Court Rules
Judge

Judge James H. Daniel

Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies

Rules last changed:
Fourth Judicial Circuit of Florida, Clay, Duval and Nassau Counties

Limits & Logistics

Courtesy Copies

Brief, Case Law

  • At Least 3 To 5 Business Days Before Hearing

Courtesy copies

Emergency Motion

  • 1 copy • Email

Emergency Pleading

  • 1 copy

Adjournments

  • Continuances are disfavored, require good cause, and must be requested at least five days before the scheduled trial date.
  • Continuances are disfavored and require good cause and submission at least five days before the scheduled court date; absent good cause, the requesting party must sign the motion.
Reason For Request

Communication

Email

Chambers

jprather@coj.net
Scheduling
Email

Chambers

duvalfc@coj.net
Email

Chambers

Scheduling
Email
Court-wide

Clerk

durhaml@clayclerk.com
Scheduling
Phone
Court-wide
904-255-1180
Scheduling
Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday
Filters:AllMandatoryImportantFormattingProposed OrdersExhibitsSettlementLetters

Document Format Requirements6 rules

Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Exhibits must be submitted in paper format, sufficient copies must be brought for the clerk, court, and each party, and each exhibit must use the specified party-side labeling format.

Exhibits must be submitted to the Clerk of the Court in paper format. All attorneys and self-represented litigants must bring sufficient copies of each exhibit for the clerk, the Court, and each party to review during the hearing or trial. Exhibits must be labeled in the following format: “Petitioner/Plaintiff A or 1” and “Respondent/Defendant A or 1”.

Required Format

Paper

2026-CV-F-Procedures · Sep 2026 · p. 4
|SecD. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Every proposed order must be submitted in Word format.

All proposed orders must be submitted in Word Format.

Required Format

DOCX

2026-CV-F-Procedures · Sep 2026 · p. 7
|SecI. Submission of Orders and Judgments
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Every proposed order must be submitted in Word format.

All proposed orders must be submitted in Word format.

Required Format

DOCX

FC-F-Policies-and-Procedures-FINAL · Jun 2026 · p. 3
|SecD. Submission of Orders and Judgments
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Exhibits must be submitted to the Foreclosure Case Management Office on paper.

Exhibits must be submitted to the Foreclosure Case Management Office in paper format.

Required Format

Paper

FC-F-Policies-and-Procedures-FINAL · Jun 2026 · p. 4
|SecG. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Attorneys and self-represented litigants must bring enough copies of each exhibit for the clerk, court, and every party.

All attorneys and self-represented litigants must bring sufficient copies of each exhibit for the clerk, the Court, and each party to review during the hearing.

FC-F-Policies-and-Procedures-FINAL · Jun 2026 · p. 4
|SecG. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings
Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Important

Exhibits must use the specified party-label format.

hearing or trial. Exhibits must be labeled in the following format: “Petitioner/Plaintiff 1” or “Respondent/Defendant A”.

FC-F-Policies-and-Procedures-FINAL · Jun 2026 · p. 5
|SecG. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings

Document Filing Requirements17 rules

Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Every Notice of Hearing must contain the ADA notification required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.540.

All notices of hearing must contain the ADA notification required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.540.

Document Type

Notice Of Hearing

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
2026-CV-F-Procedures · Sep 2026 · p. 4
|SecB. Scheduling Procedures
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Counsel must submit a stipulation for an order of dismissal when notifying the court of a settlement or dismissal.

All counsel shall immediately notify this Court in the event of settlement or dismissal and shall submit a stipulation for an order of dismissal.

Document Type

Stipulation For Order Of Dismissal

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
2026-CV-F-Procedures · Sep 2026 · p. 6
|SecH. Setting Case for Trial
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Each proposed order must have a cover letter certifying unanimous agreement or identifying the parties’ disagreement.

All proposed orders must be accompanied by a cover letter either (1) certifying that all parties agree to the order or (2) containing a statement identifying any disagreement of the parties as to the proposed order.

Document Type

Cover Letter

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
2026-CV-F-Procedures · Sep 2026 · p. 7
|SecI. Submission of Orders and Judgments
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A consent order’s caption must include the word “Consent” or “Agreed.”

