Court Rules
Judge

Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks

Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies

Rules last changed:
Southern District of California

Limits & Logistics

Document Limits

Trial Brief
25 pgs
Motion For Reconsideration
10 pgs
Evidentiary And Procedural Objections
5 pgs
Motion In Limine
5 pgs
Motion
10 pgs
Evidentiary Objections
5 pgs

Courtesy Copies

Ex Parte Motions

  • Fax Or Email Or Overnight Mail • Upon Filing

Adjournments

  • Continuance requests require meet and confer and joint motion if parties agree.
  • Parties must meet and confer before requesting any continuance or procedural change.
  • When parties cannot agree on a continuance or extension, the requesting party must file an ex parte motion containing specific required elements.
  • +2 more

Request must include

Reason For RequestAdversary PositionProposed New DatesOriginal DateNumber Of Previous RequestsPrevious Requests Granted Or Denied

Communication

Email

Chambers

efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov
Scheduling
No status inquiries
Phone

Chambers

(619) 446-3972
EmergenciesScheduling
No status inquiries
Letter via ECF

Chambers

No status inquiries
Cases:
Filters:AllMandatoryImportantFormattingExhibitsJuryMemorandaSummary JudgmentProposed OrdersDiscoveryElectronics

Page & Word Limits15 rules

Page LimitsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Evidentiary and procedural objections filed separately are limited to five pages.

If filed as a separate document, evidentiary and procedural objections may not exceed five (5) pages in length.

Evidentiary And Procedural Objections

5 pages

Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 5
|SecIV. MOTIONS FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT
Page LimitsCivil cases

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Attachments to any motion or opposition are limited to a maximum of five (5) pages.

Attachments are also limited to a maximum of five (5) pages for any motion or opposition.

Motion In Limine

5 pages

Opposition

5 pages

Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 8
|SecXII. TRIAL PROCEDURES—C. Motions in Limine
Page LimitsCivil cases

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important

Each side may file no more than five motions in limine.

Each side is allowed a maximum of five (5) motions in limine.

Motion In Limine

Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 8
|SecXII. TRIAL PROCEDURES—C. Motions in Limine
Page LimitsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important

The parties may file trial briefs seven days before trial; briefs are limited to 25 pages and may not have attachments or exhibits appended.

The parties may file trial briefs seven (7) days prior to the date of trial. Trial briefs are limited to twenty-five (25) pages. Attachments or exhibits may not be appended.

Trial Brief

25 pages

Page LimitsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

3. The motion for reconsideration must be no more than ten (10) pages in length and may not include attachments or exhibits;

Summary: Motions for reconsideration are limited to 10 pages and cannot include attachments or exhibits.

Motion

10 pages

Page LimitsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The motion for reconsideration must be no more than ten (10) pages in length and may not include attachments or exhibits;

Summary: Reconsideration motions limited to 10 pages, no attachments or exhibits.

Motion For Reconsideration

10 pages

Applies to: Attorney

Page LimitsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

If filed as a separate document, evidentiary and procedural objections may not exceed five (5) pages in length.

Summary: Evidentiary/procedural objections limited to 5 pages if filed separately.

Evidentiary And Procedural Objections

5 pages

Applies to: Attorney

Page LimitsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Motions in limine will typically be heard in advance of the first day of trial, on a date set by the Court. Each side is allowed a maximum of five (5) motions in limine. Each motion must be limited to a single subject. Each motion and each opposition are limited to five (5) pages in length. Attachments are also limited to a maximum of five (5) pages for any motion or opposition.

Summary: Motions in limine limited to 5 motions per side, 5 pages each, single subject.

Motion In Limine

5 pages

Applies to: Attorney

Page LimitsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Motions in limine will typically be heard in advance of the first day of trial, on a date set by the Court. Each side is allowed a maximum of five (5) motions in limine. Each motion must be limited to a single subject. Each motion and each opposition are limited to five (5) pages in length. Attachments are also limited to a maximum of five (5) pages for any motion or opposition.

Summary: Motions in limine limited to 5 per side, single subject only, with 5-page limit for motion, opposition, and attachments.

Motion

5 pages

Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · Feb 2025 · p. 8
|SecXII. TRIAL PROCEDURES - C. Motions in Limine
Page LimitsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Trial briefs are limited to twenty-five (25) pages. Attachments or exhibits may not be appended.

Summary: Trial briefs are limited to 25 pages and may not include attachments or exhibits.

Trial Brief

25 pages

Page LimitsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Trial briefs are limited to twenty-five (25) pages.

Summary: Trial briefs are limited to 25 pages.

Trial Brief

25 pages

Applies to: Attorney

Page LimitsCivil cases

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

The motion for reconsideration must be no more than ten (10) pages in length and may not include attachments or exhibits;

Summary: A motion for reconsideration is limited to ten pages and may not include attachments or exhibits.

Motion

10 pages

Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 4
|SecH. Motions for Reconsideration
Page LimitsCivil cases

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

Each motion and each opposition are limited to five (5) pages in length.

Summary: Each motion in limine and each opposition is limited to five pages.

Motion In Limine

5 pages

Opposition

5 pages

Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 8
|SecXII. TRIAL PROCEDURES—C. Motions in Limine
Page LimitsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?

No party shall submit more than ten sentencing letters without leave of Court.

Summary: Parties are limited to ten sentencing letters unless court leave is obtained.

Sentencing Letter

10 pages

Judge Cheeks Criminal Chambers Rules · Jan 2025 · p. 5
|SecSENTENCING AND SENTENCING SUMMARY CHARTS
Page LimitsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?

If filed as a separate document, evidentiary and procedural objections may not exceed five (5) pages in length.

Summary: Evidentiary and procedural objections filed separately are limited to 5 pages.

Evidentiary Objections

5 pages

Document Format Requirements8 rules

FormattingCriminal cases

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Counsel must create two thumb drives: one with all marked and admitted exhibits preserved for the record, and one with only admitted exhibits for the jury.

Counsel will need to create two thumb drives; one of which will include all marked and admitted exhibits that will be preserved for the record and the second will be a thumb drive containing only admitted exhibits which will be given to the jury for their review.

FormattingCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important

Proposed orders and other documents submitted to the Court should be emailed in Microsoft Word format; WordPerfect submissions will be rejected.

All proposed orders and other documents submitted to the Court should be emailed to efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov in Microsoft Word format. Documents submitted in Word Perfect will be rejected by the Court.

Required Format

DOCX

FormattingCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important

Documents should be scanned using OCR when possible.

All documents should be scanned using Optical Character Recognition (“OCR”), if possible.

FormattingCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

All proposed orders and other documents submitted to the Court should be emailed to efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov in Microsoft Word format. Documents submitted in Word Perfect will be rejected by the Court.

