiffs or multiple defendants must file joint motions with their co-parties, unless there are conflicts in their position.

Summary: Multiple plaintiffs/defendants must file joint motions unless conflicts exist.

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 5
|SecMotions Practice and Oral Argument
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

A statement of facts must accompany a moving party's motion for summary judgment.

Summary: Statement of facts required with summary judgment motions.

Document Type

Summary Judgment Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 6
|SecRule 56 Motions for Summary Judgment
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Pretrial memoranda must be submitted at least (7) business days prior to the final pretrial conference and must include the following: • A list of witnesses and the substance of each witness's testimony. • A list and brief description of any motions in limine. • Notice of any depositions (written or video) that the party intends to use at trial. • Any objections to witnesses and exhibits that the parties have been unable to resolve. Wherever applicable, the objecting party must identify the page of an exhibit and page and line number of a deposition that the party objects to and state the basis of the objection. • A list of any joint stipulations that the parties plan to enter at trial. • Proposed joint questions for voir dire. • Proposed joint jury instructions and verdict forms.

Summary: Pretrial memoranda are due 7 business days before the final pretrial conference and must contain witness lists, motions in limine, deposition notices, objections, stipulations, voir dire questions, and jury instructions.

Document Type

Pretrial Memorandum

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 7
|SecF.1 Pretrial Memoranda
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Requests for a continuance must be filed as a motion stating the reasons for the request, the position of the other side, the amount of time sought, and existing conflicts potentially impacting scheduling of a new trial date.

Summary: Continuance motions must include reasons, opposing position, time sought, and scheduling conflicts.

Document Type

Continuance Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 8
|SecTrial continuances
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The proposed form of order must be consistent with the requirements of the Speedy Trial Act, 18 U.S.C. § 3161(h)(8), and must include a proposed

Summary: Continuance orders must comply with Speedy Trial Act and include proposed order.

Document Type

Continuance Motion

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
henpol · p. 8
|SecTrial continuances
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Requests for a continuance must be filed as a motion stating the reasons for the request, the position of the other side, the amount of time sought, and existing conflicts potentially impacting scheduling of a new trial date. Any such motion must be accompanied by a consent form signed by the defendant. The proposed form of order must be consistent with the requirements of the Speedy Trial Act, 18 U.S.C. § 3161(h)(8), and must include a proposed

Summary: Criminal continuance motions must state reasons, other side's position, time sought, and conflicts, and must include a defendant-signed consent form and Speedy Trial Act compliant proposed order.

Document Type

Continuance Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 8
|SecIV.B Trial continuances
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Any such motion must be accompanied by a consent form signed by the defendant.

Summary: Continuance motions require defendant's signed consent form.

Document Type

Continuance Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 8
|SecTrial continuances
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The government must file a trial memorandum by no later than one week before jury selection setting forth the essential elements of the offenses, the facts which it intends to present, the identity of each witness it intends to call, a statement of the substance of each witness' testimony and any legal issues. The defendant is not required to file a trial memorandum but may do so.

Summary: Government must file trial memorandum one week before jury selection with witness and evidence details.

Document Type

Trial Memorandum

Content & Formatting
Case Number
Judge Name
Certificate Of Service
Notice Of Electronic Filing
Statement Of Facts
Legal Argument
henpol · p. 9
|SecF. Trial
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The United States must submit a guilty plea memorandum at least one week prior to the change of plea hearing. The memorandum shall include the elements of each offense to which the defendant is pleading guilty and legal citations for the elements, the maximum statutory penalties for each offense, the terms of any plea agreement and the factual basis for the plea. The change of plea memorandum shall be submitted to chambers by email to Chambers_of_Judge_Catherine_Henry@paed.uscourts.gov.

Summary: Government must submit guilty plea memorandum one week before change of plea hearing via email.

