Court Rules
Judge Christine E. Arendas
Judge

Judge Christine E. Arendas

Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies

Rules last changed:
Ninth Judicial Circuit of Florida, Orange and Osceola Counties

Limits & Logistics

Document Limits

Legal Memoranda
10 pgs

Courtesy Copies

Chambers Copy

  • At Least 5 Business Days Before Hearing

Courtesy copies

  • Email • At Least 3 Business Days Before Hearing

Filings > 10 pages

  • At Least 3 Business Days Before Hearing

Hearing Materials

  • At Least 5 Business Days Before Hearing

Adjournments

  • If a party believes the established trial date does not allow enough time to complete discovery and can show good cause, counsel must immediately request a status hearing or case management conference.
  • Motions to continue are disfavored unless the movant shows good cause.
  • A motion to continue must include a written client consent and specifically state good cause; generalized requests for more time or mere party agreement are insufficient.
  • +1 more

Request must include

Reason For Request

Communication

Email

Clerk

melissa.burr@osceolaclerk.org
Email

Chambers

division20b@ocnjcc.org
SchedulingEmergencies
Phone

Duty Judge

407/836-3980
Emergencies
Phone
Scheduling
Phone
Court-wide

Clerk

407-836-2059
Technical Issues
Phone
Court-wide

Clerk

407-836-2000
Filters:AllMandatoryImportantFormattingSettlementProposed OrdersCertificatesElectronicsMemorandaExhibitsJury

Page & Word Limits1 rule

Page Limits

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

In most instances, a legal memorandum should not exceed 10 double-spaced pages.

Note: In most instances legal memoranda should not exceed 10 double- spaced pages.

Legal Memoranda

10 pages

Div-20B-Procedures · p. 10
|SecL. Hearing Notebooks, Exhibits, Legal Memoranda, and Citations

Document Format Requirements9 rules

FormattingCivil cases

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

Exhibits and demonstrative aids must be exchanged, initialed by all counsel, tagged and marked for identification, and have any objections separately noted.

all exhibits and demonstrative aids (including Power Point Presentations) must be exchanged, initialed by counsel for all parties, and tagged and marked for identification. Any objections must be separately noted.

Pretrial-Checklist-Order-Controlling-Trial · Nov 2023
|SecBE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Formatting

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

With written client consent, counsel may email a proposed withdrawal order in Word after the motion is docketed, using the case number and order name as the filename.

When the client has provided written consent to counsel’s withdrawal, counsel may submit a proposed order saved in Word as “Case Number – Order Name” (after the motion has been docketed by the Clerk), to the division email division20b@ocnjcc.org

Required Format

DOCX

Div-20B-Procedures · p. 8
|SecI(H)(1) Motions to Withdraw
Formatting

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

Exhibits for evidentiary proceedings, including non-jury trials, must be submitted as hard copies.

Exhibits for evidentiary proceedings, including non-jury trials, must be submitted in hard copy.

Required Format

Paper

Div-20B-Procedures · p. 10
|SecL. Hearing Notebooks, Exhibits, Legal Memoranda, and Citations
Formatting

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

Orders must be double-spaced, formatted on 8 1/2 by 11-inch plain white paper, and comply with Rule 2.520.

All orders must be formatted for 8 1/2 X 11 plain white paper, double spaced, and comply with the formatting requirements of Rule 2.520, Fla. R. Jud. Admin.

Typography
Line SpacingDouble
FormattingCivil cases

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

The copy of the jury instructions and verdict forms provided to the court by email must be in MS Word, use Times New Roman 14-point font, and be double spaced.

provide a Copy in MS Word (in Times New Roman font – 14 pt. double spaced) - to the Court via email to 20Bosceola@ninthcircuit.org

Typography
Font FamilyTimes New Roman
Size14 pt
Line SpacingDouble
Required Format

DOCX

Formatting

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

Do not submit hearing materials to the court on thumb drives.

The court does not accept thumb drives.

Div-20B-Procedures · p. 7
|SecI(F)(2) Ex-Parte/Short Matters
Formatting

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

The Judge may require orders to be provided electronically in Word by email.

Required Format

DOCX

FormattingCivil cases

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

Submitted to the Judge at the Pre-Trial Conference. File originals with the Clerk and provide a Copy in MS Word (in Times New Roman font – 14 pt. double spaced) - to the Court via email to 20Bosceola@ninthcircuit.org

Summary: Jury instructions and verdict forms must be submitted to the judge at the pretrial conference, with originals filed with the clerk and an MS Word copy emailed to the court in 14-point Times New Roman, double-spaced format.

Typography
Font FamilyTimes New Roman
Size14 pt
Line SpacingDouble
Pretrial-Checklist-Order-Controlling-Trial · Nov 2023
|SecBE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Formatting

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

Proposed Orders must be saved in the following manner “Case Number – Order Name”.

Summary: Proposed orders must use the filename format “Case Number – Order Name.”

Required Format

DOCX

Div-20B-Procedures · p. 11
|SecN. Orders and Rulings of the Court

Document Filing Requirements98 rules

Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

A petition requesting court approval of a proposed settlement must state the facts of the claim, question, or dispute giving rise to the settlement.

The party(ies) requesting the Court’s approval of a proposed settlement must provide the following: 1. A petition stating:  the facts of the claim, question, or dispute giving rise to the proposed settlement;

Document Type

Petition For Settlement Approval

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The petition must state the proposed distribution of settlement proceeds among all persons, estates, and other entities entitled to recover a portion.

the proposed distribution of settlement proceeds among all persons, estates, and other entities entitled to recover a portion of the settlement proceeds;

Document Type

Petition For Settlement Approval

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The petition must identify the legal guardian or parent requesting approval and that person's relationship to the minor or ward.

the identity and relationship to the minor or ward of the legal guardian or parent requesting that the Court approve the proposed settlement;

Document Type

Petition For Settlement Approval

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The required medical-record attachments include the History and Physical, hospitalization records if applicable, and final reports from each primary treating physician addressing future-care needs.

3. Required attachments: A. Medical records:  the History and Physical showing the presenting condition;  the Admission and Discharge and Summary Resume, if hospitalized;  final reports from each primary treating physician, including statement of the need for, or lack of need for, future care and

Document Type

Medical Records

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The petition must state why the proposed settlement serves the best interests of the minor or ward.

the reason(s) the proposed settlement serves the best interests of the minor or ward;

Document Type

Petition For Settlement Approval

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

When required by statute or court order, the requesting parties must provide a motion to appoint a guardian ad litem.

When required by statute or order:  a Motion to Appoint Guardian ad Litem;

Document Type

Motion To Appoint Guardian Ad Litem

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The petition must justify the proposed distribution of settlement proceeds.

the justification for the proposed distribution of settlement proceeds;

Document Type

Petition For Settlement Approval

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The petition must explain how settlement funds will be invested or protected and identify and describe the proposed financial institutions, funds, or other financial products, including their rating and stability.

how the funds will be invested or protected, including identification, rating, and stability of proposed financial institution(s), fund(s), or other financial products.

Document Type

Petition For Settlement Approval

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The petition must state the terms and gross amount of the proposed settlement.

the terms and gross amount of the proposed settlement;

Document Type

Petition For Settlement Approval

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

Copies of all release and settlement agreements requiring the legal guardian's or parent's signature must be provided.

copies of all release and settlement agreements that the legal guardian or parent will be required to sign;

Document Type

Settlement And Release Agreement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

If a settlement agreement binds a minor or ward to defend, indemnify, or hold harmless, legal authority supporting that the minor or ward may be bound must be attached.

if the parties intend to bind the minor or ward to a duty to defend, to indemnify, or to hold harmless, legal authority holding that a minor or ward can be bound to defend, indemnify, or hold harmless must also be attached;

Document Type

Settlement And Release Agreement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The closing statement must itemize all claims, including unresolved claims, to be paid with proceeds from the proposed settlement.

itemizing all claims, including unresolved claims, that will be paid with proceeds from the proposed settlement.