Summary: Proposed orders and documents must be submitted in Microsoft Word format; Word Perfect is rejected.

Required Format

DOCX

FormattingCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The separate statement should be prepared in a table format, with each undisputed material fact individually enumerated and supported by citations to evidence in the record.

Summary: Separate statement must be in table format with enumerated facts and citations.

FormattingCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

email a copy in Word format to efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov

Summary: Proposed jury instructions and verdict forms must be emailed in Word format to chambers.

Required Format

DOCX

FormattingCriminal cases

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

The parties must file proposed jury instructions and verdict forms seven (7) days prior to the date of trial, unless otherwise ordered by the Court and email a copy in Word format to efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov.

Summary: The emailed copy of proposed jury instructions and verdict forms must be in Word format.

Required Format

Word Perfect

Judge Cheeks Criminal Chambers Rules · p. 9
|SecProposed Jury Instructions
FormattingCriminal cases

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

Discs will no longer be accepted.

Summary: Discs are not accepted for audio and video exhibits submitted to the jury.

Document Filing Requirements113 rules

Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

An objection to a magistrate judge’s discovery ruling must be filed as a motion under Civil Local Rule 7.1.

Any objection to a discovery ruling of the magistrate judge must be filed as a motion pursuant to Civil Local Rule 7.1.

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

The filing party should omit a hearing time and must put “NO ORAL ARGUMENT UNLESS ORDERED BY THE COURT” in the motion caption.

Consequently, the filing party should not specify a hearing time on its motion and must include the following language in the caption of the motion: NO ORAL ARGUMENT UNLESS ORDERED BY THE COURT.

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 2
|SecIII. MOTION PRACTICE GENERALLY
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

A continuance or extension request must be accompanied by a detailed declaration, and the proposed order must be emailed in Word format with the scheduled and proposed dates and without watermarks or firm insignia.

on the docket with a detailed declaration explaining the reasons for the requested continuance or extension of time. The parties must also e- mail a proposed order in Word format to efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov. The proposed order must set forth the current date scheduled, and the new date proposed. Additionally, do not include any watermarks or firm insignia on proposed orders.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 3
|SecIII. MOTION PRACTICE GENERALLY
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Proposed orders must be submitted with joint and ex parte motions, except motions requiring legal analysis; the orders should be emailed in Word format without watermarks or firm insignia.

Proposed orders must be submitted simultaneously with the filing of all joint motions or ex parte motions. As stated above, do not include any watermarks or firm insignia on proposed orders. The proposed order should be emailed to efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov in Word format. Counsel are not required to submit proposed orders on motions requiring legal analysis (i.e., motions for summary judgment, 12(b) motions, etc.).

Document Type

Motion

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

A motion for reconsideration must be filed as a noticed motion.

Movant must file the motion for reconsideration as a noticed motion;

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 4
|SecH. Motions for Reconsideration
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

A reconsideration motion must address the applicable federal standard and Civil Local Rule 7.1(i)(1), and may not reallege arguments already considered and ruled upon.

The motion for reconsideration will specifically address federal standard applicable to motions for reconsideration and the requirements outlined in Civil Local Rule 7.1(i)(1), and will not reallege arguments previously considered and ruled upon by the Court;

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 4
|SecH. Motions for Reconsideration
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Every summary judgment motion must include a separate statement of undisputed material facts.

All motions for summary judgment must be accompanied by a separate statement of undisputed material facts.

Document Type

Summary Judgment Motion

Content & Formatting
Statement Of Facts
Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 5
|SecIV. MOTIONS FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Failure to submit the separate statement with the moving papers will result in a discrepancy order rejecting the motion as discrepant and may require a new hearing date.

If the moving party fails to submit a separate statement of undisputed material facts with the moving papers, the Court will issue a discrepancy order rejecting the motion for summary judgment to discrepant for failing to comply with this Chambers requirement. This may require the moving party to obtain a new hearing date.

Document Type

Summary Judgment Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 5
|SecIV. MOTIONS FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

An opposition to a summary judgment motion must respond to the moving party’s separate statement of undisputed material facts.

Any opposition to a summary judgment motion must include a response to the moving party’s separate statement of undisputed material facts.

Document Type

Summary Judgment Opposition

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 5
|SecIV. MOTIONS FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Evidentiary and procedural objections to a summary judgment motion must be filed with the opposition brief.

Any evidentiary and procedural objections to the motion for summary judgment must be filed contemporaneously with the opposition brief.

Document Type

Summary Judgment Opposition

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 5
|SecIV. MOTIONS FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Every ex parte motion must include counsel’s declaration describing contact efforts, meet-and-confer efforts, and opposing counsel’s position.

All ex parte motions will be accompanied by a declaration from counsel documenting; (1) efforts to contact opposing counsel; (2) counsel’s meet and confer efforts; and (3) opposing counsel’s position regarding the ex parte motion.

Document Type

Ex Parte Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

A motion to seal must identify the documents or portions sought to be sealed, explain the applicable legal standard and its satisfaction, and include supporting affidavits or declarations.

Any motion to seal must set forth: (1) a description of the particular documents or part of the document(s) the party seeks to seal; (2) the correct legal standard and an analysis of why the standard has been satisfied with respect to the particular document(s); and (3) affidavits or declarations in support of the motion.

Document Type

Motion To Seal

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 6
|SecVI. SEEKING LEAVE TO FILE DOCUMENTS UNDER SEAL
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

A joint motion has legal effect only if signed by the Court.

Joint motions must be signed by the Court to have legal effect.

Document Type

Joint Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 7
|SecVIII. JOINT MOTIONS/STIPULATION
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

All stipulations must be filed as joint motions.

Pursuant to Section 2(f)(4) of the ECF Manual, all stipulations must be filed as joint motions.

Document Type

Stipulation

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 7
|SecVIII. JOINT MOTIONS/STIPULATION
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

The proposed pretrial order must strictly comply with Civil Local Rule 16.1(f)(6)(c).

The proposed pretrial order must strictly comply with the requirements set forth in Civil Local Rule 16.1(f)(6)(c).

Document Type

Pretrial Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 8
|SecXII. TRIAL PROCEDURES—A. Pretrial Conference
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

The parties must email chambers a joint proposed pretrial order at least 14 days before the pretrial conference.

Pursuant to Civil Local Rule 16.1(f)(6), the Court requires that the parties lodge by email to chambers (efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov) a joint proposed pretrial order at least fourteen (14) days before the pretrial conference.

Document Type

Pretrial Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 8
|SecXII. TRIAL PROCEDURES—A. Pretrial Conference
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Counsel must meet and confer and submit one joint set of agreed jury instructions, plus a separate set of proposed instructions to which there is an objection.

