Court Rules
Judge

Judge Virginia B. Norton

Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies

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

Limits & Logistics

Courtesy Copies

Courtesy copies

Emergency Pleading

  • 1 copy • Email

Exhibits

  • For Review During Hearing Or Trial

Filings > 30 pages

Adjournments

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

Communication

Email
duvalfc@coj.net
Scheduling
Email

Chambers, Clerk

againers@coj.net
Scheduling
Email
Scheduling
Phone

Chambers

Scheduling
Phone
Court-wide
904-255-1180
Scheduling
Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday
Filters:AllMandatoryImportantFormattingProposed OrdersExhibitsConferencesLettersMemorandaJurySettlement

Document Format Requirements6 rules

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-D-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 in paper format.

Required Format

Paper

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

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

Exhibits must use the prescribed petitioner/plaintiff or respondent/defendant labeling format.

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

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

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

Documents exceeding 30 pages, including attachments, may not be emailed to chambers and must be delivered by hand, U.S. mail, or overnight mail.

However, any large documents (more than 30 pages, including attachments) must NOT be emailed. They will need to be provided via hand delivery, U.S. mail or overnight mail.

Applies When:Page Threshold > 30
FormattingCivil cases

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

All exhibits must be pre-marked with exhibit stickers.

All exhibits shall be pre-marked with exhibit stickers.

Formatting

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

Counsel is responsible for having any technology set-up and ready to use during the trial or hearing without causing unnecessary delay.

Summary: Counsel must have presentation technology set up and ready for each trial or hearing.

Document Filing Requirements33 rules

Filing Requirements

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

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.
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.
Filing Requirements

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

A consent proposed order must include either “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-D-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

Every proposed order must include a cover letter certifying unanimous agreement or identifying any party 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

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
FC-D-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 motion requesting an emergency hearing must detail the issues, the reasons emergency treatment is necessary, and 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 Hearing Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
FC-D-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

A Suggestion of Bankruptcy must be filed in the court file when any party files for federal bankruptcy protection.

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, 2026Mandatory

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

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.

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

To set a case for trial, the requesting party must file a Motion to Set Case for Trial, complete a Trial Set Memorandum, agree on a trial date, and email the motion, memorandum, and agreed date to the judicial assistant.

(1) File a Motion to Set Case for Trial (whether jury or non-jury) when case is at issue. (2) Complete a Trial Set Memorandum. (3) Choose and agree on a Trial date. (4) Email the Motion to Set, Trial Set Memo, and agreed upon Trial date to JA.

Document Type

Motion To Set Case For Trial

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

When a trial is continued, the plaintiff’s attorney must prepare any amended trial orders.

If the trial is continued, it is the responsibility of the Plaintiff’s attorney to prepare any Amended Trial Orders.

Document Type

Amended Trial Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

The requesting party must complete the Trial Set Memorandum form available in the hearing room and on the court’s website.

Complete Trial Set Memorandum form located in hearing room and on the Court’s Website.

Document Type

Trial Set Memorandum

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

When an unrepresented party does not use e-Portal, the proposed order must be submitted in writing with enough copies for the court and each non-ePortal party.

If there is an unrepresented party involved in the case not using e-Portal, the proposed Order must be submitted to the Court in writing, with sufficient copies for an original to be entered by the Court and a copy for each party not using ePortal.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
CV-D-Procedures-Information-updated-2024 · p. 3
|SecProposed Orders After A Hearing
Filing Requirements

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

Every proposed order submitted after a hearing must include a cover letter identifying the order and confirming that the same materials were provided to all opposing counsel or unrepresented parties, including whether they agree with the proposed language.