Document Type

Guilty Plea Memorandum

Content & Formatting
Statement Of Facts
Legal Argument
henpol · p. 9
|SecE. Guilty pleas
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The United States must submit a guilty plea memorandum at least one week prior to the change of plea hearing. The memorandum shall include the elements of each offense to which the defendant is pleading guilty and legal citations for the elements, the maximum statutory penalties for each offense, the terms of any plea agreement and the factual basis for the plea. The change of plea memorandum shall be submitted to chambers by email to Chambers_of_Judge_Catherine_Henry@paed.uscourts.gov.

Summary: Government must submit guilty plea memorandum one week before plea hearing with specific content requirements.

Document Type

Guilty Plea Memorandum

Content & Formatting
Case Number
Judge Name
Certificate Of Service
Notice Of Electronic Filing
Statement Of Facts
Legal Argument
henpol · p. 9
|SecE. Guilty pleas
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The government must file a trial memorandum by no later than one week before jury selection setting forth the essential elements of the offenses, the facts which it intends to present, the identity of each witness it intends to call, a statement of the substance of each witness' testimony and any legal issues.

Summary: Government must file trial memorandum one week before jury selection with witness and issue details.

Document Type

Trial Memorandum

Content & Formatting
Statement Of Facts
Legal Argument
henpol · p. 10
|SecF. Trial
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Counsel must file sentencing motions and supporting memoranda at least seven days prior to the scheduled sentencing date, and any response thereto must be filed at least three days prior to the scheduled sentencing date. The memorandum must set forth any legal authority relied upon by the party. No replies may be filed without leave.

Summary: Sentencing motions due 7 days before sentencing; responses due 3 days before; no replies without leave.

Document Type

Sentencing Memorandum

Content & Formatting
Legal Argument
henpol · p. 10
|SecG. Sentencing
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Sentencing memoranda (exclusive of motions), by both the United States and the defense must be filed no later than seven days before the scheduled sentencing date, and any response thereto must be filed at least three days prior to the scheduled sentencing date.

Summary: Sentencing memoranda due 7 days before sentencing; responses due 3 days before.

Document Type

Sentencing Memorandum

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 10
|SecG. Sentencing
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

All Pre-Sentence Investigation Reports and Sentencing Memoranda shall also be promptly delivered to chambers in Microsoft Word Format by email to Chambers_of_Judge_Catherine_Henry@paed.uscourts.gov.

Summary: Pre-sentence reports and sentencing memoranda must be emailed to chambers in Word format.

Document Type

Pre Sentence Investigation Report

Content & Formatting
Case Number
Judge Name
Certificate Of Service
Notice Of Electronic Filing
henpol · p. 10
|SecG. Sentencing
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Counsel must file sentencing motions and supporting memoranda at least seven days prior to the scheduled sentencing date, and any response thereto must be filed at least three days prior to the scheduled sentencing date. The memorandum must set forth any legal authority relied upon by the party. No replies may be filed without leave.

Summary: Sentencing motions must be filed 7 days before sentencing with 3-day response deadline.

Document Type

Sentencing Motion

Content & Formatting
Case Number
Judge Name
Certificate Of Service
Notice Of Electronic Filing
Legal Argument
henpol · p. 10
|SecG. Sentencing
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Sentencing memoranda (exclusive of motions), by both the United States and the defense must be filed no later than seven days before the scheduled sentencing date, and any response thereto must be filed at least three days prior to the scheduled sentencing date.

Summary: Sentencing memoranda must be filed 7 days before sentencing with 3-day response deadline.

Document Type

Sentencing Memorandum

Content & Formatting
Case Number
Judge Name
Certificate Of Service
Notice Of Electronic Filing
Statement Of Facts
Legal Argument
henpol · p. 10
|SecG. Sentencing
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

All proposed orders must contain language to this effect: "The Court reserves its inherent power to modify the terms of this Order and permit the disclosure of information in the interest of justice."

Summary: All proposed orders must include language reserving the Court's power to modify the order.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

A statement of facts must accompany a moving party's motion for summary judgment. The parties may jointly file a statement of stipulated material facts. Alternatively, the moving party may file proposed undisputed material facts. Regardless of which option the parties choose, the moving party must file that initial statement of material facts as a separate document with the moving party's Rule 56 motion. Each fact must be in a separately numbered paragraph and accompanied by pinpoint citations that cite not only the relevant exhibit, but the relevant page and line number of that exhibit.