Counsel must meet and confer and submit a joint set of agreed jury instructions. Counsel must also submit a separate set of any instructions they propose to which there is an objection.

Document Type

Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 9
|SecF. Proposed Jury Instructions
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

The parties must file proposed jury instructions and verdict forms with their joint pretrial conference order and email a Word-format copy, unless the Court orders otherwise.

The parties must file proposed jury instructions and verdict forms with their joint pretrial conference order, unless otherwise ordered by the Court and email a copy in Word format to efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov.

Document Type

Joint Pretrial Conference Order

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 9
|SecF. Proposed Jury Instructions
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

The motion or application and its accompanying declaration must be non-conclusory and explain the specific reasons for the request in detail.

The motion/application and accompanying declaration must be non-conclusory and must plainly set forth (in detail) the specific reasons for the request.

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

A party must obtain leave of court to file a reply brief or other supplemental document concerning a pending motion.

If a party wishes to file a reply brief or other supplemental documents in support of, or in opposition to, a pending motion, the party must seek leave of court to do so.

Document Type

Reply Brief

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Criminal Chambers Rules · p. 3
|SecMotions — Reply Briefs and Other Supplemental Documents
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

A criminal motion requiring a predicate factual finding must be supported by one or more declarations.

Criminal motions requiring a predicate factual finding must be supported by declaration(s). See CrimLR 47.1.g.1.

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Applications to shorten time are disfavored and must include a non-conclusory affidavit signed by counsel stating facts establishing specific good cause.

Applications for an order shortening time are disfavored, however, must be supported by a non- conclusory affidavit signed by counsel setting forth facts establishing specific good cause.

Document Type

Application To Shorten Time

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Counsel seeking probation-office documents must first confer with the probation officer and, if there is no objection, apply for a court order authorizing release.

Where counsel wish to access documents in the possession of the United States Probation Office in connection with sentencing, they must confer with the probation officer to determine what documents are in fact available and whether the probation officer has any objection to their disclosure. Where no objection exists, counsel must then file an application for a court order authorizing the probation officer to release the documents.

Document Type

Application For Court Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Criminal Chambers Rules · p. 5
|SecVIII. REQUESTS FOR PROBATION REPORT SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

A party may not submit more than ten sentencing letters without leave of Court.

No party shall submit more than ten sentencing letters without leave of Court.

Document Type

Sentencing Letters

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Criminal Chambers Rules · p. 5
|SecIX. SENTENCING AND SENTENCING SUMMARY CHARTS
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

When the parties waive a presentence report, Government counsel must file a sentencing memorandum addressing the offenses and supervised-release recommendations, except in illegal-entry cases.

Where the parties waive a presentence report, except those where the charge is illegal entry, Government counsel must file a sentencing memorandum detailing: (1) the circumstances of the offense(s), and (2) any recommendations for supervised release.

Document Type

Sentencing Memorandum

Content & Formatting
Statement Of Facts
Judge Cheeks Criminal Chambers Rules · p. 6
|SecIX. SENTENCING AND SENTENCING SUMMARY CHARTS
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

A motion to seal must identify the material sought to be sealed, explain the applicable legal standard and its application, include supporting affidavits or declarations and the documents to be sealed, and state the next scheduled hearing date.

Any motion to seal must set forth: (1) a description of the particular documents or part of the document(s) the party seeks to seal; (2) the correct legal standard and an analysis of why the standard has been satisfied with respect to the particular document(s); (3) affidavits or declarations in support of the motion; and (4) the documents to be sealed. The motion must state the date of the next scheduled hearing in the case.

Document Type

Motion To Seal

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Counsel must meet and confer, submit one joint set of agreed jury instructions, and separately submit proposed instructions that are objected to.

Counsel must meet and confer and submit a joint set of agreed jury instructions. Counsel must also submit a separate set of any instructions they propose to which there is an objection.

Document Type

Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Criminal Chambers Rules · p. 9
|SecProposed Jury Instructions
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Motions and joint motions to modify or terminate supervised release must state the positions of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the supervising U.S. Probation Officer.

Motions and Joint Motions to Modify or Terminate supervised release conditions or the term, must include a statement regarding the positions of the United States Attorney’s Office and the United States Probation Officer supervising the defendant.

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Criminal Chambers Rules · p. 11
|SecXII. MOTIONS TO MODIFY OR TERMINATE SUPERVISED RELEASE
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important

The separate statement should use a table, individually enumerate each fact, and cite supporting evidence in the record.

The separate statement should be prepared in a table format, with each undisputed material fact individually enumerated and supported by citations to evidence in the record.

Document Type

Separate Statement Of Undisputed Material Facts

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 5
|SecIV. MOTIONS FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important

All parties must cooperate in completing the proposed pretrial order.

All parties are required to cooperate in completing the proposed pretrial order.

Document Type

Pretrial Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Civil Chambers Rules · p. 8
|SecXII. TRIAL PROCEDURES—A. Pretrial Conference
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important

Motions in limine are limited to evidentiary issues and may not seek judgment on the pleadings, summary judgment or adjudication, Daubert relief, leave to amend, or bifurcation.

Motions in limine must be limited in scope to evidentiary issues. Motions for judgment on the pleadings, summary judgment or summary adjudication, Daubert, and leave to amend or for bifurcation are not proper in limine motions.

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important

Local Rule 47.1 provides no reply briefs and does not provide for supplemental filings before a scheduled motion hearing.

There is no provision for reply briefs in Local Rule 47.1, and the briefing schedule set forth by the rule does not accommodate the filing of any supplemental documents prior to a scheduled motion hearing.

Document Type

Reply Brief

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Criminal Chambers Rules · p. 3
|SecMotions — Reply Briefs and Other Supplemental Documents
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important

The Court need not grant an evidentiary hearing if either party fails to properly support its motion or opposition.

The Court need not grant an evidentiary hearing where either party fails to properly support its motion or opposition.

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important

In felony matters, defense counsel is expected to read and explain the supervised-release conditions to the client and provide the client a copy before sentencing.

The Court expects defense counsel, in any felony matter, to read, explain, and provide their client with a copy of the Mandatory and Standard Conditions of Supervised Release prior to sentencing.

Document Type

Mandatory And Standard Conditions Of Supervised Release

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Criminal Chambers Rules · p. 5
|SecIX. SENTENCING AND SENTENCING SUMMARY CHARTS
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Note

Counsel need not submit proposed orders for motions requiring legal analysis, including summary judgment and Rule 12(b) motions.