Document Type

Closing Statement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The closing statement must itemize all attorneys' fees and identify each lawyer and law firm receiving any portion of those fees.

itemizing all attorney’s fees and the identity of each lawyer and law firm receiving all or part of the fees;

Document Type

Closing Statement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The closing statement must itemize all resolved and unresolved liens, including outstanding balances owed.

itemizing all resolved and unresolved liens, including outstanding balances owed;

Document Type

Closing Statement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The proposed settlement materials must include documentation of the annuity's present value.

documentation of the annuity’s present value;

Document Type

Annuity

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The proposed settlement materials must include documentation of the annuity's payment schedule.

documentation of the annuity’s payment schedule;

Document Type

Annuity

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The proposed settlement materials must include documentation of the issuing annuity company's rating.

documentation of the issuing company’s rating;

Document Type

Annuity

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The closing statement must identify all recipients of settlement proceeds and the proposed allocation among them.

identifying all recipients of the settlement proceeds and the proposed allocation among them;

Document Type

Closing Statement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

Plaintiff's counsel must certify that all required release and settlement agreements were personally reviewed and approved.

by plaintiff’s counsel that all required release and settlement agreements have been personally reviewed and approved by plaintiff’s counsel; and

Document Type

Settlement Certification

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

Counsel for all parties must certify that the settlement releases only the settling party and its insurers, not any other defendant or nonparty.

by counsel for all parties that the settlement is intended to release only the settling party and their insurer(s) and that the settlement is not intended to release any other defendant or nonparty; and

Document Type

Settlement Certification

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The proposed settlement materials must include documentation of the annuity's cost.

documentation of the annuity’s cost;

Document Type

Annuity

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The proposed settlement materials must identify the company issuing any contemplated annuity.

identification of the company issuing the annuity;

Document Type

Annuity

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

If a proposed deposition occurs within 14 days of the examination, the written report must reach deposing counsel at least five days before deposition.

Should any of the dates be within 14 days of the examination the above referred to report shall be provided to deposing counsel no later than 5 days before the deposition date.

Document Type

Expert Written Report

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

The examining physician or healthcare provider must issue a detailed written report and provide it to all counsel within 14 business days after the examination.

Pursuant to Fla. R. Civ. P. 1.360(b) a “detailed written report” will be issued by the examining physician or healthcare provider and provided to all counsel no later than 14 business days after the day of the examination.

Document Type

Expert Written Report

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

When new information changes an expert's opinion or conclusion, opposing counsel must be notified immediately and given a revised or supplemental report and dates for updated depositions.

Any changes of opinions or conclusions based on new information must be made known to opposing counsel immediately, a revised or supplemental report provided and dates for updated depositions must also be provided.

Document Type

Supplemental Expert Report

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Compulsory Medical Examination Guidelines · p. 5
|SecOpinions Not Contained in Written Reports
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

A Rule 1.360 report is inadmissible at trial unless the parties stipulate to its admissibility.

No report under Fla. R. Civ. P. 1.360 will be admissible at trial absent a stipulation by the parties.

Document Type

Expert Written Report

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

Demonstrative aids may not be used during opening statements without the parties' agreement or a court order entered before the first day of trial.

Demonstrative aids may NOT be used during Opening Statement without (i) agreement or (ii) prior (before the first day of trial) court order.

Document Type

Demonstrative Aids

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Pretrial-Checklist-Order-Controlling-Trial · Nov 2023
|SecBE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Filing Requirements

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

A Certificate of Conferral must be attached to the motion.

A Certificate of Conferral is to be attached to the motion.

Document Type

Motion

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Conference
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 1
|SecI. HEARINGS — A. Read and Comply
Filing Requirements

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

For most motions, the notice of hearing must include an Administrative Order 2012-03-01 certificate of compliance, and omission may result in cancellation of the hearing.

The notice of hearing must comply with the requirements of Administrative Order 2012-03-01. That order mandates a certificate of compliance certifying compliance with the “meet and confer” requirement for most motions. See Admin. Order 2012-03- ¶ 6. Certificate of compliance exemplars appear in the appendix to these procedures. Failure to include the required certificate of compliance may result in cancellation of the hearing.

Document Type

Notice Of Hearing

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Conference
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 3
|SecI. HEARINGS — Setting Hearings
Filing Requirements

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

An evidentiary-hearing request and its notice of hearing must expressly identify the hearing as evidentiary.

For evidentiary hearings, the hearing request must indicate that an evidentiary hearing is being requested, and the notice of hearing must expressly state that the hearing will be evidentiary.

Document Type

Hearing Request

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 3
|SecI. HEARINGS — Setting Hearings
Filing Requirements

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

When a hearing is canceled because the motion was resolved by agreement or became moot, the scheduling party must submit a proposed order reflecting the resolution.

If the cancellation resulted from resolution of the motion by agreement of the parties or because of mootness, the party that scheduled the hearing shall submit a proposed order reflecting the resolution.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 4
|SecI. HEARINGS — Cancellation
Filing Requirements

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

An emergency hearing motion must include a certificate that the circumstances constitute a true emergency requiring immediate hearing time and that emergency designation may cause other matters to be cancelled or rescheduled.

the motion must contain a certificate of emergency in which the moving party certifies: i. that he/she believes the facts and circumstances to constitute a true emergency for which immediate hearing time is required; and ii. that he/she understands that designating a matter as an emergency may result in the Court cancelling or rescheduling other matters affecting other parties; and

Document Type

Emergency Hearing Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 6
|SecE. Emergency and Time-Sensitive Hearings
Filing Requirements

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

An emergency hearing motion must include a detailed explanation of the circumstances constituting the emergency.

The body of the motion must contain a detailed explanation of the circumstances constituting the emergency; and

Document Type

Emergency Hearing Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 6
|SecE. Emergency and Time-Sensitive Hearings
Filing Requirements

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

The notice of hearing for an ex parte or short matter must include a Certificate of Compliance.

before setting a hearing at ex-parte/short matters, the parties must satisfy the meet and confer requirement of Administrative Order 2012-03-01 and must include a Certificate of Compliance in the notice of hearing.

Document Type

Notice Of Hearing

Content & Formatting
Local Rule Certificate
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 7
|SecI(F)(4) Ex-Parte/Short Matters
Filing Requirements

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

A discovery motion must identify the disputed requests or objections, explain why they are improper, and attach the pertinent requests, responses, or objections.

Discovery motions must identify the specific requests and objections that are in dispute, explain why the movant believes those requests or objections are improper, and attach the requests, responses, or objections at issue.

Document Type

Discovery Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 8
|SecI(I)(2) Discovery Motions
Filing Requirements

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

Every discovery motion must certify a good-faith attempt to resolve the dispute without court action and comply with the applicable rules and administrative orders.

All discovery motions must comply with the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure and Administrative Orders governing this division, including, but not limited to, the requirement of certifying a good faith attempt to resolve the matter without court action.

Document Type

Discovery Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 8
|SecI(I)(3) Discovery Motions
Filing Requirements

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

Both the body and certificate of service of a proposed withdrawal order must identify the recipient party’s name, address, telephone number, and email address.

The body and certificate of service of proposed orders on motions to withdraw must include the name, address, telephone number, and email address of the party to whom pleadings and papers in the case will be sent.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Service
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 8
|SecI(H)(3) Motions to Withdraw
Filing Requirements

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

A proposed order accompanying a motion to compel may only require a response within 10 days and may not grant other relief.

The proposed order shall only compel a response within 10 days and shall not grant any other form of relief.

Document Type

Motion To Compel Proposed Order

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Filing Requirements

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

A motion-in-limine opposition memorandum must describe the basis for opposition and include argument and supporting authority.

At least five (5) business days before the scheduled hearing on any Motion in Limine, the opposing party must file a memorandum in opposition specifically describing the basis for the opposition with argument and supporting authority.

Document Type

Motion In Limine Opposition

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 9
|SecK. Motions in Limine
Filing Requirements

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

A partially agreed motion in limine requires a stipulation signed by both parties that identifies in writing which points the opposing party accepts.

If the meet and confer results in an agreement on any portion of any Motion in Limine, the moving party shall prepare and file a stipulation signed by the movant and opposing party indicating in writing which of the points in the Motion in Limine are agreed to by Page 9 of 19 ===== PAGE 10 ===== the opposing party.

Document Type

Motion In Limine Stipulation

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 9
|SecK. Motions in Limine
Filing Requirements

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

The nonmovant's summary-judgment response must include the nonmovant's supporting factual position.

At least 20 days before the time fixed for the hearing, the nonmovant must serve a response that includes the nonmovant's supporting factual position.

Document Type

Summary Judgment Response

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 9
|SecJ. Summary Judgment Motions
Filing Requirements

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

A motion in limine may not be scheduled unless its hearing notice certifies a good-faith attempt to resolve each point without court action.

The Motion in Limine may not be scheduled for a hearing unless the hearing notice contains a certification of a good faith attempt to resolve the matter without court action as to each point.