Summary: Summary judgment motions must include a statement of facts as a separate document with numbered paragraphs and pinpoint citations.

Document Type

Motion

Content & Formatting
Statement Of Facts
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?

Flawed or incomplete submissions will be returned to counsel for revision and resubmission.

Summary: Flawed/incomplete submissions will be returned for revision.

Document Type

Rule 26f Report

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 3
|SecIII. Civil Pretrial Procedure - A. Rule 26(f) Meeting and Report
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?

A party that fails to participate in good faith in the Rule 26(f) meeting, report, or revision requests will have no voice at the initial Rule 16 conference.

Summary: Bad faith in Rule 26(f) process results in no voice at Rule 16 conference.

Document Type

Rule 26f Meeting

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 3
|SecIII. Civil Pretrial Procedure - A. Rule 26(f) Meeting and Report
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?

Amended pleadings must include a brief descriptive summary of all changes and clearly indicate the additions or corrections made by the filing of both a clean copy and a redlined copy.

Summary: Amended pleadings must include a summary of changes and be filed as both clean and redlined copies.

Document Type

Amended Pleading

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 7
|SecE.6 Amended Filings or Briefings
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Note?

Parties are encouraged to attach any key documents for the Court’s review ahead of the Rule 16 conference (e.g., a disputed contract).

Summary: Key documents (e.g., disputed contracts) encouraged for Rule 16 conference.

Document Type

Rule 26f Report

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 3
|SecIII. Civil Pretrial Procedure - A. Rule 26(f) Meeting and Report
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Note?

The parties may attach any supplemental information desired to this form; the form is a minimum requirement.

Summary: Rule 26(f) form is minimum requirement; supplemental information may be attached.

Document Type

Rule 26f Report

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 3
|SecIII. Civil Pretrial Procedure - A. Rule 26(f) Meeting and Report
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Note?

Parties are encouraged to submit a joint appendix with the moving party's briefings.

Summary: Joint appendix encouraged with summary judgment briefings.

Document Type

Summary Judgment Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
henpol · p. 6
|SecRule 56 Motions for Summary Judgment

Filing & Service rules

Courtesy Copy Requirements

Courtesy copies should not be submitted unless specifically requested.

Courtesy copies are not to be submitted unless specifically requested by chambers.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 2 | II. OTHER GENERAL POLICIES

Courtesy copies not required unless specifically requested by chambers

Courtesy copies are not to be submitted unless specifically requested by chambers.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 2 | II. OTHER GENERAL POLICIES

Sealing & Redaction Procedures

Redacted copy must be filed when document is ordered sealed.

If the Court orders that a document be filed under seal, a redacted copy of the document must be filed, unless the Court's order specifies otherwise, or redaction would render the document unreadable.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 5 | Sealing Procedure

Documents cannot be filed under seal without court leave, except in emergencies.

Parties are not permitted to file documents under seal without leave of the Court, unless an emergency arises. Judge Henry will permit parties to file documents under seal or with redactions only after a showing of good cause or presentation of an enforceable private confidentiality agreement contracted prior to litigation. Parties cannot stipulate to sealing documents to avoid showing good cause.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 5 | Sealing Procedure

When Court orders sealing, a redacted copy must be filed unless ordered otherwise or redaction would make it unreadable.

If the Court orders that a document be filed under seal, a redacted copy of the document must be filed, unless the Court's order specifies otherwise, or redaction would render the document unreadable.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Documents cannot be filed under seal without leave of court unless emergency; good cause or pre-litigation confidentiality agreement required.

Parties are not permitted to file documents under seal without leave of the Court, unless an emergency arises. Judge Henry will permit parties to file documents under seal or with redactions only after a showing of good cause or presentation of an enforceable private confidentiality agreement contracted prior to litigation. Parties cannot stipulate to sealing documents to avoid showing good cause.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Filing Bundling Requirements

Multiple plaintiffs or defendants must file joint motions unless conflicts exist.