Counsel are not required to submit proposed orders on motions requiring legal analysis (i.e., motions for summary judgment, 12(b) motions, etc.).

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

All proposed orders and other documents submitted to the Court should be emailed to efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov in Microsoft Word format. Documents submitted in Word Perfect will be rejected by the Court.

Summary: Proposed orders must be emailed in Microsoft Word format; Word Perfect documents will be rejected.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Content & Formatting
Notice Of Electronic Filing
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Not later than fourteen (14) calendar days after the arraignment on an Indictment or Information, the attorney for the defendant(s) and the attorney for the government must confer and attempt to agree on a timetable and

Summary: Attorneys must confer within 14 days after arraignment to agree on timetable.

Document Type

Criminal Case

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Conference
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Counsel shall submit an accompanying declaration on ALL motions and ex parte applications, including request for extraordinary relief. The motion/application and accompanying declaration must be non-conclusory and must plainly set forth (in detail) the specific reasons for the request.

Summary: ALL motions and ex parte applications must include a non-conclusory declaration detailing specific reasons.

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Not later than seven (7) calendar days prior to the first motion hearing, the parties must inform the Court in writing of the agreed upon timetable for the production of discovery, including the Alien Registration File, video footage, car/vehicle inspection, DEA drug reports, cell phone extraction data, and/or ESI where applicable, as well as the proposed timing for disclosure of expert witnesses under Rule 16, and any areas of disagreement.

Summary: Discovery timetable and Rule 16 expert disclosure must be submitted 7 days before first motion hearing.

Document Type

Discovery Timetable

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Service
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Not later than seven (7) calendar days prior to the first motion hearing, the parties must inform the Court in writing of the agreed upon timetable for the production of discovery, including the Alien Registration File, video footage, car/vehicle inspection, DEA drug reports, cell phone extraction data, and/or ESI where applicable, as well as the proposed timing for disclosure of expert witnesses under Rule 16, and any areas of disagreement.

Summary: Parties must submit written discovery timetable 7 days before first motion hearing.

Document Type

Discovery Timetable

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Counsel shall submit an accompanying declaration on ALL motions and ex parte applications, including request for extraordinary relief. The motion/application and accompanying declaration must be non-conclusory and must plainly set forth (in detail) the specific reasons for the request.

Summary: All motions and ex parte applications require a non-conclusory declaration with specific reasons.

Document Type

Motion

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Service
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Criminal motions requiring a predicate factual finding must be supported by declaration(s). See CrimLR 47.1.g.1.

Summary: Criminal motions requiring factual findings must be supported by declaration(s).

Document Type

Criminal Motion

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Service
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

A Local Rule 16.1 report of counsel, the agreed upon timetable for the production of discovery, including the Alien Registration File, video footage, car/vehicle inspection, DEA drug reports, cell phone extraction data, and/or ESI where applicable, as well as the proposed timing for disclosure of expert witnesses under Rule 16, and any areas of disagreement must be on file.

Summary: Local Rule 16.1 report of counsel must be on file with discovery timetable and Rule 16 expert disclosure.

Document Type

Local Rule 16 1 Report

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Service
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Criminal motions requiring a predicate factual finding must be supported by declaration(s). See CrimLR 47.1.g.1. The Court need not grant an evidentiary hearing where either party fails to properly support its motion or opposition.

Summary: Criminal motions requiring factual findings must include supporting declarations.

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The motion must state the date of the next scheduled hearing in the case.

Summary: Motions to seal must include next scheduled hearing date.

Document Type

Motion To Seal

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Any motion to seal must set forth: (1) a description of the particular documents or part of the document(s) the party seeks to seal; (2) the correct legal standard and an analysis of why the standard has been satisfied with respect to the particular document(s); (3) affidavits or declarations in support of the motion; and (4) the documents to be sealed. The motion must state the date of the next scheduled hearing in the case.

Summary: Motions to seal must include description of documents, legal standard analysis, supporting affidavits, the documents themselves, and the next hearing date.

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Judge Cheeks Criminal Chambers Rules · Jan 2025 · p. 7
|SecVII. SEEKING LEAVE TO FILE DOCUMENTS UNDER SEAL
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Counsel must meet and confer and submit a joint set of agreed jury instructions. Counsel must also submit a separate set of any instructions they propose to which there is an objection.

Summary: Joint jury instructions required with separate objections.

Document Type

Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.

Filing & Service rules

Electronic Filing Rules

Appropriate ex parte motions may be made after first contacting chambers and must ultimately be filed electronically on CM/ECF.

Appropriate ex parte motions may be made at any time after first contacting chambers, but must ultimately be filed electronically on CM/ECF.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 5 | V. Ex Parte Proceedings

Ex parte documents for which opposing parties receive no notice may be filed in paper format under seal.

ECF Manual § 2(i) permits all ex parte documents for which no notice is to be provided to opposing parties to be filed in paper format under seal.

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

Page 4 | Ex Parte Requests

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

Motions challenging a proposed expert’s qualifications or testimony must be brought by the dispositive-motion hearing cutoff.

Motions addressing the qualifications or testimony of a proposed expert must be brought by the dispositive motion hearing cut-off.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 4 | I. Daubert Motions

Parties must file witness and exhibit lists seven days before trial, unless the Court orders otherwise.

Parties must file witness and exhibit lists seven (7) days prior to trial date, unless otherwise ordered by the Court.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 10 | G. Witness and Exhibit Lists

For a Monday hearing, a continuance motion must be filed by 5:00 p.m. the preceding Wednesday.

By way of example, a motion to continue a hearing set for Monday must be filed by 5:00 p.m. on the preceding Wednesday.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 2 | III. CALENDAR

At least seven calendar days before the first motion hearing, the parties must inform the Court in writing of the agreed discovery-production timetable, proposed expert-disclosure timing, and any disagreements.

Not later than seven (7) calendar days prior to the first motion hearing, the parties must inform the Court in writing of the agreed upon timetable for the production of discovery, including the Alien Registration File, video footage, car/vehicle inspection, DEA drug reports, cell phone extraction data, and/or ESI where applicable, as well as the proposed timing for disclosure of expert witnesses under Rule 16, and any areas of disagreement.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 3 | Compliance with Local Rule 16.1

Except for motions in limine and motions pertaining to sentencing, motions must be filed at least fourteen calendar days before the hearing.

All motions, except motions in limine and those pertaining to sentencing matters, must be filed at least fourteen (14) calendar days before the hearing date.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 4 | Pretrial Motions

Opposition briefs must be filed at least seven calendar days before the hearing.

Opposition briefs must be filed at least seven (7) calendar days before the hearing date.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 4 | Pretrial Motions

Existing case dates and deadlines remain in effect, and discovery and other proceedings continue unless the Court orders otherwise.