All consent Orders shall include the word “Consent” or “Agreed” in the caption of the proposed Order.

Document Type

Consent Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
2026-CV-F-Procedures · Sep 2026 · p. 7
|SecI. Submission of Orders and Judgments
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A notice of hearing must identify all motions and their docket lines, be e-filed and served immediately after hearing time is reserved, include the judge’s Zoom credentials for remote appearances, and contain the required ADA notification.

The Notice of Hearing should list all motion(s) and the docket line of the motion, e-filed and served immediately after reserving hearing time. A notice of hearing involving any remote appearance will list the Judge’s Zoom credentials. All notices of hearing must contain the ADA notification required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.540.

Document Type

Notice Of Hearing

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A proposed order entered by consent must include “Consent” or “Agreed” in its caption.

All consent Orders shall include the word “Consent” or “Agreed” in the caption of the proposed Order.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
FC-F-Policies-and-Procedures-FINAL · Jun 2026 · p. 3
|SecD. Submission of Orders and Judgments
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A Notice of Service must be filed when the submitting attorney mails proposed orders to unrepresented parties.

The attorney submitting the order is responsible for ensuring copies of the order(s) are mailed to any unrepresented party or parties and a Notice of Service is filed on the case.

Document Type

Notice Of Service

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
FC-F-Policies-and-Procedures-FINAL · Jun 2026 · p. 3
|SecD. Submission of Orders and Judgments
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Each proposed order must have a cover letter that certifies unanimous agreement or identifies the parties' disagreement.

All proposed orders must be accompanied by a cover letter either (1) certifying that all parties agree to the order or (2) containing a statement identifying any disagreement of the parties as to the proposed order.

Document Type

Proposed Order Cover Letter

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
FC-F-Policies-and-Procedures-FINAL · Jun 2026 · p. 3
|SecD. Submission of Orders and Judgments
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

A detailed motion for an emergency hearing must identify the issues, explain the need for emergency relief, and state each party’s required presentation time.

If a party believes there is a factual basis for setting an emergency hearing, a detailed motion setting forth the following must be filed: (1) the issues to be resolved, (2) reasons why an emergency hearing is necessary, and (3) the amount of time needed for each party’s presentation.

Document Type

Emergency Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
FC-F-Policies-and-Procedures-FINAL · Jun 2026 · p. 4
|SecF. Emergency and Other Urgent Matters
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

Upon settlement or dismissal, counsel must immediately notify the Court and submit a stipulation for an order of dismissal; a mediation report alone will not remove the case from the docket.

• Settlement: All counsel shall immediately notify the Court in the event of settlement or dismissal and shall submit a stipulation for an order of dismissal. Counsel shall also notify the Court of any pending hearings that will be canceled as a result of the settlement. A copy of the mediation report is not sufficient to remove the case from the docket.

Document Type

Stipulation For Order Of Dismissal

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Mandatory

If any party files for federal bankruptcy protection, a Suggestion of Bankruptcy must be filed in the court file.

• Bankruptcy: Should any party file for federal bankruptcy protection, a Suggestion of Bankruptcy MUST be filed in the Court file.

Document Type

Suggestion Of Bankruptcy

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Important

A Notice of Hearing should identify each motion by its docket line.

The Notice of Hearing should list all motion(s) with the docket line of the motion.

Document Type

Notice Of Hearing

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
2026-CV-F-Procedures · Sep 2026 · p. 4
|SecB. Scheduling Procedures
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Important

A Notice of Hearing involving a remote appearance must list the judge’s Zoom credentials.

A notice of hearing involving any remote appearance will list the Judge’s Zoom credentials.

Document Type

Notice Of Hearing

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
2026-CV-F-Procedures · Sep 2026 · p. 4
|SecB. Scheduling Procedures
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026Important

A proposed order may not include the word “proposed” in its title.

Please do not submit a proposed order with “proposed” in the title.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
2026-CV-F-Procedures · Sep 2026 · p. 7
|SecI. Submission of Orders and Judgments
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

If a party believes there is a factual basis for setting an emergency hearing, a detailed motion setting forth the following must be filed: (1) the issues to be resolved, (2) reasons why an emergency hearing is necessary, and (3) the amount of time needed for each party’s presentation.