Multiple plaintiffs or multiple defendants must file joint motions with their co-parties, unless there are conflicts in their position.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Pre-Motion Conference Requirements

Threshold motions must be filed at least 7 days before Rule 16 conference.

Threshold motions (e.g., motions to transfer or substitute parties) should be filed at least seven (7) days before the Rule 16 conference.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Prompt conference held for TRO/preliminary injunction requests.

Judge Henry attempts to hold a prompt conference with counsel seeking and defending requests for temporary restraining orders and preliminary injunctions following an affidavit of service.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 6 | Injunctions & Motions for Temporary Restraining Order

Prompt conference held with counsel for TRO and preliminary injunction motions after affidavit of service.

Judge Henry attempts to hold a prompt conference with counsel seeking and defending requests for temporary restraining orders and preliminary injunctions following an affidavit of service.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

Continuances impacting oral argument or trial dates require 14 business days notice and good cause.

Judge Henry seldom grants continuances that will impact (1) motion deadlines in which oral argument has been scheduled or (2) trial dates. Such continuance requests must be made at least fourteen (14) business days before the applicable deadline or trial date, and they must provide good cause.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 2 | II. OTHER GENERAL POLICIES

Continuance requests must be filed as motions with proposed order for joint requests

Continuance requests for motions and discovery deadlines, hearings, and trial must be filed in the form of a motion. Joint continuance requests must be filed as a joint motion and include a proposed order.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 2 | II. OTHER GENERAL POLICIES

Opposition to continuance motion must be filed within 3 business days with reasons

If a party files a motion for a continuance, all other parties have three (3) business days to file an opposition, which must state the reasons for the opposition.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 2 | II. OTHER GENERAL POLICIES

Continuance requests must be filed as motions; joint requests require proposed order; 3-day opposition period.

Continuance requests for motions and discovery deadlines, hearings, and trial must be filed in the form of a motion. Joint continuance requests must be filed as a joint motion and include a proposed order. If a party files a motion for a continuance, all other parties have three (3) business days to file an opposition, which must state the reasons for the opposition.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 2 | II. OTHER GENERAL POLICIES

Continuances impacting oral argument or trial dates require 14+ business days notice and good cause

Judge Henry seldom grants continuances that will impact (1) motion deadlines in which oral argument has been scheduled or (2) trial dates. Such continuance requests must be made at least fourteen (14) business days before the applicable deadline or trial date, and they must provide good cause.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 2 | II. OTHER GENERAL POLICIES

Continuance requests must be in writing with reason and opposing party's position.

Continuance requests must be made in writing and must include the reason and opposing party’s position related to the request.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 3 | III. Civil Pretrial Procedure - A. Rule 26(f) Meeting and Report

Threshold motions must be filed at least 7 days before Rule 16 conference.

Threshold motions (e.g., motions to transfer or substitute parties) should be filed at least seven (7) days before the Rule 16 conference.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 6 | Threshold Motions

Complex motions in limine must be filed at least 7 business days before final pretrial conference.

Complex motions must be filed at least seven (7) business days before the final pretrial conference.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 7 | Motions in Limine

Criminal trial continuance requests must be filed at least 14 days before the scheduled trial date.

Any request for a continuance must be filed no later than fourteen days in advance of the scheduled trial date.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 8 | IV.B Trial continuances

Continuance requests must be filed at least 14 days before trial.

Any request for a continuance must be filed no later than fourteen days in advance of the scheduled trial date.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 8 | Trial continuances

Expedited sentencing requests require 2-day advance notice to chambers and probation.

If an agreement has been reached to request Judge Henry set an expedited sentencing, the United States must notify Chambers and the probation office at least two days prior to the change of plea hearing.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 9 | E. Guilty pleas

Joint discovery continuance requests may be motion or stipulation; 7 business days notice required if no impact on trial/motion deadlines.