Document Type

Motion In Limine Hearing Notice

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Conference
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 9
|SecK. Motions in Limine
Filing Requirements

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

Authorities and memoranda first submitted during a hearing may not be considered by the court.

Authorities and memoranda provided to the Court and opposing parties for the first time during the hearing may not be considered.

Document Type

Hearing Authorities And Memoranda

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 10
|SecL. Hearing Notebooks, Exhibits, Legal Memoranda, and Citations
Filing Requirements

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

A late-filed trial motion or untimely request for a trial-related hearing must specifically describe the extraordinary circumstances relied upon.

No motion directed towards matters involving the trial will be heard during the actual trial period absent extraordinary circumstances, which must be described with specificity in any late-filed motion or untimely request for hearing.

Document Type

Late Filed Trial Motion Or Hearing Request

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 10
|SecM. Limitation on Hearings
Filing Requirements

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

Without express agreement, the cover letter must explain the opposing party’s position, lack of response, or other circumstances concerning the order.

In cases where there is not express agreement to a form of the order, the cover letter must specifically state the position of opposing counsel or the opposing self- represented party, the lack of any response whatsoever, or other circumstances surrounding the order.

Document Type

Cover Letter

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 11
|SecN. Orders and Rulings of the Court
Filing Requirements

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

A proposed order submitted after a hearing or with an unopposed or agreed motion must be accompanied by an e-filed cover letter bearing the filing stamp and copying all counsel and self-represented parties.

Proposed orders submitted after a hearing or in connection with unopposed or agreed motions must be accompanied by an e-filed cover letter (the cover letter must have the filing stamp across the top) with a copy to all counsel and self-represented parties.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 11
|SecN. Orders and Rulings of the Court
Filing Requirements

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

An order may not be labeled “Agreed” merely because the opposing party failed to respond in time.

The “Agreed” designation shall not be used when opposing counsel or the opposing self- represented party simply has not timely responded to a proposed order.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 11
|SecN. Orders and Rulings of the Court
Filing Requirements

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

Each party must provide a completed copy of the Pretrial Check List and Order Controlling Trial.

Parties shall provide a completed copy of the Pretrial Check List and Order Controlling Trial

Document Type

Pretrial Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 14
|SecD. Pretrial Conferences
Filing Requirements

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

A motion-filing certificate of compliance must certify prior discussion of the requested relief, including the communication method and date and the opposing party's position or the efforts made to obtain dialogue.

Meet and Confer Completed PRIOR to filing of the motion CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE “I certify that prior to filing this motion, I discussed the relief requested in this motion by [method of communication and date] with the opposing party and [the opposing party (agrees or disagrees) on the resolution of all or part of the motion] OR [the opposing party did not respond (describing with particularity all of the efforts undertaken to accomplish dialogue with the opposing party prior to filing the motion)].”

Document Type

Motion

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Conference
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 17
|SecAppendix — Certificate of Compliance Exemplars
Filing Requirements

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

The certifying lawyer states that authorized counsel had a substantive conversation with opposing counsel to try in good faith to resolve the motion before it was noticed for hearing, but no agreement was reached.

I certify that on [ date ], [ name of lawyer ], a lawyer in my firm with full authority to resolve this matter had a substantive conversation [ in person ] [ by telephone ] [ by videoconference ] with [ name of opposing counsel ] in a good faith effort to resolve this motion before the motion was noticed for hearing, but the parties were unable to reach an agreement

Document Type

Motion

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Conference
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 18
|SecCertificate of Compliance
Filing Requirements

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

A certificate of compliance must identify the lawyer with settlement authority and opposing counsel and document three good-faith contact attempts to resolve the motion without a hearing, including the date, time, and means attempted for each attempt.

CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE I certify that [ name of lawyer ], a lawyer in my firm with full authority to resolve this matter, attempted in good faith to contact opposing counsel, [ name of opposing counsel ], in person or by telephone on: 1. _____________[Date]___________ at ___Time____ by ____[Means attempted]___; 2. _____________[Date]___________ at ___Time____ by ____[Means attempted]___; and 3. _____________[Date]___________ at ___Time____ by ____[Means attempted]___; to discuss resolution of this motion without a hearing, but the lawyer in my firm was unable to speak with opposing counsel.

Document Type

Certificate Of Compliance

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Div-20B-Procedures · p. 19
|SecMeet and Confer Attempted Three Times
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

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

A proposed order must be brought to the hearing.

Showing up without a proposed order, sufficient copies for all parties, and stamped, pre-addressed envelopes.

Document Type

Hearing

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Top-Mistakes-Civil-Litigation · p. 1
|SecA Judge's Perspective: Top Mistakes Attorneys Make in Civil Litigation
Filing Requirements

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

A motion to dismiss must state its grounds and substantial matters of law specifically and with particularity, after which the Court may request a written response and resolve the matter in Chambers without a hearing.

Fla.R.Civ.P. 1.140(b) relating to motions to dismiss requires that the “grounds . . . and the substantial matters of law to be argued shall be stated specifically and with particularity.” The Court may elect to request a written response from opposing counsel and then consider the matter in Chambers without a hearing.

Document Type

Motion To Dismiss

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

A hearing notice must identify each motion and the manner of hearing, provide remote-appearance information when applicable, and may not generically call up all pending motions; unnoticed or inadequately noticed motions will not be heard.

Every notice must specify the motions to be heard. A notice calling up “all pending motions” is insufficient. Every notice must also specify the manner (e.g. telephone, video, in person) in which the motions are to be heard and provide appropriate information for remote appearances, if applicable. Motions not noticed, or insufficiently noticed, will not be heard.

Document Type

Notice Of Hearing

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

A final dismissal order must include “Final” in its title, while a nonfinal dismissal order must state that other claims remain pending.

If an order of dismissal is final (i.e., it disposes of the entire case) the title must contain the word “Final.” When the order is not final but leaves other counts, or claims, pending, it shall so state.

Document Type

Order Of Dismissal

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

An agreed or unopposed order must state both that it is agreed or unopposed and the substance of the order in its title.

If the order is agreed or unopposed, the title must indicate the substance of the proposed order in addition to the indication that it is an “agreed” or “unopposed” order.

Document Type

Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

The adjudication portion must specify the relief granted and may not merely state that the motion is granted.

The adjudication portion of the order shall specify the relief ordered. Simply stating that “the motion is granted” without more is insufficient.

Document Type

Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

Each order must identify the matter to which it pertains.

The order must specify the matter to which it pertains, e.g., “Order on Defendant Smith’s Motion to Dismiss.”

Document Type

Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

Each proposed order must be accompanied by a stamped e-filed cover letter stating whether opposing counsel approved the order or will submit a competing order.

All proposed orders must be accompanied by an e-filed cover letter (the cover letter must have the filing stamp across the top) and must indicate that opposing counsel has reviewed and approved the form of the order or that opposing counsel will be submitting a competing order.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

Unsigned orders and judgments must not be sent to the Clerk’s office for transmission to the Judge.

Unsigned orders or judgments must not be sent to the Clerk’s office for transmission to the Judge.

Document Type

Order Or Judgment

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.

Filing & Service rules

Electronic Filing Rules

Proposed orders in civil cases must be submitted electronically in Word format to the division email address.

Orders proposed for filing in civil cases must be submitted electronically in Word format to division20b@ocnjcc.org

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

Page 11 | N. Orders and Rulings of the Court

Proposed orders in probate, guardianship, and mental health cases must be filed through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal.

Orders proposed for filing in probate, guardianship, and mental health cases must be filed through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal.

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

Page 11 | N. Orders and Rulings of the Court

After the clerk dockets the motion and supporting materials, the party may submit a proposed final judgment to the division email address.

The party seeking entry of judgment may file a motion for default final judgment and submit a proposed final judgment (after the motion and any supporting materials have been docketed by the Clerk) to the division email division20b@ocnjcc.org

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

Page 12 | O. Default Final Judgments

A proposed order submitted before a hearing must be emailed in Word format to the division email address using the specified filename format.

If a party wishes to submit a proposed order before a hearing, the proposed order must be emailed saved in Word as “Case Number – Order Name” to division20b@ocnjcc.org.

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

Page 12 | N. Orders and Rulings of the Court

All filings in the Civil Division must be made electronically under the Florida Supreme Court electronic-access standards.

(B) All filings in Civil Division are to be done electronically in accordance with Florida Supreme Court Standards for Electronic Access to the Courts - Version 18.0 - Updated August 2017, (as noted in AOSC09-30).

