Court Rules
Judge Charles H. McKenzie
Judge

Judge Charles H. McKenzie

Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies

Rules last changed:
Jackson County Circuit Court

Limits & Logistics

Document Limits

SuggestionsCourt-wide
5 pgs
Application For ContinuanceCourt-wide
3 pgs
Continuance ApplicationCourt-wide
3 pgs

Courtesy Copies

Continuance Motion

  • Email

Motion

  • Email

Proposed Order

  • Email

Petition

Court-wide
  • 1 copy • Upon Filing

Adjournments

  • Unless a continuance has been granted, parties must attend the Case Management Conference even when service has not yet been made.
  • A continuance from a trial date will be granted only when good cause is shown.
  • A continuance application must be filed by the Wednesday of the week before the case management conference or trial setting.
  • +5 more

Request must include

Reason For Request

Communication

Email

Chambers

SchedulingStatus Inquiries
Phone

Chambers

Scheduling
Email
Scheduling
Email

Clerk

Scheduling
Phone
Court-wide
(816) 881-3920
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.
Phone
Court-wide
Judge: Kansas City (816) 881-3759, Independence (816) 881-1732; Commissioner: Kansas City (816) 881-3761, Independence (816) 881-1732; Deputy Commissioner: Kansas City (816) 881-3753, Independence (816) 881-1732
Phone
Court-wide
SchedulingEmergencies
No status inquiries
Filters:AllMandatoryImportantFormattingConferencesExhibitsDiscoveryProposed OrdersJuryLettersEvidence/Witnesses

Document Format Requirements4 rules

FormattingCriminal cases

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

The State must provide marked jury instructions in hard-copy and emailed Word form; the instructions must be double-spaced and use 11-point font.

On the morning of trial, the State shall provide the Court with hard copies of marked jury instructions; said instructions shall be double-spaced and in 11 point font and also emailed to the Division Law Clerk in a Word document.

Typography
Size11 pt
Line SpacingDouble
Formatting

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

Before trial or hearing, each party must mark exhibits with a sticker identifying Petitioner or Respondent and the exhibit number; only the Court uses letters.

Each party shall mark exhibits prior to trial or hearing with an exhibit sticker indicating whether the exhibit is being offered by Petitioner or Respondent, along with the exhibit number. Only the Court uses letters for exhibits.

Formatting

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

Each party must mark exhibits before trial or hearing with an exhibit sticker identifying the offering party and exhibit number; only the Court uses letters for exhibits.

Each party shall mark exhibits prior to trial or hearing with an exhibit sticker indicating whether the exhibit is being offered by Plaintiff or Defendant, along with the exhibit number. Only the Court uses letters for exhibits.

updated-5 7 25-civil-division-13-general-information
|SecQUICK TIPS FOR TRIAL OR HEARINGS
FormattingCriminal cases

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

The parties must provide the Judge and Court Reporter with Witness and Exhibit Lists using the format specified on the Division 13 web page.

The parties shall provide the Judge and Court Reporter with Witness and Exhibit Lists in the format listed on the Division 13 web page for the 16th Judicial Circuit.

Document Filing Requirements34 rules

Filing Requirements

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

Failure to appear at a scheduled case management conference may result in dismissal of the case.

Failure to appear for a scheduled case management conference may result in a dismissal of the case.

Document Type

Case Management Conference

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
updated-5 7 25-civil-division-13-general-information
|SecCIVIL CASE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCES
Filing Requirements

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

Each party must provide an exhibit list before trial or a hearing begins.

Each party shall provide an exhibit list prior to the start of trial or a hearing.

Document Type

Exhibit List

Content & Formatting
Exhibit List
updated-5 7 25-civil-division-13-general-information
|SecQUICK TIPS FOR TRIAL OR HEARINGS
Filing Requirements

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

Counsel must make efforts to resolve a discovery dispute before filing a motion, as required by Local Rule 33.5.

Counsel shall make efforts to resolve any discovery dispute prior to filing a motion as required by Local Rule 33.5.

Document Type

Discovery Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

Before trial begins, civil cases must include the listed MAI instructions, with E 1.01 included if agreed to by the parties.

Civil Cases require the following Instructions prior to trial beginning: MAI 2.00(A) – Explanatory Instruction MAI 2.00(B) – Recess Instruction MAI 2.00(C) – Juror Bias E 1.01 - Recommended Instruction if agreed to by Parties

Document Type

Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

Before trial begins, criminal cases must include the listed MAI-CR instructions.