A joint request for a continuance related to discovery may be filed in the form of a motion or as a joint stipulation. Judge Henry will generally grant joint discovery continuance requests if (1) they do not impact key motions deadlines or trial dates, and (2) they are made at least seven (7) business days before the scheduled deadline.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 2 | II. OTHER GENERAL POLICIES

Continuance requests must be in writing and include the reason and opposing party's position.

Continuance requests must be made in writing and must include the reason and opposing party's position related to the request.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 3 | A. Rule 26(f) Meeting and Report

Continuances are discouraged; multiple requests may require in-person appearance.

Continuances are strongly discouraged, and, if multiple continuances are sought, counsel may be required to appear in person to argue the matter.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 9 | B. Continuances

Joint discovery continuances granted if made 7+ business days before deadline and don't impact key dates

Judge Henry will generally grant joint discovery continuance requests if (1) they do not impact key motions deadlines or trial dates, and (2) they are made at least seven (7) business days before the scheduled deadline.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 2 | II. OTHER GENERAL POLICIES

Chambers Communication Rules

Case communications must be filed through ECF whenever possible

Communications regarding cases must be made through filing a pleading, motion, or application through Electronic Case Filing (ECF) whenever possible.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Case communications must use ECF; email only permitted for schedule changes and settlement notice.

Communications regarding cases must be made through filing a pleading, motion, or application through Electronic Case Filing (ECF) whenever possible. Email correspondence regarding cases is permitted in the following situations: • To advise the Court of unanticipated schedule changes (less than seven (7) business days in advance of a deadline) or schedule changes due to personal or medical issues that counsel does not wish to file on the docket. • To promptly advise the Court that a case has been settled.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Pro se litigants must contact clerks' office, not chambers

All pro se communications must be sent to the clerks' office to be docketed. Pro se litigants may not contact Judge Henry or her chambers directly.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Pro se litigants must send communications to clerks' office; direct contact with chambers prohibited.

All pro se communications must be sent to the clerks' office to be docketed. Pro se litigants may not contact Judge Henry or her chambers directly.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 2 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Guilty plea memorandum must be submitted to chambers via email.

The change of plea memorandum shall be submitted to chambers by email to Chambers_of_Judge_Catherine_Henry@paed.uscourts.gov.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 9 | E. Guilty pleas

Pre-Sentence Investigation Reports and Sentencing Memoranda must be emailed to chambers.

All Pre-Sentence Investigation Reports and Sentencing Memoranda shall also be promptly delivered to chambers in Microsoft Word Format by email to Chambers_of_Judge_Catherine_Henry@paed.uscourts.gov.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 10 | G. Sentencing

Fax and regular mail communications are strongly discouraged.

Faxes and regular mail are strongly discouraged.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Faxes and regular mail strongly discouraged

Faxes and regular mail are strongly discouraged.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Email is preferred for general inquiries to chambers

Email is the preferred method of communication. All general inquiries, including questions about these policies, may be emailed to Chambers_of_Judge_Catherine_Henry@paed.uscourts.gov

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Email is the preferred method for general inquiries to chambers.

Email is the preferred method of communication. All general inquiries, including questions about these policies, may be emailed to Chambers_of_Judge_Catherine_Henry@paed.uscourts.gov

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Email permitted for schedule changes under 7 days and case settlements

Email correspondence regarding cases is permitted in the following situations: • To advise the Court of unanticipated schedule changes (less than seven (7) business days in advance of a deadline) or schedule changes due to personal or medical issues that counsel does not wish to file on the docket. • To promptly advise the Court that a case has been settled.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

OSCAR preferred for internship/clerkship applications, email for questions

Judge Henry's highly preferred method for receiving applications is through OSCAR. OSCAR will be consistently updated with deadlines and instructions. Applicants and schools may, however, email Chambers_of_Judge_Catherine_Henry@paed.uscourts.gov with questions that are not resolved in OSCAR.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Telephone calls directed to Court Services Clerk Tanya Allender

Telephone calls should be directed as follows: Court Services Clerk: Tanya Allender (610) 333-1836 Tanya_Allender@paed.uscourts.gov

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Judge Arteaga available for settlement discussions at Rule 16 Conference

Judge Henry is paired with Magistrate Judge José Arteaga. Parties may request that Judge Arteaga preside over settlement discussions at the Rule 16 Conference or as soon thereafter as possible. Judge Henry will then issue a referral order.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 2 | II. OTHER GENERAL POLICIES

Parties may call chambers to resolve unresolvable discovery disputes.