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

Page 4 | SECTION 5. COURT FILES AND RECORDS.

Orders must be filed electronically through the statewide ePortal.

Orders will be electronically filed through the statewide ePortal.

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

Page 10 | SECTION 12. ORDERS AND JUDGMENTS. (B) Requirements for Orders.

The indigency motion in an appeal must be filed electronically.

A party claiming indigency who desires to have Clerk’s fees and costs waived in connection with an appeal from County Court to the Civil Division of this Court or from the Civil Division of this Court to an appellate court must e-file a motion accompanied by an affidavit of insolvency.

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

Page 5 | SECTION 8. INDIGENT PARTIES

The proposed order itself should not be filed; the cover letter must be e-filed before submission to the court.

The proposed order should not be filed, but the cover letter must be e-filed prior to submission to the Court.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 11 | N. Orders and Rulings of the Court

The Clerk’s office submits proposed probate, guardianship, and mental health orders to the court after reviewing the file for compliance.

The Clerk’s office will submit proposed probate, guardianship, and mental health orders to the Court for approval after that office has reviewed the file for compliance purposes.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 11 | N. Orders and Rulings of the Court

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

Jury instructions and verdict forms must be exchanged no later than ten days before the pretrial conference.

Jury Instructions and Verdict Forms – Exchanged no later than 10 days prior to the Pre-Trial Conference

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

Page 1 | BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Deposition designations must be disclosed in writing with page and line citations 30 days before the pretrial conference, and counter-designations must be disclosed 20 days before it.

Pursuant to the Uniform Order Setting Case for Trial, must be disclosed in writing (citing page and line numbers) (i) 30 days before the Pre-Trial Conference (designations), and (ii) 20 days before the Pre-Trial Conference (counter-designations)

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

Jury instructions and verdict forms must be exchanged no later than 10 days before the pretrial conference and submitted to the judge at that conference; originals go to the clerk.

Jury Instructions and Verdict Forms – • Exchanged no later than 10 days prior to the Pre-Trial Conference • Submitted to the Judge at the Pre-Trial Conference. File originals with the Clerk and provide a Copy in MS Word (in Times New Roman font – 14 pt. double spaced) - to the Court via email to 20Bosceola@ninthcircuit.org

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

Motions in limine must be scheduled and heard no later than one week before the trial period begins, and the Division 20 standing order must be followed.

Must be scheduled and heard no later than one week prior to the beginning of the trial period. You must comply with Division 20’s Standing Order on Motions in Limine, found at www.ninthcircuit.org

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

Requests for an attorney, party, or witness to appear by communication technology must be filed at least 14 days before the hearing.

Therefore, all requests for an attorney, party, or witness to appear for a hearing via communication technology must be filed at least 14 days before the hearing date.

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

Page 4 | I. HEARINGS — Use of Communication Technology

Email the joint case-management report to the division email at least three business days before the hearing.

The report must be emailed to division20b@ocnjcc.org at least three (3) business days before the hearing.

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

Page 7 | I(F)(3) Ex-Parte/Short Matters

At least five business days before a motion-in-limine hearing, the opposing party must file an opposition memorandum stating the basis for opposition and providing argument and supporting authority.

At least five (5) business days before the scheduled hearing on any Motion in Limine, the opposing party must file a memorandum in opposition specifically describing the basis for the opposition with argument and supporting authority.

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

Page 9 | K. Motions in Limine

When the meet-and-confer resolves any part of a motion in limine, the movant must prepare a signed stipulation identifying the agreed points and file it within seven days; an agreed order may then be submitted.

If the meet and confer results in an agreement on any portion of any Motion in Limine, the moving party shall prepare and file a stipulation signed by the movant and opposing party indicating in writing which of the points in the Motion in Limine are agreed to by Page 9 of 19 ===== PAGE 10 ===== the opposing party. The stipulation shall be filed within seven (7) days of the meet and confer, and an agreed order may be submitted for rendition.

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

Page 9 | K. Motions in Limine

Summary-judgment motions filed on or after January 1, 2025 must comply with the Uniform Trial and Case Management Order and be filed at least 50 days before the hearing.

Motions for Summary Judgment filed January 1,2025 and after must be filed incompliance with the Uniform Trial and Case Management Order and at least 50 days before the time fixed for hearing.

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

Page 9 | J. Summary Judgment Motions

Discovery and trial-related motions must be filed and heard by the trial-order deadline or, if none is stated, before the pretrial conference.

All motions related to discovery or to trial matters must be filed and heard by the time specified in the trial order or before the pretrial conference if the trial order does not specify a deadline.

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

Page 10 | M. Limitation on Hearings

All hearing materials intended for reliance must be filed at least five business days before the hearing.

All legal memoranda, briefs, affidavits, notices of filing, and other materials that a party intends to rely on at a hearing must be filed at least five (5) business days before the hearing.

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

Page 10 | L. Hearing Notebooks, Exhibits, Legal Memoranda, and Citations

A trial-related motion ordinarily will not be heard during the actual trial absent extraordinary circumstances specifically described in the late-filed motion or untimely hearing request.

No motion directed towards matters involving the trial will be heard during the actual trial period absent extraordinary circumstances, which must be described with specificity in any late-filed motion or untimely request for hearing.

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

Page 10 | M. Limitation on Hearings

Unless the court specifies another deadline, the proposed order must be submitted within ten days of the hearing with copies to all other counsel and self-represented parties.

must be submitted to the Court within ten (10) days of the hearing with a copy to all other counsel and self-represented parties, unless the Court specifies a different deadline.

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

Page 12 | N. Orders and Rulings of the Court

An objecting party has three days to submit an alternative proposed order or judgment with copies and a cover letter explaining the objection; otherwise objections are waived, and submissions may not be held for an objection.

If objecting counsel does not furnish the Judge an alternative proposed judgment or order within 3 days with copies under cover letter stating the reasons for the objection, all objections are waived. Orders and judgments may not be submitted to the Judge to hold waiting for an objection.

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

Page 10 | SECTION 12. ORDERS AND JUDGMENTS. (D) How Presented.

If no opposing party objects in writing within five days after the motion and affidavit are e-filed, the movant must promptly present a proposed order to the presiding judge by ex parte submission or mail.

If no written objection is filed by an opposing party within five (5) days of e-filing the motion and affidavit, the movant must then promptly present a proposed order to the presiding Judge either during ex parte or by mail.

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

Page 5 | SECTION 8. INDIGENT PARTIES

After an unsuccessful meet-and-confer on a motion in limine, the movant must file the required memorandum within seven days, describing the requested evidentiary ruling and including argument and authority.

Within seven (7) days of any unsuccessful meet-and-confer, the movant must file a memorandum of law specifically describing the basis for the requested evidentiary ruling with argument and supporting authority.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 9 | K. Motions in Limine

Counsel preparing a final judgment or order must circulate copies to all parties within two working days after the ruling.

Counsel preparing the Final Judgment or order shall draft and circulate copies to all parties within two (2) working days of the ruling.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 10 | SECTION 12. ORDERS AND JUDGMENTS. (D) How Presented.

A hearing notice must be electronically filed at least five working days before the hearing.

Notice must be e-filed no less than five (5) working days before the hearing.

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

Page 6 | SECTION 10. HEARINGS.

Counsel and self-represented parties are encouraged to submit written argument within 20 days after filing a motion because the court may rule without a hearing.

Counsel and self represented parties are therefore encouraged to file written arguments in support of their positions within 20 days of the filing of a motion.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 10 | L. Hearing Notebooks, Exhibits, Legal Memoranda, and Citations

Service and Proof of Service Rules

The cover letter and proposed order must be sent contemporaneously to all other parties.

The proposed order shall also be accompanied by a cover letter, and both the letter and order shall be contemporaneously sent to all other parties.

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

Page 9 | I. HEARINGS

A summary-judgment opposition response must be served within 40 days after service of the motion.

Responses in opposition to summary judgment must be served within 40 days after service of the Motion.

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

Page 9 | J. Summary Judgment Motions

Every material submitted to the court must contemporaneously go to all other parties in the court's same form, including highlighting.

All materials provided to the Court must be contemporaneously provided to all other parties in the same form provided to the Court, including any highlighting.

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

Page 10 | L. Hearing Notebooks, Exhibits, Legal Memoranda, and Citations

A proposed order must include a complete certificate of service identifying the submitting person and each e-service recipient’s name, email address, and represented party.

