Sixth Judicial Circuit Court of Michigan, Oakland County Document Filing Requirements

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

Applies to

Judgment

For cases involving children, submit a completed Uniform Child Support Order with the judgment.

Cases with Minor Children --You must submit a completed Uniform Child Support Order (FOC 10) for any case involving children at the time you submit the judgment.

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

Applies to

Uniform child support order

Attach a Deviation Addendum to the Uniform Child Support Order if the child support formula calculations are not followed in any way.

A Deviation Addendum (FOC 10d) must be attached to the Uniform Child Support Order if you are not following the child support formula calculations in any way.

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

Applies to

Uniform child support order

A child support calculations page must be attached to the Uniform Child Support Order.

Additionally, you MUST attach a child support calculations page to the Uniform Child Support Order.

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

Applies to

Default judgment

Notice is required before taking a Default Judgment unless judgment is requested on the day of Trial.

You must give notice if you intend to take a Default Judgment unless judgment is requested on the day of Trial.

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

Applies to

Default judgment

Must include

proposed order

A Record of Divorce must be e-filed with the proposed Default Judgment.

You must efile a Record of Divorce with your proposed Default Judgment.

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

Applies to

Judgment

Submit a completed Uniform Child Support Order (FOC 10) with the judgment in any case involving children.

Cases with Minor Children --You must submit a completed Uniform Child Support Order (FOC 10) for any case involving children at the time you submit the judgment.

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

Applies to

Uniform child support order

Attach a child support calculations page to the Uniform Child Support Order.

Additionally, you MUST attach a child support calculations page to the Uniform Child Support Order.

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

Applies to

Uniform child support order

If child support formula calculations are not followed, attach a Deviation Addendum (FOC 10d) to the Uniform Child Support Order.

If you are not following the child support formula calculations in any way, a Deviation Addendum (FOC 10d) must be attached to the Uniform Child Support Order.

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

Applies to

Adjournment order

All adjournment orders must comply with MCR 2.503.

All orders for adjournment must comply with MCR 2.503.

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

Applies to

Trial brief

Submit trial briefs and binders in compliance with the Trial/Evidentiary Scheduling Order.

Trial briefs and binders shall be submitted to the Court in compliance with its Trial/Evidentiary Scheduling Order.

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

Applies to

Praecipe

A praecipe must be filed timely for a motion to be addressed by the Court.

Praecipes are required for motions to be addressed by the Court and they MUST be filed timely.

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

Applies to

Confidential settlement agreement

A referenced Confidential Settlement Agreement must be emailed to Chambers for judicial review, copying opposing parties or counsel.

If the Judgment references a Confidential Settlement Agreement, the agreement must be submitted to the judge for her review via email to sheltonchambers@oaklandcountymi.gov. Opposing parties/counsel must be copied on this email.

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

Applies to

Judgment

A completed Uniform Child Support Order (FOC 10) must accompany a judgment in a case involving children.

Cases with Minor Children - You must submit a completed Uniform Child Support Order (FOC 10) for any case involving children at the time you submit the judgment.

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

Applies to

Uniform child support order

Attach a Deviation Addendum (FOC 10d) to the Uniform Child Support Order whenever the child support formula is not followed.

A Deviation Addendum (FOC 10d) must be attached to the Uniform Child Support Order if you are not following the child support formula calculations in any way.

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

Applies to

Uniform child support order

A child support calculations page must be attached to the Uniform Child Support Order.

Additionally, you MUST attach a child support calculations page to the Uniform Child Support Order.

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

Applies to

Default request

Use the State Court Administrative Office’s Default Request and Entry form (MC 07).

This Court requires you to use the Default Request and Entry form (MC 07) available online through the State Court Administrative Office.

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

Applies to

Judgment

A completed Uniform Child Support Order (FOC 10) must accompany a judgment in a case involving children.

Cases with Minor Children—You must submit a completed Uniform Child Support Order (FOC 10) for any case involving children at the time you submit the judgment.

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

Applies to

Uniform child support order

Attach a Deviation Addendum (FOC 10d) to the Uniform Child Support Order whenever the child support formula is not followed.

If you are not following the child support formula calculations in any way, a Deviation Addendum (FOC 10d) must be attached to the Uniform Child Support Order.

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

Applies to

Trial brief and binder

Trial briefs and binders must be submitted in compliance with the Trial/Evidentiary Scheduling Order.

Trial briefs and binders shall be submitted to the Court in compliance with its Trial/Evidentiary Scheduling Order.

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

Applies to

Motion

A timely praecipe is required for motions to be addressed by the Court.

Praecipes are required for motions to be addressed by the Court and they MUST be filed timely.

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

Applies to

Praecipe

Late praecipes will not be heard.

Praecipes filed late will NOT be heard.

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

Must include

caption

If the opposing party is not connected to e-filing, provide that party’s email address in the caption so the Court can send the Zoom notice and log-in information.

If the opposing party is not connected to the e-file system, an email address must be provided in the caption, so the opposing party receives the notice to appear via Zoom from the Court along with the log-in information.

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

Applies to

Prisoner remote participation request

To arrange remote prisoner participation, provide the facility, correctly spelled name, date of birth, and inmate identification number to Chambers.

In order for chambers to make arrangements for a prisoner to participate in a hearing remotely chambers must be provided information about where the prisoner is being held (i.e. an MDOC facility, Oakland County Jail, etc.), and the individual's correctly spelled name, date of birth, and identifying inmate number.

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

Applies to

Motion

A separate motion must be filed for each defendant.

A separate motion for each defendant must be filed.

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

Applies to

Jury instructions

Jury instructions and the Verdict Form are due one week before trial.

Jury instructions and the Verdict Form are due one week prior to trial.

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

Applies to

Exhibits

All exhibits must be marked and agreed to by the parties before trial begins.

All exhibits must be marked and agreed to by the parties prior to the start of trial.

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

Applies to

Exhibits

A bench book of exhibits is required for all trials.

The Court requires a bench book of exhibits for all trials.

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

Applies to

Proposed findings conclusions

Proposed findings are required in bench trials.

The Court requires proposed findings in bench trials.

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

Applies to

Response

Parties must file responses to all contested motions.

The Court requires parties to file responses to all contested motions.

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

Applies to

Exhibits

Before trial, parties must mark all exhibits and agree to them.

All exhibits must be marked and agreed to by the parties prior to the start of trial.

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

Applies to

Exhibits

A bench book of exhibits is required for every trial.

The Court requires a bench book of exhibits for all trials.

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

Applies to

Proposed findings conclusions

Proposed findings are required in bench trials.

The Court requires proposed findings in bench trials.

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

Applies to

Motions in limine

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.

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

Applies to

Jury instructions

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.

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

Applies to

Trial exhibits

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.

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

Applies to

Final witness list

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.

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

Applies to

Motion and brief

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.

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

Applies to

Motion hearing notice and praecipe

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.

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

Applies to

Proposed motions in limine list

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.

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

Applies to

Jury instructions

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

Applies to

Final witness list

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.

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

Applies to

Stipulated order

Pretrial and sentencing adjournments in criminal matters require stipulated orders.

CRIMINIAL ADJOURNMENTS: stipulated orders are required for pretrial and sentencing adjournments.

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

Applies to

Notice of hearing

A notice of hearing for a summary-disposition motion must state that the date and time are to be determined by the Court.

When filing a motion for summary disposition, the notice of hearing shall provide “a date and time to be determined by the Court.”

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

Applies to

Settlement conference

Trial attorneys, clients, and insurance representatives with full settlement authority must attend in person or be immediately contactable during settlement conferences.

Trial attorneys, clients, and any insurance representatives with full settlement authority must be physically present or immediately available to be contacted during the settlement conference.

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

Applies to

Stipulated order of dismissal

Parties must notify the Court of settlement and enter a stipulated dismissal before the show-cause date or trial counsel must appear; failure to appear may result in dismissal or default.

If a matter has settled, the parties shall inform the Court and the judge’s clerk will issue a show cause order. A stipulated order of dismissal must be entered prior to the show cause date or all trial counsel must appear for the scheduled show cause. Failure to appear for the show cause (in the absence of a submission of a dismissal order) will result in the entry of a dismissal and/or default.

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

Applies to

Trial exhibits

The parties must exchange and stipulate to exhibits before trial, mark them before trial, and submit a complete set on the first trial day; plaintiff exhibits use numbers and defendant exhibits use letters.

The parties are required to exchange and stipulate to exhibits in advance of trial. 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/Petitioner is to mark its exhibits with numbers. Defendant/Respondent is to mark its exhibits with letters.

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

Applies to

Jury instructions

The parties must exchange and stipulate to jury instructions before trial, resolve disputes before trial morning, and submit instructions without citations or proponent identification one week before trial in Word format by email.

The parties are required to exchange and stipulate to pre-trial jury instructions in advance of trial. All such disputes are to be resolved before the morning of trial. Jury instructions are to be submitted without citation of authority or identification of the proponent (please reference the Pretrial Order). Jury instructions are due one week before trial and must be submitted electronically in Word format via email to the following:

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

Applies to

Order

Parties must complete an order consistent with the ruling before leaving court, or submit one promptly after a Zoom hearing.

Parties are expected to complete an order in accordance with the judge’s ruling before leaving the courtroom or if the parties are appearing by Zoom they are expected to submit an order comporting with the judge’s ruling promptly after conclusion of the hearing.

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

Applies to

Exhibits

The parties must exchange and stipulate to exhibits before trial.

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

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

Applies to

Exhibits

Counsel must mark exhibits before trial and submit a complete set to the Court on the first day of trial.

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.

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

Applies to

Jury instructions

The parties must exchange pretrial jury instructions and seek stipulations before trial.

The parties are required to exchange and seek stipulations to pre-trial jury instructions in advance of trial.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Motion

Must include

proposed order

A motion for entry of default judgment must include the proposed judgment and any applicable support orders.

All motions for entry of default judgments MUST include an attached copy of the proposed judgment (and support orders, if applicable).

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Order

For in-person motion hearings, an order must be presented to the Court for entry immediately after the hearing concludes.

For all in person motion hearings, an order SHALL be presented to the Court for entry immediately following the conclusion of the hearing.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Consent judgment

All parties must sign the final documents for consent judgments.

On consent judgments, all parties must sign the final documents.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Stipulation

A stipulation to withdraw or substitute counsel must be signed by all parties, including withdrawing counsel’s client and the opposing party or parties.

When filing a withdrawal or substitution of counsel, all parties must sign the stipulation including withdrawing counsel’s client and opposing party/parties.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Answer or reply to response

Answers or replies to responses require Chambers’ approval for filing under MCR 2.119(2)(b).

Answers/Replies to Responses must be approved for filing by chambers pursuant to MCR 2.119(2)(b).

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Adjournment motion or order

Adjournment motions and orders must state the reason and identify the adjournment number.

All motions and orders for adjournment must state the reason for the adjournment and be labeled as “First Adjournment,” “Second Adjournment,” “Third Adjournment,” etc.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Stipulated adjournment order

Must include

proposed order

Trial and hearing dates remain on the docket until a stipulated order is presented for signature, and parties must appear if no order is submitted before the scheduled date.

Trials and hearing dates will remain on the Court’s docket until a stipulated order is presented to the Court for the Judge’s signature; if parties fail to submit a stipulated order to the Court prior to their scheduled date, it is expected that all parties shall appear for the scheduled trial or hearing.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Judgment

A judgment involving minor children must include a Uniform Child Support Order with attached calculations, including when the parties seek a zero-sum deviation.

All judgments involving minor children must be accompanied by a Uniform Child Support Order with the calculations attached, even if the parties are seeking to deviate to a zero sum.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Ex parte order

Each Ex Parte Order must include the required affidavit and/or verification and the specified notice.

