Court Rules
Judge David M. Cohen
Judge

Judge David M. Cohen

Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies

Sixth Judicial Circuit Court of Michigan, Oakland County

Limits & Logistics

Courtesy Copies

Courtesy copies

Adjournments

  • The Court will grant an adjournment of the initial scheduling order at the early scheduling conference.
  • The Court will not grant adjournments of the amended scheduling order issued after the early scheduling conference.
  • The Court will accept one stipulated adjournment of the discovery cutoff if it does not interfere with the settlement conference or trial date.
  • +2 more

Request must include

Reason For Request

Communication

Clerk6 contacts

  • efiling@oakgov.com
  • mifile@imagesoft.com
  • efiling@oaklandcountymi.gov
  • 248-858-5831
  • 855-959-8868
  • 248-858-0582

Chambers2 contacts

  • hurstl@oaklandcountymi.gov
  • hurstl@oakgov.com
Filters:AllMandatoryImportantFormattingJuryConferencesExhibitsMemorandaSettlementEvidence/WitnessesLetters

Document Format Requirements6 rules

Formatting

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Important

Zoom participants at motion hearings should use a screen name containing their full name and case number.

When appearing via Zoom for a motion hearing, please ensure that your screen name includes your FULL name and the case number for which you are appearing.

Formatting

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Important

Remote participants must behave and dress appropriately and professionally, but suits and ties are not required.

The call is a court proceeding and therefore an extension of the courtroom. Appropriate conduct and attire is expected and required.Although suits and ties are not required, one should look and act professionally and presentably.

Oakland:76d57c836ddc4a02f2865e16
|SecZoom Participation and Courtroom Conduct
Formatting

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Important

Remote participants must place mobile devices on a solid surface with the camera at eye level, not hand-hold them or lay them flat.

Remote participants must place their mobile devices on a solid surface with the camera at eye level.Do not hand-hold mobile devices and do not lay phones or tablets flat on a desk or tabletop!

Oakland:76d57c836ddc4a02f2865e16
|SecZoom Participation and Courtroom Conduct
Formatting

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Important

Remote participants must use a private, quiet place without interruptions and should avoid lighting conditions that create a bright background.

Remote participants must use a private and quiet place that will be free of interruptions.Also, video meetings require good, consistent lighting, so avoid rooms with windows or bright lights in the background.

Oakland:76d57c836ddc4a02f2865e16
|SecZoom Participation and Courtroom Conduct
Formatting

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

Public viewers must mute themselves and turn off their video.

Oakland:76d57c836ddc4a02f2865e16
|SecPublic Access to Zoom Proceedings
Formatting

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

Members of the public who wish to observe a live Zoom proceeding may do so anonymously by joining the Zoom meeting using the screen name “Public.”

Summary: Public observers may join live Zoom proceedings anonymously using the screen name “Public.”

Oakland:76d57c836ddc4a02f2865e16
|SecPublic Access to Zoom Proceedings

Document Filing Requirements28 rules

Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Mandatory

On the morning of trial, parties must submit a final witness list identifying each witness, testimony format, and approximate time on the stand.

The parties are to submit their final witness list to the Court on the morning of trial with the names of witnesses who will be called, a designation as to whether their testimony will be live, via video or read into the record and the approximate amount of time they expect the witness to be on the stand.

Document Type

Final Witness List

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Mandatory

A party that fails to file the proposed list waives all motions in limine.

Failure to file the proposed list will result in the waiver of all motions in limine by the party not in compliance with the Court’s order.

Document Type

Motions In Limine

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Mandatory

Counsel must mark exhibits before trial and submit a complete set on the first trial day; plaintiffs use numbers and defendants use letters.

Exhibits must be marked by counsel prior to trial and a complete set must be submitted to the Court on the first day of trial. Plaintiff is to mark its exhibits with numbers. Defendant is to mark its exhibits with letters.