Parties are encouraged to call chambers when an unresolvable discovery dispute arises; if Judge Henry is available, she may resolve the dispute.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 4 | C. Discovery

Counsel may email chambers to request a Rule 16 conference if not scheduled within a reasonable time after the answer is filed.

If a Rule 16 conference has not been scheduled within a reasonable time following the filing of the answer, counsel should email Judge Henry's Chambers to request a conference.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 4 | B. Rule 16 Pretrial Conference

Junior Lawyer Participation Incentives

Oral argument granted only if it would illuminate pleadings or briefs.

Judge Henry will grant requests for oral argument only if oral argument would illuminate any aspect of the pleadings or briefs.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Page 6 | Motions Practice and Oral Argument

About United States District Judge Catherine Henry

**Judge Catherine Henry** was appointed to the Eastern District of Pennsylvania by President Joe Biden in 2024. Judge Henry received her undergraduate degree from Drew University and her law degree from the District of Columbia School of Law. She began her career as a staff attorney at the Feminist Majority Foundation before joining the Defender Association of Philadelphia as a public defender. She then spent more than two decades as an assistant federal defender in the Federal Community Defender's Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. She has also taught at the University of Pennsylvania Law School and Temple University School of Law. **Education** - District of Columbia School of Law, J.D., 1995 - Drew University, B.A., 1991 **Career** - Staff attorney, Feminist Majority Foundation, Arlington, Virginia (1995–1996) - Public defender, Defender Association of Philadelphia (1996–2001) - Assistant federal defender, Federal Community Defender's Office, E.D. Pa. (2001–2024) - U.S. District Judge, E.D. Pa. (2024–present)

**Courthouse:** Holmes Building, 101 Larry Holmes Drive, Easton, PA 18072 **Also:** James A. Byrne U.S. Courthouse, Room 5118, 601 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106 **Phone (Easton):** (610) 333-1833 **Phone (Philadelphia):** (267) 299-7440 **Email:** Chambers_of_Judge_Catherine_Henry@paed.uscourts.gov **Chambers Staff** - Courtroom Deputy: Tanya Allender, (610) 333-1833, Tanya_Allender@paed.uscourts.gov

Common questions about Judge Catherine Henry's rules

Are courtesy copies required for Judge Catherine Henry?

The rule limits courtesy-copy delivery rather than stating a blanket requirement before Judge Catherine Henry. Courtesy copies not required unless specifically requested by chambers

View ruleSource: page 2, section II. OTHER GENERAL POLICIES

Does Judge Catherine Henry require a pre-motion conference or letter before filing a motion?

The rule does not state that a pre-motion letter is required, but it sets the applicable pre-motion procedure. Threshold motions must be filed at least 7 days before Rule 16 conference.

What page or word limits apply to discovery motion brief before Judge Catherine Henry?

Judge Catherine Henry's rule states these limits: attorney: 5 pages. Discovery motion brief limited to 5 pages.

View ruleSource: page 4, section III. Civil Pretrial Procedure - C. Discovery

What page or word limits apply to dispositive motion before Judge Catherine Henry?

Judge Catherine Henry's rule states these limits: attorney: 25 pages. Dispositive motions and supporting briefs limited to 25 pages.

View ruleSource: page 5, section Motions Practice and Oral Argument

What formatting rules apply to filings before Judge Catherine Henry?

Judge Catherine Henry's formatting rule includes file format docx. Pre-Sentence Investigation Reports and Sentencing Memoranda must be delivered to chambers in Microsoft Word format via email.