The proposed order must contain a complete certificate of service (including the person submitting the proposed order) indicating service to all parties receiving service through the Florida Courts e-Filing Portal, together with the name, email address, and party represented for each person receiving e-service.

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

Page 11 | N. Orders and Rulings of the Court

Counsel must provide addressed and stamped envelopes to the Judicial Assistant for service of default judgments.

Counsel must provide addressed and stamped envelopes to the Judicial Assistant for service of default judgments.

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

Page 10 | SECTION 12. ORDERS AND JUDGMENTS. (C) Requirements for Judgments.

When a written objection is filed, the objecting party must obtain a hearing between five and ten business days later and file and serve the notice of hearing simultaneously with the objection.

If a written objection is filed, the objecting party must obtain hearing time in no less than five (5) days and no more than ten (10) business days and file and serve a notice of hearing simultaneously with the objection.

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

Page 6 | SECTION 8. INDIGENT PARTIES

If the Judge is unavailable, qualifying uncontested or agreed matters may be mailed with extra copies and addressed, stamped envelopes containing a copy for any unrepresented litigant who has not opted into electronic service.

If the Judge is unavailable, uncontested or agreed matters requiring no explanation by counsel may be delivered to the Judge by mail. Uncontested or agreed matters that are mailed should include extra copies and addressed and stamped envelopes with a copy to any unrepresented litigant who has not opted-in to e-service.

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

Page 7 | Ex Parte Matters

Counsel must provide copies of the withdrawal materials to every person who does not use the e-portal filing system.

Counsel will be responsible for providing copies to all persons who do not participate in the e-portal filing system.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 8 | I(H)(1) Motions to Withdraw

For summary-judgment motions filed before January 1, 2025, the nonmovant must serve a response at least 20 days before the hearing and include its supporting factual position.

At least 20 days before the time fixed for the hearing, the nonmovant must serve a response that includes the nonmovant's supporting factual position.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 9 | J. Summary Judgment Motions

For summary-judgment motions filed before January 1, 2025, the movant must serve the motion at least 40 days before the hearing.

The movant must serve the motion for summary judgment at least 40 days before the time fixed for the hearing.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 9 | J. Summary Judgment Motions

For parties not receiving Florida Courts E-Filing Portal service, counsel must serve the order by U.S. mail and file a certificate of service within five days of the order’s date.

“Counsel for ___________(s) shall serve a copy of this Order via U.S. Mail to all parties not receiving service of court filings through the Florida Courts e-Filing Portal and shall file a Certificate of Service within five (5) days from the date of this Order.”

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 11 | N. Orders and Rulings of the Court

Counsel must promptly serve the order on all parties not registered for Florida Courts E-Filing Portal e-service.

“Counsel” for __________________(s) is responsible for promptly serving the order on all parties that are not registered for e-service through the Florida Courts e-Filing Portal.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 11 | N. Orders and Rulings of the Court

When asked to prepare a proposed order during or after a hearing, counsel must send it to opposing counsel or self-represented parties for review and approval within three business days.

If counsel is asked to prepare a proposed order during or after a hearing, the order shall be drafted and sent to opposing counsel or self-represented parties for review and approval within three (3) business days

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 12 | N. Orders and Rulings of the Court

If parties dispute the proposed order’s language, the non-moving party must email specific objections, which the moving party must submit with the proposed order; the moving party must advise the court if there is no objection.

The non-moving party must email their specific objections to the proposed order to the moving party. The moving party shall provide the email to division20b@ocnjcc.org with the proposed Order. If there is no objection, the moving party shall so advise.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 12 | N. Orders and Rulings of the Court

When any party is served by U.S. Mail rather than the ePortal, sufficient paper copies of the order and stamped addressed envelopes must be provided to chambers for each party not receiving electronic service.

If any party receives service by U.S. Mail, rather than through the ePortal, sufficient paper copies of the order and stamped, addressed envelopes must be provided to chambers for each party not receiving electronic service.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 10 | SECTION 12. ORDERS AND JUDGMENTS. (B) Requirements for Orders.

Written stipulations provide that reasonable notice must be given to the defaulting party when an application for default judgment is made.

All stipulations will be deemed to provide that reasonable notice shall be given to the defaulting party of any application for default judgment.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 13 | SECTION 17. SETTLEMENTS

The proposed order submission must include copies for all other counsel and self-represented parties.

with a copy to all other counsel and self-represented parties

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 12 | N. Orders and Rulings of the Court

Unless service occurs only through the e-portal, the order should contain a full certificate of service identifying all attorneys and unrepresented parties to be served; “copies to” alone is insufficient.

The order should contain a full certificate of service with the complete names and addresses of the attorneys and unrepresented parties to be served, unless service is to occur through the e-portal only. Merely showing “copies to” is insufficient.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 9 | SECTION 12. ORDERS AND JUDGMENTS. (B) Requirements for Orders.

Filing Fees and Waivers

The party designated in a transfer order must deliver the other court’s filing fee to the Clerk within 30 days of the order for an improper-venue or forum-non-conveniens transfer.

When an order has been entered transferring a case from an Orange or Osceola Circuit Court to another Circuit Court on grounds of improper venue or forum non conveniens, the party designated in the order to pay the transfer costs within thirty (30) days of the date of the order, shall deliver to the Clerk the filing fee for the other Court to accompany the file upon its transfer.

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

Page 4 | SECTION 4. ASSIGNMENT, REASSIGNMENT AND TRANSFER OF CASES.

For an appeal seeking waiver of clerk fees and costs, the party must electronically file a motion accompanied by an affidavit of insolvency.

A party claiming indigency who desires to have Clerk’s fees and costs waived in connection with an appeal from County Court to the Civil Division of this Court or from the Civil Division of this Court to an appellate court must e-file a motion accompanied by an affidavit of insolvency.

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

Page 5 | SECTION 8. INDIGENT PARTIES

A party seeking waiver of specified clerk and sheriff fees and costs in original Circuit Court proceedings must complete and file the Clerk’s affidavit of insolvency.

A party claiming indigency and seeking to have certain Clerk’s and Sheriff’s fees and costs waived must complete and file an affidavit of insolvency provided by the Clerk.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 5 | SECTION 8. INDIGENT PARTIES

Courtesy Copy Requirements

Hearing materials must also be furnished to Chambers at least five business days before the hearing.

In addition to filing the notice of hearing with the Clerk of Court, hearing materials must be furnished to Chambers at least five (5) business days before the hearing.

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

Page 3 | I. HEARINGS — Setting Hearings

Email copies of motions, the notice of hearing, and hearing materials to the division email at least three business days before the hearing.

Copies of motions to be heard, along with the notice of hearing and any hearing materials, must be emailed to division20b@ocnjcc.org at least three (3) business days before the hearing.

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

Page 7 | I(F)(2) Ex-Parte/Short Matters

When applicable law requires a non-jury trial or final damages hearing, the party seeking judgment must file a notice for trial and provide chambers a courtesy copy by division email.

If applicable law requires a non-jury trial or final evidentiary hearing on damages, the party seeking entry of judgment shall file a notice for trial and provide a courtesy copy to chambers via the division email

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

Page 12 | O. Default Final Judgments

A copy of every motion for rehearing, reconsideration, or new trial must be emailed to division20b@ocnjcc.org when the motion is filed.

A copy of all motions for rehearing, reconsideration, or new trial must be delivered to division20b@ocnjcc.org at the time of filing for review by the Court.

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

Page 13 | P. Hearings on Motions for Rehearing, Reconsideration, or New Trial

Trial briefs are optional, but any submitted trial brief must have hard copies provided to Chambers at least five working days before trial.

Trial Briefs: Not required, but if you choose to submit them, please provide hard copies to Chambers (6460) at least five (5) working days prior to trial to allow adequate time for review

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

Page 1 | BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Trial briefs are optional, but any submitted trial briefs must be provided as hard copies to Chambers at least five working days before trial.

Trial Briefs: Not required, but if you choose to submit them, please provide hard copies to Chambers (6460) at least five (5) working days prior to trial to allow adequate time for review

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

A motion for rehearing, reconsideration, or new trial will not be set for hearing unless the Judge directs, and counsel filing it must simultaneously provide the Judge a chambers copy with a cover letter requesting a hearing if desired.

Motions for rehearing, reconsideration or new trial will not be set for hearing unless the Judge so directs. Counsel filing such a motions shall simultaneously provide a chambers copy directly to the Judge with a cover letter requesting a hearing, if one is desired.