Criminal Cases require the following Instructions prior to trial beginning: MAI-CR 4th 400.02 – Explanatory Instruction MAI-CR 4th 400.04.01 – Recess Instruction MAI-CR 4th 400.06 MAI-CR 4th 402.01 MAI-CR 4th 402.02

Document Type

Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

Criminal jury instructions are due by the date in the scheduling order and must be submitted as a Word version by email or as a printed copy brought to court.

Criminal Jury Instructions are due on or before the date indicated in the Scheduling Order. A Word version shall be e-mailed to the law clerk or a copy may be printed and brought to Court (if you send the instructions through e-mail, please copy the JAA and the Division e-mail at div13.cir16@courts.mo.gov.)

Document Type

Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

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

All motions for which a hearing is not requested must be accompanied by a proposed order.

All motions shall be prepared in compliance with Local and Supreme Court Rules. Local Rule 33.5.6 requires that “all motions except those in which a hearing is requested shall be accompanied by a proposed order.”

Document Type

Motion

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
div-13-criminal-cases · p. 1
|SecGENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL CASES
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

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

A motion and proposed order must accompany every continuance request.

A motion and proposed order must be filed for all continuance requests.

Document Type

Continuance Request

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Filing Requirements

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

The parties must exchange lists and copies of anticipated trial exhibits before trial.

Pursuant to the Court’s case management order, lists and copies of exhibits the parties anticipate offering at the trial are to be exchanged prior to trial.

Document Type

Trial Exhibit List

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
div-13-guidelines-for-trial · p. 2
|SecGUIDELINES FOR TRIAL/COURTROOM DECORUM IN DIVISION 13
Filing Requirements

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

Before evidence is introduced, counsel must provide the court and court reporter with the anticipated trial witness list.

Prior to the introduction of evidence, counsel will provide the Court and the Court Reporter a list of the witnesses they anticipate calling at trial.

Document Type

Trial Witness List

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
div-13-guidelines-for-trial · p. 2
|SecGUIDELINES FOR TRIAL/COURTROOM DECORUM IN DIVISION 13
Filing Requirements

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

A case set for trial remains on the docket until a dismissal is filed, even if it has otherwise been resolved.

If a case is set for trial but has been otherwise resolved, the Court will not take the matter off of the docket until a dismissal is filed with the Court.

Document Type

Dismissal

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
updated-5 7 25-domestic-division-13-general-information
|SecContinuance Motions and Continuances for Trial Settings
Filing Requirements

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

Counsel must make efforts to resolve a discovery dispute before filing a motion, as Local Rule 33.5 requires.

Counsel shall make efforts to resolve any discovery dispute prior to filing a motion as required by Local Rule 33.5.

Document Type

Discovery Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

Each party must provide an exhibit list before trial or a hearing begins.

Each party shall provide an exhibit list prior to the start of trial or a hearing.

Document Type

Exhibit List

Content & Formatting
Exhibit List
Filing Requirements

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

The parties must complete and file a Case Management Statement no later than seven days before the Case Management Conference.

No later than seven (7) days prior to the Case Management Conference, the parties shall complete and file a Case Management Statement with the Court.

Document Type

Case Management Statement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
updated-5 7 25-domestic-division-13-general-information
|SecCIVIL CASE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCES
Filing Requirements

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

Attorneys must include their email address and fax number in the signature block of every pleading.

Missouri Supreme Court Rule 43.01(c) and Local Rule 3.1(2) require attorneys to put their email address and fax number in the signature block of all pleadings.

Document Type

Pleadings

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
div-13-family-cases · p. 1
|SecGENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL CASES
Filing Requirements

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

Every motion must include a proposed order unless the motion requests a hearing.

All motions shall be prepared in compliance with Local and Supreme Court Rules. Local Rule 33.5.6 requires that “all motions except those in which a hearing is requested shall be accompanied by a proposed order.”

Document Type

Motion

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
div-13-family-cases · p. 1
|SecGENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL CASES
Filing Requirements

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

The case management order must address mediation, establish key case and discovery deadlines, set a pretrial conference and trial date, and address other appropriate matters.

The Court will set a date for trial and enter a case management order, which shall address the following: o Mediation. o Establish dates for naming of experts, the closure of discovery, and the filing of motions. o Establish a date for pretrial conference. o Establish a date for trial. o Address any other matter appropriate to the case.

Document Type

Case Management Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
div-13-family-cases · p. 2
|SecCASE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE GUIDELINES
Filing Requirements

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

The parties may change scheduling-order deadlines other than the dispositive-motion deadline and trial date without court permission if they agree.