All dates and deadlines in the case will remain as set and discovery and other proceedings will go forward until otherwise ordered by the Court.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 4 | H. Motions for Reconsideration

Opposing counsel ordinarily has until 5:00 p.m. on the next business day after service to respond.

After service of the ex parte motion, opposing counsel will ordinarily be given until 5:00 p.m. on the next business day to respond.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 6 | V. Ex Parte Proceedings

The parties may file trial briefs seven days before trial.

The parties may file trial briefs seven (7) days prior to the date of trial.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 9 | D. Trial Briefs

Counsel wishing to expand the judge's initial voir dire may file proposed questions no later than seven days before trial, unless the Court orders otherwise.

If counsel wish to expand the scope of the judge’s initial voir dire, they may file proposed voir dire questions no later than seven (7) days before the date of trial, unless otherwise ordered by the Court.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 9 | E. Voir Dire

Missing the sentencing filing deadlines results in a continuance unless counsel is prepared to waive consideration of the late submissions.

Failure to meet these deadlines will result in a continuance of the sentencing hearing unless counsel is prepared to waive consideration of the late submissions.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 5 | IX. SENTENCING AND SENTENCING SUMMARY CHARTS

A party intending to use demonstratives during opening statements must disclose that intention to the opposing party by the Thursday before trial.

D. Demonstratives: Any party who intends to use a demonstrative such as a PowerPoint presentation, poster boards, etc., during opening statements must disclose their intention to the opposing party on or before the Thursday prior to trial.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 8 | IX. TRIAL PROCEDURES

Trial briefs are due on the same date as motions in limine.

C. Trial Briefs: Trial briefs are due the same date as Motions in Limine are to be filed.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 8 | IX. TRIAL PROCEDURES

A noticed motion’s hearing date must be set 35 days after the motion is filed.

Parties filing a noticed motion must set the hearing date to be thirty-five (35) days from the motion’s filing date.

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

Page 2 | III. MOTION PRACTICE GENERALLY

Unless the parties file a Rule 41(a)(1) notice of dismissal, they must file a joint motion to dismiss and email a proposed order to the Court within 28 days of settlement.

Unless a “Notice of Dismissal” is filed under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 41(a)(1), for which a court order is not required, the parties must file a “Joint Motion to Dismiss” and email a proposed order to this Court within twenty-eight days of settlement.

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

Page 7 | IX. SETTLEMENT AND DISMISSAL

Motions must be filed at least fourteen days before the noticed date unless the Court shortens the time by order for good cause.

All parties shall adhere strictly to Criminal Local Rule 47.1, which provides that all motions must be filed no later than fourteen (14) days prior to the date for which the motion is noticed unless the Court, by order and for good cause, shortens that time.

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

Page 3 | Motions — Briefing Schedule

Leave to file supplemental documents requires good cause, and supplemental filings will not be accepted less than seven days before the scheduled motion hearing.

Leave will not be granted absent good cause, and no supplemental filings will be accepted less than seven (7) days prior to the scheduled motion hearing.

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

Page 3 | Motions — Reply Briefs and Other Supplemental Documents

Motions for 5k1.1 departures must be filed 7 days before the scheduled sentencing hearing.

3. Motions for 5k1.1 departures: 7 days prior

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

Page 5 | IX. SENTENCING AND SENTENCING SUMMARY CHARTS

Objections to the PSR must be filed 14 days before the scheduled sentencing hearing.

1. Objections to the PSR: 14 days prior

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

Page 5 | IX. SENTENCING AND SENTENCING SUMMARY CHARTS

Addenda addressing objections must be filed 7 days before the scheduled sentencing hearing.

5. Addenda addressing objections: 7 days prior

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

Page 5 | IX. SENTENCING AND SENTENCING SUMMARY CHARTS

Supporting documents must be filed 7 days before the scheduled sentencing hearing.

6. Supporting documents: 7 days prior

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

Page 5 | IX. SENTENCING AND SENTENCING SUMMARY CHARTS

Motions for departures other than 5k1.1 must be filed 14 days before the scheduled sentencing hearing.

2. Motions for departures, other than 5k1.1: 14 days prior

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

Page 5 | IX. SENTENCING AND SENTENCING SUMMARY CHARTS

Sentencing summary charts must be filed 7 days before the scheduled sentencing hearing.

4. Sentencing summary charts: 7 days prior

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

Page 5 | IX. SENTENCING AND SENTENCING SUMMARY CHARTS

Motions in limine are heard 14 days before trial unless the Court sets another date; motions are due 14 days before the hearing, oppositions 7 days before, and replies are not filed, unless otherwise set by the Court.

B. Motions in Limine: These Motions will be heard fourteen (14) days before the trial date unless otherwise set by the Court. Motions are due fourteen (14) days before the hearing, with any opposition due 7 days before the hearing, unless otherwise set by the Court. No reply memorandum are to be filed.

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

Page 8 | IX. TRIAL PROCEDURES

Proposed jury instructions and verdict forms must be filed seven days before trial unless the Court orders otherwise.

The parties must file proposed jury instructions and verdict forms seven (7) days prior to the date of trial, unless otherwise ordered by the Court

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

Page 9 | Proposed Jury Instructions

Witness and exhibit lists must be filed seven days before trial unless the Court orders otherwise.

The parties must file witness and exhibit lists seven (7) days prior to the date of the trial, unless otherwise ordered by the Court.

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

Page 9 | Witness and Exhibit Lists

Counsel may file proposed voir dire questions no later than 7 days before trial.

E. Voir Dire: Counsel may file proposed voir dire questions no later than seven (7) days before the date of trial.

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

Page 8 | IX. TRIAL PROCEDURES

Service and Proof of Service Rules

An ex parte motion filed with the Court must be served on opposing counsel by fax, email with return receipt requested, or overnight mail.

Any ex parte motion filed with the Court must be served on opposing counsel via facsimile, electronic mail with return receipt requested, or overnight mail.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 5 | V. Ex Parte Proceedings

When the Court requests letters or emails, copies must be delivered simultaneously to all counsel.

If letters or emails are requested, copies of the same must be simultaneously delivered to all counsel.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

The Court strongly prefers service on the opposing party and a reasonable opportunity for that party to file an opposition.

The Court’s strong preference is for the opposing party to be served and afforded a reasonable opportunity to file an opposition.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 7 | VII. TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDERS

When the Court requests letters or emails, copies must be delivered to all counsel at the same time.

If letters or emails are requested, copies of the same must be simultaneously delivered to all counsel.

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

Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Courtesy Copy Requirements

A party filing an ex parte document in paper format must also send a digital courtesy copy to the Court’s e-file email address.