Document Type

Trial Exhibits

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Mandatory

Parties must file joint proposed jury instructions, requested special instructions, and objections to requested instructions.

Further, the parties must file joint proposed jury instructions, any special instructions being requested and any objections to the requested instructions.

Document Type

Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Mandatory

Parties must file a notice of hearing and praecipe for their chosen Wednesday and state that the motion will be heard by Zoom at 9:00 a.m.

Parties must file a notice of hearing and praecipe for the Wednesday of their choice and indicate the motion is to be heard via Zoom at 9:00 a.m.

Document Type

Motion Hearing Notice And Praecipe

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
cohen-david-pro · p. 2
|SecMotion Practice
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Mandatory

Motions and briefs must concisely state their basis, supporting facts, and authority.

All motions and briefs shall succinctly and concisely set forth their basis, facts in support and authority.

Document Type

Motion And Brief

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
cohen-david-pro · p. 2
|SecMotion Practice
Filing Requirements

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Mandatory

Trial counsel and all clients with final settlement authority must attend the in-person Thursday 9:00 a.m. settlement conference in cases with a jury demand.

The Court conducts an in-person settlement conference on all cases with a jury demand on Thursday mornings at 9:00 a.m. Trial Counsel and all clients with final ===== PAGE 4 ===== authority to settle the matter must be in attendance.

Requirement

Document requirement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
cohen-david-pro · p. 3
|SecCivil Final Pretrial and Settlement Conferences
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Mandatory

Counsel and clients must attend the Wednesday 1:00 p.m. Zoom final pretrial conference in cases without a jury demand.

The Court conducts a final pretrial conference in all cases without a jury demand and these conferences are conducted on Wednesday afternoons at 1:00 p.m. via Zoom. Counsel and clients must be in attendance.

Requirement

Document requirement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
cohen-david-pro · p. 3
|SecCivil Final Pretrial and Settlement Conferences
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Mandatory

A party that fails to file its proposed list waives all motions in limine.

Failure to file the proposed list will result in the waiver of all motions in limine by the party not in compliance with the Court’s order.

Document Type

Proposed Motions In Limine List

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
cohen-david-pro · p. 3
|SecMotions in Limine and Proposed Jury Instructions
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Mandatory

The parties must file joint proposed jury instructions, requested special instructions, and objections to requested instructions.

Further, the parties must file joint proposed jury instructions, any special instructions being requested and any objections to the requested instructions.

Document Type

Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
cohen-david-pro · p. 3
|SecMotions in Limine and Proposed Jury Instructions
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Mandatory

Parties must submit a final witness list to the Court on the morning of trial, identifying called witnesses, testimony format, and expected time on the stand.

The parties are to submit their final witness list to the Court on the morning of trial with the names of witnesses who will be called, a designation as to whether their testimony will be live, via video or read into the record and the approximate amount of time they expect the witness to be on the stand.

Document Type

Final Witness List

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
cohen-david-pro · p. 5
|SecTrial Exhibits and Final Witness Lists
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Important

Counsel knowledgeable about the case must attend the Zoom early scheduling conference.

Counsel knowledgeable of the case must be present at the Zoom early scheduling conference.

Document Type

Early Scheduling Conference

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Important

In cases without a jury demand, the final pretrial conference is held Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. by Zoom, and counsel and clients must attend.

The Court conducts a final pretrial conference in all cases without a jury demand and these conferences are conducted on Wednesday afternoons at 1:00 p.m. via Zoom. Counsel and clients must be in attendance.

Document Type

Final Pretrial Conference

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Important

In jury-demand cases, the in-person settlement conference is Thursday at 9:00 a.m.; trial counsel and clients with final settlement authority must attend, with out-of-state clients’ travel arranged in advance.

The Court conducts an in-person settlement conference on all cases with a jury demand on Thursday mornings at 9:00 a.m. Trial Counsel and all clients with final authority to settle the matter must be in attendance. Please ensure travel arrangements are made in advance to ensure attendance by out-of-state clients.