Summary: A motion requesting an emergency hearing must state the issues, reasons emergency relief is necessary, and presentation time needed by each party.

Document Type

Emergency Hearing Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
2026-CV-F-Procedures · Sep 2026 · p. 5
|SecF. Emergencies and Other Urgent Matters
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Important?

The parties shall complete all information on the form, including the desired mediator and trial date, and submit it as an e-mail attachment to the judge’s Judicial Assistant.

Summary: Parties must complete the trial-set form, including the desired mediator and trial date, and email it as an attachment to the judge’s Judicial Assistant.

Document Type

Trial Set Memorandum

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
2026-CV-F-Procedures · Sep 2026 · p. 6
|SecH. Setting Case for Trial
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Important?

The parties are to advise the Court whether the parties adopt the projected trial date/duration or whether the parties agree to a different trial date/duration along with the proposed mediator.

Summary: The parties must advise the court whether they accept the projected trial date and duration or propose a different date and duration, together with the proposed mediator.

Document Type

Trial Set Memorandum

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
2026-CV-F-Procedures · Sep 2026 · p. 6
|SecG. Initial Case Management Conferences

Filing & Service rules

Electronic Filing Rules

Proposed orders must be submitted through the court’s E-Portal with copies to all parties.

Proposed orders must be submitted to the Court via the E-Portal with copies to all parties.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 7 | I. Submission of Orders and Judgments

The Notice of Hearing should be electronically filed and served as soon as possible after hearing time is reserved.

The NOH should be e-filed and served as soon as possible after reserving hearing time.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 4 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Parties may avoid the in-person case management conference by electronically filing and emailing a completed Division CV-F Trial Set Memorandum at least 14 days before the conference.

The parties may avoid the in-person CMC by E-Filing and emailing the Judicial Assistant a completed Division CV- F Trial Set Memorandum no later than 14 days prior to the date of the CMC.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 6 | G. Initial Case Management Conferences

Attorneys and self-represented litigants must use Form 2.603 whenever their registered electronic-service email account changes.

It is the responsibility of attorneys and self-represented litigants to update their contact information using Form 2.603 any time there is a change in the email account registered for electronic service.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 3 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

Attorneys and self-represented litigants must provide an email address for electronic receipt of signed orders unless excused.

All attorneys and self-represented litigants must provide an email address to receive signed orders electronically, unless excused.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 3 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

Proposed orders must be submitted through the E-Portal with copies to all parties.

Proposed orders must be submitted to the Court via the E-Portal with copies to all parties.

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

Page 3 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

Exhibits must be received in chambers at least three business days before the evidentiary proceeding.

All exhibits must be received in chambers three (3) business days before the evidentiary proceeding.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 4 | D. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings

Parties granted permission to appear remotely at an evidentiary hearing must provide their evidentiary exhibits at least two business days before the hearing.

If permission is granted to appear remotely for an evidentiary hearing, the parties appearing remotely must provide the court with their evidentiary exhibits no later than two businesses days before the hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 5 | E. Remote Appearance

A proposed order must be submitted within 10 days after the hearing.

Proposed orders must be submitted within ten (10) days after any hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 3 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments

All exhibits must be received by the Foreclosure Case Management Office at least three days before the evidentiary proceeding.

• Deadline for Submissions: All exhibits must be received by the Foreclosure Case Management Office three (3) days before the evidentiary proceeding.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 5 | G. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings

The court may require the parties to appear in person if a proposed order is submitted after the deadline.

The Court may require the parties to appear in person for any order submitted beyond the deadline.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 3 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments

A request for remote appearance must be submitted no later than five days before the hearing.

Counsel must submit a request for remote appearance to the Court no later than five (5) days prior to the hearing.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 5 | E. Remote Appearance

A completed Division CV-F Trial Set Memorandum used to avoid the in-person CMC must be e-filed and emailed at least 14 days before the conference.