ALL PROPOSED ORDERS PRESENTED FOLLOWING HEARING, whether submitted to the Court in writing or via email as contemplated supra, MUST INCLUDE A COVER LETTER INDICATING: 1. What the Order is for (i.e. the case, the motion heard, including date and time, the title of the Order, etc.); and 2. That all opposing counsel/unrepresented parties have been provided with the same materials being provided to the Court, and whether the parties agree with the language of the proposed Order.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
CV-D-Procedures-Information-updated-2024 · p. 4
|SecProposed Orders After A Hearing
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The plaintiff’s expert-witness notice must state each witness’s name and address, areas of expertise, expected subject matter, the facts and opinions expected, and the grounds supporting the opinions.

No later than one hundred twenty (120) days prior to the Pre-Trial Conference, Plaintiff(s) shall serve on all opposing counsel and file with the Court a Notice containing the following information regarding each expert witness who will testify at trial on behalf of Plaintiff(s): (a) the name and address of the witness; (b) the area(s) of expertise of the witness; (c) the subject matter of the expected testimony of the witness; (d) the substance of the facts and opinions about which the witness is expected to testify; and (e) a summary of the grounds on which each of the opinions of the witnesses will be based.

Document Type

Expert Witness Notice

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

An expert not listed in the required notice may testify only if the court orders otherwise.

Any expert witness not included on the Notice as provided herein will not be allowed to testify without an order of the Court.

Document Type

Expert Witness Notice

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

Typed proposed jury instructions and verdict forms must be filed at the pretrial conference and may be supplemented before the jury instruction conference.

Typed proposed jury instructions and verdict forms shall be filed with the Court at the Pretrial Conference and may be supplemented prior to the Jury Instruction Conference.

Document Type

Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

Each party must file a copy of its exhibit list at the final pretrial conference.

A copy of each party’s Exhibit List shall also be filed at the Final Pre-Trial Conference.

Document Type

Exhibit List

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

Counsel must discuss pending motions in limine at the required pretrial meeting, and the court will not hear a motion unless all counsel participated in that discussion.

At the pre-trial meeting between counsel required herein, the parties shall discuss pending Motions in Limine in an attempt to resolve any evidentiary disputes. The Court will not hear any Motion in Limine about which all counsel have not held such a discussion.

Document Type

Motion In Limine

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

A motion in limine may address only anticipated evidentiary issues specific to the case, and the court will not consider a non-case-specific motion absent a stipulated order.

Unless otherwise allowed by the Court, any such motion shall (1) address only anticipated evidentiary issues which are (2) specific to this case. No Motion in Limine will be considered by the Court if it is not case specific, except by Stipulated Order.

Document Type

Motion In Limine

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

Counsel must deliver the exhibit list and exhibits to the clerk before evidence is presented, pre-mark all exhibits with exhibit stickers, and file a copy of the exhibit list at the final pretrial conference.

Prior to the presentation of evidence, counsel shall deliver to the Clerk of the Court an Exhibit List along with all exhibits to be introduced. All exhibits shall be pre-marked with exhibit stickers. A copy of each party’s Exhibit List shall also be filed at the Final Pre-Trial Conference.

Document Type

Exhibit List

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The pretrial stipulation must list all trial exhibits, state any objections, and specify the evidentiary status and grounds for any objection for each exhibit.

The Pre-Trial Stipulation shall contain a list of all exhibits which may be offered in evidence at trial, together with a statement of objections, if any, to exhibits offered by the opposing party. With respect to each item, the Pre-Trial Stipulation shall reflect whether or not the evidence will be stipulated into evidence, stipulated as to authenticity, with objection reserved for relevancy and materiality, or objected to in its entirety and the ground therefor.

Document Type

Pretrial Stipulation

Content & Formatting
Exhibit List
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

Counsel must prepare and file a pretrial stipulation at the conference containing the specified factual statement, admissions, disputed issues, pleading amendments, witness list, deposition and exhibit objections, and undisposed matters.