Document Type

Settlement Conference

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Important

Motions and briefs must concisely state their basis, supporting facts, and authority, consistent with local and Michigan Court Rules.

Parties may file motions in conformance with local and Michigan Court Rules. All motions and briefs shall succinctly and concisely set forth their basis, facts in support and authority.

Document Type

Motion And Brief

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Important

The appellant is responsible for ensuring that the trial-court or agency record and any transcript are filed.

The appellant is responsible for securing the filing of the record from the trial court or agency and any transcript.

Document Type

Appellate Record And Transcript

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Important

The Court expects strict compliance with dates in the amended scheduling order.

The amended scheduling order is not a guide, and the Court expects strict adherence to the dates set forth therein.

Document Type

Amended Scheduling Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Important

Jury instructions must be filed timely in accordance with court orders.

The Court takes jury instructions seriously and expects the jury instructions to be filed in a timely manner in accordance with Court orders

Document Type

Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Important

The appellant must praecipe appellate oral argument for the date and time set by the Court.

The appellant must praecipe the appellate oral argument for the date and time set by the Court.

Document Type

Appellate Oral Argument

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Important

Parties must exchange exhibits and stipulate to them before trial.

Parties are required to exchange and stipulate to exhibits in advance of trial.

Document Type

Trial Exhibits

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Important

For a Zoom motion hearing, participants must use a screen name containing their full name and case number.

When appearing via Zoom for a motion hearing, please ensure that your screen name includes your FULL name and the case number for which you are appearing.

Document Type

Zoom Screen Name

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
cohen-david-pro · p. 2
|SecMotion Practice
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Note

Oral arguments should be brief and focus only on important points.

Due to the extensive time spent reviewing legal filings, oral arguments should be brief and highlight important points only.

Document Type

Oral Argument

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Note

The stated trial schedule may change depending on the Court’s schedule.

This schedule is subject to change depending on the Court’s schedule.

Document Type

Trial Schedule

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026Note

The Court will accept pleas under People v Cobbs at arraignment or the pretrial conference.

The Court will accept pleas made pursuant to People v Cobbs at the time of arraignment or the pre-trial conference.

Document Type

Plea

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

Parties must file a notice of hearing and praecipe for the Wednesday of their choice and indicate the motion is to be heard via Zoom at 9:00 a.m.

Summary: Parties must file a notice of hearing and praecipe for their chosen Wednesday and identify the motion as a Zoom hearing at 9:00 a.m.

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

Viewers are prohibited from recording or otherwise copying court proceedings.

Summary: Viewers may not record or otherwise copy court proceedings.

Document Type

Court Proceeding

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Oakland:76d57c836ddc4a02f2865e16
|SecPublic Access to Zoom Proceedings
Filing Requirements

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

At least seven days prior to the Court’s scheduled final pretrial and/or settlement conference each party to the Case must efile a list of proposed motions in limine and the party’s proposed jury instructions.

Summary: Each party must file a proposed list of motions in limine and its proposed jury instructions before the scheduled conference.

Document Type

Proposed Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
cohen-david-pro · p. 3
|SecMotions in Limine and Proposed Jury Instructions
Filing Requirements

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

submitted to the Court on the first day of trial. Plaintiff is to mark its exhibits with numbers. Defendant is to mark its exhibits with letters.

Summary: Exhibits must be submitted to the Court on the first day of trial; Plaintiff must mark them with numbers and Defendant with letters.

Document Type

Trial Exhibits

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
cohen-david-pro · p. 5
|SecTrial Exhibits and Final Witness Lists

Filing & Service rules

Electronic Filing Rules

Civil cases, criminal cases, and appeals must be electronically filed through MiFile.

All civil cases, criminal cases, and appeals are to be electronically filed through the MiFile system.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Protocol

An emergency motion will be considered only if a written motion stating good cause is e-filed.