The parties may avoid the in-person CMC by E-Filing and emailing the Judicial Assistant a completed Division CV- F Trial Set Memorandum no later than 14 days prior to the date of the CMC.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 6 | G. Initial Case Management Conferences

Proposed orders must be submitted within ten days after the hearing, and late-submitted orders may require the parties to appear in person.

Proposed orders must be submitted within ten (10) days after any hearing. The Court may require the parties to appear in person for any order submitted beyond the deadline.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 7 | I. Submission of Orders and Judgments

Service and Proof of Service Rules

For parties not receiving E-Portal service, the submitting attorney must mail the order to each unrepresented party and file proof of service.

Parties not receiving service through the e-portal: the attorney submitting the order is responsible for ensuring copies of the order(s) are mailed to any unrepresented party or parties and a Notice of Service is filed on the case. The following language should be on all orders for a party or parties not receiving service through the e-portal: Counsel shall serve a copy of this Order, by regular mail, to all parties not receiving service of court filings through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal and shall file a certificate of service in the court file.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 7 | I. Submission of Orders and Judgments

After filing a motion for rehearing, new trial, reconsideration, or clarification with the clerk, an email copy must be sent to the court.

Motion for Rehearing/Motion for New Trial/Motion for Reconsideration/Motion for Clarification: After the motion is properly filed with the Clerk of Court, please send the Court a copy of the motion via email.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 7 | J. Other Division Procedures

Copies of proposed orders submitted through the E-Portal must be provided to all parties.

Proposed orders must be submitted to the Court via the E-Portal with copies to all parties.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 7 | I. Submission of Orders and Judgments

The submitting attorney must mail the order to every unrepresented party and file a Notice of Service.

The attorney submitting the order is responsible for ensuring copies of the order(s) are mailed to any unrepresented party or parties and a Notice of Service is filed on the case.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 3 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments

The Notice of Hearing should be served as soon as possible after hearing time is reserved.

The NOH should be e-filed and served as soon as possible after reserving hearing time.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 4 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Orders benefiting unrepresented parties must direct counsel to serve them by regular mail and to file a certificate of service.

The Page 3 of 6 Updated June 1, 2026 ===== PAGE 4 ===== following language should be on all orders for a party or parties not receiving service through the e-portal: Counsel shall serve a copy of this Order, by regular mail, to all parties not receiving service of court filings through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal and shall file a certificate of service in the court file.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments

Copies of each proposed order must accompany submission to all parties.

Proposed orders must be submitted to the Court via the E-Portal with copies to all parties.

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

Page 3 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments

Courtesy Copy Requirements

Judge Daniel does not require courtesy copies of pleadings or case law to be sent to the office.

Judge Daniel does not require courtesy copies of the pleadings or case law to be sent to the office.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 4 | C. Courtesy Copies of Pleadings, Case Law, and Other Documents

Judge Daniel does not require courtesy copies or case law to be sent to the office.

Judge Daniel does not require courtesy copies or case law to be sent to the office.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 4 | E. Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents

One copy of the emergency pleading must be delivered to the court office.

The Court requires a copy to be delivered to the office by email, mail or hand delivery. Please send only one copy.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 5 | F. Emergencies and Other Urgent Matters

One copy of an emergency pleading must be delivered to the court by email, mail, or hand delivery.

The Court requires a copy to be delivered to the office by email, mail or hand delivery. Please send only one copy.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | F. Emergency and Other Urgent Matters

Optional courtesy hard copies may be provided by U.S. mail, FedEx, UPS, or hand delivery.

Please provide hard copies via U.S. mail, FedEx, UPS, or hand delivery.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | E. Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents

If counsel wants courtesy copies for a hearing, motions, memorandum of law, or case law, hard copies should arrive three to five business days before the hearing.

If counsel would like the Judge to have courtesy copies for a hearing, motions, memorandum of law, or case law hard copies should be received by the Foreclosure Case Management Office at least three to five business days prior to the scheduled hearing date.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | E. Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents

Filing Bundling Requirements

A motion to cancel sale, including an emergency motion, must be submitted as early as possible to permit adequate review and action.