All Ex Parte Orders must have the required affidavit and/or verification as required by the court rules and must include the following notice, pursuant to MCR 3.207(B)(6): • “This Order will automatically become a temporary order if the other party does not file a written objection or motion to modify or rescind the ex parte order and a request for a hearing. The written objection or motion and the request for a hearing must be filed with the clerk of the court, and a true copy provided to the friend of the court and the other party, within 14 days after the order is served.”

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

Applies to

Consent judgment

All parties must sign final consent judgment documents.

On consent judgments, all parties must sign the final documents.

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

Applies to

Motion

A motion must be properly noticed before it can be heard on the Wednesday motion call.

Motions must be properly noticed in front of the Court to be heard as part of the Court’s Wednesday motion call.

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

Applies to

Motion hearing

Parties must appear in person for all motions, including procedural motions, unless the Court approves an absence or remote appearance in advance.

Parties are expected to appear in person for all motions, including procedural motions, unless prior approval is given by the Court for an absence or a remote appearance.

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

Applies to

Motion hearing

The moving party must appear for the motion unless excused by the Court.

Unless excused by the Court, the moving party must appear for the motion.

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

Applies to

Motion order

Counsel present at a motion hearing must prepare an order and present it to the Judge before leaving, unless otherwise directed.

If counsel is present when the motion is heard, they must prepare an order to present to the Judge before leaving the Courtroom (unless otherwise stated, the Judge’s staff will not prepare the order).

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

Applies to

Answer or reply to response

Answers or replies to responses require chambers’ approval for filing under MCR 2.119(2)(b).

Answers/Replies to Responses must be approved for filing by chambers pursuant to MCR 2.119(2)(b).

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

Applies to

Order of reference to foc

An order of reference to FOC cannot be submitted by stipulation; the parties must file a motion and notice it for motion call.

Orders of Reference to Friend of the Court will not be accepted by stipulation; the parties must file a motion and notice it for hearing on motion call.

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

Applies to

Motion

A party with an issue involving a factual dispute must file a motion requesting an evidentiary hearing.

If you have an issue that involves a factual dispute, you must file a motion to request an evidentiary hearing before the Judge.

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

Applies to

Adjournment motion or order

Adjournment motions and orders must state the reason and identify the adjournment number.

All motions and orders for adjournment must state the reason for the adjournment and be labeled as “First Adjournment,” “Second Adjournment,” “Third Adjournment,” etc.

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

Applies to

Trial or evidentiary hearing

Parties and witnesses must appear in person unless the Court grants prior leave to appear remotely by Zoom.

All parties and witnesses must appear in person for the hearing unless given prior leave by the Court to appear remotely by Zoom.

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

Applies to

Default judgment motion

Default judgment motions must be noticed for the regular Wednesday motion call and cannot be heard on the scheduled trial date.

Motions for entry of a default judgment must be noticed for the Court’s regular Wednesday Motion Call and will not be heard on a case’s scheduled trial date.

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

Applies to

Default judgment motion

Must include

proposed order

A default judgment motion must include the proposed judgment and any applicable support orders.

All motions for entry of default judgments MUST include an attached copy of the proposed judgment (and support orders, if applicable).

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

Applies to

Judgment

A judgment involving minor children must include a Uniform Child Support Order, even when the parties seek a zero-sum deviation.

All judgments involving minor children must be accompanied by a Uniform Child Support Order, even if the parties are seeking to deviate to a zero sum.

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

Applies to

Child support deviation

Every child support deviation must include a Deviation Addendum.

All deviations in child support must be accompanied by the Deviation Addendum.

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

Applies to

Ex parte order

Ex parte orders must include the court-rule-required affidavit or verification and the quoted notice about the 14-day objection deadline.

All Ex Parte Orders must have the required affidavit and/or verification as required by the court rules and must include the following notice, pursuant to MCR 3.207(B)(6): “This Order will automatically become a temporary order if the other party does not file a written objection or motion to modify or rescind the ex parte order and a request for a hearing. The written objection or motion and the request for a hearing must be filed with the clerk of the court, and a true copy provided to the friend of the court and the other party, within 14 days after the order is served.”

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

Applies to

Stipulated order

Parties who wish to use a person or agency as mediator must submit their selection to the Court by stipulated order.

The parties shall submit to the Court via stipulated order their selected Mediator should they wish to use a person/agency.

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

Applies to

Judgment

All parties must appear for a return of judgment if the Court has not signed the judgment and returned it through MiFile.

All parties shall appear for a return of judgment if the judgment has not been signed by the Court and submitted back to them via MiFile.

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

Applies to

Plea form

Plea forms must be completed in advance and emailed to the specified address before the hearing.

Plea forms need to be completed in advance and submitted to judgegantchambers@oakgov.com prior to the hearing.

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

Applies to

Juvenile motion

Juvenile motions must be filed with a praecipe and notice of hearing to the specified email address.

Motions regarding juvenile matter shall be filed, along with a praecipe and notice of hearing, to juvenilelegal@oakgov.com.

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

Applies to

Motion

A motion must have the specified subject-line information, copy the opposing party unless filed ex parte, and include the moving party’s certification concerning 7-day notice.

The motion must include the following: o The case name, case number, and motion title in the subject line of the email; o The opposing party must be cc’d (unless the motion is being filed ex- parte); o The moving party’s certification for a Motion without a 7-Day Notice or with a 7-Day Notice.

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

Applies to

Motion

The court will not consider a motion that omits the specified information.

If the moving party fails to include the information outlined above, the motion will not be considered by the court.

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

Applies to

Motion for entry of default judgment of divorce

A motion for entry of a default judgment of divorce must state the specified filing, service, and default dates, including the service method.

When filing a motion for entry of Default Judgment of Divorce, please indicate the date the complaint was filed; date the defendant was served and method of service; date the default ===== PAGE 4 ===== entry was filed; date the default was entered; date the proposed judgment, notice of hearing and motion for entry of default judgment was filed and served on the Defendant.

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

Applies to

Judgment of divorce

A consent judgment of divorce must be signed by both parties.

If the Judgment is entered based on consent, you need the signature of both parties.

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

Applies to

Opt out request

Parties opting out of Friend of the Court Services need an opt-out order.

Parties that opt out need an opt out order.

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

Applies to

Opt out case

Every opt-out case needs a signed advice of rights.

All opt out cases need a signed advice of rights.

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

Applies to

Uniform child support order

Every Uniform Child Support Order must include the child support calculation.

All Uniform Child Support Orders must be accompanied by the child support calculation.

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

Parties may not record court proceedings.

Parties are prohibited from recording the proceedings.

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

Applies to

Juvenile motion

Juvenile-matter motions must be filed with a praecipe and notice of hearing by sending them to juvenilelegal@oakgov.com.

Motions regarding juvenile matter shall be filed, along with a praecipe and notice of hearing, to juvenilelegal@oakgov.com.

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

Applies to

Motion

Must include

case number

Motions must include the case name, case number, and motion title in the email subject line, copy the opposing party unless filed ex parte, and include the moving party’s certification concerning 7-day notice.

The motion must include the following: o The case name, case number, and motion title in the subject line of the email; o The opposing party must be cc’d (unless the motion is being filed ex- parte); o The moving party’s certification for a Motion without a 7-Day Notice or with a 7-Day Notice.

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

Applies to

Motion

The court will not consider a motion that omits the required information.

If the moving party fails to include the information outlined above, the motion will not be considered by the court.

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

Applies to

Motion for entry of default judgment of divorce

A motion for entry of default judgment of divorce must state specified filing, service, default, and proposed-judgment dates, including the method of service.

When filing a motion for entry of Default Judgment of Divorce, please indicate the date the complaint was filed; date the defendant was served and method of service; date the default ===== PAGE 4 ===== entry was filed; date the default was entered; date the proposed judgment, notice of hearing and motion for entry of default judgment was filed and served on the Defendant.

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

Applies to

Opt out order

Parties who opt out of Friend of the Court Services need an opt-out order.

Parties that opt out need an opt out order.

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

Applies to

Opt out case

Every opt-out case requires a signed advice of rights.

All opt out cases need a signed advice of rights.

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

Applies to

Uniform child support order

Every Uniform Child Support Order must include the child support calculation.

All Uniform Child Support Orders must be accompanied by the child support calculation.

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

Applies to

Order

If all signatures cannot be obtained, parties must file the order under the 7-Day Rule.

Parties are required to file the order under the 7-Day Rule if unable to obtain all signatures.

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

Applies to

Discovery motion

If the Discovery Master meeting does not resolve the dispute and the parties want a Court decision, the moving party must re-praecipe the motion for the next available date and title it “unresolved.”

If the parties are not able to resolve after meeting with the Discovery Master, and wish the Court to decide on the motion, the moving party must re-praecipe the motion, and include the word “unresolved” in the motion title for the next available motion date.

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

Applies to

Arraignment waiver

Parties must appear for arraignment if the arraignment-by-mail submission is not timely.

Parties must appear for arraignment if the ABM is not timely submitted.

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

Applies to

Jury instructions

Disputed jury instructions or verdict-form provisions must be clearly marked and included in the stipulated jury-instruction packet.

Any disputed jury instructions or verdict form must be clearly marked and included with the stipulated jury instruction packet.

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

Applies to

Jury instructions

Attorneys must provide the Judicial Staff Attorney an electronic copy of the jury instructions and verdict form on the trial date.

The attorneys shall provide an electronic copy of the jury instructions including the verdict form to the Judicial Staff Attorney on the date of trial.

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

Applies to

Jury instructions

The Prosecutor must provide the Judicial Staff Attorney electronic final jury instructions and verdict form by the trial date.

The Prosecutor provides a set of final jury instructions and verdict form in electronic form to the Judicial Staff Attorney on or before the day of trial.

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

Applies to

Motion

Parties must praecipe motions other than motions for summary disposition for a Wednesday of their choice.

Parties must praecipe motions (excluding motions for summary disposition) for any Wednesday of their choice.

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

Applies to

Order

If all signatures cannot be obtained, parties must file the order under the 7-Day Rule.

Parties are required to file the order under the 7-Day Rule if unable to obtain all signatures.

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

Applies to

Motion

If the parties do not resolve a motion to compel after meeting with the Discovery Master and seek a Court decision, the moving party must re-praecipe it for the next available motion date and include “unresolved” in the title.

If the parties are not able to resolve after meeting with the Discovery Master, and wish the Court to decide on the motion, the moving party must re-praecipe the motion, and include the word “unresolved” in the motion title for the next available motion date.

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

Applies to

Motion

The motion praecipe and motion pleading must use the same motion title.

The motion praeipe and motion pleading must have the same motion title.

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

Applies to

Motion

Multiple requests require separate motions and praecipes.

The Court requires separate motions and praecipes for multiple requests.

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

Applies to

Jury instruction packet

Disputed jury instructions and verdict forms must be clearly marked and included with the stipulated jury-instruction packet.

Any disputed jury instructions or verdict form must be clearly marked and included with the stipulated jury instruction packet.

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

Applies to

Jury instructions

The defense must review the jury instructions and notify the Judicial Staff Attorney of objections or requests for additional instructions.

The Defense must review the jury instructions and notify the Judicial Staff Attorney regarding any objections or request for additional jury instructions.

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

Applies to

Order

When applicable, both the client and attorney must sign orders.

Clients and attorneys must both sign orders (if applicable).

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

Applies to

Ex parte order

The attorney or party preparing an Ex Parte Order must sign it.

On Ex Parte Orders, the preparing attorney/party must sign the order.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Trial submission

Each party must file lay and expert witness lists and proposed exhibit lists, and exchange exhibits, no later than seven days before trial.