All deadlines, except for dispositive motions deadline and the trial date, which are set out in the Court’s Scheduling Order, may be changed without leave of Court if agreed upon by the Parties.

Document Type

Scheduling Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

A proposed order should accompany every motion.

Pursuant to Local Rule 33.5.6, proposed orders should accompany all motions.

Document Type

Motion

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
updated-5 7 25-civil-division-13-general-information
|SecLOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR CIVIL CASES — General Requirements
Filing Requirements

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

Proposed orders should accompany all motions.

Pursuant to Local Rule 33.5.6, proposed orders should accompany all motions.

Document Type

Motion

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
updated-5 7 25-domestic-division-13-general-information
|SecLOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR FAMILY LAW CASES — General Requirements
Filing Requirements

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

A transcript request must be submitted in writing to the Division 13 Court Reporter.

All transcript requests must be in writing and sent to the Division 13 Court Reporter.

Document Type

Transcript Request

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
div-13-family-cases · p. 1
|SecGENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL CASES
Filing Requirements

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

After another attorney files an Entry of Appearance or Designation of Lead Attorney, withdrawing counsel may do so without court leave by filing a pleading titled “Memorandum of Withdrawal.”

When another attorney has filed an Entry of Appearance or Designation of Lead Attorney, attorneys may withdraw without leave of Court by filing a pleading titled ‘Memorandum of Withdrawal’. Please refer to Local Rule 21.4.1.

Document Type

Memorandum Of Withdrawal

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
div-13-family-cases · p. 1
|SecGENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL CASES
Filing Requirements

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

Otherwise, for a discovery issue, a motion in compliance with Local Rule 32.2.5 shall be filed and the Court will rule on the motion.

Summary: If attorneys do not agree to resolve a discovery issue informally, they must file a motion complying with Local Rule 32.2.5 for the Court's ruling.

Document Type

Discovery Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

If you appear in court on behalf of a client, you must file an entry of appearance or an entry of limited appearance.

Summary: An attorney appearing in court for a client must file an entry of appearance or a limited entry of appearance.

Document Type

Entry Of Appearance

Content & Formatting
Caption
updated-5 7 25-civil-division-13-general-information
|SecLOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR CIVIL CASES — General Requirements
Filing Requirements

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

An exhibit list and a witness list shall be presented at the Pre-Trial Conference to Judge McKenzie and the Court Reporter. All exhibits shall be identified numerically. The Court does not permit duplicative numbers. Please consult the other Parties to determine the set of numbers you are able to use without numbers being duplicative.

Summary: At the pretrial conference, parties must present an exhibit list and witness list to Judge McKenzie and the court reporter, identify all exhibits numerically, and avoid duplicative exhibit numbers.

Document Type

Pretrial Order

Content & Formatting
Exhibit List
Filing Requirements

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

Civil Jury Instructions in Word version shall be e-mailed to the law clerk by the Pre-Trial Conference. When you send the instructions through e-mail, please copy the JAA and the Division e-mail at div13.cir16@courts.mo.gov.)

Summary: Civil jury instructions must be emailed to the law clerk in Word format by the pretrial conference, with copies to the JAA and the Division email address.

Document Type

Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

Failure to appear for a scheduled Case Management Conference may result in a dismissal of the case.

Summary: Failure to appear at a scheduled Case Management Conference may result in dismissal of the case.

Document Type

Case Management Statement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
updated-5 7 25-domestic-division-13-general-information
|SecCIVIL CASE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCES
Filing Requirements

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

If you appear in court on behalf of a client, you must file an entry of appearance or an entry of limited appearance.

Summary: An attorney appearing in court for a client must file an entry of appearance or limited appearance.

Document Type

Notice Of Appearance

Content & Formatting
Caption
updated-5 7 25-domestic-division-13-general-information
|SecLOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR FAMILY LAW CASES — General Requirements
Filing Requirements

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

The case number and style of the case shall be included in the subject line with the case number first.

Summary: The email subject line must include the case style and case number, with the case number first.

Document Type

Email

Content & Formatting
Caption
Case Number
Filing Requirements

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

The parties shall be prepared to set the matter for trial.

Summary: The parties must be prepared to set the case for trial at the Case Management Conference.

Document Type

Case Management Statement

Content & Formatting
Statement Of Facts
updated-5 7 25-domestic-division-13-general-information
|SecCIVIL CASE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCES
Filing Requirements

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

A motion in compliance with Local Rule 32.2.5 shall be filed and the Court will rule on the motion.

Summary: A motion complying with Local Rule 32.2.5 must be filed, and the Court will rule on it.