If a party chooses to file an ex parte document in paper format, then the filing party must also provide a digital courtesy copy sent to the Court’s e-file email address at efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 4 | Ex Parte Requests

Unless the Court orders otherwise, a filing longer than 20 pages including attachments and exhibits requires a courtesy copy delivered directly to Chambers within 24 hours after filing.

Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, for any document which exceeds twenty (20) pages in length (including attachments and exhibits), the filing party must deliver a courtesy copy directly to Chambers within 24 hours after filing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 7 | VIII. COURTESY COPIES

A party filing a document under seal must also email a digital courtesy copy to the Court’s e-file email address.

All parties who file a document under seal MUST also submit a digital courtesy copy of the filing to this Court’s e-file email address at efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 7 | VIII. COURTESY COPIES

Paper ex parte filings require digital courtesy copy to efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov.

If a party chooses to file an ex parte document in paper format, then the filing party must also provide a digital courtesy copy sent to the Court’s e-file email address at efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Criminal cases

Page 3 | VI. EX PARTE REQUESTS

Paper-filed ex parte documents require a digital courtesy copy to chambers email.

If a party chooses to file an ex parte document in paper format, then the filing party must also provide a digital courtesy copy sent to the Court's e-file email address at efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Criminal cases

Page 4 | VI. EX PARTE REQUESTS

Sealed documents require digital courtesy copy to efile email.

All parties who file a document under seal MUST also submit a digital courtesy copy of the filing to this Court’s e-file email address at efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Criminal cases

Page 7 | VIII. COURTESY COPIES

Documents exceeding 20 pages require a courtesy copy delivered to Chambers within 24 hours of filing.

Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, for any document which exceeds twenty (20) pages in length (including attachments and exhibits), the filing party must deliver a courtesy copy directly to Chambers within 24 hours after filing.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Criminal cases

Page 7 | VIII. COURTESY COPIES

Courtesy copies required for documents over 20 pages.

Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, for any document which exceeds twenty (20) pages in length (including attachments and exhibits), the filing party must deliver a courtesy copy directly to Chambers within 24 hours after filing.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Criminal cases

Page 7 | VIII. COURTESY COPIES

Sealed documents require a digital courtesy copy submitted via email to efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov.

All parties who file a document under seal MUST also submit a digital courtesy copy of the filing to this Court's e-file email address at efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Criminal cases

Page 7 | VIII. COURTESY COPIES

Ex parte motions must be served on opposing counsel via fax, email, or overnight mail.

Any ex parte motion filed with the Court must be served on opposing counsel via facsimile, electronic mail with return receipt requested, or overnight mail.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 5 | V. Ex Parte Proceedings

For particularly voluminous filings, parties may provide courtesy copies in electronic-media format, such as a USB flash drive.

If a filing is particularly voluminous, parties may provide their courtesy copies in electronic-media format (e.g., USB flash drive).

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

Page 7 | VIII. COURTESY COPIES

Sealing & Redaction Procedures

The Court may seal documents to protect sensitive information, limiting sealing to only the documents or portions necessary for that protection.

The Court may seal documents to protect sensitive information; however, the documents to be filed under seal will be limited by the Court to only those documents, or portions thereof, necessary to protect such sensitive information.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 6 | VI. SEEKING LEAVE TO FILE DOCUMENTS UNDER SEAL

Before filing the documents to be sealed, the original sealing motion and documents should be submitted to the Clerk’s Office, which will forward them to chambers for review.

The original motion to seal, and the documents to be sealed, should be submitted to the Clerks’ Office prior to filing them. The Clerk’s Office will forward the documents to chambers for review.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 6 | VII. SEEKING LEAVE TO FILE DOCUMENTS UNDER SEAL

The Court may seal only documents or portions necessary to protect sensitive personal or confidential information, and suggests submitting sensitive material separately.

There is a presumptive right of public access to court records based upon common law and first amendment grounds. 1 Even where a public right of access exists, such access may be denied by the Court in order to protect sensitive personal or confidential information. The Court may seal documents to protect sensitive information, however, the documents to be filed under seal will be limited by the Court to only those documents, or portions thereof, necessary to protect such sensitive information. Therefore, it is suggested that sensitive material be submitted in a separate document.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 6 | VII. SEEKING LEAVE TO FILE DOCUMENTS UNDER SEAL

The Court recommends seeking to seal documents filed with sentencing documents, noticed motions, or oppositions or replies to noticed motions before filing those documents.

The Court recommends that parties seeking to seal documents that will be filed in conjunction with sentencing documents, noticed motions, or in opposition or reply to noticed motions, do so before filing the respective documents.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 6 | VII. SEEKING LEAVE TO FILE DOCUMENTS UNDER SEAL

The Court recommends seeking to seal documents associated with noticed motions before filing those documents.

The Court recommends that parties seeking to seal documents that will be filed in conjunction with noticed motions, or in opposition or reply to noticed motions, do so before filing the respective documents.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 6 | VI. SEEKING LEAVE TO FILE DOCUMENTS UNDER SEAL

Motions to seal must be submitted to the Clerk's Office before filing the underlying documents for chambers review.

The Court recommends that parties seeking to seal documents that will be filed in conjunction with sentencing documents, noticed motions, or in opposition or reply to noticed motions, do so before filing the respective documents. The original motion to seal, and the documents to be sealed, should be submitted to the Clerks' Office prior to filing them. The Clerk's Office will forward the documents to chambers for review.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Criminal cases

Page 6 | SEEKING LEAVE TO FILE DOCUMENTS UNDER SEAL

Motion to seal must include description, legal analysis, supporting affidavits, and documents.

Any motion to seal must set forth: (1) a description of the particular documents or part of the document(s) the party seeks to seal; (2) the correct legal standard and an analysis of why the standard has been satisfied with respect to the particular document(s); (3) affidavits or declarations in support of the motion; and (4) the documents to be sealed.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Criminal cases

Page 7 | VIII. COURTESY COPIES

Denied seal motions result in immediate public filing.

If a party files a motion to seal in conjunction with a noticed motion, and the Court thereafter denies the motion to seal, the documents will immediately be publicly filed on CM/ECF.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 6 | VI. SEEKING LEAVE TO FILE DOCUMENTS UNDER SEAL

If the Court denies a motion to seal filed with a noticed motion, the documents will immediately be filed publicly on CM/ECF.

If a party files a motion to seal in conjunction with a noticed motion, and the Court thereafter denies the motion to seal, the documents will immediately be publicly filed on CM/ECF.