Motions (and emergency) to Cancel Sales shall be provided at the earliest possible time to allow adequate time for review and action.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | F. Emergency and Other Urgent Matters

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

Continuances are disfavored and require good cause and submission at least five days before the scheduled court date; absent good cause, the requesting party must sign the motion.

• Continuance Procedure: Continuances are disfavored and will be granted only upon good cause shown. A request for continuance must be submitted at least five (5) days prior to the scheduled court date. Except for good cause shown, the motion must be signed by the party requesting the continuance, as required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.545(e).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 5 | I. Setting Case for Trial

Continuances are disfavored, require good cause, and must be requested at least five days before the scheduled trial date.

Continuances are disfavored and will be granted only upon good cause shown. A request for continuance must be submitted at least five (5) days prior to the scheduled trial date.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 6 | H. Setting Case for Trial

Chambers Communication Rules

All communications to the judicial office must be emailed to the stated address with the case number, case name, and relevant matter in the subject line.

All communications to the judicial office must be submitted by e-mail to jprather@coj.net. The subject line must contain the case number, style (case name), and relevant matter.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 3 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

Communications with the judicial office must comply with Canon 3, and all parties must be copied unless law authorizes an ex parte communication.

All communications with the judicial office must comply with Canon 3 of the Code of Judicial Conduct, which prohibits a judge from initiating, permitting, or considering ex parte communications and from considering other communications outside the presence of all parties concerning a pending or impending proceeding, unless authorized by law. All parties must be copied on any email directed to the judicial office, unless an ex parte communication is authorized by law.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 3 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

A requested hearing date or time is not secured until the Judicial Assistant sends a confirmation email.

Hearing dates/times are not secured until a confirmation email is sent from the Judicial Assistant.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 4 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Counsel must immediately notify the court of a settlement or dismissal and submit a stipulation for an order of dismissal.

All counsel shall immediately notify this Court in the event of settlement or dismissal and shall submit a stipulation for an order of dismissal.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 6 | H. Setting Case for Trial

Hearing requests must be coordinated by email with opposing counsel or pro se parties, unless an ex parte communication is authorized, and the requester must email the Judicial Assistant while copying all other parties.

All hearings must be coordinated with opposing counsel or pro se parties utilizing email unless an ex-parte communication is authorized by law. The party requesting a hearing on any pending pleading should email the Judicial Assistant coping all other parties at jprather@coj.net.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 4 | B. Scheduling Procedures

The completed trial-set form must be submitted by email attachment to the judge’s Judicial Assistant.

The parties shall complete all information on the form, including the desired mediator and trial date, and submit it as an e-mail attachment to the judge’s Judicial Assistant.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 6 | H. Setting Case for Trial

The moving party filing a motion to continue must contact the court to request a hearing on the motion.

The moving party who files a Motion to Continue is the party responsible for contacting the Court to request a hearing be scheduled on the motion.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 6 | H. Setting Case for Trial

Copies of all parties must be included on emails to the judicial office unless an ex parte communication is authorized by law.

All parties must be copied on any email directed to the judicial office, unless an ex parte communication is authorized by law.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 1 | A. Communications with the Court

The Judicial Assistant may not provide legal advice.

The Judicial Assistant is not authorized to provide legal advice.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026

Page 3 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

Counsel must notify the court of hearings canceled because of settlement and separately notify the Judicial Assistant, because filing the mediation report does not remove the case from the docket.

Counsel shall also notify the Court of any pending hearings that will be canceled as a result of the settlement. The filing of the mediation report is not sufficient to remove the case from the docket. The parties must notify the Judicial Assistant of the settlement.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 6 | H. Setting Case for Trial

The Court will not consider unsolicited communications from non-parties, and parties must follow the stated practices when contacting the judicial office.

Unsolicited communications from non-parties will not be considered by the Court. Parties may only contact the judicial office according to these practices and procedures.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 3 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

The Court will not consider unsolicited communications from non-parties, and parties must contact the judicial office only as permitted by the stated practices and procedures.

Unsolicited communications from non-parties will not be considered by the Court. Parties may only contact the judicial office according to these practices and procedures.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | A. Communications with the Court

Any party may request a status conference when the case requires one.