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

Page 7 | Hearings on Motions for Rehearing, Reconsideration or New Trial

One copy of the Notice for Trial should be sent directly to the Judge’s Chambers.

A copy of the Notice for Trial should be sent directly to the Judge’s Chambers.

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

Page 12 | SECTION 16. SETTING CASES FOR TRIAL.

When the relevant documents exceed 10 pages, provide hard copies to chambers instead of emailing them.

If the documents exceed 10 pages, hard copies must be provided to chambers rather than through email.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 7 | I(F)(2) Ex-Parte/Short Matters

A copy of a motion-in-limine hearing notice must be emailed to chambers at division20b@ocnjcc.org.

A copy of the hearing notice must be provided to chambers by email to division20b@ocnjcc.org

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 9 | K. Motions in Limine

Hearing materials, including hard copies, must reach chambers at least five business days before the hearing; in most instances, legal memoranda should not exceed 10 double-spaced pages.

Hearing materials must be submitted to chambers at least five (5) business days before the hearing. Note: In most instances legal memoranda should not exceed 10 double- spaced pages. Hard copies are required.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 10 | L. Hearing Notebooks, Exhibits, Legal Memoranda, and Citations

When applicable law requires a jury trial on damages, a notice for trial must be filed with a courtesy copy sent to chambers by division email.

If applicable law requires a jury trial on damages, a notice for trial must be filed and provide a courtesy copy to chambers via the division email. The case will be placed on a jury trial docket.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 13 | I. HEARINGS

A trial brief must be submitted to chambers no later than five business days before trial begins.

If a trial brief is to be filed with the Court, it must be submitted to chambers no later than five (5) business days before the trial is scheduled to commence.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 15 | IV. TRIALS — C. Trial Briefs

Supporting and opposition memoranda are optional, but if filed, counsel must give the Judge chambers copies of the memorandum and every cited legal authority.

Legal memoranda in support of, or in opposition to, motions are optional. If filed, counsel must furnish the Judge with chambers copies of the memorandum and copies of any legal authorities cited therein.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 8 | Chambers Copies of Memorandums

Counsel should consult the assigned Judge about whether chambers copies should be paper or digital.

Counsel should consult the assigned Judge regarding preferences for paper or digital Chambers’ copies.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 8 | Chambers Copies of Memorandums

Sealing & Redaction Procedures

The closing statement should not be filed in the court record and must instead be submitted directly to Chambers under seal.

The closing statement should not be filed in the record but should be submitted directly to Chambers under seal.

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

Page 4 | ITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT

Filing Bundling Requirements

When stipulations are submitted, the order must be submitted separately rather than attached to or placed at the end of the stipulation.

When submitting stipulations, orders shall be by separate order, not attached to or at the end of the stipulation.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 10 | SECTION 12. ORDERS AND JUDGMENTS. (B) Requirements for Orders.

Additional motions may not be cross-noticed unless counsel first confirms that sufficient time can be reserved to hear them.

Additional motions must not be “piggy-backed” by cross-notice unless counsel first confirms with opposing counsel and the Judicial Assistant that sufficient additional time can be reserved in which to hear them.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 3 | I. HEARINGS — Setting Hearings

In timeshare foreclosure cases, high-volume counsel are encouraged to consolidate ready summary-judgment and default-final-judgment motions into one block of hearing time.

In timeshare foreclosure cases, counsel who handle a high volume of cases are encouraged to schedule as many motions for summary judgment and motions for default final judgment as are ready for hearing during a single block of hearing time.

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

Page 7 | I(G)(3) Foreclosure Cases

Pre-Motion Conference Requirements

A meet-and-confer conference is required for all non-dispositive motions before filing.

F.R.C.P. 1.202 requires a meet and confer on all non-dispositive motions PRIOR to the motion being filed.

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

Page 1 | I. HEARINGS — A. Read and Comply

Administrative Order 2012-03-01 imposes the Court’s meet-and-confer and certification requirements.

Administrative Order 2012-03-01, which establishes the Court’s “meet and confer” and certification requirements.

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

Page 2 | I. HEARINGS — A. Read and Comply

The additional meet-and-confer requirement must be completed before requesting hearing time on the motion.

This is an additional requirement to the meet and confer required under F.R.C.P. 1.202 and must be held prior to requesting hearing time on the motion.

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

Page 2 | I. HEARINGS — A. Read and Comply

A request for a Case Management Conference is required when multiple or complicated issues are involved or when more than 10 minutes will reasonably be needed.

If there are multiple case management issues to be addressed or the issues are complicated or require decisions on substantive legal matters so that more than 10 minutes will reasonably be required, a request for a Case Management Conference must be made in accordance with section II(B).

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

Page 7 | I(F)(3) Ex-Parte/Short Matters

Parties must confer in good faith about disputed evidentiary-hearing issues and appear at a short matter for resolution before scheduling the hearing.

If the parties disagree about whether an evidentiary hearing is required or the amount of time necessary to complete the evidentiary hearing, they shall confer in good faith to attempt to resolve the dispute. If the parties are unable to resolve the dispute, they shall appear at short matters to obtain a resolution of the issue before the hearing is scheduled.

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

Page 3 | I. HEARINGS — Setting Hearings

A discrete case-management issue expected to require less than 10 minutes may be scheduled as a short matter without requesting a formal case-management conference.

Discrete case management issues requiring less than 10 minutes total to address may be scheduled for short matters without a formal request for a Case Management Conference.

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

Page 7 | I(F)(3) Ex-Parte/Short Matters

Before setting an ex parte or short-matter hearing, satisfy the Administrative Order 2012-03-01 meet-and-confer requirement and include a Certificate of Compliance in the notice of hearing.

before setting a hearing at ex-parte/short matters, the parties must satisfy the meet and confer requirement of Administrative Order 2012-03-01 and must include a Certificate of Compliance in the notice of hearing.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 7 | I(F)(4) Ex-Parte/Short Matters

Parties must satisfy the F.R.C.P. 1.202 meet-and-confer requirement before filing an ex parte or short-matter motion.

Before filing the motion, the parties must satisfy the meet and confer requirement per F.R.C.P. 1.202

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 7 | I(F)(4) Ex-Parte/Short Matters

Discovery motions must be set for hearing; merely filing the motion does not itself obtain relief.

Discovery motions (motions to compel, motions for protective order, motions to quash, etc.) must be set for hearing to bring the matter to the Court’s attention. The mere filing of a motion is insufficient to obtain the requested relief.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 8 | I(I)(1) Discovery Motions

Do not set a discovery-objections hearing unless a motion addresses the specific requests and objections involved.

Hearings shall not be set on discovery objections without a motion addressing the specific requests and objections at issue as set forth below.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 8 | I(I)(1) Discovery Motions

Before a motion in limine can be set for hearing, counsel must meet and confer concerning every raised point by an expressly permitted method.

Before setting any Motion in Limine for hearing, counsel must meet and confer in person or by telephone or communication technology on every point raised in the Motion in Limine.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 9 | K. Motions in Limine

Before requesting hearing time, the parties must confer about the issue, and every hearing notice must reflect that they met and conferred on the matter submitted for resolution.

Parties shall meet in person or by telephone and confer on the subject at issue before requesting hearing time. All notices of hearing must reflect that the parties met, in person, and conferred on the subject being brought before the Court for resolution.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 8 | Obtaining Hearing Times

If hearing time cannot be coordinated with opposing counsel, attorneys must appear ex parte to resolve the scheduling issue.

If hearing time cannot be coordinated with opposing counsel, attorneys shall appear at ex parte to resolve the issue.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 8 | Obtaining Hearing Times

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

If a party believes the established trial date does not allow enough time to complete discovery and can show good cause, counsel must immediately request a status hearing or case management conference.

However, if either party believes that the trial date established in the uniform or specialized trial order will not allow sufficient time to complete discovery and can show good cause, counsel must immediately request a status hearing or case management conference.

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

Page 13 | A. Notices for Trial

Motions to continue are disfavored unless the movant shows good cause.

Motions to Continue are disfavored absent a showing of good cause.

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

Page 14 | C. Motions to Continue

A motion to continue must include a written client consent and specifically state good cause; generalized requests for more time or mere party agreement are insufficient.

Motions to continue will not be considered unless accompanied by a written consent signed by the client. The motion must specifically set forth good cause justifying the continuance. Generalized statements that more time is needed, or mere agreement of the parties, will not support the granting of a continuance.

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

Page 14 | C. Motions to Continue

Any required extension must be obtained before the applicable time limit expires, first by stipulation or, if that is unavailable, by motion and order.