Each party shall file a WITNESS LIST (lay and expert), a PROPOSED EXHIBIT LIST, and exchange exhibits no later than (7 days prior to the scheduled trial).

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Trial brief

Must include

legal argument

Each party must file a trial brief, including supporting law, no later than seven days before the scheduled hearing.

Each party shall file a TRIAL BRIEF (including supporting law) no later than (7 days prior to the scheduled hearing).

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Trial related motion

Motions in limine and other motions relating to the pending trial must be filed no later than seven days before trial.

All motions in limine or other motions in relation to the pending trial shall be filed no later than 7 days prior to the scheduled trial.

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

Applies to

Proposed order

Where applicable, both the client and attorney must sign proposed orders.

Signatures: Where applicable, clients and their attorneys must both sign all proposed orders.

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

Applies to

Proposed order

The opposing counsel and party must sign a proposed order substituting counsel.

For substitution of counsel: The opposing counsel(s) and party must sign the proposed order substituting counsel.

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

Filings must comply with MCR 1.109(D)(1)(b) and contain appropriate information for both parties or their counsel of record.

All filings must comport with MCR 1.109(D)(1)(b) and contain appropriate information for both parties or counsel(s) of record.

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

Applies to

Motion

Every motion must state a specific request for relief and include supporting legal briefing.

All motions must have a specific request for relief and legal briefing supporting the proposed request.

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

Applies to

Motion

Each motion must have a title that succinctly states the requested relief.

All motions must have a title succinctly stating the requested relief.

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

Applies to

Motion

The hearing date must appear on the first page of the motion.

The hearing date shall be printed on the first page of the motion.

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

Applies to

Motion

A motion may be repraeciped no more than twice before dismissal without prejudice.

A party may only repraecipe a motion twice before the court dismisses the motion without prejudice.

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

Applies to

Objection

An objection under the 7-Day Rule must verify review of the transcript or recording and include the relevant transcript portion or timestamps concerning disputed issues.

An objection to a proposed judgment or order submitted under MCR 2.602(B)(3) (a/k/a “the 7-Day Rule”) must: (i) verify that the objecting party reviewed the related transcript or recorded hearing, and (ii) attach the relevant portion of the hearing’s transcript or provide specific timestamps of the recorded hearing concerning the disputed issues.

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

Applies to

Motion

A party requesting an evidentiary hearing must file a motion.

A party must file a motion to request an evidentiary hearing.

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

Applies to

Personal protection order filing

A PPO filing must include a phone number where the petitioner can be reached if an interview is necessary.

The filing shall include a phone number where the petitioner can be reached if the court determines an interview is necessary.

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

Applies to

Stipulated adjournment order

The trial date is not officially moved until chambers receives an appropriate stipulated order with the new date, and the court does not hold dates open.

Court staff will not modify the trial date until chambers receives an appropriate stipulated order with the new date and the court does not hold dates open; the trial date is not officially moved until the court receives the stipulated order.

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

Applies to

Judgment documents

The court will not take proofs unless it has the judgment documents in its actual possession.

The court will not take proofs without being in actual possession of the judgment documents.

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

Applies to

Proposed order

Must include

proposed order

Where applicable, both the client and attorney must sign every proposed order.

Signatures: Where applicable, clients and their attorneys must both sign all proposed orders.

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

Applies to

Proposed order

Must include

proposed order

A proposed order substituting counsel must be signed by opposing counsel and the party.

For substitution of counsel: The opposing counsel(s) and party must sign the proposed order substituting counsel.

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

Applies to

Motion

Every motion must state specific requested relief and include supporting legal briefing.

All motions must have a specific request for relief and legal briefing supporting the proposed request.

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

Applies to

Motion

The motion’s hearing date must appear on its first page.

The hearing date shall be printed on the first page of the motion.

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

Applies to

Motion

A motion appearing on the docket a fourth time will be dismissed and must be refiled and served with updated information.

If the same motion appears on the docket a fourth time, the court will dismiss it and require it to be refiled and served with updated information.

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

Applies to

Motion

Must include

proposed order

A motion to settle orders must include the relevant transcript excerpt or specific proceeding timestamps and a proposed order.

Parties must file a motion and provide the relevant portion of the hearing’s transcript, or specific timestamps of the proceeding, along with a proposed order.

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

Applies to

Objection

An objection under the 7-Day Rule must verify review of the transcript or recording and include the relevant transcript excerpt or timestamps of disputed issues.

An objection to a proposed judgment or order submitted under MCR 2.602(B)(3) (a/k/a “the 7-Day Rule”) must: (i) verify that the objecting party reviewed the related transcript or recorded hearing,and (ii) attach the relevant portion of the hearing’s transcript or provide specific timestamps of the recorded hearing concerning the disputed issues.

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

Applies to

Proposed order

Must include

proposed order

A trial date is not changed until chambers receives an appropriate stipulated order with the new date, and the court does not hold dates open.

Court staff will not modify the trial date until chambers receives an appropriate stipulated order with the new date and the court does not hold dates open; the trial date is not officially moved until the court receives the stipulated order.

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

Applies to

Exhibit

Every proposed-exhibit page must state its page number and the total exhibit page count in “Page _ of _” format.

Every page of proposed exhibit must contain the notation “Page _ of _” and contain the current page and total number of pages in the exhibit.

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

Applies to

Motion

A motion’s public filing must include a placeholder page identifying any exhibit omitted from the public file and provided to chambers and opposing counsel.

The motion filed in the public file must contain a placeholder page noting that an exhibit was omitted from the public file but provided directly to chambers and opposing counsel.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Stipulation

A stipulation for withdrawal or substitution of counsel must be signed by every party (or that party’s attorney if represented) and by the withdrawing attorney’s client.

Stipulations for an order for withdrawal or substitution of counsel must include the signature of every party, or their attorney if represented by counsel, in addition to the client of the withdrawing attorney.

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

Civil cases

Attorneys and parties must attend all hearings, including procedural hearings, unless the Court specifically states otherwise.

Attorneys and parties must attend all court hearings, including procedural hearings, unless specifically stated otherwise.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Default judgment

A party must obtain entry of default from the County Clerk before presenting a default judgment to the Court.

A party must file and obtain a default against the non-moving party from the County Clerk before presenting a default judgment to the court.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Default judgment

Verify that the County Clerk entered the default before appearing for the default-judgment hearing.

Please verify entry of the default by the County Clerk before appearing for the default judgment hearing.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Default judgment

The moving party must comply with MCR 3.210(B) before appearing for the default-judgment hearing.

The moving party must comply with MCR 3.210(B) prior to appearing for the hearing to enter the default judgment.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Judgment

Submit a completed Uniform Child Support Order with the judgment in any case involving children.

You must submit a completed Uniform Child Support Order (FOC 10) for any case involving children at the time you submit the judgment.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Uniform child support order

Attach a Deviation Addendum to the Uniform Child Support Order whenever the child-support formula calculations are not followed in any way.

A Deviation Addendum (FOC 10d) must be attached to the Uniform Child Support Order if you are not following the child support formula calculations in any way.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Divorce judgment

Finalizing a divorce requires a completed and filed Record of Divorce and, when there are minor children or a spousal-support order, a Judgment Information Form, in addition to the applicable judgments and support orders.

In addition to the Judgment of Divorce, Uniform Child Support Order (if there are minor children), and Uniform Spousal Support Order (if spousal support is awarded), you must have a Record of Divorce and a Judgment Information Form (if there are minor children or a spousal support order) completed and filed.

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

Civil cases

The moving party must appear for the motion unless excused by the Court.

Unless excused by the court, the moving party must appear for the motion.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Motion

Failure to appear results in dismissal of the motion and may also result in a financial penalty.

Failure to appear will result in dismissal of the motion and may result in a financial penalty consistent with MCR 2.119(E)(4).

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Ex parte order

All other ex parte orders must include the language required by MCR 3.207(B)(6).

All other ex parte orders must include the language required pursuant to MCR 3.207(B)(6).

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Motion

An emergency motion must state the reason for the request, any exigent circumstances, and the harm that could result without emergency consideration.

The motion must state the reason for the request, including any exigent circumstances and the harm that could result if the matter were not addressed on an emergency basis.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Motion

The moving party must identify the motion as an emergency to the clerk and await further direction.

It is the moving party's responsibility to clearly indicate to the clerk that the motion is an emergency and await further direction from the clerk.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Order

All orders must bear original signatures.

Original signatures must appear on all orders.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Ex parte order

Ex parte orders concerning custody, child support, or parenting time must include the language required by MCR 3.207(B)(5).

All ex parte orders regarding custody, child support, or parenting time must include the language required pursuant to MCR 3.207(B)(5).

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

Civil cases

To arrange remote prisoner participation, provide chambers the facility, correctly spelled name, date of birth, and identifying inmate number.

In order for chambers to make arrangements for a prisoner to participate in a hearing remotely chambers must be provided information about where the prisoner is being held (i.e. an MDOC facility, Oakland County Jail, etc.), and the individual's correctly spelled name, date of birth, and identifying inmate number.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Exhibit

For in-person trials and evidentiary hearings, each party must provide every witness, party, and court staff member an individual copy of each proposed exhibit.

For in-person trials and evidentiary hearings, each party is responsible for providing every witness, party, and court staff member with their own individual copy of each proposed exhibit.

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

Civil cases

All parties and counsel must appear to put a settlement on the record unless staff specifically authorizes only the plaintiff and plaintiff’s counsel to appear after review of fully executed documents and determination that there are no concerns.

All parties and counsel must appear in court to place a settlement on the record unless Judge Savin’s staff has specifically informed the parties, or attorneys if represented by counsel, that only Plaintiff and Plaintiff’s counsel need appear after she has reviewed fully executed copies of all necessary documents (judgment, uniform support order(s), private settlement agreements, etc), and has determined there are no questions or concerns about the documents.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Motion

Must include

proposed order

The moving party for every motion must prepare an order reflecting the parties’ agreement or the judge’s oral ruling.

The moving party to every motion must prepare an order based on either the parties’ agreement or the Judge’s oral ruling.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Order

Do not leave the courtroom until the order is prepared and submitted to the judge for signature.

Do not leave the Courtroom until your order is prepared and submitted to the Judge for signature.

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

Applies to

Motion

A motion to amend the Scheduling Order must provide specific details explaining why amendment is necessary.

Any such motion shall provide specific details relative to why the Scheduling Order necessitates an amendment.

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

Applies to

Motion

A discovery-extension request must specify completed discovery, remaining discovery, and why the remaining discovery was not completed under the current Scheduling Order.

Any request to extend discovery shall include what specific discovery has been completed, what specific discovery remains to be completed, and why specifically any remaining discovery has not been completed within the current Scheduling Order.

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

Applies to

Proposed order

For a settlement before the Final Pretrial Conference, the parties must either file a proposed Final Order of Dismissal before the conference or attend with their clients to put the settlement on the record.

In the event of a settlement, the parties shall file their proposed Final Order of Dismissal prior to the date and time of the Final Pretrial Conference or appear for the scheduled Pretrial Conference with their respective clients to place the settlement on the record.

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

The Court may reject or strike motions, responses, replies, or supporting briefs that violate the cited court rules.

The Court strictly enforces MCR 1.109(D)(1), MCR 2.113(A) and MCR 2.119(A)(1) and (2). Failure to comply with said court rules shall result in the Court rejecting and/or otherwise striking any motion, response, reply and/or brief in support found in violation thereof.

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

Applies to

Motion

Must include

proposed order

When filing a dispositive motion, the movant must simultaneously file a proposed order specifying the relief and a praecipe and notice of hearing.