For an “emergency motion” to be considered, a written motion setting forth “good cause” must be eFiled.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Protocol

Civil cases, criminal cases, and appeals must be electronically filed through MiFile.

All civil cases, criminal cases, and appeals are to be electronically filed through the MiFile system.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | eFiling

An emergency motion must be filed electronically in writing and set forth good cause to be considered.

For an “emergency motion” to be considered, a written motion setting forth “good cause” must be efiled.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 2 | Emergency Motions

Oral and emailed requests for emergency motions will not be considered.

Oral or emailed requests for an emergency motion will not be considered.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | Emergency Motions

Attorneys and self-represented parties must set themselves up in MiFile to receive filing notifications.

Attorneys, and self-represented parties, are to ensure they are properly set up in the MiFile system and are receiving notifications when documents are filed into the case file.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Protocol

Attorneys and self-represented parties must set themselves up in MiFile and receive filing notifications.

Attorneys, and self-represented parties, are to ensure they are properly set up in the MiFile system and are receiving notifications when documents are filed into the case file.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | eFiling

Arraignments may be submitted by mail only with the Court’s prior permission.

The Court will accept arraignments by mail with the Court’s prior permission.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | Criminal Matters

Arraignments may be accepted by mail only with the Court’s prior permission.

The Court will accept arraignments by mail with the Court’s prior permission.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Protocol

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

Each party must e-file proposed motions in limine and proposed jury instructions at least seven days before the final pretrial or settlement conference.

At least seven days prior to the Court’s scheduled final pretrial and/or settlement conference each party to the Case must eFile a list of proposed motions in limine and proposed jury instructions.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Protocol

Motions must be both filed and heard at least 30 days before the final pretrial or settlement conference or they will be considered waived.

Motions may be filed during the pendency of litigation; however, all motions must be filed and heard at least thirty days before the party’s scheduled final pretrial and/or settlement conference. Motions not filed and heard at least 30 days prior to the final pretrial/settlement conference will be considered waived.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Protocol

Motions must be filed and heard at least 30 days before the scheduled final pretrial or settlement conference.

Motions may be filed during the pendency of litigation; however, all motions must be filed and heard at least thirty days before the party’s scheduled final pretrial and/or settlement conference.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 2 | Motion Practice

A motion not filed and heard at least 30 days before the final pretrial or settlement conference is considered waived.

Motions not filed and heard at least 30 days prior to the final pretrial/settlement conference will be considered waived.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 2 | Motion Practice

Each party must e-file its proposed motions in limine list and proposed jury instructions at least seven days before the scheduled final pretrial or settlement conference.

At least seven days prior to the Court’s scheduled final pretrial and/or settlement conference each party to the Case must efile a list of proposed motions in limine and the party’s proposed jury instructions.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 3 | Motions in Limine and Proposed Jury Instructions

The Court assigns motion time slots based on its docket the Tuesday before the call and files notice in the case file.

The Court will assign specific time slots based on its docket the Tuesday before the call and file notice into the case file.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 2 | Motion Practice

For civil cases, the initial scheduling order is issued approximately 75 days after the complaint and sets an early scheduling conference.

The Case Management Office issues an initial scheduling order for all civil cases approximately 75 days after the complaint is filed and this initial order will set an early scheduling conference.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Scheduling Orders and Early Scheduling Conferences

Participants should join the Zoom meeting approximately 10 minutes before the assigned motion time slot.

Please join the Zoom meeting approximately 10 minutes prior to your motion’s assigned time-slot.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | Motion Practice

Parties scheduled for a motion hearing receive detailed Zoom instructions through MiFile the day before the hearing.

Parties scheduled for a motion hearing will receive detailed Zoom instructions via MiFile the day prior to the motion hearing.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Protocol

The Court assigns motion-hearing timeslots on the preceding Tuesday and files notice in the case file.