(B) Timeliness. Time limits specified in the rules and applicable orders and division procedures must be observed. If additional time is needed, an extension must be obtained before the time limit expires by stipulation or, failing that, by motion and order.

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

Page 11 | SECTION 13.

Chambers Communication Rules

The hearing request must be emailed to the Judicial Assistant with all counsel and self-represented parties included, and the hearing is not confirmed until the Judicial Assistant sends confirmation.

Contact the Judicial Assistant by email at division20b@ocnjcc.org for the hearing to be added to the docket. All counsel and any self-represented parties must be included on the email to the Judicial Assistant. Hearing time is not confirmed until the Judicial Assistant emails confirmation of the hearing.

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

Page 2 | I. HEARINGS — B. Setting Hearings

Only the hearing-setting party may cancel a hearing, and that party must immediately notify the court by email when the underlying motion is canceled.

Only the party setting the hearing may cancel the hearing. The party that filed the notice of hearing must immediately notify the Court by email to division20b@ocnjcc.org when the motion to be heard has been cancelled.

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

Page 4 | I. HEARINGS — Cancellation

Send the joint report by email to division20b@ocnjcc.org at least three business days before the hearing.

The report must be emailed to division20b@ocnjcc.org at least three (3) business days before the hearing.

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

Page 7 | I(F)(3) Ex-Parte/Short Matters

Only the attorney who noticed a hearing may cancel it, and immediate notice to the Judicial Assistant and all other counsel is required if a set hearing becomes unnecessary.

Only the attorney who noticed a hearing may cancel it. If a hearing becomes unnecessary after it has been set, the Judge’s Judicial Assistant and all other counsel must be notified immediately.

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

Page 8 | Canceling Hearings

Hearing requests longer than one hour require Court approval through an ex parte/short-matter appearance or by emailing the stated address with an explanation of the requested excess time.

Hearing requests for longer than one (1) hour must be approved by the Court by appearing during ex parte/short matters or by email to division20b@ocnjcc.org detailing the reason for the excess time requested.

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

Page 2 | I. HEARINGS — B. Setting Hearings

Other motions must be specially scheduled through the Judge’s Judicial Assistant, and requests for more than one hour of hearing time require the Judge’s permission obtained through the Judicial Assistant or an ex parte appearance by counsel.

All other motions must be specially set through the Judge’s Judicial Assistant at a date and time certain. Requests for hearing time in excess of one (1) hour require permission of the Judge, obtained through request directed to the Judicial Assistant or by personal appearance of counsel at ex parte.

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

Page 7 | Other Motion Hearings

Orders may not be emailed to the Judge or Judicial Assistant unless they direct that method of delivery.

No order may be emailed to the Judge or Judicial Assistant unless directed by the Judge or Judicial Assistant.

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

Page 7 | Ex Parte Matters

Deposition disputes may be raised through the Judge’s Judicial Assistant, who may arrange a conference call with the Judge, and parties must escalate to the Alternate Judge and then the Administrative Judge if the presiding Judge is unavailable.

(B) Questioning. Disputes arising in depositions may be resolved by contacting the Judge’s Judicial Assistant who will then arrange, if possible, for a conference call with the Judge. If the presiding Judge is unavailable, the parties/attorneys shall contact the Alternate Judge and if that Judge is unavailable, the Administrative Judge. Attorneys’ fees and other sanctions may result if such judicial intervention occurs. Questions should be brief, clear and simple. Each question should deal with only a single point.

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

Page 11 | SECTION 14. DEPOSITION GUIDELINES.

The trial clerk, Melissa Burr, may be contacted by email for evidence tags and instructions.

Contact Melissa (Trial Clerk) at Melissa.Burr@osceolaclerk.org for evidence tags and instructions.

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

Counsel may email the Judicial Assistant at division20b@ocnjcc.org to request an emergency hearing when a true emergency or urgency exists.

Counsel may contact the Judicial Assistant by email at division20b@ocnjcc.org for an emergency hearing when a true emergency or urgency exists.

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

Page 6 | E. Emergency and Time-Sensitive Hearings

The emergency hearing motion must be emailed to division20b@ocnjcc.org before the court will set a hearing.

The motion must be emailed to division20b@ocnjcc.org before a hearing will be set.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 6 | E. Emergency and Time-Sensitive Hearings

When written withdrawal consent is provided, email the proposed order to division20b@ocnjcc.org after the Clerk docks the motion.

When the client has provided written consent to counsel’s withdrawal, counsel may submit a proposed order saved in Word as “Case Number – Order Name” (after the motion has been docketed by the Clerk), to the division email division20b@ocnjcc.org

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 8 | I(H)(1) Motions to Withdraw

An unrepresented party may not communicate privately with the judge, and should not send written materials unless the judge requests them or the administrative procedures require them.

An unrepresented party may not communicate privately with the Judge either by letter, telephone, in person or otherwise. Copies of legal papers or any other written materials should not be sent to the Judge unless specifically requested by the Judge or required by these administrative procedures. Any unrequested or non-required papers or materials sent to a Judge will not be read but will be returned to the sender or placed unread into the court file.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 5 | SECTION 7. UNREPRESENTED (PRO SE) PARTIES.

Counsel must immediately notify the Judge’s Judicial Assistant by telephone of the settlement of any case scheduled for trial.

(A) Immediate Notice. Counsel will immediately notify the Judge’s Judicial Assistant by telephone and email of the settlement of any case scheduled for trial.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 12 | SECTION 17. SETTLEMENTS.

A party may request a Case Management Conference by emailing a written request to division20b@ocnjcc.org that describes the case-management issues to be addressed.

Any case can be considered for a Case Management Conference by the filing of a written request for a Case Management Conference describing the case management issue(s) that the party(ies) request(s) the Court to address. The request must be emailed to division20b@ocnjcc.org

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 14 | B. Case Management Conferences

Counsel must contact the Judge’s office to confirm whether a selected date will hear Short Matters, the assigned division, and the hearing location.

Contact the Judge’s office to ascertain whether Short Matters will be heard by a specific division on the date selected, and to confirm the location (hearing room or courtroom) at which the hearings will occur.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 7 | Uniform Motion Calendar (“Short Matters”)

True emergency matters arising after business hours, on weekends, or on holidays should be referred to and may be contacted by phone through the Duty Judge.

True emergency matters arising on weekends, holidays or after business hours should be referred to the Duty Judge. The Duty Judge may be contacted through the Orange County Sheriff’s Communications Section at 407/836-3980.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 3 | SECTION 3. ADMINISTRATIVE JUDGE; ALTERNATE JUDGES; DUTY JUDGE.

Remote appearances may be arranged through the Judicial Assistant after reviewing the assigned Judge’s published practices or, if unavailable, contacting the Judge about the applicable policy.

Counsel or unrepresented parties may arrange, through the Judicial Assistant, to appear remotely at any hearing. The published practices and procedures of the individual Judge should be reviewed or, if not available, the Judge should be contacted to determine his or her specific policy on remote appearances.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 7 | Remote Appearances

When multiple attorneys or unrepresented parties will appear by telephone, one participant—typically the moving party—should arrange a conference call connecting everyone.

If two or more attorneys or unrepresented parties are to appear by telephone, one of them (typically the moving party) should arrange to connect the other parties/attorneys on a conference call.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 7 | Remote Appearances

Court-wide rules

Applies court-wide

These 181 rules apply across Ninth Judicial Circuit of Florida, Orange and Osceola Counties. Where this judge's own standing orders above address the same topic, the judge's requirement controls.

Filing Requirements

All 99
  • Applies to
    Child support guidelines worksheet

    The Child Support Guidelines Worksheet must match the child support amount stated in the Final Judgment.

  • Applies to
    Proposed final judgment

    Counsel must bring the original proposed Final Judgment to the final hearing.

  • Applies to
    Proposed final judgment
    Must include
    certificate of service

    The proposed Final Judgment must include a proper certificate of service naming both parties.

Service

All 20
  • Applies to
    Final judgment

    After the Final Judgment is signed, counsel must sign its certificate of service and provide copies to all parties.

  • Applies to
    Income deduction order

    A copy of the Income Deduction Order must be served on the obligor’s payor or payors.

  • Applies to
    Income deduction order

    The obligor must notify the obligee and, when applicable, the IV-D agency within seven days after a change in address or payor information.

Communication

All 17
  • Contact
    Phone to clerk
    Phone
    407-836-2059

    Employers and income withholders may contact the Orange County Clerk of Courts by phone at 407-836-2059, by email, or through the court website for questions.