Document Type

Discovery Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

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

All attorneys of record and their clients, as well as unrepresented parties, shall appear at the Case Management Conference and shall be prepared to discuss the merits of the case.

Summary: Attorneys of record, their clients, and unrepresented parties must attend the Case Management Conference and be prepared to discuss the case's merits.

Document Type

Case Management Statement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
updated-5 7 25-domestic-division-13-general-information
|SecCIVIL CASE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCES
Filing Requirements

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

Prior to the case management conference, counsel and the parties are expected to complete all requirements regarding: FOCIS/PTLA Standard Discovery

Summary: Counsel and the parties are expected to complete the stated FOCIS/PTLA and standard discovery requirements before the Case Management Conference.

Document Type

Pretrial Order

Content & Formatting
Statement Of Facts
updated-5 7 25-domestic-division-13-general-information
|SecCIVIL CASE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCES
Filing Requirements

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

The Court recommends that any agreed upon change be memorialized in writing.

Summary: The Court recommends memorializing an agreed-upon deadline change in writing.

Document Type

Deadline Change

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.

Filing & Service rules

Electronic Filing Rules

Every continuance motion must be filed electronically, with a courtesy copy e-mailed to Division 13 and the Law Clerk.

Pursuant to Administrative Order 2013-008, all motions for continuance must be filed electronically with a courtesy copy e-mailed to the Division 13 e-mail at div13.cir16@courts.mo.gov and the Law Clerk.

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

Page 1 | LOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR CIVIL CASES — General Requirements

All filings must be submitted through the e-filing system, except that pro se parties may use the Civil Records Department on the 3rd floor.

All filings must be made through the e-filing system or, for pro se parties, through the Civil Records Department on the 3rd floor.

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

Page 1 | LOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR FAMILY LAW CASES — General Requirements

Represented parties must use the e-filing system, while pro se parties must file through the Civil Records Department on the third floor.

All filings must be made through the e-filing system or, for pro se parties, through the Civil Records Department on the 3rd floor.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | LOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR CIVIL CASES — General Requirements

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

Motions in limine must be filed by the pretrial conference, or by 3:00 pm on the Friday before trial if no pretrial conference is held.

Motions in limine shall be filed on or before the pretrial conference, and if no pretrial conference is held, no later than 3:00 pm on the Friday before trial.

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

Page 2 | TRIALS

The Case Management Statement must be filed at least seven days before the Case Management Conference.

No later than seven (7) days prior to the Case Management Conference, the parties shall complete and file a Case Management Statement with the Court.

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

Page 1 | CIVIL CASE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCES

The parties must complete and file a Case Management Statement with the court no later than seven days before the case management conference, and failure to do so may result in sanctions.

Prior to the case management conference, attorneys of record shall discuss resolution of the case. No later than seven (7) days prior to the case management conference, the ===== PAGE 2 ===== parties shall complete and file with the Court a Case Management Statement. Failure to submit the case management statement may result in the Court’s imposition of appropriate sanctions.

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

Page 2 | CASE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE GUIDELINES

Service and Proof of Service Rules

An email must include every attorney and unrepresented party who has been served.

You must include all attorneys and unrepresented parties who have been served on any e-mail.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | E-MAILING/CONTACTING THE COURT

Courtesy Copy Requirements

Written motions filed during trial generally must be accompanied by an emailed courtesy copy to the law clerk, Division email, Judge McKenzie, and opposing counsel before 7:00 a.m., subject to specified exceptions.

Any written motions that are filed during trial will not be taken up by the Court unless they are filed and a courtesy copy is e-mailed to the law clerk, the Division e-mail, Judge McKenzie, and opposing counsel prior to 7:00 am. An exception is allowed for any motions that are filed after a party has rested, or at the close of all evidence, or as otherwise deemed appropriate by the Court.

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

Page 1 | PROCEDURES DURING TRIAL

Every continuance motion must be filed electronically, with a courtesy copy emailed to Division 13 and the Law Clerk.

Pursuant to Administrative Order 2013-008, all motions for continuance must be filed electronically with a courtesy copy e-mailed to the Division 13 e-mail at div13.cir16@courts.mo.gov and the Law Clerk.

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

Page 1 | LOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR FAMILY LAW CASES — General Requirements

Chambers courtesy copies of motions filed shortly before a court appearance should be e-mailed to Division 13 and the Law Clerk.

Any chambers copies of motions that are filed within days of a Court appearance should be sent via e-mail to Division 13 at div13.cir16@courts.mo.gov and the Law Clerk.