At the time of filing the dispositive motion (including a Proposed Order setting forth the specific relief requested), the movant shall simultaneously file a Praecipe and Notice of Hearing scheduling same for hearing before the Court.

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

Applies to

Motion

Motions seeking an injunction must strictly comply with MCR 3.310 or the Court will deny them.

All motions seeking an injunction from the Court shall comply strictly with MCR 3.310. Failure to do so shall result in the Court's denial of the motion.

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

Applies to

Motion

Motions for entry of a protective order must comply with MCR 2.302(C), and proposed stipulated protective orders must comply with MCR 2.302(F).

All Motions for Entry of a Protective Order shall comply with MCR 2.302(C). Any proposed Stipulated Protective Order filed with the Court shall comply with MCR 2.302(F).

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

Applies to

Motion

A motion to amend the Scheduling Order must provide specific details explaining why the amendment is necessary.

Furthermore, any such motion shall provide specific details relative to why the Scheduling Order necessitates an amendment.

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

Applies to

Discovery extension request

A request to extend discovery must identify completed and remaining discovery and explain specifically why the remaining discovery was not completed under the current Scheduling Order.

Any request to extend discovery shall include what specific discovery has been completed, what specific discovery remains to be completed, and why specifically any remaining discovery has not been completed within the current Scheduling Order.

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

Applies to

Praecipe

Must include

proposed order

A proposed order setting forth the requested relief must accompany the Praecipe, or the Praecipe will be dismissed.

Proposed Order setting forth the relief requested, or the Praecipe shall be dismissed by the Court.

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

Applies to

Motion response reply or supporting brief

Motions, responses, replies, and supporting briefs that violate the cited court rules will be rejected or stricken.

The Court strictly enforces MCR 1.109(D)(1), MCR 2.113(A) and MCR 2.119(A)(1) and (2). Failure to comply with said court rules shall result in the Court rejecting and/or otherwise striking any motion, response, reply and/or brief in support found in violation thereof.

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

Applies to

Dispositive motion

Must include

proposed order

When filing a dispositive motion and proposed order, the movant must simultaneously file a Praecipe and Notice of Hearing scheduling the motion before the Court.

At the time of filing the dispositive motion (including a Proposed Order setting forth the specific relief requested), the movant shall simultaneously file a Praecipe and Notice of Hearing scheduling same for hearing before the Court.

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

Applies to

Injunction motion

Motions seeking an injunction must strictly comply with MCR 3.310 or the Court will deny them.

All motions seeking an injunction from the Court shall comply strictly with MCR 3.310. Failure to do so shall result in the Court's denial of the motion.

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

Applies to

Protective order motion

Motions for entry of a protective order must comply with MCR 2.302(C).

All Motions for Entry of a Protective Order shall comply with MCR 2.302(C).

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

Applies to

Stipulated protective order

A proposed stipulated protective order filed with the Court must comply with MCR 2.302(F).

Any proposed Stipulated Protective Order filed with the Court shall comply with MCR 2.302(F).

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

Applies to

Praecipe

A motion will not be heard on its scheduled date if the praecipe is not filed.

If a praecipe is not filed, the motion will not be heard on the scheduled date.

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

Applies to

Proposed jury instructions and verdict forms

Each party must submit proposed jury instructions and verdict forms at least 7 days before trial in paper form delivered to chambers and electronic Word form.

Each party shall submit a copy of proposed jury instructions and verdict forms to the Court at least 7 days before trial in both paper (delivered to chambers) and electronic (Word) forms.

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

Applies to

Motion

A praecipe is required for a motion to be addressed by the Court.

Praecipes are required for motions to be addressed by the Court.

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

Applies to

21 day return of judgment request

For a requested 21-day return-of-judgment order, provide a signed settlement agreement or mediation audio recording at least 48 hours before statutory proofs.

If the parties are requesting a 21-day order for return of judgment, the Court must be provided with a signed settlement agreement, or a mediation audio recording at least 48 hours in advance of the Court proceeding with the statutory proofs.

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

Applies to

Statutory proofs

Must include

proposed order

For statutory proofs to be taken by Zoom, the proposed judgment of divorce and ancillary documents must be provided 48 hours beforehand.

The Court will take statutory proofs via Zoom if the Court has been provided with a proposed judgment of divorce and ancillary documents, 48 hours prior to the proofs being offered.

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

Applies to

Default judgment

A party seeking default judgment must comply with MCR 2.603 and MCR 3.210, including filing a separate non-military affidavit.

If default judgment is sought, the party must comply with MCR 2.603 and MCR 3.210, including but not limited to, the filing of a separate non-military affidavit.

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

Applies to

Ex parte motion

Parties filing an ex parte motion must refer to and comply with MCR 3.207.

If filing an ex parte motion, parties shall refer to and comply with MCR 3.207.

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

Applies to

Filing

Must include

caption

If the opposing party is not connected to the e-file system, the caption must include an email address.

If the opposing party is not connected to the e-file system, an email address must be provided in the caption.

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

Applies to

Motion for summary disposition

A Motion for Summary Disposition must include a Notice of Hearing stating that the date and time are to be determined by the Court.

Motions for Summary Disposition must be filed with a Notice of Hearing which indicates that the date/time is “to be determined by the Court.”

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

Applies to

Statutory proofs by Zoom

Must include

proposed order

For statutory proofs by Zoom, the Court must receive the proposed judgment of divorce and ancillary documents 48 hours before the proofs are offered.

The Court will take statutory proofs via Zoom if the Court has been provided with a proposed judgment of divorce and ancillary documents, 48 hours prior to the proofs being offered.

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

Applies to

21-day order for return of judgment

For a requested 21-day return-of-judgment order, the Court must receive a signed settlement agreement or mediation audio recording at least 48 hours before statutory proofs.

If the parties are requesting a 21-day order for return of judgment, the Court must be provided with a signed settlement agreement, or a mediation audio recording at least 48 hours in advance of the Court proceeding with the statutory proofs.

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

Applies to

Default judgment

A party seeking default judgment must comply with MCR 2.603 and MCR 3.210, including filing a separate non-military affidavit.

If default judgment is sought, the party must comply with MCR 2.603 and MCR 3.210, including but not limited to, the filing of a separate non-military affidavit.

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

Applies to

Summary disposition motion

Must include

local rule certificate

A summary disposition motion does not require a praecipe, but its required Motion Certification must be signed and filed by counsel of record or the self-represented party.

Although praecipes are not required when filing a summary disposition motion, the Motion Certification required by Local Sixth Judicial Circuit Court Rule 2.119(B)(2) must still be signed and filed by the attorney of record or the party in propria persona.

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

Applies to

Dispositive motion

A dispositive motion must be filed with a Notice of Hearing stating that the Court will schedule the hearing date at a date to be determined.

In addition, a Notice of Hearing must also accompany the filing of a dispositive motion and it must state that the hearing date will be scheduled by a date to be determined by the Court.

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

Applies to

Combined motion and brief

A combined motion and brief exceeding the applicable page limit may be submitted only after Court approval.

Only after Court approval may a combined motion and brief beyond page limitation be submitted.

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

Applies to

Motion for leave

A Motion for Leave to exceed the MCR page limit must be filed before the motion deadline, may not attach the oversized proposed submission, and must be granted before that submission is filed.

In sum, a motion for leave must be filed before the Court will accept a combined motion and brief beyond the page limitations set forth in the MCR; a motion for leave must be filed before the motion deadline; and a motion for leave may not attach the proposed submission exceeding the page limitation set forth in the MCR (the combined motion and brief exceeding the page limitation may only be submitted after Court approval).

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

Applies to

Privilege log

The privilege log must be produced with the document production, and document production must occur with the written responses.

The log shall be produced at the same time as the document production. The document production shall be made at the same time as the written responses.

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

Applies to

Privilege log

A privilege log must identify each document, describe its subject matter and type, list relevant authors and recipients, and state the privilege asserted.

The log shall (1) state the document number (e.g. Bates number) of the document, (2) describe the nature and general subject matter of the document not produced,(3) state the date and type of document (e.g., e-mail, notes, memo, etc.), (4) state the name(s) of the author/sender, recipient, and any third parties recipients copied, or, if known, who later received copies; and (5) state the privilege(s) asserted as to the withheld document.

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

Applies to

Initial disclosures

Unless exempted by court rule, stipulation, or court order, parties must provide specified claim, witness, document, damages, insurance, and expert information without waiting for a discovery request.

Except as exempted by the court rules, stipulation, or court order, a party must, without awaiting a discovery request, provide to the other parties: a. The factual basis of the party’s claims and defenses; b. The legal theories on which the party’s claims and defenses are based, including, if necessary for a reasonable understanding of the claim or defense, citations to relevant legal authorities; c. The name and, if known, address and telephone number of each individual likely to have discoverable information - along with the subjects of that information - that the disclosing party may use to support its claims or defenses, unless the use would be solely for impeachment; ===== PAGE 6 ===== d. A copy - or a description by category and location - of all documents, ESI, and tangible things that the disclosing party has in its possession, custody, or control and may use to support its claims or defenses, unless the use would be solely for impeachment; e. A description by category and location of all documents, ESI, and tangible things that are not in the disclosing party’s possession, custody, or control that the disclosing party may use to support its claims or defenses, unless the use would be solely for impeachment. The description must include the name and, if known, the address and telephone number of the person who has possession, custody, or control of the material; f. A computation of each category of damages claimed by the disclosing party, who must also make available for inspection and copying as under MCR 2.310 the documents or other evidentiary material, unless privileged or protected from disclosure, on which each computation is based, including materials bearing on the nature and extent of injuries suffered; g. A copy (or an opportunity to inspect a copy) of pertinent portions of any insurance, indemnity, or suretyship agreement under which another person may be liable to satisfy all or part of a possible judgment in the action or to indemnify or reimburse for payments made to satisfy the judgment including self-insured retention and limitations on coverage, indemnity, or reimbursement for amounts available to satisfy a judgment; and h. The anticipated subject areas of expert testimony.

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

Applies to

Initial disclosures

Must include

certificate of service

Initial disclosures must be written, signed, and served, and proof of service must be promptly filed.

Initial disclosures must be in writing, signed, and served, and a proof of service must be promptly filed.

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

Applies to

Motion

A motion under MCR 2.309(C) or 2.310(C)(3) must state that the movant conferred or attempted in good faith to obtain disclosure without court action.

7. When filing a motion pursuant to MCR 2.309(C) or 2.310(C)(3), a party must state that the movant has in good faith conferred or attempted to confer with the party not making the disclosure in an effort to secure the disclosure without court action.

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

Applies to

Privilege log

A pre-litigation document withheld as privileged must be included in a privilege log so the opposing party and Court can assess the privilege assertion.

Any document withheld on the basis of a claimed privilege, and generated before the initiation of litigation, shall be logged to allow the opposing party and the Court to assess the prima facie assertion of privilege.

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

Applies to

Summary disposition motion

A summary disposition motion does not require a praecipe, but its required Motion Certification must be signed and filed by counsel of record or the self-represented party.

Although praecipes are not required when filing a summary disposition motion, the Motion Certification required by Local Sixth Judicial Circuit Court Rule 2.119(B)(2) must still be signed and filed by the attorney of record or the party in propria persona.

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

Applies to

Dispositive motion

A dispositive motion must be accompanied by a Notice of Hearing stating that the Court will schedule the hearing date by a date to be determined.

In addition, a Notice of Hearing must also accompany the filing of a dispositive motion and it must state that the hearing date will be scheduled by a date to be determined by the Court.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Esi discovery plan

Must include

statement of facts

Within 14 days after an ESI conference, the parties must file an ESI discovery plan and a statement identifying unresolved issues.