Counsel shall prepare a Pre-Trial Stipulation which shall be filed with the Court at the Pre-Trial Conference and shall contain the following: (a) a concise factual statement of the nature of the action, which shall include the date and place of accrual, identity of the parties as they relate to the action, and a brief general statement of each party’s case or contention. The statement shall be in such form and contain such necessary information for the Court to read to and apprise the jury of the claims to be tried, including any Counter-Claims, Cross-Claims, or Third-Party Claims; (b) a concise statement of those facts which are admitted and will require no proof at trial; (c) a concise statement of those issues or fact which remain to be litigated; (d) any proposed amendments to the pleadings; (e) a complete list of witnesses, including anticipated impeachment witnesses, specifying the name and address of each from whom testimony may be presented at trial; (f) a statement reflecting objections to specific portions of video depositions, testimony, or video exhibits which may be offered in evidence at trial; and (g) a list of any undisposed matters to be heard at the Pre-Trial Conference.

Document Type

Pretrial Stipulation

Content & Formatting
Statement Of Facts
Filing Requirements

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

A Notice of Hearing should identify each motion and its docket line and be e-filed and served immediately after hearing time is reserved.

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.

Document Type

Notice Of Hearing

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The trial set memorandum must be completed before it is presented to the court.

(PLEASE COMPLETE BEFORE PRESENTING TO COURT)

Document Type

Trial Set Memorandum

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Trial-Set-Memorandum-(1) · p. 1
|SecTrial Set Memorandum CV-D
Filing Requirements

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

Stamped, addressed envelopes are required only when pro se parties are involved in the trial-setting matter.

Stamped, addressed envelopes are only needed if there are pro se parties involved.

Document Type

Trial Set Memorandum

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

A proposed order submitted without a hearing may be accompanied by a cover letter copied to all opposing counsel or unrepresented parties, and a courtesy copy of the related motion, stipulation, or other document must be provided.

Proposed Orders without a hearing may be submitted to the Court with a cover letter, which must be copied to all opposing counsel/unrepresented parties. A courtesy copy of the motion, joint stipulation, etc. related to the proposed Order must be provided.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
CV-D-Procedures-Information-updated-2024 · p. 4
|SecProposed Orders Without A Hearing
Filing Requirements

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

The cover letter must state that opposing counsel or the unrepresented party received the same materials and whether they agree with the proposed order language, and the order's service list must include their e-filing addresses.

The letter must state that opposing counsel/unrepresented party has been provided with the same materials being provided to the Court and whether opposing counsel/unrepresented party agrees with the language of the proposed Order. The service list on the Order must contain e-filing addresses for opposing counsel/unrepresented parties.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
CV-D-Procedures-Information-updated-2024 · p. 4
|SecProposed Orders Without A Hearing
Filing Requirements

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

Every proposed consent order must include either “Consent” or “Agreed” in its caption.

C. 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.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

Every exhibit objected to in the pretrial stipulation must be brought to the pretrial conference.

All exhibits which are the subject of any objection raised in the Pre-Trial Stipulation shall be brought to the Pre-Trial Conference.

Document Type

Exhibits

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil casesCourt notice

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

All matters must be properly coordinated and noticed for hearing. Proposed orders and supporting documentation must be submitted to the Judicial Assistant at againers@coj.net no later than ten (10) days prior to the scheduled hearing date.

Summary: Proposed orders and supporting documentation must be submitted to the Judicial Assistant no later than ten days before the scheduled hearing.

Document Type

Uncontested Matters Hearing Submission

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Filing Requirements

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

An Order for Non-Jury Trial must be submitted to the Court after scheduling the non-jury trial. Sufficient copies of the order are to be provided along with addressed, stamped envelopes for unrepresented parties not receiving e-filings.

Summary: After scheduling a non-jury trial in Division FC-D, the requesting party must submit an order to the court and provide sufficient copies with addressed stamped envelopes for unrepresented parties who do not receive e-filings.