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

Page 1 | LOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR CIVIL CASES — General Requirements

A courtesy copy of each continuance motion must be e-mailed to Division 13 and the Law Clerk.

Pursuant to Administrative Order 2013-008, all motions for continuance must be filed electronically with a courtesy copy e-mailed to the Division 13 e-mail at div13.cir16@courts.mo.gov and the Law Clerk.

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

Page 1 | LOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR CIVIL CASES — General Requirements

A courtesy copy of each proposed order in Word format should be e-mailed to Division 13 and the Law Clerk.

A Word version courtesy copy of these orders should be sent via e-mail to the Division 13 e-mail at div13.cir16@courts.mo.gov and the Law Clerk.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | LOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR CIVIL CASES — General Requirements

A courtesy copy of each proposed order in Word format should be emailed to Division 13 and the Law Clerk.

A Word version courtesy copy of these orders should be sent via e-mail to the Division 13 e-mail at div13.cir16@courts.mo.gov and the Law Clerk.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | LOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR FAMILY LAW CASES — General Requirements

Chambers copies of motions filed within the days before a court appearance should be emailed to Division 13 and the Law Clerk.

Any chambers copies of motions that are filed within days of a Court appearance should be sent via e-mail to Division 13 at div13.cir16@courts.mo.gov and the Law Clerk.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | LOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR FAMILY LAW CASES — General Requirements

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

A continuance application must be filed by the Wednesday of the week before the case management conference or trial setting.

All applications for continuance shall be filed on or before the Wednesday of the week prior to the case management conference OR trial setting.

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

Page 1 | Continuance Motions and Continuances for Trial Settings

A continuance from a trial date will be granted only when good cause is shown.

Continuances from Trial dates will be granted only for good cause shown.

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

Page 1 | Continuance Motions and Continuances for Trial Settings

If a dismissal cannot be filed before trial, the parties must file a motion for continuance.

If a dismissal cannot be filed before the trial date, the parties shall file a Motion for Continuance.

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

Page 1 | Continuance Motions and Continuances for Trial Settings

Unless a continuance has been granted, parties must attend the Case Management Conference even when service has not yet been made.

Unless you have been granted a continuance, you must attend a Case Management Conference, even if service has not been made on a party. Attendance is mandatory.

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

Page 1 | Continuance Motions and Continuances for Trial Settings

All continuance requests require a motion and proposed order, and trial-date continuances are not freely granted.

Trial dates are specially set and no continuances will be freely granted. A motion and proposed order must be filed for all continuance requests.

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

Page 2 | TRIALS

Every continuance application must be filed by the Wednesday of the week before the applicable case management conference or trial setting.

All applications for continuance shall be filed on or before the Wednesday of the week prior to the case management conference OR trial setting.

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

Page 1 | Continuance Motions and Continuances for Trial Settings

A continuance from a trial date requires good cause.

Continuances from Trial dates will be granted only for good cause shown.

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

Page 1 | Continuance Motions and Continuances for Trial Settings

A party must attend the Case Management Conference unless a continuance has been granted, regardless of whether service has been completed.

Unless you have been granted a continuance, you must attend a Case Management Conference, even if service has not been made on a party. Attendance is mandatory.

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

Page 1 | Continuance Motions and Continuances for Trial Settings

Chambers Communication Rules

The Court will not participate in ex parte contact, and counsel or a party must not discuss the case's substance with the Court or Division staff without the opposing party present.

The Court will not participate in ex parte contact with an attorney or a party. Do not attempt to engage the Court or Division staff in discussions about the substance of the case without the opposing party present.

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

Page 1 | LOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR CIVIL CASES — General Requirements

Criminal hearings must be requested and scheduled by email with the Judicial Administrative Assistant, with both parties included, and pending-motion hearings must be coordinated before being scheduled at the case management conference.

All criminal hearings must be requested and scheduled with the Judicial Administrative Assistant via email, including both parties. Hearings on pending motions will not be ===== PAGE 2 ===== available at the case management conference setting unless you have coordinated the hearing with the Judicial Administrative Assistant.

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

Page 1 | SCHEDULING

Parties must notify the Court by e-mail as soon as possible if the case settles before trial.

If the case is settled prior to trial, As soon as possible, provide notice to the Court via e-mail to Division 13 at div13.cir16@courts.mo.gov and the Law Clerk.

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

Page 1 | Continuance Motions and Continuances for Trial Settings

E-mail may be used to contact the Law Clerk for scheduling matters.

Division 13 often uses e-mail for scheduling matters. You are welcome to use e-mail to contact the Law Clerk for scheduling.