  • Contact
    Phone to clerk
    Phone
    407-836-2059

    Employees and obligors may contact the Orange County Clerk of Courts by phone at 407-836-2059, by email, or through the court website for questions.

  • Contact
    Phone to clerk
    Phone
    407-836-2059

    Questions may be directed to the Orange County Clerk of Courts by phone at 407-836-2059 or by email/website at the listed address.

Formatting

All 14
  • All incorporated exhibits must be properly tagged with a Clerk’s evidence tag.

  • Every checklist line must be completed with a date, and check marks, Xs, and N/A entries are prohibited.

  • The Income Withholding for Support form must be regular on its face.

About Judge Christine E. Arendas

**Christine E. Arendas** is listed as a current judicial officer of the [Ninth Judicial Circuit of Florida](https://ninthcircuit.org/judges/circuit). The circuit publishes these sections on the profile page: Judicial Assignment, Education, Professional Activities, Awards and Honors, Multimedia, Important Information.

**Current assignment** **Division or department:** Circuit Civil, Division 20 / B **Courtroom:** 4-A **Chambers:** Jon B. Morgan Osceola County Courthouse **Phone:** 407.742.2513 **Judicial assistant:** Nyree Fraser **Judicial assistant email:** division20b@ocnjcc.org **Official sources**

Common questions about Judge Christine E. Arendas's rules

Are courtesy copies required for Judge Christine E. Arendas?

Courtesy-copy rule applies for hearing materials. Details: delivery at least 5 business days before hearing. Hearing materials must also be furnished to Chambers at least five business days before the hearing.

View ruleSource: page 3, section I. HEARINGS — Setting Hearings

Does Judge Christine E. Arendas require a pre-motion conference or letter before filing a motion?

Judge Christine E. Arendas's rules set a pre-motion procedure for covered motions. A meet-and-confer conference is required for all non-dispositive motions before filing.

View ruleSource: page 1, section I. HEARINGS — A. Read and Comply

What page or word limits apply to legal memoranda before Judge Christine E. Arendas?

Judge Christine E. Arendas' rule states these limits: 10 pages. In most instances, a legal memorandum should not exceed 10 double-spaced pages.

View ruleSource: page 10, section L. Hearing Notebooks, Exhibits, Legal Memoranda, and Citations

What formatting rules apply to filings before Judge Christine E. Arendas?

Judge Christine E. Arendas' formatting rule includes times new roman font, 14 point type, double spacing, submit to the judge at the pretrial conference, file originals with the clerk, and provide an ms word copy to the court by email. Jury instructions and verdict forms must be submitted to the judge at the pretrial conference, with originals filed with the clerk and an MS Word copy emailed to the court in 14-point Times New Roman, double-spaced format.

View ruleSource: page 1, section BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

What must be included with annuity filings before Judge Christine E. Arendas?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. The proposed settlement materials must include documentation of the annuity's present value.

View ruleSource: page 4, section ITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT

What must be included with closing statement filings before Judge Christine E. Arendas?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. The closing statement must itemize all attorneys' fees and identify each lawyer and law firm receiving any portion of those fees.

View ruleSource: page 4, section ITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT

How may parties contact Judge Christine E. Arendas' chambers?

The rule addresses email communications. The rule lists email division20b@ocnjcc.org. The hearing request must be emailed to the Judicial Assistant with all counsel and self-represented parties included, and the hearing is not confirmed until the Judicial Assistant sends confirmation.

View ruleSource: page 2, section I. HEARINGS — B. Setting Hearings

How does Judge Christine E. Arendas handle sealed or redacted filings?

Judge Christine E. Arendas's rules set procedures for sealed or redacted filings. Process: file unredacted to chambers. The closing statement should not be filed in the court record and must instead be submitted directly to Chambers under seal.

View ruleSource: page 4, section ITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge Christine E. Arendas?

Advance notice is not fully stated in the structured details. The request must include reason for request. If a party believes the established trial date does not allow enough time to complete discovery and can show good cause, counsel must immediately request a status hearing or case management conference.

View ruleSource: page 13, section A. Notices for Trial

Does Judge Christine E. Arendas require motion papers to be bundled?

No. The rule prohibits holding covered papers for bundling. When stipulations are submitted, the order must be submitted separately rather than attached to or placed at the end of the stipulation.

View ruleSource: page 10, section SECTION 12. ORDERS AND JUDGMENTS. (B) Requirements for Orders.

Is electronic filing required before Judge Christine E. Arendas?

Yes. Electronic filing is required for the covered filings. Proposed orders in civil cases must be submitted electronically in Word format to the division email address.

View ruleSource: page 11, section N. Orders and Rulings of the Court

Are filing fees or waivers addressed before Judge Christine E. Arendas?

A fee is required for covered filings. The party designated in a transfer order must deliver the other court’s filing fee to the Clerk within 30 days of the order for an improper-venue or forum-non-conveniens transfer.

View ruleSource: page 4, section SECTION 4. ASSIGNMENT, REASSIGNMENT AND TRANSFER OF CASES.

What filing deadlines apply to jury instructions and verdict forms filings before Judge Christine E. Arendas?

Jury instructions and verdict forms must be exchanged no later than ten days before the pretrial conference.

View ruleSource: page 1, section BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

What rule applies to service for proposed order before Judge Christine E. Arendas?

The rule addresses service method, recipient, or timing requirements. Details: recipient: all parties. Counsel must provide copies of the withdrawal materials to every person who does not use the e-portal filing system.

View ruleSource: page 8, section I(H)(1) Motions to Withdraw
Complete rules summary for Judge Christine E. Arendas

The proposed settlement materials must include documentation of the annuity's present value.

The proposed settlement materials must include documentation of the annuity's payment schedule.

The closing statement must itemize all attorneys' fees and identify each lawyer and law firm receiving any portion of those fees.

The closing statement must itemize all costs already expended and all costs to be expended.

The closing statement must identify all recipients of settlement proceeds and the proposed allocation among them.

The closing statement must itemize all resolved and unresolved liens, including outstanding balances owed.

The closing statement must itemize all claims, including unresolved claims, to be paid with proceeds from the proposed settlement.

The closing statement should not be filed in the court record and must instead be submitted directly to Chambers under seal.

The proposed settlement materials must include documentation of the annuity's cost.

The petition must state the attorney fees and costs proposed to be deducted from the settlement proceeds.

Copies of all release and settlement agreements requiring the legal guardian's or parent's signature must be provided.

The proposed settlement materials must include documentation of the issuing annuity company's rating.

A petition requesting court approval of a proposed settlement must state the facts of the claim, question, or dispute giving rise to the settlement.

The petition must identify the legal guardian or parent requesting approval and that person's relationship to the minor or ward.

The petition must state the terms and gross amount of the proposed settlement.

The petition must state the proposed distribution of settlement proceeds among all persons, estates, and other entities entitled to recover a portion.

The petition must justify the proposed distribution of settlement proceeds.

The petition must state why the proposed settlement serves the best interests of the minor or ward.

The petition must explain how settlement funds will be invested or protected and identify and describe the proposed financial institutions, funds, or other financial products, including their rating and stability.

The petition must identify and describe the qualifications of any proposed guardian ad litem, or state the reasons no guardian ad litem is requested.

When required by statute or court order, the requesting parties must provide a motion to appoint a guardian ad litem.

When required by statute or court order, the requesting parties must provide a proposed order appointing a guardian ad litem.

When required by statute or court order, the guardian ad litem report must analyze the settlement and distribution, state the positions of the natural parents or guardian, analyze potentially adverse claims or positions of personal representatives or other survivors, and state the guardian ad litem's opinion and its bases.

The required medical-record attachments include the History and Physical, hospitalization records if applicable, and final reports from each primary treating physician addressing future-care needs.

The court may require the child to appear at the settlement hearing, and settlement and release agreements are required as part of the settlement materials.

An agreement containing a defense, indemnity, or hold-harmless provision must state whether it binds the minor or ward or only the parent or legal guardian.

If a settlement agreement binds a minor or ward to defend, indemnify, or hold harmless, legal authority supporting that the minor or ward may be bound must be attached.

If a confidentiality provision is intended to bind the minor or ward, the agreement must state the consequences of violating that provision.

All settlement and release agreements must identify the party responsible for obtaining an order sealing limited documentation under Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.420(d).

Plaintiff's counsel must certify that all required release and settlement agreements were personally reviewed and approved.

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