Document Type

Non Jury Trial Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
CV-D-Procedures-Information-updated-2024 · p. 5
|SecForeclosure Matters (Division FC-D)
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

No later than ninety (90) days prior to the Pre-Trial Conference, each Defendant shall serve on all other counsel and file with the Court a Notice containing the same information regarding each expert witness who will testify at trial on behalf of that defendant.

Summary: The defendant’s expert-witness notice must contain the same required witness, testimony, opinion, and supporting-ground information as the plaintiffs’ notice.

Document Type

Expert Witness Notice

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

The proposed Order service list must contain E-filing addresses for opposing counsel/unrepresented party.

Machine summary and details

Summary: The proposed order's service list must include e-filing addresses for opposing counsel or an unrepresented party.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
CV-D-Procedures-Information-updated-2024 · p. 3
|SecProposed Orders After A Hearing
Filing Requirements

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

Please include the case number, amount of time needed, type of motion/hearing and information for Plaintiff’s and Defendant’s counsel: name and phone number.

Summary: A foreclosure scheduling email must include the case number, requested duration, motion or hearing type, and counsel’s name and phone number.

Document Type

Scheduling Email

Content & Formatting
Caption
Case Number
CV-D-Procedures-Information-updated-2024 · p. 5
|SecForeclosure Matters (Division FC-D)

Filing & Service rules

Electronic Filing Rules

When all parties use e-Portal, the proposed order may be emailed to the court in Microsoft Word format.

If all parties before the Court are using e-Portal, the proposed Order may be emailed to the Court in Microsoft Word format.

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

Page 3 | Proposed Orders After A Hearing

A Notice of Hearing must be e-filed immediately after hearing time is reserved.

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.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Proposed orders must be submitted through the E-Portal, with copies provided 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

If counsel lacks an email address for an unrepresented party, counsel must mail or hand-deliver the proposed order, cover letter, and all attachments to the court.

If counsel does not have an email address for an unrepresented party, counsel must mail or hand-deliver the proposed Order, cover letter and all attachments to the Court consistent with the instructions above.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | Proposed Orders Without A Hearing

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

The submission of proposed orders and supporting documentation is due no later than ten days before the scheduled hearing date.

Proposed orders and supporting documentation must be submitted to the Judicial Assistant at againers@coj.net no later than ten (10) days prior to the scheduled hearing date.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 1, 2026 · Civil cases · Court notice

Page 1 | UNCONTESTED MATTERS DOCKET

Motions to cancel sales, including emergency motions, 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.

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

Page 4 | F. Emergency and Other Urgent Matters

All exhibits must reach the Foreclosure Case Management Office three days before the evidentiary proceeding.

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 4 | G. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings

Plaintiffs must serve and file an expert-witness notice at least 120 days before the pretrial conference containing the required witness and opinion information.

No later than one hundred twenty (120) days prior to the Pre-Trial Conference, Plaintiff(s) shall serve on all opposing counsel and file with the Court a Notice containing the following information regarding each expert witness who will testify at trial on behalf of Plaintiff(s): (a) the name and address of the witness; (b) the area(s) of expertise of the witness; (c) the subject matter of the expected testimony of the witness; (d) the substance of the facts and opinions about which the witness is expected to testify; and (e) a summary of the grounds on which each of the opinions of the witnesses will be based.

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

Page 1 | EXPERT WITNESSES

Unless good cause is shown, motions in limine must be filed at least 14 days before the final pretrial conference.

Absent good cause shown, all Motions in Limine shall be filed no later than fourteen (14) days before the final Pre-Trial Conference.

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

Page 1 | PRE-TRIAL MOTIONS

Discovery must be completed before the pretrial conference unless counsel extend it in writing or the court orders an extension.

Discovery shall be completed prior to the Pre-Trial Conference unless otherwise extended by written agreement of counsel or by Order of the Court.

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

Page 1 | DISCOVERY

Absent good cause, a motion to exclude expert testimony must be scheduled at least 14 days before the pretrial conference, and the moving party must coordinate the hearing setting.