The Court will assign specific timeslots based on its docket the Tuesday before the call and file notice into the case file.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Protocol

For civil cases, the initial scheduling order and early scheduling conference are set approximately 75 days after the complaint is filed.

The Case Management Office issues an initial scheduling order for all civil cases approximately 75 days after the complaint is filed and this initial order sets an early scheduling conference.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Protocol

Participants should join the motion-hearing Zoom meeting approximately 10 minutes before their assigned timeslot.

Please join the Zoom meeting approximately 10 minutes prior to your motion’s assigned timeslot.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Protocol

After the record is received in eFiling, the Court issues a scheduling order setting appeal briefing deadlines and a hearing date.

Once the record is received in eFiling, the Court will issue a brief scheduling order setting the briefing deadlines and hearing date for the appeal.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Protocol

Service and Proof of Service Rules

Court orders are served through MiFile, and failure to register for MiFile notifications will not excuse noncompliance.

The Court’s orders are served on the parties through MiFile and the Court will assume that parties are receiving Court orders and will not excuse non-compliance with a Court order because an attorney or, a self-represented party, failed to set themselves up as a recipient in MiFile.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Protocol

Court orders are served through MiFile, and failure to set up as a recipient does not excuse noncompliance.

The Court’s orders are served on the parties through MiFile and the Court will assume that parties are receiving Court orders and will not excuse non-compliance with a Court order because an attorney or, a self-represented party, failed to set themselves up as a recipient in MiFile.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | eFiling

Courtesy Copy Requirements

The Court does not require physical or Judge’s copies of filings.

*Please note that the Court does not require physical copies/Judge’s Copies of filings.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Protocol

Pre-Motion Conference Requirements

Parties must timely and professionally attempt to resolve discovery disputes and file only substantive discovery motions requiring a legal ruling.

Parties shall attempt to resolve all discovery disputes in a timely and professional manner and shall only file substantive discovery motions that require a legal ruling.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Protocol

Missing the filing deadline for the next Wednesday docket or a court-imposed deadline does not qualify as an emergency.

The Court does not consider Counsel’s failure to file their motion in time to be on the next Wednesday’s docket an “emergency” nor does the Court consider the failure to meet Court imposed deadlines an “emergency.”

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Protocol

Discovery motions are routinely referred to the Oakland County Bar Association discovery mediator.

Discovery motions are routinely referred to the Oakland County Bar Association discovery mediator.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 2 | Motion Practice

Parties must attempt timely, professional resolution of discovery disputes and file only substantive discovery motions requiring a legal ruling.

Parties shall attempt to resolve all discovery disputes in a timely and professional manner and shall only file substantive discovery motions that require a legal ruling.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 2 | Motion Practice

The Court decides in its discretion whether a motion qualifies as an emergency.

The Court, in its discretion, will determine whether the motion constitutes an "emergency" and adjudicate the motion accordingly.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 2 | Emergency Motions

The Court may accelerate briefing for a TRO or preliminary-injunction motion upon a showing of good cause.

The Court may accelerate the briefing schedule for motions for a temporary restraining order or a preliminary injunction if good cause is shown.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 3 | Temporary Restraining Orders and Preliminary Injunctions

The Court may dispense with oral argument under MCR 2.119(E)(3).

The Court reserves the right to dispense with oral argument under MCR 2.119(E)(3).

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Protocol

The Court may accelerate briefing for a temporary restraining order or preliminary injunction motion upon a showing of good cause.

The Court may accelerate the briefing schedule for motions for a temporary restraining order or a preliminary injunction if good cause is shown.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Protocol

The Court determines in its discretion whether a motion qualifies as an emergency and how to adjudicate it.

The Court, in its discretion, will determine whether the motion constitutes an "emergency" and adjudicate the motion accordingly.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Protocol

Discovery motions are routinely referred to the Oakland County Bar Association discovery mediator.