View ruleSource: page 10, section G. Sentencing

What must be included with all filings before Judge Catherine Henry?

The rule requires ai disclosure. AI use must be declared and cited authorities verified.

View ruleSource: page 3, section E. Artificial Intelligence

What must be included with rule 26f report filings before Judge Catherine Henry?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. Rule 26(f) report due 5 days before Rule 16 conference.

View ruleSource: page 3, section III. Civil Pretrial Procedure - A. Rule 26(f) Meeting and Report

How may parties contact Judge Catherine Henry's chambers?

The rule addresses letter ecf communications with Judge Catherine Henry's chambers. Case communications must be filed through ECF whenever possible

View ruleSource: page 1, section I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

How does Judge Catherine Henry handle sealed or redacted filings?

A motion to seal is required for covered sealed filings before Judge Catherine Henry. Documents cannot be filed under seal without court leave, except in emergencies.

View ruleSource: page 5, section Sealing Procedure

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge Catherine Henry?

Advance notice is not fully stated in the structured details. The request must include proposed order. Continuance requests must be filed as motions with proposed order for joint requests

View ruleSource: page 2, section II. OTHER GENERAL POLICIES

Does Judge Catherine Henry require motion papers to be bundled?

Yes. Judge Catherine Henry requires bundling for covered papers. Multiple plaintiffs or defendants must file joint motions unless conflicts exist.

Does Judge Catherine Henry encourage junior lawyer participation?

Yes. Judge Catherine Henry's rules include a junior lawyer participation incentive. Oral argument granted only if it would illuminate pleadings or briefs.

View ruleSource: page 6, section Motions Practice and Oral Argument
Complete rules summary for Judge Catherine Henry

Flawed/incomplete submissions will be returned for revision.

Email is preferred for general inquiries to chambers

Telephone calls directed to Court Services Clerk Tanya Allender

Faxes and regular mail strongly discouraged

Case communications must be filed through ECF whenever possible

Email permitted for schedule changes under 7 days and case settlements

Pro se litigants must contact clerks' office, not chambers

OSCAR preferred for internship/clerkship applications, email for questions

Judge Arteaga available for settlement discussions at Rule 16 Conference

Continuance requests must be filed as motions with proposed order for joint requests

Opposition to continuance motion must be filed within 3 business days with reasons

Joint discovery continuances granted if made 7+ business days before deadline and don't impact key dates

Continuances impacting oral argument or trial dates require 14+ business days notice and good cause

Courtesy copies not required unless specifically requested by chambers

AI use must be declared and cited authorities verified.

Rule 26(f) report due 5 days before Rule 16 conference.

Rule 26(f) meeting must occur at least 14 days before Rule 16 conference.

Specific Rule 26(f) form must be used from Judge Henry's webpage.

Rule 26(f) form is minimum requirement; supplemental information may be attached.

Key documents (e.g., disputed contracts) encouraged for Rule 16 conference.

Threshold motions (dismiss, transfer, add parties) due 5 days before Rule 16 conference.

Bad faith in Rule 26(f) process results in no voice at Rule 16 conference.

Continuance requests must be in writing with reason and opposing party's position.

Discovery motion must certify good faith efforts and request phone conference if desired.

Discovery motion brief limited to 5 pages.

Proposed order required with discovery motion.

Documents cannot be filed under seal without court leave, except in emergencies.

Redacted copy must be filed when document is ordered sealed.

Dispositive motions and supporting briefs limited to 25 pages.

One reply brief (max 10 pages) allowed within 14 days of opposition.

More Judges in Eastern District of Pennsylvania

Anita B. Brody
Senior Judge
Antonio M. Pozos
Judge
Ashely M. Chan
Bankruptcy
Carol Sandra Moore Wells
Magistrate Judge
Caroline Goldner Cinquanto
Magistrate Judge
Chad F. Kenney
Judge
Craig M. Straw
Magistrate Judge
Cynthia M. Rufe
Senior Judge