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

Page 1 | E-MAILING/CONTACTING THE COURT

Emailing the Law Clerk for scheduling is permitted.

You are welcome to use e-mail to contact the Law Clerk for scheduling.

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

Page 1 | E-MAILING/CONTACTING THE COURT

All served attorneys and unrepresented parties must be copied on e-mail, and ex parte communications are not accepted.

You must include all attorneys and unrepresented parties who have been served on any e-mail. The Court will not accept ex parte communication per Supreme Court Rule 2-2.9.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | E-MAILING/CONTACTING THE COURT

Parties must not seek legal advice from the Court or Division staff and must file a motion when relief is needed beyond scheduling.

The Court cannot provide legal advice. Do not ask the Court or Division staff for advice on how to do something. If you need something beyond scheduling, file a motion seeking relief.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | E-MAILING/CONTACTING THE COURT

The Judge must not be e-mailed directly.

Do not e-mail the Judge directly.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | E-MAILING/CONTACTING THE COURT

E-mail must not be used to argue substantive issues, and the Court must not be copied on party disputes because the Judge will not read them.

E-mail is not an appropriate platform for arguing substantive issues regarding the case. Do not copy the Court on ongoing disputes among the Parties. The Judge will not read these e-mails.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | E-MAILING/CONTACTING THE COURT

If no pretrial conference date is set at the case management conference, the parties must contact the Law Clerk at least one month before trial to schedule it.

If a date for pre-trial conference is not set at the case management conference, the parties shall contact the Division 13 Law Clerk, at least one month prior to the trial date, to schedule a pre-trial conference.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | PRE-TRIAL MATTERS

After settlement before trial, notice must be provided as soon as possible to Division 13 and the Law Clerk by email.

If the case is settled prior to trial, as soon as possible provide notice to the Court via e-mail to Division 13 at div13.cir16@courts.mo.gov and the Law Clerk.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Continuance Motions and Continuances for Trial Settings

Emails to the Court must include opposing counsel or unrepresented parties to comply with the stated ex parte communication rule.

The Court strictly adheres to Missouri Supreme Court Rule 2-2.9 regarding Ex Parte Communication. Please include opposing counsel or unrepresented parties in emails to the Court.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL CASES

Parties must check Case.net before contacting the Division with questions.

Before contacting the Division with any questions, please check Case.net first.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | LOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR CIVIL CASES — General Requirements

Initial civil case management conferences may be attended by WebEx with the required equipment and bandwidth, but telephone appearance requires express court permission.

Initial Civil Case Management Conferences may be attended via WebEx if those who intend to appear by WebEx have computers that have a video camera, microphone, and adequate bandwidth. Appearance by telephone is not permitted without express permission from the Court.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | CIVIL CASE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCES

Attorneys who agree to work informally on a discovery issue may schedule a conference call with the Judge.

If the attorneys have a discovery issue and agree to try and work it out informally, the attorneys can contact the Court and schedule a conference call with the Judge to discuss the issues.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | Discovery Issues

An e-mail subject line must include the case number first and then the case style.

The case number and style of the case shall be included in the subject line with the case number first.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | E-MAILING/CONTACTING THE COURT

A request for a motion hearing should be made by e-mail, should state the specific reason, and should copy all parties; the Court schedules a hearing only if the Judge finds it necessary.

However, if a request for a hearing is made due to a specific reason (i.e. complicated facts, evidence to be presented, etc.), then please state that reason in the e-mail requesting the hearing with all parties copied on the e-mail. If the Judge finds that a hearing is necessary, the Court will reach out to schedule that hearing.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | LOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR CIVIL CASES — General Requirements

If the initial case management conference does not result in a scheduling order, the Court will schedule another conference.

In the event that the initial case management conference does not result in a Scheduling Order, another case management conference will be scheduled.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | CIVIL CASE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCES

Telephone appearance at an initial Case Management Conference requires express permission from the Court.

Appearance by telephone is not permitted without express permission from the Court.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | CIVIL CASE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCES

Do not request legal advice from the Court or Division staff; file a motion when relief is needed beyond scheduling.

Do not ask the Court or Division staff for advice on how to do something. If you need something beyond scheduling, file a motion seeking relief.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | E-MAILING/CONTACTING THE COURT

Do not email the Judge directly.

Do not e-mail the Judge directly.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | E-MAILING/CONTACTING THE COURT

Email must not be used to argue substantive issues or copy the Court on disputes between the parties, and the Judge will not read such emails.