Within 14 days of the ESI Conference, the parties shall file with the Court an ESI discovery plan and a statement concerning any issues upon which the parties cannot agree. MCR 2.401(J)(2).

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Initial disclosures

Must include

certificate of service

Initial disclosures must be written, signed, and served, and proof of service must be promptly filed.

(3) Form. Initial disclosures must be in writing, signed, and served, and a proof of service must be promptly filed.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Motion

A motion under MCR 2.309(C) or 2.310(C)(3) must state that the movant made a good-faith effort to confer or attempt to confer to obtain the disclosure without court action.

When filing a motion pursuant to MCR 2.309(C) or 2.310(C)(3), a party must state that the movant has in good faith conferred or attempted to confer with the party not making the disclosure in an effort to secure the disclosure without court action.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Summary disposition motion

Must include

local rule certificate

A summary disposition motion does not require a praecipe, but its required Motion Certification must be signed and filed by counsel of record or the self-represented party.

Although praecipes are not required when filing a summary disposition motion, the Motion Certification required by Local Sixth Judicial Circuit Court Rule 2.119(B)(2) must still be signed and filed by the attorney of record or the party in propria persona.

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

Applies to

Joint final pretrial order

A joint final pretrial order is due one week before trial and is filed shortly after the scheduling order issues.

The Court utilizes a joint final pretrial order, filed shortly after issuance of scheduling order; due one week before trial.

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

Applies to

Bond motion

Oral bond motions are prohibited during Criminal Call; file a written motion and praecipe it to the motion docket instead.

Oral bond motions are not permitted during Criminal Call. Instead, file a written motion and praecipe the matter to the Court's motion docket.

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

Applies to

Criminal bond motion

Must include

proposed order

Each criminal bond motion must include the district court bond order and a proposed order stating the requested relief and all bond conditions.

All Criminal Bond Motions must be accompanied by a copy of the district court bond order and a proposed order granting the relief requested, including all bond conditions.

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

Applies to

Motion for alternate service

A motion for alternate service must be submitted on the approved SCAO form.

Motions for Alternate Service: Must be submitted on approved SCAO form.

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

Applies to

Proposed order

Must include

proposed order

The proposed alternate-service order must provide for certified mail with return receipt, posting or affixing at the last known address, and publication in the Oakland County Legal News for three consecutive weeks.

Specific requirements of proposed order include: (1) Certified mail (return receipt requested) to the last known address; (2) Posting/affixing to the last known address; and (3) Publication in the Oakland County Legal News for 3 consecutive weeks.

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

Applies to

Motion for second summons

A motion for second summons must be submitted on the approved SCAO form.

Motions for Second Summons: Must be submitted on approved SCAO form.

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

Applies to

Trial exhibits

All exhibits must be marked and agreed to by the parties.

all exhibits must be marked and agreed to by the parties.

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

Applies to

Bench trial exhibits

A bench book of exhibits is required for bench trials.

The Court requires a bench book of exhibits for bench trials.

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

Applies to

Proposed findings

Proposed findings are required in bench trials.

The Court requires proposed findings in bench trials.

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

Applies to

Preliminary jury instructions

Preliminary jury instructions must be submitted on plain paper, in 14-point font, one instruction per double-spaced page, without case-law citations, by noon on the business day before trial.

Preliminary jury instructions must be submitted to the Court on plain paper, 14 point font, one instruction per page, double spaced, without citation to case law, no later than noon of the business day preceding the scheduled date of trial.

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

Applies to

Criminal bond motion

Must include

proposed order

Each criminal bond motion must include the district court bond order and a proposed order stating the requested relief and all bond conditions.

All Criminal Bond Motions must be accompanied by a copy of the district court bond order and a proposed order granting the relief requested, including all bond condtions.

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

Applies to

Final pretrial order

The Court uses a joint final pretrial order, filed shortly after the scheduling order issues and due one week before trial.

The Court utilizes a joint final pretrial order, filed shortly after issuance of scheduling order; due one week before trial.

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

Applies to

Trial brief

Trial adjournments require a motion, all parties’ presence, and good cause; trial briefs are due one week before trial, exhibits must be marked and agreed upon and labeled by party as specified, and a bench trial requires a bench book of exhibits.

The docket is computer-generated. Adjournments are allowed by motion with all parties present for good cause. A trial brief is due one week prior to trial; all exhibits must be marked and agreed to by the parties. Exhibits shall be labeled as follows: Plaintiff - numbers; Defense - letters. The Court requires a bench book of exhibits for bench trials.

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

Applies to

Motion for alternate service

Must include

proposed order

A motion for alternate service must use the approved SCAO form, include an affidavit describing at least three service attempts at varying times and days, and propose the listed service methods.

Motions for Alternate Service: Must be submitted on approved SCAO form. A process server affidavit indicating the specific attempts at service (minimum of three attempts, varied in time and day of week) is required. Specific requirements of proposed order include: (1) Certified mail (return receipt requested) to the last known address; (2) Posting/affixing to the last known address; and (3) Publication in the Oakland County Legal News for 3 consecutive weeks.

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

Applies to

Proposed findings conclusions

Proposed findings are required in bench trials.

The Court requires proposed findings in bench trials.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Uniform child support order

A child-support deviation must include the UCSO Deviation Addendum.

Any deviation in child support must be accompanied by the UCSO Deviation Addendum.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Motion

A motion must be properly noticed before it can be heard on the Court’s Wednesday motion call.

Motions must be properly noticed in front of the Court to be heard as part of the Court’s Wednesday motion call.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Motion

Parties and attorneys must appear in person for all motions, including procedural motions, unless the Court approves absence or remote appearance in advance.

Parties (litigants and attorneys) are expected to appear in person for all motions, including procedural motions, unless prior approval is given by the Court for an absence or a remote appearance.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Motion

The moving party must appear for the motion unless excused by the Court.

Unless excused by the Court, the moving party must appear for the motion.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Reply

Answers or replies to responses require chambers’ approval for filing under MCR 2.119(2)(b).

Answers/Replies to Responses must be approved for filing by chambers pursuant to MCR 2.119(2)(b).

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Motion

A party raising a factual dispute must file a motion requesting an evidentiary hearing before the judge.

If you have an issue that involves a factual dispute, you must file a motion to request an evidentiary hearing before the Judge.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Adjournment motion or order

Adjournment motions and orders must state the reason, identify the requesting party or parties, and indicate the adjournment number.

All motions and orders for adjournment must state the reason for the adjournment, the requesting party or parties, and be labeled as “First Adjournment,” “Second Adjournment,” etc.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Statutory proofs

Unrepresented litigants must appear for statutory proofs whether they are plaintiffs or defendants.

All unrepresented litigants must appear for statutory proofs, regardless of whether they are the plaintiff or the defendant.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Statutory proofs

All parties must appear when seeking statutory proofs and a return-of-judgment date instead of submitting a signed judgment, unless a signed acknowledgment or recorded settlement exists.

If the parties are seeking to take statutory proofs and obtain a return of judgment date in lieu of submitting a signed judgment in conjunction with the statutory proofs, all parties are required to appear unless there is a signed acknowledgment of settlement in place or the settlement was recorded.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Default judgment motion

Must include

proposed order

Every motion for default judgment must attach the proposed judgment and any applicable support orders.

All motions for entry of default judgments MUST include an attached copy of the proposed judgment (and support orders, if applicable).

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Judgment

Every judgment involving minor children must include a Uniform Child Support Order, including when the parties seek zero support.

All judgments involving minor children must be accompanied by a Uniform Child Support Order, even if the parties are seeking to deviate support to a zero sum.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Ex parte order

Proposed ex parte orders must contain any rule-required affidavit or verification and the specified notice language.

All proposed Ex Parte Orders must have the required affidavit and/or verification as required by the court rules and must include the following notice, pursuant to MCR 3.207(B)(6): “This Order will automatically become a temporary order if the other party does not file a written objection or motion to modify or rescind the ex parte order and a request for a hearing. The written objection or motion and the request for a hearing must be filed with the clerk of the court, and a true copy provided to the friend of the court and the other party, within 14 days after the order is served.”

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Ex parte order

Proposed ex parte orders concerning child support, custody, or visitation must comply with MCR 3.207(B).

Proposed Ex Parte Orders providing for child support, custody, or visitation must also comply with MCR 3.207(B).

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Consent judgment

Consent judgments must be signed by all parties, including litigants and attorneys; electronic and wet signatures are accepted.

The Court will accept electronic signatures (i.e. /s/NAME) in addition to wet signatures. On consent judgments, all parties (litigants and attorneys) must sign the final orders.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Withdrawal or substitution of counsel stipulation

A withdrawal or substitution stipulation must be signed by all parties, except that represented opposing parties need only have their counsel sign.

When filing a withdrawal or substitution of counsel, all parties must sign the stipulation including withdrawing counsel’s client and opposing party/parties. If the opposing party is represented by counsel, only counsel’s signature is needed on the stipulation.

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

Civil cases

All parties and witnesses must appear in person unless the Court gives prior permission to appear remotely by Zoom.

All parties and witnesses must appear in person for the hearing unless given prior leave by the Court to appear remotely by Zoom.

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

Civil cases

Unrepresented litigants must appear for statutory proofs whether they are plaintiffs or defendants.

All unrepresented litigants must appear for statutory proofs, regardless of whether they are the plaintiff or the defendant.

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

Civil cases

When parties seek statutory proofs and a return-of-judgment date instead of submitting a signed judgment, all parties must appear unless there is a signed settlement acknowledgment or the settlement was recorded.

If the parties are seeking to take statutory proofs and obtain a return of judgment date in lieu of submitting a signed judgment in conjunction with the statutory proofs, all parties are required to appear unless there is a signed acknowledgment of settlement in place or the settlement was recorded.

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

Civil cases

Attorneys and parties must attend all other scheduled conferences and hearings unless excused by the Court.

For all other conferences, attorneys and parties must attend any scheduled conference or hearing unless excused by the Court.

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

Civil cases

Unless court staff or the Domestic Scheduling Order says otherwise, clients and attorneys must attend subsequent hearings even if excused from the Settlement Conference.

Unless notified otherwise by court staff or on the Domestic Scheduling Order, clients and attorneys must appear at all subsequent hearings even if their appearance was excused for the Settlement Conference.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Default judgment

Before presenting a default judgment, a party must file and obtain the default against the non-moving party from the County Clerk.

A party must file and obtain a default against the non-moving party from the County Clerk prior to presenting a default judgment to the Court (see MC 07).

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Default judgment

Before moving for default judgment, verify entry of default with the Clerk’s Office and confirm proper service.

Please verify entry of default with the Clerk’s Office and proper service before moving for entry of a default judgment.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Default judgment

A party moving for default judgment must comply with MCR 3.210(B) before the hearing.

The party moving for a default judgment must comply with MCR 3.210(B) before appearing for the default judgment hearing.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Default judgment

Must include

proposed order

Every motion for entry of default judgment must attach a proposed judgment and, if applicable, support orders.

All motions for entry of default judgments MUST include an attached copy of the proposed judgment (and support orders, if applicable).

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Judgment

Must include

proposed order

Every judgment involving minor children must include a Uniform Child Support Order, even when the requested support deviation is zero.

All judgments involving minor children must be accompanied by a Uniform Child Support Order, even if the parties are seeking to deviate support to a zero sum.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Consent judgment

The Court will not enter a consent judgment that reserves child support or refers the issue to Friend of the Court.

The Court will not enter a consent judgment that reserves the issue of child support or simply refers the issue of support to Friend of the Court.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Child support order

A child-support deviation must include the UCSO Deviation Addendum.

Any deviation in child support must be accompanied by the UCSO Deviation Addendum.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Ex parte order

Every proposed ex parte order must include the court-rule-required affidavit or verification and the specified notice.