Absent good cause shown, all motions seeking to exclude expert witnesses testimony shall be scheduled for hearing no fewer than fourteen (14) days before the Pretrial Conference. The moving party shall coordinate the setting of the hearing.

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

Page 1 | PRE-TRIAL MOTIONS

The court may require the parties to appear in person when 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 proposed order must be submitted within 10 days after the hearing.

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

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 3 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments

Each defendant must serve and file an expert-witness notice at least 90 days before the pretrial conference containing the same required information as the plaintiffs’ notice.

No later than ninety (90) days prior to the Pre-Trial Conference, each Defendant shall serve on all other counsel and file with the Court a Notice containing the same information regarding each expert witness who will testify at trial on behalf of that defendant.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases

Page 1 | EXPERT WITNESSES

At least seven days before the pretrial conference, counsel for each party must meet to address settlement, stipulations, exhibits, witnesses, video materials, proposed jury instructions and verdict form, and other matters that will expedite the conference and trial.

No later than seven (7) days prior to the Pre-Trial Conference, attorneys for each party shall meet together by agreement instigated by counsel for the Plaintiff(s), to discuss the possibility of settlement; stipulate to as many facts and issues as possible; examine all exhibits and documents which may be used at trial; furnish opposing counsel the names and addresses of all witnesses who may testify at trial; review all video depositions or exhibits to be used at trial; agree to the extent possible on the use of jury instructions and verdict form at trial; and complete all other matters which may expedite both the Pre-Trial Conference and the Trial of this case.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases

Page 1 | REQUIREMENTS PRIOR TO PRE-TRIAL CONFERENCE

Service and Proof of Service Rules

Plaintiffs must serve the required expert-witness notice on opposing counsel at least 120 days before the pretrial conference.

No later than one hundred twenty (120) days prior to the Pre-Trial Conference, Plaintiff(s) shall serve on all opposing counsel and file with the Court a Notice containing the following information regarding each expert witness who will testify at trial on behalf of Plaintiff(s)

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

Page 1 | EXPERT WITNESSES

All trial exhibits must be provided to opposing counsel before the pretrial conference.

All exhibits intended to be offered at trial shall be exhibited to all opposing counsel prior to the Pre-Trial Conference.

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

Page 1 | TRIAL EXHIBITS

A Notice of Hearing must be served immediately after hearing time is reserved.

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.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Plaintiffs’ counsel must prepare a complete set of proposed instructions and verdict form and serve them on other counsel no later than the pretrial conference.

Counsel for the Plaintiff(s) shall be responsible for preparing a complete set of instructions, and verdict form, and serving the same upon other counsel at or before the Pretrial Conference contemplated by paragraph 3 hereof.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases

Page 1 | JURY INSTRUCTIONS AND VERDICT FORMS

Counsel must deliver an exhibit list and all intended exhibits to the court clerk before presenting evidence.

Prior to the presentation of evidence, counsel shall deliver to the Clerk of the Court an Exhibit List along with all exhibits to be introduced.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases

Page 1 | TRIAL EXHIBITS

Each defendant must serve the required expert-witness notice on all other counsel at least 90 days before the pretrial conference.

No later than ninety (90) days prior to the Pre-Trial Conference, each Defendant shall serve on all other counsel and file with the Court a Notice containing the same information regarding each expert witness who will testify at trial on behalf of that defendant.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Civil cases

Page 1 | EXPERT WITNESSES

All counsel and unrepresented parties must receive copies of the cover letter and proposed order when those materials are provided to the court.

All counsel and unrepresented parties must be copied on the cover letter, including any proposed Order, at the same time provided to the Court.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | Proposed Orders After A Hearing

Courtesy Copy Requirements

Attorneys and self-represented litigants must bring enough exhibit copies 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 or trial.