Status Conference: Any party may request a status conference when a case requires.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | B. Scheduling Procedures

All communications with the Court must be emailed to the Foreclosure Case Management Office, and the subject line must identify the case number, case name, and relevant matter.

All communications with the Court must be submitted to the Foreclosure Case Management Office by email at DuvalFC@coj.net. The subject line must contain the case number, case name, and relevant matter (e.g., 2025 CA 001234 – ABC v. 123 - 2-Hour Hearing Requested.).

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | A. Communications with the Court

Court-wide rules

Applies court-wide

These 62 rules apply across Fourth Judicial Circuit of Florida, Clay, Duval and Nassau Counties. Where this judge's own standing orders above address the same topic, the judge's requirement controls.

Filing Requirements

All 30
  • Applies to
    Motion
    Must include
    case number

    A motion must be entered on the clerk's docket, with its docket number provided, before hearing time may be requested.

  • Applies to
    Motion to set for hearing

    A motion to set a hearing is required when the requested hearing will exceed one hour.

  • Applies to
    Notice of hearing

    The notice of hearing must satisfy Rule 2.530(b), including identifying the communication technology and providing access directions.

Filing Timing

All 13
  • Counsel may not file a notice of hearing until the court confirms the hearing by email.

  • Counsel must file a compliant notice of hearing within three days after hearing confirmation, identifying the communication technology and providing access directions.

  • Proposed orders for remote-hearing requests must be submitted at least one week before the hearing.

Communication

All 7
  • Contact
    Email to clerk

    All scheduling must be conducted by email with the clerk.

  • Contact
    Email

    Proposed orders subject to this direction must be emailed directly to the judicial assistant.

  • The court must be notified upon settlement so the case can be removed from the trial docket.

Service

All 6
  • Service
    Electronic service

    The court cannot use electronic service as the sole method for a party who has not filed a Notice of Designation of Email Address.

  • Service
    Email

    All pro se parties must serve a designation of a primary email address, and may obtain the form from the clerk of court.

  • Applies to
    Papers and pleadings
    Service
    Mail to opposing party

    Further papers and pleadings may be served by mail or email, and service is complete upon mailing or emailing.

About Judge James H. Daniel

**Division or court number:** CV-F **Court level:** Circuit **Courtroom or hearing room:** Chambers 736 **Address:** Duval County Courthouse, 501 West Adams Street, Suite 7271, Jacksonville, Florida 32202 **Judicial assistant:** Jennie Prather **Email:** jprather@coj.net **Phone:** (904) 255-1240

Common questions about Judge James H. Daniel's rules

Are courtesy copies required for Judge James H. Daniel?

Courtesy-copy rule applies for emergency pleadings. Details: 1 copy. One copy of the emergency pleading must be delivered to the court office.

View ruleSource: page 5, section F. Emergencies and Other Urgent Matters

What formatting rules apply to filings before Judge James H. Daniel?

Judge James H. Daniel's formatting rule includes file format paper, bring sufficient copies of each exhibit for the clerk, the court, and each party to review during the hearing or trial., and label exhibits as “petitioner/plaintiff a or 1” and “respondent/defendant a or 1”.. Exhibits must be submitted in paper format, sufficient copies must be brought for the clerk, court, and each party, and each exhibit must use the specified party-side labeling format.

View ruleSource: page 4, section D. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings

What must be included with notice of hearing filings before Judge James H. Daniel?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. Every Notice of Hearing must contain the ADA notification required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.540.

View ruleSource: page 4, section B. Scheduling Procedures

What must be included with emergency hearing motion filings before Judge James H. Daniel?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. A motion requesting an emergency hearing must state the issues, reasons emergency relief is necessary, and presentation time needed by each party.

View ruleSource: page 5, section F. Emergencies and Other Urgent Matters

How may parties contact Judge James H. Daniel's chambers?

The rule addresses email communications with Judge James H. Daniel's chambers. The rule lists email jprather@coj.net. All communications to the judicial office must be emailed to the stated address with the case number, case name, and relevant matter in the subject line.

View ruleSource: page 3, section A. Communications with the Judicial Office

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge James H. Daniel?