All proposed Ex Parte Orders must have the required affidavit and/or verification as required by the court rules and must include the following notice, pursuant to MCR 3.207(B)(6): • “This Order will automatically become a temporary order if the other party does not file a written objection or motion to modify or rescind the ex parte order and a request for a hearing. The written objection or motion and the request for a hearing must be filed with the clerk of the court, and a true copy provided to the friend of the court and the other party, within 14 days after the order is served.”

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Ex parte order

Proposed ex parte orders addressing child support, custody, or visitation must comply with MCR 3.207(B).

Proposed Ex Parte Orders providing for child support, custody, or visitation must also comply with MCR 3.207(B).

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

Applies to

Jury instructions

The parties must jointly provide the Court a complete, fully filled-in copy of the jury instructions ready for printing.

The parties shall jointly provide the Court, in a Word document, a FULL COPY of the JURY INSTRUCTIONS, fully filled-in (and ready to be printed for the jury) via valentinechambers@oakgov.com and nemera@oakgov.com.

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

Applies to

Settlement conference statement

Counsel or pro per parties must prepare and serve all parties, and email chambers, a short settlement-conference statement one week before the conference addressing the listed topics.

COUNSEL AND/OR PRO PER PARTY shall prepare and serve on all parties and email the Judge’s chambers valentinechambers@oakgov.com, ONE WEEK PRIOR TO THE CONFERENCE, a SHORT statement, which: Summarizes the background of the action and the principal factual and legal issues; Detail all issues remaining; REV: 10/13/2022 ===== PAGE 2 ===== List all outstanding motions; Summarize settlement efforts, including whether the parties engaged in facilitation and/or other ADR proceedings; Whether parties have discussed arbitration; Discloses insurance available to satisfy all/part of a judgment, including indemnification agreements; and

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

Applies to

Motion

A motion for summary disposition must include the specified certification above the signature.

Include this statement above signature: I certify that I reviewed the most recent Scheduling Order and this motion for summary disposition is timely and conforms to the applicable court rules.

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

Applies to

Arraignment by mail

For an arraignment by mail, include a pretrial date no more than three weeks after the arraignment date.

Arraignments by Mail (ABM): This Court allows ABM. Please include the Pretrial date, which is not to exceed three weeks after the arraignment date.

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

Applies to

Emergency motion

An emergency hearing request requires a written motion explaining the request, emailed to the listed addresses after e-filing, and the moving party must call chambers; oral requests are not considered.

Emergency Motions: A request for an emergency hearing may be submitted anytime. To be considered, a written motion explaining the request must be submitted to the Court. Please email the emergency motion to judgepoleschambers@oakgov.com and polancoa@oakgov.com after the motion has been e-filed. Oral requests for emergency motions will not be considered. The moving party shall call chambers to inform the Court that an emergency motion has been filed.

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

Applies to

Proposed order

Proposed orders must be accompanied by the specified verified motion, brief, supporting materials, and proof of at least three service attempts or an explanation for the missing affidavit.

Proposed orders must be accompanied by a verified motion and brief with supporting authority, proof of certified address, postal verification, affidavit of process server (or reason why one cannot be given) showing at least three attempts.

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

Applies to

Pleading or document

Captions should list counsel’s or self-represented parties’ phone numbers and email addresses, except when a self-represented party’s information is confidential in Friend of the Court records.

Pleading and document captions should include phone numbers and email addresses for counsel of record and/or self-represented parties, unless the self-represented party's contact information is confidential in the Friend of the Court's records.

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

Applies to

Scheduling order

Parties and counsel are expected to comply with all dates in the Scheduling Order.

Parties and counsel are expected to comply with all dates set forth in the Scheduling Order.

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

Attorneys and parties should display their legal name, case number, and preferred pronouns in Zoom.

Display Name for Attorneys and Parties: Please display your legal name, case number and preferred pronouns (she/he/they), to assist in being admitted into the correct Zoom hearing for your case.

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

Must include

caption

Pleading and document captions should list counsel’s or self-represented parties’ phone numbers and email addresses, except when a self-represented party’s contact information is confidential in Friend of the Court records.

Pleading and document captions should include phone numbers and email addresses for counsel of record and/or self-represented parties, unless the self-represented party's contact information is confidential in the Friend of the Court's records.

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

Applies to

Scheduling order

Parties and counsel are expected to comply with all Scheduling Order dates.

Parties and counsel are expected to comply with all dates set forth in the Scheduling Order.

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

Applies to

Praecipe

A party may re-praecipe a motion three times.

A party may re-praecipe a motion 3 times.

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

Applies to

Motion

The Court may dismiss a motion without prejudice after a third re-praecipe.

However, the Court may dismiss the motion without prejudice after a 3rd re-praecipe.

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

Applies to

Pretrial order

A final Pretrial Order is filed shortly after the scheduling order and includes pretrial deadlines.

The Court utilizes a final Pretrial Order, filed shortly after issuance of a scheduling order, which includes various pretrial deadlines.

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

Applies to

Early scheduling conference

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.

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

Applies to

Amended scheduling order

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.

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

Applies to

Motion and brief

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.

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

Applies to

Jury instructions

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

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

Applies to

Appellate record and transcript

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.

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

Applies to

Appellate oral argument

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.

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

Applies to

Final pretrial conference

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.

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

Applies to

Settlement conference

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.

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

Applies to

Trial exhibits

Parties must exchange exhibits and stipulate to them before trial.

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

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

Applies to

Zoom screen name

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.

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

Applies to

Order

Parties should complete the order before leaving court or, when appearing by Zoom, submit it promptly after the hearing.

Parties are expected to complete an order in accordance with the judge’s ruling before leaving the courtroom or if the parties are appearing by Zoom they are expected to submit an order comporting with the judge’s ruling promptly after conclusion of the hearing.

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

Before leaving the courtroom, inform the clerk and sign out on the whiteboard.

If you need to leave the courtroom for any reason, you must inform the clerk and then sign out on the whiteboard.

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

Attorneys should not check in with the Court until their client has arrived.

Attorneys should not check-in with the Court until the client has arrived.

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

Applies to

Jury instructions

Submitted jury instructions must omit citations of authority and identify no proponent; refer to the Pretrial Order.

Jury instructions are to be submitted without citation of authority or identification of the proponent (please reference the Pretrial Order).

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Order

Even when court staff prepares the order, counsel or litigants are expected to submit a legible order for review and entry.

the Court indicates the court staff will be preparing the order, counsel and/or the litigants are expected to submit a legible order for the Court’s review and entry.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Stipulation

If the opposing party is represented, that party’s counsel’s signature alone is needed on the stipulation.

If the opposing party is represented by counsel, only counsel’s signature is needed on the stipulation.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Pleading or document

Captions in e-filing cases should include the email addresses of counsel of record and, if applicable, self-represented parties.

For e-filing cases, pleading and document captions should include email addresses for counsel of record and/or in pro per parties (if applicable).

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

Applies to

E filing document

The Court accepts electronic signatures in e-filing cases.

On e-filing cases, the Court will accept electronic signatures.

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

Applies to

Pleading or document

Captions in e-filing cases should include email addresses for counsel of record and, if applicable, self-represented parties.

For e-filing cases, pleading and document captions should include email addresses for counsel of record and/or in pro per parties (if applicable).

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

Applies to

Trial brief

Failure to comply with the Scheduling Order may result in rejection of the trial brief.

Failure to follow requirements of the Scheduling Order may result in rejection of the trial brief.

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

Applies to

Responsive pleading

A responsive pleading should place the allegation or statement being answered before the response.

When filing responsive pleadings, please include the allegation or statement that you are responding to before your response.

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

Applies to

Responsive pleading

Responsive pleadings must state the allegation or statement being answered before the response.

When filing responsive pleadings, please include the allegation or statement that you are responding to before your response.

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

Applies to

Email

An electronic signature certifies that the information in the email is correct.

Notice: Your electronic signature certifies that the information presented in your email is correct.

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

Applies to

Order

Parties are expected to sign orders approved as to substance and form before e-filing them.

Parties are expected to sign each order approved as to substance/form prior to its e-filed submission.

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

Applies to

Pretrial order

A final pretrial order will be issued in every civil and criminal case.

A final pretrial order will be issued in all civil and criminal cases.

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

Applies to

Jury instructions

The Defense must review the jury instructions and notify the Judicial Staff Attorney of objections or requests for additional instructions.

The Defense must review the jury instructions and notify the Judicial Staff Attorney regarding any objections or request for additional jury instructions.

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

Applies to

Order

Parties are expected to sign each order approved as to substance and form before submitting it electronically.

Parties are expected to sign each order approved as to substance/form prior to its e-filed submission.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Reply

The Court will not accept replies to responses unless it decides otherwise and notifies the parties.

No reply to any response shall be accepted by the Court, unless the Court decides otherwise and notifies the parties.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Brief and motion

All briefs and motions must comply with MCR 2.119(A)(2).

All briefs and motions must comply with MCR 2.119(A)(2).

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

Applies to

Motion

The court may dismiss a motion titled “motion” or with a substantially similar title.

Motions titled “motion,” or containing a substantially similar title, may be dismissed by the court.

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

Applies to

Trial brief

Trial-briefing requirements are set out in the scheduling order.

The scheduling order identifies requirements for trial briefing.

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

Applies to

Court filings

The court will enforce the filing requirements in the scheduling order.

The court will enforce all requirements regarding court filings addressed in the scheduling order.

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

Applies to

Trial or evidentiary hearing

Unless the court orders otherwise, trials and evidentiary hearings are in person, including testimony by parties and witnesses.

Unless otherwise ordered, all trial and evidentiary hearings shall be held in-person before the Court, including the presentation of testimony from any parties and/or witnesses.

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

Applies to

Trial brief

The court may decline to consider trial briefing that does not comply with the requirements.

Noncompliance with the briefing requirements may result in the court not considering it.

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

Applies to

In person hearing documents

For in-person hearings, parties must bring enough document copies for opposing counsel, witnesses, clients, and other individuals.

For in person hearings, it is your responsibility to bring sufficient copies of all documents for opposing counsel, witnesses, clients, or other individuals for in-person hearings.

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

Applies to

Proposed exhibit

Each page of a proposed exhibit must show “Page _ of _” with its page number and the exhibit’s total page count.

Every page of proposed exhibit must contain the notation “Page _ of _” and contain the current page and total number of pages in the exhibit.

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

Applies to

Exhibits

Exhibit exchange and filing must follow the scheduling order.

Exhibit exchange and filing must comply with the scheduling order’s provisions.

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

Applies to

Final judgment documents

The court will move up a proofs date only after receiving all applicable signed final judgment documents and reviewing them.

The court will only move up a date for proofs if it 1) is in actual possession of all final judgment documents signed by the necessary individuals where applicable and 2) has reviewed the judgment document documents.

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

Applies to

Motion

A motion may be repraeciped no more than twice before dismissal without prejudice.

A party may only repraecipe a motion twice before the court dismisses the motion without prejudice.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Consent judgment

The Court will issue a scheduling order at the settlement conference unless the parties submit a signed consent judgment in advance and place proofs on the record.

The court will issue a scheduling order at the settlement conference date unless the parties present a signed consent judgment in advance and place proofs on the record..

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Pleading

Pleading and document captions should include counsel’s and/or self-represented parties’ email addresses unless the self-represented party’s contact information is confidential in Friend of the Court records.

Pleading and document captions should include email addresses for counsel of record and/or self-represented parties, unless the self-represented party's contact information is confidential in the Friend of the Court's records.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Exhibit

Proposed exhibits should be marked before trial or an evidentiary hearing.