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

Page 4 | G. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings

An attorney appearing by telephone must provide the judicial assistant with a courtesy copy of the Notice of Hearing.

Additionally, the attorney appearing by telephone is required to provide a courtesy copy of the Notice of Hearing to the JA so the JA can be aware of the incoming call.

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

Page 2 | Setting A Case For Trial

Courtesy copies of motions and memoranda should be delivered at least two weeks before the scheduled hearing.

Courtesy copies of motions and memoranda should be delivered at least two (2) weeks prior to the scheduled hearing.

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

Page 3 | Courtesy Copies

Optional courtesy hard copies for a hearing, motions, memoranda of law, or case law 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.

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

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

Judge Norton does not require courtesy copies or case-law materials to be sent to the office.

Judge Norton 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

Only one copy of an 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 4 | F. Emergency and Other Urgent Matters

Emergency-motion documents exceeding 30 pages, including attachments, must not be emailed to the court’s office.

However, any large documents (more than 30 pages, including attachments) must NOT be emailed.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | Emergency Motions

A copy of an emergency motion must be delivered to the court’s office for review either by hand delivery or email.

The Court requires a copy for review to be delivered to the office either by hand delivery, or email.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | Emergency Motions

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

Filing Bundling Requirements

Hearing materials exceeding 20 pages collectively must be delivered in a binder to the courthouse no later than two weeks before the hearing.

If materials for the hearing are collectively over 20 pages, please have a binder delivered to the courthouse no later than two (2) weeks prior to the hearing.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Setting Hearings

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

Continuances are disfavored, require good cause, and must be requested 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

A set hearing may not be cancelled without the Court’s consent.

Once a hearing is set, it may NOT be cancelled without the consent of the Court.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | B. Scheduling Procedures

A party may not assume that filing a notice of cancellation or dismissal removes a scheduled hearing.

Do NOT assume the hearing is removed by filing a notice of cancellation, notice of dismissal, etc.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | B. Scheduling Procedures

The moving party that obtained the hearing must contact the Court to request cancellation.

The moving party who set the hearing is the party responsible for contacting the Court to request the hearing be canceled.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Chambers Communication Rules

Communications with the judicial office must comply with Canon 3 and copy all parties unless an ex parte communication is authorized by law.

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 1 | A. Communications with the Court

All court communications must be emailed to DuvalFC@coj.net with a subject line identifying 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.).

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

Page 1 | A. Communications with the Court

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.

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

Page 2 | A. Communications with the Court

Hearing coordination with opposing counsel or pro se parties must use E-Portal unless an ex parte communication is authorized by law.

All hearings must be coordinated with opposing counsel or pro se parties utilizing E-Portal unless an ex-parte communication is authorized by law.

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

Page 2 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Attorneys and self-represented litigants must update their contact information on Form 2.603 whenever their registered email address 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.

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

Page 2 | A. Communications with the Court

Hearing requests must be submitted by email to the judicial assistant, include all interested parties including pro se parties, and state the amount of hearing time requested.

Setting Hearings: Hearings may be set by contacting the Judicial Assistant. Please schedule hearings via e-mail. Please include all (including pro se) interested parties in the e-mail when requesting dates and include the amount of time you are requesting for your hearing.

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

Page 1 | Setting Hearings

A hearing cancellation is not effective until it is confirmed with and by the Judicial Assistant.

Cancellation of a hearing MUST be confirmed with and by the J.A.

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

Page 3 | Cancellation of Hearings

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.

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

Page 1 | A. Communications with the Court

A party requesting a hearing on a pending pleading should email the Foreclosure Case Management Office and copy all other parties.

The party requesting a hearing on any pending pleading should email the Foreclosure Case Management Office copying all other parties at DuvalFC@coj.net.

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

Page 2 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Only the party who scheduled a hearing may cancel it, and the party may notify the Judicial Assistant by email while copying opposing counsel.