E-mail is not an appropriate platform for arguing substantive issues regarding the case. Do not copy the Court on ongoing disputes among the Parties. The Judge will not read these e-mails.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | E-MAILING/CONTACTING THE COURT

The subject line must state the case number first and then include the style of the case.

The case number and style of the case shall be included in the subject line with the case number first.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL CASES

The Law Clerk must be contacted to arrange courtroom equipment or answer questions about pretrial matters.

Please contact the Division 13 Law Clerk to arrange a time to set up any equipment in the courtroom or if you have any other questions regarding pre-trial matters.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | PRE-TRIAL MATTERS

Division 13 permits email contact for scheduling matters.

Division 13 often uses e-mail for scheduling matters.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 1 | E-MAILING/CONTACTING THE COURT

Court-wide rules

Applies court-wide

These 824 rules apply across Jackson County Circuit Court. Where this judge's own standing orders above address the same topic, the judge's requirement controls.

Filing Requirements

All 385
  • Applies to
    Petition and proposed order

    The conservator may annually file a petition and proposed order to pay specified taxes, bond premiums, tax-return-preparer fees, and related attorney fees without changing the estate's non-final account probable classification.

  • Applies to
    Settlement

    Vouchers, receipts, canceled checks, or qualifying financial-institution business records affidavits supporting each settlement disbursement must be e-filed with the settlement.

  • Applies to
    Settlement

    The settlement filed next after a foreclosure must contain proof of foreclosure, and the conservator must file the trustee's deed showing the conveyance date, consideration, and grantee.

Filing Timing

All 126
  • The Clerk must provide at least 40 days' notice that a settlement is due, but failure to receive notice does not excuse timely filing.

  • A settlement is due on the anniversary date of the issuance of letters.

  • If a settlement is not timely filed, the court will issue a continuance giving two weeks to file before an order for citation may issue.

Service

All 106
  • Applies to
    Notice of hearing

    For the specified VA-benefit estates, a support-and-maintenance order requires notice to the Veterans Administration unless the agency has waived hearing notice.

  • Service
    Publication

    Notice of filing the final settlement must be published and mailed unless waivers have been obtained, and this requirement does not apply to minors' estates.

  • Service
    Publication

    If the property exceeds $15,000 and less than one year has elapsed since the decedent's death, notice to creditors must be published.

Fees

All 89
  • Applies to
    Show cause order

    Payment of the show cause order's costs is required for dismissal after the exception letter is cleared.

  • Applies to
    Show cause order

    The costs of a show cause order may not be paid from estate assets.

  • Applies to
    Order of nfp

    Outstanding court costs and previously allowed fees must be paid before the court enters an order placing an estate on no further process.

About Judge Charles H. McKenzie

Circuit judge for Division 13. **Appointed to the bench:** 2011 **Current assignment:** Civil, Criminal & Domestic **Division email:** Div13.cir16@courts.mo.gov

Jackson County Courthouse, 415 E 12th Street, 5th Floor, Kansas City, MO 64106 Phone: (816) 881-3613 Fax: (816) 881-3378 **Judicial Administrative Assistant:** Sharlene Patterson-Hardaway, (816) 881-3613, sharlene.patterson-hardaway@courts.mo.gov **Law Clerk:** Matthew Neswick, (816) 881-3624, matthew.neswick@courts.mo.gov **Court Reporter:** April Shepard, (816) 881-3713, april.shepard@courts.mo.gov **Criminal appearances:** the page states that criminal cases are being held in person unless otherwise notified or stated, as of March 24, 2022. **Telephone conference line:** 1 (408) 418-9388, access code 962 640 588 **WebEx room:** https://mocourts.webex.com/meet/charles.mckenzie

Common questions about Judge Charles H. McKenzie's rules

Are courtesy copies required for Judge Charles H. McKenzie?

Courtesy-copy rule applies for motions. Details: by email. Written motions filed during trial generally must be accompanied by an emailed courtesy copy to the law clerk, Division email, Judge McKenzie, and opposing counsel before 7:00 a.m., subject to specified exceptions.

View ruleSource: page 1, section PROCEDURES DURING TRIAL

What formatting rules apply to filings before Judge Charles H. McKenzie?

Judge Charles H. McKenzie's formatting rule includes 11 point type, double spacing, provide hard copies marked as jury instructions on the morning of trial, and email a word document to the division law clerk. The State must provide marked jury instructions in hard-copy and emailed Word form; the instructions must be double-spaced and use 11-point font.

View ruleSource: page 2, section TRIALS

What must be included with entry of appearance filings before Judge Charles H. McKenzie?