Discovery motions are routinely referred to the Oakland County Bar Association discovery mediator.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Protocol

Counsel knowledgeable about the case must attend the Zoom early scheduling conference.

Counsel knowledgeable of the case must be present at the Zoom early scheduling conference.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Scheduling Orders and Early Scheduling Conferences

If mediation does not resolve a discovery dispute, the moving party must re-notice and re-praecipe the motion for another Wednesday.

If parties are unable to resolve their dispute with the mediator, the moving party shall re-notice and re-praecipe the motion for another Wednesday.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | Motion Practice

Ex parte relief will be granted only in accordance with MCR 3.310 and applicable court rules.

The Court strictly adheres to MCR 3.310 and will only grant ex parte relief in accordance with the court rules.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Protocol

If mediation does not resolve a discovery dispute, the moving party must re-notice and re-praecipe the motion for another Wednesday.

If parties are unable to resolve their dispute with the mediator, the moving party shall re-notice and re-praecipe the motion for another Wednesday.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Protocol

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

The Court will not grant adjournments of the amended scheduling order issued after the early scheduling conference.

Due to the time spent with parties at the early scheduling conference and the wide latitude given, the Court will not grant adjournments of the amended scheduling order issued after the ESC.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Protocol

Scheduling-order adjournments cannot be made by stipulation and require good cause demonstrated in a motion stating specific facts.

Due to the time spent with parties at the early scheduling conference and the wide latitude given, the Court will not accept stipulations to adjourn scheduling orders and will only adjourn dates based on good cause, demonstrated through a motion setting forth specific facts.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Scheduling Orders and Early Scheduling Conferences

The Court will grant an adjournment of the initial scheduling order at the early scheduling conference.

The Court will grant an adjournment of the initial scheduling order at the ESC.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Protocol

The Court will accept one stipulated adjournment of the discovery cutoff if it does not interfere with the settlement conference or trial date.

The Court will accept one (1) stipulation to adjourn the discovery cut-off set forth in the amended scheduling order if the adjournment does not interfere with the settlement conference and trial date.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Protocol

Failure to promptly provide or pursue discovery does not establish good cause for an adjournment.

Failure to promptly provide or pursue discovery is not considered good cause by this Court.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Scheduling Orders and Early Scheduling Conferences

Chambers Communication Rules

The Court may terminate the call and reschedule the proceeding if video quality is unacceptable.

If the court determines the quality of the video experience is not acceptable it has the right to terminate the call and reschedule the proceeding.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Zoom Participation and Courtroom Conduct

Counsel must email a copy of a filed motion to the judge’s judicial assistant.

Counsel must email a copy of their filed motion to Judge Cohen’s Judicial Assistant, Lauren Hurst at hurstl@oaklandcountymi.gov.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 3, 2026

Page 1 | Protocol

Oral or emailed requests for emergency motions will not be considered.

Oral or emailed requests for an emergency motion will not be considered.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Protocol

Counsel must email a copy of a filed emergency motion to Judge Cohen’s Judicial Assistant at the stated address.

Counsel must email a copy of their filed motion to Judge Cohen’s Judicial Assistant, Lauren Hurst at hurstl@oakgov.com.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | Emergency Motions

Any conflict with the amended scheduling order’s trial date must be brought to the Court’s attention immediately.

Any conflict with the trial date set forth in the amended scheduling order shall be brought to the Court’s attention immediately so that the date may be re-scheduled.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Protocol

Anyone expecting to be more than 15 minutes late must immediately call chambers to inform staff.

The judge takes the bench promptly at the times stated above. If you expect to be more than 15 minutes late, you must call chambers immediately to inform the staff.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Protocol

Anyone expecting to be more than 15 minutes late must call chambers immediately to inform staff.

The judge takes the bench promptly at the times stated above. If you expect to be more than 15 minutes late, you must call chambers immediately to inform the staff.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | Criminal Matters

Remote participants should learn the controls and test their microphone and speakers before the call.