All proposed exhibits should be marked prior to the trial/evidentiary hearing.

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

After checking in, attorneys may not leave the courtroom without the Court’s permission.

Once checked-in, attorneys shall not leave the courtroom without the permission of the Court.

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

Applies to

Trial brief

A trial brief should include pertinent facts, issues to be tried, controlling law, and an analysis of evidentiary and legal issues.

The trial brief should contain a brief statement of pertinent facts, a statement of the issues to be tried, an identification of controlling law, and a brief analysis of the evidentiary and legal issues.

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

Applies to

Exhibits

Exhibits should be marked before trial, with plaintiff exhibits numbered and defendant exhibits lettered.

Exhibits should be marked prior to trial (Plaintiff – numbers; Defendant – letters).

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

Applies to

Emergency motion

Before labeling and filing a motion as an emergency, parties must consider whether an exigent circumstance requires immediate assistance because someone is in danger.

Prior to labeling and filing an emergency motion, parties shall consider the definition of emergency: an exigent circumstance in which immediate assistance is needed because someone is in danger.

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

Applies to

Emergency motion

If an emergency-labeled motion filed with a hearing notice or praecipe is dismissed, the Court may dismiss those items and require refiling for a Wednesday motion hearing.

If a motion is labeled as an emergency and is it is filed with a notice of hearing and/or praecipe, if the motion is dismissed, the Court may exercise its discretion to dismiss the notice of hearing and/or praecipe and require the party to file their motion anew for a Wednesday the Court is hearing motions.

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

Applies to

Motion

A party may praecipe a motion three times, after which the Court may dismiss it without prejudice.

A party may praecipe a motion 3 times. However, the Court may dismiss the motion without prejudice after a 3rd praecipe.

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

Applies to

Motion for order to show cause

Motions for order to show cause are governed by MCR 3.606 rather than general motion practice under MCR 2.119.

Motions for order to show cause are governed by MCR 3.606, which relates to contempt proceedings and is distinct from general motion practice under MCR 2.119.

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

Applies to

Motion for order to show cause

Before filing a motion to show cause, parties should consult MCR 3.606, pertinent statutes, and relevant case law.

Parties should refer to MCR 3.606, pertinent statutes, and relevant case law prior to filing a motion to show cause.

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

Applies to

Motion for second summons

A motion for second summons must use the approved SCAO form; a 45-day extension may be considered when appropriate.

Motions for Second Summons: Must be submitted on approved SCAO form. A 45-day extension will be considered when appropriate.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Motion

Motions before the judge are heard in person unless the Court gives prior approval for a party to appear by Zoom.

Motions heard by the judge will be heard in person in Courtroom 3C unless the Court gives prior approval for one or both parties to appear by Zoom.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Motion

Only the moving party may cancel or re-notice a motion for another motion call.

Only the moving party may cancel or re-notice a motion to another Motion Call.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Trial brief

A trial brief may be rejected for failure to comply with the scheduling order.

Failure to follow requirements of the Scheduling Order may result in rejection of the trial brief.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Scheduling order

The Court may dismiss a case if parties fail to complete required, unexcused mediation before trial.

Cases where mediation has not been excused and where the parties fail to mediate prior to trial may be dismissed by the Court for failing to comply with the requirements in the scheduling order.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Pleading or document

In e-filing cases, captions should include email addresses for counsel of record and, when applicable, self-represented parties.

For e-filing cases, pleading and document captions should include email addresses for counsel of record and/or in pro per parties (if applicable).

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Interpreter request

Interpreter requests must be made using the appropriate SCAO form.

Any party in need of an interpreter must let chambers know as soon as possible, and must be made using the appropriate SCAO form.

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

Applies to

Jury instructions

The parties must use the most current jury instructions.

The parties are required to use the most current jury instructions, the links are:

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

Applies to

Settlement conference statement

Parties must discuss their settlement-conference statements with one another before the conference.

Parties are required to discuss their statements with each other, prior to Settlement Conference.

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

Applies to

Stipulated order

Cases are opted out of case evaluation; to opt in, submit a stipulated order to the Case Management Office.

All cases OPTED OUT of case evaluation. To OPT IN, provide a stipulated order to the Case Management Office.

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

Defendants on bond are scheduled for Tuesday at 8:30 a.m.; defendants in custody are scheduled for Tuesday at 9 a.m.

Defendants on bond are set for a Tuesday at 8:30AM and Defendants in custody are set for a Tuesday at 9AM.

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

Applies to

Position summary

The Court encourages petitioners and respondents to file position summaries before scheduled hearings.

The Court encourages filings or position summations by both the petitioner and respondent in advance of any scheduled hearings.

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

Applies to

Oral argument

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.

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

Applies to

Plea

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.

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

Applies to

Trial schedule

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

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

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

Applies to

Trial brief

Parties are encouraged to file trial briefs identifying uncontested and contested issues in every case.

Parties are highly encouraged to file trial briefs, identifying uncontested and contested issues, in all cases.

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

Applies to

Written closings and findings

If both sides agree, the parties may submit written closings and findings of fact instead of oral closings after trial concludes.

If both sides agree, the parties may submit written closings and findings of fact, in lieu of oral closing arguments, following the conclusion of trial.

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

Civil cases

A represented party may be excused from the first settlement conference if the attorney attends.

A party represented by an attorney may be excused from the first settlement conference so long as their attorney is present.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Order

As best practice, submit proposed orders for entry when the Court issues its ruling and before leaving the courtroom.

Best practice dictates that orders should be submitted for entry at the time the Court issues its ruling before the parties/attorneys leave the courtroom to avoid unnecessary confusion and litigation regarding entry of the order.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Motion

Must include

proposed order

Parties are advised to bring a proposed order to Motion Call.

It is prudent to come to Motion Call with a proposed order.

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

Civil cases

Parties are encouraged to present stipulated facts and submit stipulated exhibits when the proceeding begins.

Parties are encouraged to present a list of stipulated facts and submit stipulated exhibits at the commencement of the proceeding.

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

An attorney will be appointed for contemnors who are not represented.

Non-represented contemnors will be appointed an attorney.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Statutory proofs

A represented defendant and defendant’s counsel need not appear for statutory proofs when signed final orders are submitted in advance.

If the parties are submitting signed final orders in advance of taking statutory proofs, and the defendant is represented by counsel, then the defendant and defendant’s counsel are excused from appearing for proofs.

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

Civil cases

When signed final orders are submitted before statutory proofs and the defendant is represented, the defendant and counsel need not appear for proofs.

If the parties are submitting signed final orders in advance of taking statutory proofs, and the defendant is represented by counsel, then the defendant and defendant’s counsel are excused from appearing for proofs.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Order

Attach calculations to the order when possible.

When possible, calculations should be attached to the order.

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

Applies to

Confidential settlement agreement

If the Judgment references a Confidential Settlement Agreement, the agreement must be submitted to the judge for her review via email to sheltonchambers@oakgov.com. Opposing parties/counsel must be copied on this email.

Summary: If a judgment references a Confidential Settlement Agreement, email it to the judge for review and copy opposing parties or counsel.

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

Applies to

Default request and entry

This Court requires you to use the Default Request and Entry form (MC 07) available online through the State Court Administrative Office.

Summary: Use the Default Request and Entry form (MC 07) when seeking a default judgment.

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

Applies to

Motion ?

If the opposing party is not connected to the e-file system, an email address must be provided in the caption, so the opposing party receives the notice to appear via Zoom from the Court along with the log-in information.

Summary: If the opposing party is not connected to the e-file system, include their email address in the caption so they receive the Court’s Zoom notice and login information.

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

Applies to

Default judgment

A party must file and obtain a default against the non-moving party from the County Clerk before presenting a default judgment to the court.

Summary: A party must obtain and file a County Clerk default before presenting a default judgment to the Court.

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

Applies to

Proposed order ?

*NOTE: If a civil case is settled prior to trial, an order disposing of the case must be filed prior to the trial date.

Summary: If a civil case settles before trial, an order disposing of the case must be filed before the trial date.

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

Applies to

Proposed order ?

If no order is filed, the parties must appear on the trial date to place the settlement on the record or the court will issue a dismissal order.

Summary: Without a filed disposition order, the parties must appear on the trial date to put the settlement on the record, or the court will issue a dismissal order.

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

Applies to

Motion for alternate service ?

A process server Affidavit indicating the specific attempts at personal service (minimum of three attempts, varied in time and day of week) is required.

Summary: A motion for alternate service must include a process-server affidavit detailing at least three personal-service attempts at varied times and on different days of the week.

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

Applies to

Motion for second summons ?

Must show at least one attempt of personal service or sufficient other attempts to accomplish service.

Summary: A motion for a second summons must show at least one personal-service attempt or sufficient other attempts to accomplish service.

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

Applies to

Motion for second summons ?

A separate motion for each defendant must be filed.

Summary: A separate second-summons motion must be filed for each defendant.

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

Applies to

Motion

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.

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

Applies to

Court proceeding

Viewers are prohibited from recording or otherwise copying court proceedings.

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

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

Applies to

Proposed jury instructions

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.

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

Applies to

Trial exhibits ?

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.

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

Applies to

Stipulated order

To do so, the parties must submit a stipulated order that includes the name of the facilitator, and the date and time of facilitation.

Summary: A stipulated order for facilitation in lieu of case evaluation must state the facilitator’s name and the facilitation date and time.

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

Applies to

Emergency motion

Must include

caption ?

A request for an emergency hearing may be submitted anytime. To be considered, a written motion explaining the request must be submitted to the Court. Oral requests for an emergency motion will not be considered.

Summary: An emergency-hearing request may be submitted at any time but must be made by written motion explaining the request; oral requests are not considered.

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

Applies to

Proposed order

Proposed orders must be accompanied by a verified motion & brief with supporting authority, proof of certified address, postal verification, affidavit of process server (or reason why one cannot be given) showing at least 3 attempts (service on individuals, these 3 attempts must be during times which a working individual would reasonably be expected to be at home).

Summary: Alternate-service proposed orders must be accompanied by the specified verified motion and brief, supporting documents, and proof of at least three attempts with stated timing for service on individuals.

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

Applies to

Proposed order

Proposed orders must be accompanied by supporting authority, summons expiration date, verified motion & brief, postal verification, proof of certified address, affidavit of process server (or reason why one cannot be given) showing at least 3 attempts (service on individuals, these 3 attempts must be during times which a working individual would reasonably be expected to be at home).

Summary: Extended- or second-summons proposed orders must include the listed supporting authority, summons expiration date, verified motion and brief, address and postal verification, and process-server affidavit or explanation documenting the required attempts.

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

Applies to

Motion

To be considered, a written motion explaining the request must be submitted to the Court.

Summary: An emergency hearing request must be submitted in a written motion explaining the request.

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

Applies to

Proposed order

Proposed orders must be accompanied by a verified motion & brief with supporting authority, proof of certified address, postal verification, affidavit of process server (or reason why one cannot be given) showing at least 3 attempts (service on individuals, these 3 attempts must be during times which a working individual would reasonably be expected to be at home).

Summary: An alternate-service proposed order must include the listed verified motion, brief, supporting authority, address and postal evidence, and process-server affidavit or explanation showing at least three attempts at reasonable times.

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

Applies to

Proposed order

Proposed orders must be accompanied by supporting authority, summons expiration date, verified motion & brief, postal verification, proof of certified address, affidavit of process server (or reason why one cannot be given) showing at least 3 attempts (service on individuals, these 3 attempts must be during times which a working individual would reasonably be expected to be at home).

Summary: An extended- or second-summons proposed order must include supporting authority, the summons expiration date, a verified motion and brief, address and postal evidence, and process-server affidavit or explanation showing at least three attempts at reasonable times.