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

Page 6 | VI. SEEKING LEAVE TO FILE DOCUMENTS UNDER SEAL

If the Court denies a motion to seal filed with a noticed motion, the documents will immediately be publicly filed on CM/ECF.

If a party files a motion to seal in conjunction with a noticed motion, and the Court thereafter denies the motion to seal, the documents will immediately be publicly filed on CM/ECF.

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

Page 7

Denied motions to seal result in immediate public filing on CM/ECF.

If a party files a motion to seal in conjunction with a noticed motion, and the Court thereafter denies the motion to seal, the documents will immediately be publicly filed on CM/ECF.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Criminal cases

Page 7 | VIII. COURTESY COPIES

Seal motions should be filed before related documents.

The Court recommends that parties seeking to seal documents that will be filed in conjunction with noticed motions, or in opposition or reply to noticed motions, do so before filing the respective documents.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 6 | VI. SEEKING LEAVE TO FILE DOCUMENTS UNDER SEAL

Court records have presumptive public access right; sealing limited to documents/portions necessary to protect sensitive personal or confidential information.

There is a presumptive right of public access to court records based upon common law and first amendment grounds. Even where a public right of access exists, such access may be denied by the Court in order to protect sensitive personal or confidential information. The Court may seal documents to protect sensitive information; however, the documents to be filed under seal will be limited by the Court to only those documents, or portions thereof, necessary to protect such sensitive information.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 6 | VI. SEEKING LEAVE TO FILE DOCUMENTS UNDER SEAL

Presumptive right of public access to court records.

There is a presumptive right of public access to court records based upon common law and first amendment grounds.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 6 | VI. SEEKING LEAVE TO FILE DOCUMENTS UNDER SEAL

Pre-Motion Conference Requirements

Before filing an ex parte motion, counsel must contact the opposing party and meet and confer about its subject.

Before filing any ex parte motion, counsel must contact the opposing party to meet and confer regarding the subject of the ex parte motion.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 5 | V. Ex Parte Proceedings

All motions for temporary restraining orders must be briefed.

All motions for temporary restraining orders must be briefed.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 7 | VII. TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDERS

The Court will set a hearing and opposition-brief dates only if warranted after its initial merits review.

The Court will set dates for a hearing and filing of opposition briefs if the Court finds they are warranted following an initial review of the merits of the motion;

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 4 | H. Motions for Reconsideration

An unopposed ex parte motion may be granted on the ground that it is unopposed.

Ex parte motions that are not opposed will be considered unopposed and may be granted on that ground.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 6 | V. Ex Parte Proceedings

The Court may hear temporary restraining orders ex parte only in extraordinary circumstances.

While temporary restraining orders may be heard ex parte, the Court will do so only in extraordinary circumstances.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 7 | VII. TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDERS

Motions to shorten time are disfavored because they impede the opposing party’s response and the Court’s review and hearing preparation.

Motions to shorten time are disfavored due to the difficulty that untimely filing creates for the opposing party to prepare and file a response, and for the Court to review the parties’ submissions and prepare for hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 3 | Motions — Briefing Schedule

Ex parte papers are decided without a hearing unless the Court requires one, in which case the parties will be contacted to schedule it.

After receipt, moving and opposing ex parte papers will be reviewed and a decision will be made without a hearing. If the Court requires a hearing, the parties will be contacted to set a date and time.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 6 | V. Ex Parte Proceedings

Motions must be filed at least 14 days before the noticed hearing date.

All parties shall adhere strictly to Criminal Local Rule 47.1, which provides that all motions must be filed no later than fourteen (14) days prior to the date for which the motion is noticed unless the Court, by order and for good cause, shortens that time.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Criminal cases

Page 3 | V. MOTIONS

Pretrial motions filed 14 days before hearing; oppositions 7 days before.

All motions, except motions in limine and those pertaining to sentencing matters, must be filed at least fourteen (14) calendar days before the hearing date. Opposition briefs must be filed at least seven (7) calendar days before the hearing date.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Criminal cases

Page 4 | VII. PRETRIAL MOTIONS

Meet and confer required before filing ex parte motions.

Before filing any ex parte motion, counsel must contact the opposing party to meet and confer regarding the subject of the ex parte motion.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 5 | V. Ex Parte Proceedings

Noticed motions must set hearing date 35 days from filing date.

Parties filing a noticed motion must set the hearing date to be thirty-five (35) days from the motion's filing date.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Before filing motions in limine, counsel must meet and confer about the intended motions and attempt to resolve issues without court intervention, as appropriate.

Prior to filing motions in limine, counsel must meet and confer and discuss their intended motions in attempt to resolve issues without court intervention, as appropriate.

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

Page 9

In appropriate cases, the Court may issue a limited restraining order to preserve evidence while further briefing is pending.

In appropriate cases, the Court may issue a limited restraining order to preserve evidence pending further briefing.

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

Page 7 | VII. TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDERS

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

Before contacting the Court to request a continuance or other procedural change, parties must meet and confer.

Parties requesting a continuance of any conference, scheduled motion, hearing date, deadline, briefing schedule, or any other procedural change must meet and confer prior to contacting the Court.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 2 | III. MOTION PRACTICE GENERALLY

If the parties cannot agree on a continuance or extension, the requesting party must file an ex parte motion addressing diligence and prejudice and stating the original date, prior requests and outcomes, and opposing counsel’s position.

If the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the requesting party must file an ex parte motion satisfying the applicable legal standard, with a particular focus on the diligence of the party seeking delay and any prejudice that may result therefrom. In addition, the ex parte motion must state: (1) the original date; (2) the number of previous continuances and requests that have been made; (3) whether previous requests were granted or denied; and (4) opposing counsel’s position regarding the ex parte motion

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases

Page 3 | III. MOTION PRACTICE GENERALLY

Joint continuance motions must explain good cause, include written agreement to the proposed date from defendants not in custody, and address Speedy Trial Act exclusions in both the motion and proposed order when the clock is active.

All joint motions to continue must include: (1) the reason(s) for the circumstances establishing good cause for the continuance; (2) defendants who are not in custody must sign off on the Joint Motion and acknowledge and accept the next proposed court date in writing; (3) in cases where the Speedy Trial Clock is active, all joint motions must address any time that should be excluded under the Speedy Trial Act in the joint motion AND proposed order.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 2 | III. CALENDAR

Continuance requests must be made at least three court days before the hearing or they will be denied and the hearing will remain on calendar.

Please be advised that all continuance requests must be made no less than three (3) court days prior to a hearing; otherwise, the request will be denied, and the hearing will not be taken off calendar or continued to a new date.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 2 | III. CALENDAR

A continuance request must be made by joint or unopposed motion.