Remote participants should take time prior to the call to become familiar with the controls and test the mic and speaker controls.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Zoom Participation and Courtroom Conduct

Remote participants are advised to use a reliable wired, Wi-Fi, or LTE connection and are responsible for any mobile data charges.

Remote participants should use a wired connection, a strong Wi-Fi connection, or a substantial LTE mobile data plan to ensure a quality connection. (Note: Mobile data use may incur substantial cellular carrier charges which are the responsibility of the remote participant.)

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Zoom Participation and Courtroom Conduct

Court-wide rules

Applies court-wide

These 57 rules apply across Sixth Judicial Circuit Court of Michigan, Oakland County. Where this judge's own standing orders above address the same topic, the judge's requirement controls.

Fees

All 14
  • MiFILE e-filing has no fee except for documents requiring statutory filing fees, which are paid through MiFILE and subject to a credit-card transaction fee of up to 3%.

  • Payment is charged to the filer’s credit card at checkout when the filing is submitted, and refunded if the document is rejected.

  • Applies to
    Complaint

    Select the statutory filing fee type on the complaint.

Filing Requirements

All 12
  • Applies to
    Pleading or document

    Combine pages into a document and combine any attachments with the main pleading or document before submitting.

  • Applies to
    Document
    Must include
    caption, case number

    The first page of each document must include the case number, case names, and document title.

  • Applies to
    Judgment of divorce

    File the Record of Divorce or Annulment form before or with the Judgment of Divorce; if filed together, submit them as separate documents in the same bundle, not as an attachment.

E-Filing

All 10
  • Applies to
    Pleading or document

    Separate each pleading or document into its own file before uploading; do not combine distinct documents into one PDF.

  • Applies to
    Civil case filing

    E-filing is mandatory for civil cases when starting a new case and when filing in an existing case.

  • Applies to
    Pleading or document

    Submit each pleading or document as its own document, not as separate individual pages.

Communication

All 5
  • Contact
    Email to clerk

    If a case number cannot be found in MiFILE, email the listed address to have the case added.

  • Contact
    Phone to clerk
    Phone
    248-858-5831

    Questions about ePraecipe may be directed to Oakland County Case Management by telephone.

  • Phone
    855-959-8868

    MiFILE technical and customer care support is available by telephone or email.

About Judge David M. Cohen

Honorable David M. Cohen was appointed to the Oakland County Circuit Court bench in February of 2022, re-elected in November of 2022, where he presides in the general civil and criminal division. Judge Cohen served as a managing administrative law judge with the Detroit office of the Michigan Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules, providing supervision to 21 administrative law judges in the areas of unemployment and MERC. Previously, Judge Cohen served as an administrative law judge in the field of general adjudication. Prior to his role as an administrative law judge, Judge Cohen practiced law in the areas of personal injury, ADA disability rights, and administrative legal matters. Judge Cohen served as an alternate hearing officer for the Michigan Attorney Discipline Board and as a member of the Michigan Bar Journal Publication Committee. Judge Cohen earned his Juris Doctor and Bachelor of Arts degrees from Wayne State University. Judge Cohen was the 2025 recipient of the Ruth Bader Ginsburg Champion of Justice Award from the Jewish Bar Association of Michigan.

Circuit Court Judge, Civil Criminal Div In person courtroom: 1C Courtroom 1C, 1st Floor Chambers: 248-858-5280

Common questions about Judge David M. Cohen's rules

Are courtesy copies required for Judge David M. Cohen?

The Court does not require physical or Judge’s copies of filings.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Protocol

Does Judge David M. Cohen require a pre-motion conference or letter before filing a motion?