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

Applies to

Court filing ?

On all other cases, the Court requires at least one original, handwritten signature with other original photo-copied signatures if applicable.

Summary: Cases that are not e-filed require at least one original handwritten signature; other signatures, if applicable, may be original photocopies.

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

Applies to

Reconsideration motion ?

Do not file a praecipe or Notice of Hearing.

Summary: Do not file a praecipe or notice of hearing for a motion for reconsideration.

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

Applies to

Remote prisoner participation request ?

Chambers must be provided with the correct spelling of the prisoner’s name, his/her date of birth, and his/her identifying inmate number.

Summary: Remote prisoner participation requests must provide the prisoner’s correct name spelling, date of birth, and inmate identification number to chambers.

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

Applies to

Email about motion for reconsideration ?

Please send an email to the Court’s Judicial Staff Attorney at ramseyj@oakgov.com and CC Chambers at judgegantchambers@oakgov.com if you file a motion for reconsideration. Please attach the filed stamped motion to the email.

Summary: A filed-stamped motion for reconsideration must be attached to the email sent to the Judicial Staff Attorney and copied to Chambers.

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

Applies to

Order

Must include

proposed order ?

Orders not entered under the 7-day rule or within 24 hours of the hearing must be accompanied by a motion to enter the order.

Summary: An order not entered under the 7-day rule or within 24 hours of the hearing must be accompanied by a motion to enter it.

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

Applies to

Judgment of divorce ?

Please make sure all the statutory language is in your judgment.

Summary: A judgment of divorce must include all statutory language.

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

Applies to

Uniform child support order ?

If the parties are deviating, please provide the deviation addendum with the calculations.

Summary: When parties deviate, provide the deviation addendum with the calculations.

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

Applies to

Motion

The moving party shall include the following: I hereby certify that I have made personal contact with on , 2020 requesting concurrence in the relief sought with this Motion and such concurrence was denied. The parties agree to proceed with a Zoom hearing on the earliest possible date. The party(ies) are available on to conduct a hearing.

Summary: For a motion to be heard without seven-day notice, the moving party must include the specified certification and the parties’ hearing availability.

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

Applies to

Motion

The moving party shall include the following: I hereby certify that I have made personal contact with on , 2020 requesting concurrence in the relief sought with this Motion and such concurrence was denied. OR I hereby certify that I have made reasonable and diligent attempts by email or by telephone to the opposing side requesting concurrence in the relief sought with this Motion on , 2020 but was unsuccessful. The party(ies) are available on to conduct a hearing.

Summary: For a motion with seven-day notice, the moving party must include one of the specified concurrence certifications and the parties’ hearing availability.

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

Applies to

Order

Must include

proposed order ?

Orders not entered under the 7-day rule or within 24 hours of the hearing must be accompanied by a motion to enter the order.

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

Applies to

Judgment of divorce ?

Please make sure all the statutory language is in your judgment.

Summary: A judgment of divorce must include all statutory language.

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

Applies to

Judgment of divorce ?

If the Judgment is entered based on consent, you need the signature of both parties.

Summary: A judgment entered based on consent requires both parties’ signatures.

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

Applies to

Uniform child support order ?

If the parties are deviating, please provide the deviation addendum with the calculations.

Summary: When parties deviate, provide the deviation addendum with the calculations.

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

Applies to

Motion

The moving party shall include the following: I hereby certify that I have made personal contact with on , 2020 requesting concurrence in the relief sought with this Motion and such concurrence was denied. The parties agree to proceed with a Zoom hearing on the earliest possible date. The party(ies) are available on to conduct a hearing.

Summary: For a motion to be heard without 7-day notice, the moving party must include the stated personal-contact certification, agreement to proceed at the earliest possible date, and party availability.

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

Applies to

Motion

The moving party shall include the following: I hereby certify that I have made personal contact with on , 2020 requesting concurrence in the relief sought with this Motion and such concurrence was denied. OR I hereby certify that I have made reasonable and diligent attempts by email or by telephone to the opposing side requesting concurrence in the relief sought with this Motion on , 2020 but was unsuccessful. The party(ies) are available on to conduct a hearing.

Summary: For motions with 7 days’ notice, the moving party must include one of the stated concurrence certifications and the parties’ availability.

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

Applies to

Motion ?

A re-praecipe and notice of hearing is required.

Summary: An adjourned motion requires a re-praecipe and notice of hearing.

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

Applies to

Request to seize property ?

Parties must submit an attached itemized statement to the request for consideration.

Summary: A request to seize property must include an attached itemized statement.

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

Applies to

Motion for alternate service ?

Parties must include an affidavit of at least 3 attempts of service on separate weeks and a postal verification for consideration.

Summary: A motion for alternate service must include an affidavit documenting at least three service attempts on separate weeks and postal verification.

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

Applies to

Motion ?

A re-praecipe and notice of hearing is required.

Summary: An adjourned motion requires a re-praecipe and notice of hearing.

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

Applies to

Request to seize property ?

Parties must submit an attached itemized statement to the request for consideration.

Summary: A request to seize property must include an attached itemized statement.

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

Applies to

Motion for alternate service ?

Parties must include an affidavit of at least 3 attempts of service on separate weeks and a postal verification for consideration.

Summary: A motion for alternate service must include an affidavit documenting at least three service attempts on separate weeks and postal verification.

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

Applies to

Order

Signatures must appear on all orders.

Summary: All orders must include signatures.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Motion response ?

All responses to any such motions shall be filed no later than 2 business days prior to the scheduled hearing date.

Summary: Responses to motions in limine or other motions relating to the pending trial must be filed no later than two business days before the scheduled hearing.

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

Applies to

Motion

Must include

proposed order

Parties must file a motion and provide the relevant portion of the hearing’s transcript, or specific timestamps of the proceeding, along with a proposed order.

Summary: A motion to settle an order must include the relevant transcript portion or proceeding timestamps and a proposed order.

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

Applies to

Motion

The motion filed in the public file must contain a placeholder page noting that an exhibit was omitted from the public file but provided directly to chambers and opposing counsel.

Summary: A public motion filing must include a placeholder page identifying each exhibit omitted from the public file and provided directly to chambers and opposing counsel.

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

Applies to

Motion

All motions must have a title succinctly stating the requested relief.

Summary: A motion’s title must succinctly state the requested relief.

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

Applies to

Motion

Must include

proposed order

All motions shall also attach a Proposed Order setting forth the relief requested, or the Praecipe shall be dismissed by theCourt.

Summary: Each motion must attach a proposed order stating the requested relief, or the praecipe may be dismissed.

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

Applies to

Final order of dismissal

Must include

proposed order ?

In the event of a settlement, the parties shall file their proposed Final Order of Dismissal prior to the date and time of the Final Pretrial Conference or appear for the scheduled Pretrial Conference with their respective clients to place the settlement on the record.

Summary: For a settlement in a bench-trial case, the parties must file a proposed Final Order of Dismissal before the Final Pretrial Conference or appear with their clients to put the settlement on the record.

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

Applies to

Praecipe

The moving party must then file a praecipe for the hearing date.

Summary: After the hearing date is set, the moving party must file a praecipe for that date.

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

Applies to

Stipulated order

To do so, the parties must submit a stipulated order that includes the name of the facilitator, and the date and time of facilitation.

Summary: A stipulated order for facilitation in lieu of case evaluation must identify the facilitator and the date and time of facilitation.

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

Applies to

Statutory proofs ?

If parties are self-represented, the Court requires all parties to appear to place proofs on the record.

Summary: When parties are self-represented, all parties must appear to place proofs on the record.

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

Applies to

Motion ?

If the opposing party is not connected to the e-file system, an email address must be provided in the caption.

Summary: If the opposing party is not connected to the e-file system, include an email address in the caption.

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

Applies to

Motion

Must include

caption ?

Motions for Summary Disposition must be filed with a Notice of Hearing which indicates that the date/time is “to be determined by the Court.”

Summary: A Motion for Summary Disposition must be filed with a Notice of Hearing stating that the date and time are to be determined by the Court.

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

Applies to

Motion

Must include

caption ?

Parties must praecipe motions (other than summary disposition) and file a related Notice of Hearing for any Wednesday of their choice.

Summary: For motions other than summary disposition, parties must praecipe the motion and file a related Notice of Hearing for a Wednesday of their choice.

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

Applies to

Civil trial submission ?

For all civil cases, a theory of the case, jury instructions and verdict form in written and electronic form (Word) (or trial briefs in the event of a bench trial) must be filed with the Court 7 days prior to trial (if not otherwise set forth in a pre-trial order).

Summary: In civil cases, the theory of the case, jury instructions, and verdict form in written and Word electronic form—or trial briefs for a bench trial—must be filed seven days before trial unless the pretrial order provides otherwise.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Dispositive motion

In addition, a Notice of Hearing must also accompany the filing of a dispositive motion and it must state that the hearing date will be scheduled by a date to be determined by the Court.

Summary: A dispositive motion must be accompanied by a Notice of Hearing stating that the Court will schedule the hearing date on a date to be determined.

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

Applies to

Motion for alternate service ?

A process server affidavit indicating the specific attempts at service (minimum of three attempts, varied in time and day of week) is required.

Summary: A process server affidavit must specify at least three service attempts made at varied times and on different days of the week.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Motion order ?

Must include

proposed order ?

Attorneys or litigants must prepare an order to present to the Judge before leaving the Courtroom (unless otherwise stated, the Judge’s staff will not prepare the order).

Summary: After motion call, the attorneys or litigants must prepare an order for the judge before leaving the courtroom unless otherwise directed.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Hearing

All parties and witnesses must appear in person for the hearing unless given prior leave by the Court to appear remotely by Zoom.

Summary: All parties and witnesses must attend hearings in person unless the Court grants prior leave for remote appearance.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Motion order ?

Must include

proposed order ?

Attorneys or litigants must prepare an order to present to the Judge before leaving the Courtroom (unless otherwise stated, the Judge’s staff will not prepare the order).

Summary: Attorneys or litigants must prepare an order for the Judge before leaving the courtroom unless otherwise stated; Judge’s staff will not prepare it by default.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Remote prisoner participation request ?

Chambers must be provided with the correct spelling of the prisoner’s name, his/her date of birth, and his/her identifying inmate number.

Summary: Chambers must receive the prisoner’s correctly spelled name, date of birth, and identifying inmate number.

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

Applies to

Final witness list ?

Witnesses must have been named on a prior Witness List or must be stipulated to by all parties.

Summary: A witness may be included only if previously named on a witness list or stipulated to by all parties.

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

Applies to

Alternate service or second summons ?

Must be submitted on an approved SCAO form.

Summary: Alternate service or second summons requests must use an approved SCAO form.

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

All matters are scheduled for in-person, unless otherwise indicated by the Court.

Summary: Criminal-call matters are scheduled in person unless the Court indicates otherwise.

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

Applies to

Motion

Please notice and praecipe your motion(s).

Summary: Criminal motions must be noticed and praeciped.

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

Civil cases

Applies to

Motion for reconsideration ?

Do not file a praecipe or Notice of Hearing.

Summary: Do not file a praecipe or Notice of Hearing for a motion for reconsideration.

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

Applies to

Motion hearing ?

Beginning July 23, 2023, motions will be heard in person in Courtroom 2F unless the Court gives prior approval for the parties to appear by Zoom.

Summary: Motions are heard in person in Courtroom 2F unless the Court approves a Zoom appearance in advance.

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

Applies to

Order

An order received after this time must be submitted as a stipulated order, or pursuant to MCR 2.602(B)(3).

Summary: An order received after 4:30 p.m. must be submitted as a stipulated order or under MCR 2.602(B)(3).