Only the party setting a hearing may cancel it. You may email the Judicial Assistant and copy opposing counsel notifying the Judicial Assistant of the cancellation.

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

Page 3 | Cancellation of Hearings

Cases may be set for trial by e-mailing the Foreclosure Case Management Office or by doing so at a Case Management Conference.

Procedure: Setting cases for trial will be done through e-mail to the Foreclosure Case Management Office at DuvalFC@coj.net, or at a Case Management Conference.

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

Page 5 | I. Setting Case for Trial

Dates and times may be obtained from the judicial assistant by email.

DATES & TIME can be obtained from the JA Alexis Gainers via email: Againers@coj.net

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

Page 1 | Division Procedures

The judicial assistant must be notified in advance when an out-of-town attorney requests a telephonic appearance.

Should a telephonic appearance be requested by an out-of-town attorney, the JA must be notified in advance of the hearing.

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

Page 2 | Setting A Case For Trial

Remote appearances are prohibited for hearings on motions to compel, motions for sanctions, and discovery motions.

Remote appearances are not permitted for hearings on a Motion to Compel, Motion for Sanctions or discovery motions.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 3 | C. Remote Appearance

A requested hearing is not automatically scheduled until the judicial assistant confirms it.

PLEASE DO NOT ASSUME THE HEARING IS AUTOMATICALLY SCHEDULED UNTIL YOU RECEIVE CONFIRMATION FROM THE JA.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Setting Hearings

A foreclosure hearing date is not secured and may be given to another party until the court sends confirmation.

The Judicial Assistant will respond via e-mail to all with available dates/times. PLEASE NOTE: HEARING DATES/TIMES PROVIDED ARE NOT HELD AND MAY BE GIVEN TO OTHERS. HEARING DATES/TIMES ARE NOT SECURED UNTIL CONFIRMATIN IS SENT FROM THE COURT.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 5 | Foreclosure Matters (Division FC-D)

Telephonic or Zoom appearances do not require court permission for non-evidentiary motion hearings lasting 30 minutes or less.

The Court allows attorney(s) and parties to appear telephonically or by Zoom for non-evidentiary motion hearings consisting of thirty (30) minutes or less without permission from the Court.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 3 | C. Remote Appearance

Division FC-D foreclosure motions, disposition matters, and non-jury trials may be scheduled by emailing the judicial assistant, with all parties included.

Motions, disposition matters and non-jury trials in Division FC-D foreclosure cases may be scheduled by e-mailing the Judicial Assistant Againers@coj.net. All parties should be included in the e-mail.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 5 | Foreclosure Matters (Division FC-D)

Out-of-town attorneys may appear by phone if opposing counsel does not object, but the attorney must call the judicial assistant before the hearing, and multiple phone participants must use one conference call.

The Court allows out-of-town attorney(s) to appear telephonically if opposing counsel has no objection. Prior to the hearing, the attorney appearing by phone will initiate the call to the JA. Only one line may be transferred into the Hearing Room, so multiple attorneys appearing by phone must arrange one conference call to include all others. A Motion to Appear Telephonically is not required to be submitted to the Court.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 5 | Telephonic Appearances

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 Virginia B. Norton

**Division or court number:** CV-D **Court level:** Circuit **Courtroom or hearing room:** Hearing Room 703 **Address:** 501 West Adams Street, Room 7038, Jacksonville, FL 32202 **Judicial assistant:** Alexis Gainers **Email:** Againers@coj.net **Phone:** 904-255-1300

Common questions about Judge Virginia B. Norton's rules

Are courtesy copies required for Judge Virginia B. Norton?

Courtesy-copy rule applies for emergency pleadings. Details: 1 copy, by email. Only one copy of an emergency pleading must be delivered to the court office.

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

What formatting rules apply to filings before Judge Virginia B. Norton?

Judge Virginia B. Norton's formatting rule includes file format docx. Every proposed order must be submitted in Word format.