Judge David M. Cohen's rules set a pre-motion procedure for covered motions. Counsel knowledgeable about the case must attend the Zoom early scheduling conference.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Scheduling Orders and Early Scheduling Conferences

What must be included with motion filings before Judge David M. Cohen?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. Parties must file a notice of hearing and praecipe for their chosen Wednesday and identify the motion as a Zoom hearing at 9:00 a.m.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Protocol

What must be included with motions in limine filings before Judge David M. Cohen?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. A party that fails to file the proposed list waives all motions in limine.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Protocol

How may parties contact Judge David M. Cohen's chambers?

Oral or emailed requests for emergency motions will not be considered.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Protocol

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge David M. Cohen?

Advance notice is not fully stated in the structured details. The Court will not grant adjournments of the amended scheduling order issued after the early scheduling conference.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Protocol

Is electronic filing required before Judge David M. Cohen?

Yes. Electronic filing is required for the covered filings. Civil cases, criminal cases, and appeals must be electronically filed through MiFile.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Protocol

What filing deadlines does Judge David M. Cohen set?

Motions must be both filed and heard at least 30 days before the final pretrial or settlement conference or they will be considered waived.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Protocol

What rule applies to e-service for all parties before Judge David M. Cohen?

The rule addresses service method, recipient, or timing requirements. Details: method: e-service, recipient: all parties. Court orders are served through MiFile, and failure to register for MiFile notifications will not excuse noncompliance.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Protocol
Complete rules summary for Judge David M. Cohen

Attorneys and self-represented parties must set themselves up in MiFile to receive filing notifications.

Court orders are served through MiFile, and failure to register for MiFile notifications will not excuse noncompliance.

Civil cases, criminal cases, and appeals must be electronically filed through MiFile.

The Court does not require physical or Judge’s copies of filings.

For civil cases, the initial scheduling order and early scheduling conference are set approximately 75 days after the complaint is filed.

Counsel knowledgeable about the case must attend the Zoom early scheduling conference.

The Court will grant an adjournment of the initial scheduling order at the early scheduling conference.

The Court expects strict compliance with dates in the amended scheduling order.

The Court will not grant adjournments of the amended scheduling order issued after the early scheduling conference.

The Court will accept one stipulated adjournment of the discovery cutoff if it does not interfere with the settlement conference or trial date.

Any conflict with the amended scheduling order’s trial date must be brought to the Court’s attention immediately.

Motions and briefs must concisely state their basis, supporting facts, and authority, consistent with local and Michigan Court Rules.

Oral arguments should be brief and focus only on important points.

Motions must be both filed and heard at least 30 days before the final pretrial or settlement conference or they will be considered waived.

Discovery motions are routinely referred to the Oakland County Bar Association discovery mediator.

If mediation does not resolve a discovery dispute, the moving party must re-notice and re-praecipe the motion for another Wednesday.

Parties must timely and professionally attempt to resolve discovery disputes and file only substantive discovery motions requiring a legal ruling.

Parties must file a notice of hearing and praecipe for their chosen Wednesday and identify the motion as a Zoom hearing at 9:00 a.m.

The Court assigns motion-hearing timeslots on the preceding Tuesday and files notice in the case file.

The Court may dispense with oral argument under MCR 2.119(E)(3).

Zoom participants at motion hearings should use a screen name containing their full name and case number.

Participants should join the motion-hearing Zoom meeting approximately 10 minutes before their assigned timeslot.

Parties scheduled for a motion hearing receive detailed Zoom instructions through MiFile the day before the hearing.

An emergency motion will be considered only if a written motion stating good cause is e-filed.

Oral or emailed requests for emergency motions will not be considered.

The Court determines in its discretion whether a motion qualifies as an emergency and how to adjudicate it.

Counsel must email a copy of a filed motion to the judge’s judicial assistant.

Missing the filing deadline for the next Wednesday docket or a court-imposed deadline does not qualify as an emergency.

Each party must e-file proposed motions in limine and proposed jury instructions at least seven days before the final pretrial or settlement conference.

A party that fails to file the proposed list waives all motions in limine.

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