Advance notice is not fully stated in the structured details. The request must include reason for request. Continuances are disfavored, require good cause, and must be requested at least five days before the scheduled trial date.

View ruleSource: page 6, section H. Setting Case for Trial

Does Judge James H. Daniel require motion papers to be bundled?

Yes. Judge James H. Daniel requires bundling for covered papers. A motion to cancel sale, including an emergency motion, must be submitted as early as possible to permit adequate review and action.

View ruleSource: page 4, section F. Emergency and Other Urgent Matters

Is electronic filing required before Judge James H. Daniel?

Yes. Electronic filing is required for the covered filings. Attorneys and self-represented litigants must provide an email address for electronic receipt of signed orders unless excused.

View ruleSource: page 3, section A. Communications with the Judicial Office

What filing deadlines does Judge James H. Daniel set?

Exhibits must be received in chambers at least three business days before the evidentiary proceeding.

View ruleSource: page 4, section D. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings

What rule applies to service for proposed order before Judge James H. Daniel?

The rule addresses service method, recipient, or timing requirements. Details: method: e-service, recipient: all parties. Copies of proposed orders submitted through the E-Portal must be provided to all parties.

View ruleSource: page 7, section I. Submission of Orders and Judgments
Complete rules summary for Judge James H. Daniel

Parties must complete the trial-set form, including the desired mediator and trial date, and email it as an attachment to the judge’s Judicial Assistant.

The Judicial Assistant may not provide legal advice.

All communications to the judicial office must be emailed to the stated address with the case number, case name, and relevant matter in the subject line.

Communications with the judicial office must comply with Canon 3, and all parties must be copied unless law authorizes an ex parte communication.

The Court will not consider unsolicited communications from non-parties, and parties must follow the stated practices when contacting the judicial office.

Attorneys and self-represented litigants must provide an email address for electronic receipt of signed orders unless excused.

Attorneys and self-represented litigants must use Form 2.603 whenever their registered electronic-service email account changes.

Hearing requests must be coordinated by email with opposing counsel or pro se parties, unless an ex parte communication is authorized, and the requester must email the Judicial Assistant while copying all other parties.

A requested hearing date or time is not secured until the Judicial Assistant sends a confirmation email.

A Notice of Hearing should identify each motion by its docket line.

The Notice of Hearing should be electronically filed and served as soon as possible after hearing time is reserved.

The Notice of Hearing should be served as soon as possible after hearing time is reserved.

Exhibits must be submitted in paper format, sufficient copies must be brought for the clerk, court, and each party, and each exhibit must use the specified party-side labeling format.

A Notice of Hearing involving a remote appearance must list the judge’s Zoom credentials.

Every Notice of Hearing must contain the ADA notification required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.540.

Any party may request a status conference when the case requires one.

Judge Daniel does not require courtesy copies of pleadings or case law to be sent to the office.

Exhibits must be received in chambers at least three business days before the evidentiary proceeding.

A request for remote appearance must be submitted no later than five days before the hearing.

Parties granted permission to appear remotely at an evidentiary hearing must provide their evidentiary exhibits at least two business days before the hearing.

A motion requesting an emergency hearing must state the issues, reasons emergency relief is necessary, and presentation time needed by each party.

One copy of the emergency pleading must be delivered to the court office.

Parties may avoid the in-person case management conference by electronically filing and emailing a completed Division CV-F Trial Set Memorandum at least 14 days before the conference.

A completed Division CV-F Trial Set Memorandum used to avoid the in-person CMC must be e-filed and emailed at least 14 days before the conference.

The parties must advise the court whether they accept the projected trial date and duration or propose a different date and duration, together with the proposed mediator.

The completed trial-set form must be submitted by email attachment to the judge’s Judicial Assistant.

Continuances are disfavored, require good cause, and must be requested at least five days before the scheduled trial date.

The moving party filing a motion to continue must contact the court to request a hearing on the motion.

Counsel must immediately notify the court of a settlement or dismissal and submit a stipulation for an order of dismissal.

Counsel must submit a stipulation for an order of dismissal when notifying the court of a settlement or dismissal.

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