The rule requires caption. An attorney appearing in court for a client must file an entry of appearance or a limited entry of appearance.

View ruleSource: page 1, section LOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR CIVIL CASES — General Requirements

What must be included with discovery motion filings before Judge Charles H. McKenzie?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. If attorneys do not agree to resolve a discovery issue informally, they must file a motion complying with Local Rule 32.2.5 for the Court's ruling.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Discovery Issues

How may parties contact Judge Charles H. McKenzie's chambers?

The rule addresses email communications with Judge Charles H. McKenzie's chambers. All served attorneys and unrepresented parties must be copied on e-mail, and ex parte communications are not accepted.

View ruleSource: page 1, section E-MAILING/CONTACTING THE COURT

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge Charles H. McKenzie?

Advance notice is not fully stated in the structured details. Unless a continuance has been granted, parties must attend the Case Management Conference even when service has not yet been made.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Continuance Motions and Continuances for Trial Settings

Is electronic filing required before Judge Charles H. McKenzie?

Yes. Electronic filing is required for the covered filings. Represented parties must use the e-filing system, while pro se parties must file through the Civil Records Department on the third floor.

View ruleSource: page 1, section LOCAL RULES AND DIVISION 13 POLICIES FOR CIVIL CASES — General Requirements

What filing deadlines does Judge Charles H. McKenzie set?

Motions in limine must be filed by the pretrial conference, or by 3:00 pm on the Friday before trial if no pretrial conference is held.

View ruleSource: page 2, section TRIALS

What rule applies to service by email for all parties before Judge Charles H. McKenzie?

The rule addresses service method, recipient, or timing requirements. Details: method: service by email, recipient: all parties. An email must include every attorney and unrepresented party who has been served.

View ruleSource: page 1, section E-MAILING/CONTACTING THE COURT
Complete rules summary for Judge Charles H. McKenzie

E-mail may be used to contact the Law Clerk for scheduling matters.

All served attorneys and unrepresented parties must be copied on e-mail, and ex parte communications are not accepted.

An e-mail subject line must include the case number first and then the case style.

E-mail must not be used to argue substantive issues, and the Court must not be copied on party disputes because the Judge will not read them.

Parties must not seek legal advice from the Court or Division staff and must file a motion when relief is needed beyond scheduling.

The Judge must not be e-mailed directly.

Represented parties must use the e-filing system, while pro se parties must file through the Civil Records Department on the third floor.

Every continuance motion must be filed electronically, with a courtesy copy e-mailed to Division 13 and the Law Clerk.

A courtesy copy of each continuance motion must be e-mailed to Division 13 and the Law Clerk.

An attorney appearing in court for a client must file an entry of appearance or a limited entry of appearance.

A proposed order should accompany every motion.

A courtesy copy of each proposed order in Word format should be e-mailed to Division 13 and the Law Clerk.

Chambers courtesy copies of motions filed shortly before a court appearance should be e-mailed to Division 13 and the Law Clerk.

A request for a motion hearing should be made by e-mail, should state the specific reason, and should copy all parties; the Court schedules a hearing only if the Judge finds it necessary.

Parties must check Case.net before contacting the Division with questions.

The Court will not participate in ex parte contact, and counsel or a party must not discuss the case's substance with the Court or Division staff without the opposing party present.

Unless a continuance has been granted, parties must attend the Case Management Conference even when service has not yet been made.

A continuance from a trial date will be granted only when good cause is shown.

A continuance application must be filed by the Wednesday of the week before the case management conference or trial setting.

If a dismissal cannot be filed before trial, the parties must file a motion for continuance.

Parties must notify the Court by e-mail as soon as possible if the case settles before trial.

Attorneys who agree to work informally on a discovery issue may schedule a conference call with the Judge.

If attorneys do not agree to resolve a discovery issue informally, they must file a motion complying with Local Rule 32.2.5 for the Court's ruling.

Counsel must make efforts to resolve a discovery dispute before filing a motion, as required by Local Rule 33.5.

Initial civil case management conferences may be attended by WebEx with the required equipment and bandwidth, but telephone appearance requires express court permission.

If the initial case management conference does not result in a scheduling order, the Court will schedule another conference.

Failure to appear at a scheduled case management conference may result in dismissal of the case.

The parties may change scheduling-order deadlines other than the dispositive-motion deadline and trial date without court permission if they agree.

The Court recommends memorializing an agreed-upon deadline change in writing.

If no pretrial conference date is set at the case management conference, the parties must contact the Law Clerk at least one month before trial to schedule it.

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