View ruleSource: page 3, section D. Submission of Orders and Judgments

What must be included with uncontested matters hearing submission filings before Judge Virginia B. Norton?

The rule requires proposed order. Proposed orders and supporting documentation must be submitted to the Judicial Assistant no later than ten days before the scheduled hearing.

View ruleSource: page 1, section UNCONTESTED MATTERS DOCKET

What must be included with proposed order filings before Judge Virginia B. Norton?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. Every proposed order must include a cover letter certifying unanimous agreement or identifying any party disagreement.

View ruleSource: page 3, section D. Submission of Orders and Judgments

How may parties contact Judge Virginia B. Norton's chambers?

The rule addresses email communications. The rule lists email DuvalFC@coj.net. All court communications must be emailed to DuvalFC@coj.net with a subject line identifying the case number, case name, and relevant matter.

View ruleSource: page 1, section A. Communications with the Court

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge Virginia B. Norton?

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 court date; absent good cause, the requesting party must sign the motion.

View ruleSource: page 5, section I. Setting Case for Trial

Does Judge Virginia B. Norton require motion papers to be bundled?

Yes. Judge Virginia B. Norton requires bundling for covered papers. Hearing materials exceeding 20 pages collectively must be delivered in a binder to the courthouse no later than two weeks before the hearing.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Setting Hearings

Is electronic filing required before Judge Virginia B. Norton?

Yes. Electronic filing is required for the covered filings. A Notice of Hearing must be e-filed immediately after hearing time is reserved.

View ruleSource: page 2, section B. Scheduling Procedures

What filing deadlines does Judge Virginia B. Norton set?

The submission of proposed orders and supporting documentation is due no later than ten days before the scheduled hearing date.

View ruleSource: page 1, section UNCONTESTED MATTERS DOCKET

What service or proof of service rules apply before Judge Virginia B. Norton?

The rule addresses service method, recipient, or timing requirements. A Notice of Hearing must be served immediately after hearing time is reserved.

View ruleSource: page 2, section B. Scheduling Procedures
Complete rules summary for Judge Virginia B. Norton

Proposed orders and supporting documentation must be submitted to the Judicial Assistant no later than ten days before the scheduled hearing.

The submission of proposed orders and supporting documentation is due no later than ten days before the scheduled hearing date.

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

All court communications must be emailed to DuvalFC@coj.net with a subject line identifying the case number, case name, and relevant matter.

Communications with the judicial office must comply with Canon 3 and copy all parties unless an ex parte communication is authorized by law.

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 update their contact information on Form 2.603 whenever their registered email address changes.

Every proposed order must be submitted in Word format.

Every proposed order must include a cover letter certifying unanimous agreement or identifying any party disagreement.

Hearing coordination with opposing counsel or pro se parties must use E-Portal unless an ex parte communication is authorized by law.

A party requesting a hearing on a pending pleading should email the Foreclosure Case Management Office and copy all other parties.

A Notice of Hearing should identify each motion and its docket line and be e-filed and served immediately after hearing time is reserved.

A Notice of Hearing must be e-filed immediately after hearing time is reserved.

A Notice of Hearing must be served immediately after hearing time is reserved.

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

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.

A set hearing may not be cancelled without the Court’s consent.

The moving party that obtained the hearing must contact the Court to request cancellation.

A party may not assume that filing a notice of cancellation or dismissal removes a scheduled hearing.

Telephonic or Zoom appearances do not require court permission for non-evidentiary motion hearings lasting 30 minutes or less.

Remote appearances are prohibited for hearings on motions to compel, motions for sanctions, and discovery motions.

Counsel must have presentation technology set up and ready for each trial or hearing.

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

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

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

Judge Norton does not require courtesy copies or case-law materials to be sent to the office.

Optional courtesy hard copies for a hearing, motions, memoranda of law, or case law should arrive three to five business days before the hearing.

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

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