All continuance requests require a joint or unopposed motion to continue.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 2 | III. CALENDAR

A continuance will not be granted unless the parties have fully complied with Local Rule 16.1.

No continuance will be granted where the parties have failed to fully comply with Local Rule 16.1.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 2 | III. CALENDAR

Except for the administrative continuance procedure described above, the Court prefers joint continuance motions before the scheduled date rather than at the hearing.

Except as provided above, the Court prefers that continuance requests be made by joint motion prior to the scheduled date, and NOT at the time of the hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 2 | III. CALENDAR

The Courtroom Deputy may administratively continue an agreed sentencing matter if it has not previously been continued twice, for no more than 60 days from the original date.

The Courtroom Deputy may administratively continue sentencing matters where all parties agree, if the case has not been continued twice before, and in no event longer than sixty (60) days from the originally scheduled date.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 2 | III. CALENDAR

A party seeking a hearing continuance must notify the Courtroom Deputy as early as possible.

A party seeking a continuance of a hearing must notify Judge Cheeks’ Courtroom Deputy at the earliest possible time.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 2 | III. CALENDAR

Continuance requests must be made via joint or unopposed motion.

All continuance requests require a joint or unopposed motion to continue.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Criminal cases

Page 2 | CALENDAR

Continuance requests require joint or unopposed motion.

All continuance requests require a joint or unopposed motion to continue.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Criminal cases

Page 2 | CALENDAR

Joint motions to continue must include reasons, defendant acknowledgment, and Speedy Trial Act exclusions.

All joint motions to continue must include: (1) the reason(s) for the continuance; (2) defendants who are not in custody must sign off on the Joint Motion and acknowledge and accept the next proposed court date in writing; (3) in cases where the Speedy Trial Clock is active, all joint motions must address any time that should be excluded under the Speedy Trial Act in the joint motion AND proposed order.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Criminal cases

Page 2 | CALENDAR

Continuance requests must be made at least 3 court days before hearing.

Please be advised that all continuance requests must be made no less than three (3) court days prior to a hearing; otherwise, the request will be denied, and the hearing will not be taken off calendar or continued to a new date.

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Page 2 | CALENDAR

Joint motions to continue must include good cause reasons, non-custody defendant sign-off, and Speedy Trial Act exclusions when applicable.

All joint motions to continue must include: (1) the reason(s) for the circumstances establishing good cause for the continuance; (2) defendants who are not in custody must sign off on the Joint Motion and acknowledge and accept the next proposed court date in writing; (3) in cases where the Speedy Trial Clock is active, all joint motions must address any time that should be excluded under the Speedy Trial Act in the joint motion AND proposed order.

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Page 2 | CALENDAR

Continuance requests must be filed at least 3 court days before the hearing or they will be denied.

Please be advised that all continuance requests must be made no less than three (3) court days prior to a hearing; otherwise, the request will be denied, and the hearing will not be taken off calendar or continued to a new date. By way of example, a motion to continue a hearing set for Monday must be filed by 5:00 p.m. on the preceding Wednesday.

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Page 2 | CALENDAR

Motions must be filed 14 days before hearing date under Criminal Local Rule 47.1.

All parties shall adhere strictly to Criminal Local Rule 47.1, which provides that all motions must be filed no later than fourteen (14) days prior to the date for which the motion is noticed unless the Court, by order and for good cause, shortens that time.

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Page 3 | MOTIONS A. Briefing Schedule

Reply briefs and supplemental documents require leave of court and must be filed at least 7 days before hearing.

If a party wishes to file a reply brief or other supplemental documents in support of, or in opposition to, a pending motion, the party must seek leave of court to do so. Leave will not be granted absent good cause, and no supplemental filings will be accepted less than seven (7) days prior to the scheduled motion hearing.

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Page 3 | MOTIONS B. Reply Briefs and Other Supplemental Documents

Continuance requests require LR 16.1 report and discovery timetable to be on file.

In addition, a Local Rule 16.1 report of counsel, the agreed upon timetable for the production of discovery, including the Alien Registration File, video footage, car/vehicle inspection, DEA drug reports, cell phone extraction data, and/or ESI where applicable, as well as the proposed timing for disclosure of expert witnesses under Rule 16, and any areas of disagreement must be on file.

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Page 4 | VII. PRETRIAL MOTIONS

Continuance requests must be made at least 3 court days before hearing.

Please be advised that all continuance requests must be made no less than three (3) court days prior to a hearing; otherwise, the request will be denied, and the hearing will not be taken off calendar or continued to a new date. By way of example, a motion to continue a hearing set for Monday must be filed by 5 p.m. on the preceding Wednesday.

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Page 4 | VII. PRETRIAL MOTIONS

Opposition briefs must be filed 7 days before hearing date.

Opposition briefs must be filed at least seven (7) calendar days before the hearing date.

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Page 4 | VII. PRETRIAL MOTIONS

Continuance requests must be filed at least 3 court days before hearing.

Please be advised that all continuance requests must be made no less than three (3) court days prior to a hearing; otherwise, the request will be denied, and the hearing will not be taken off calendar or continued to a new date. By way of example, a motion to continue a hearing set for Monday must be filed by 5 p.m. on the preceding Wednesday.

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Page 4 | VII. PRETRIAL MOTIONS

Joint continuance motions must state good cause reason and have non-custodial defendants acknowledge next date in writing.

Joint motions to continue must state: (1) a reason for the circumstances establishing good cause for the continuance; and (2) defendants who are not in custody must acknowledge the next court date in writing.

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Page 4 | VII. PRETRIAL MOTIONS

Most motions must be filed 14 days before hearing date.

All motions, except motions in limine and those pertaining to sentencing matters, must be filed at least fourteen (14) calendar days before the hearing date.

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Page 4 | VII. PRETRIAL MOTIONS

Filing deadlines for sentencing documents range from 7 to 14 days prior to hearing; failure results in continuance.

All counsel must adhere strictly to Criminal Local Rule 32.1(a)(5)–(10), which provide the following filing deadlines prior to a scheduled sentencing hearing: 1. Objections to the PSR: 14 days prior 2. Motions for departures, other than 5k1.1: 14 days prior 3. Motions for 5k1.1 departures: 7 days prior 4. Sentencing summary charts: 7 days prior 5. Addenda addressing objections: 7 days prior 6. Supporting documents: 7 days prior Failure to meet these deadlines will result in a continuance of the sentencing hearing unless counsel is prepared to waive consideration of the late submissions.

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Page 5 | SENTENCING AND SENTENCING SUMMARY CHARTS

Continuance requests require meet and confer and joint motion if parties agree.

Parties requesting a continuance of any conference, scheduled motion, hearing date, deadline, briefing schedule, or any other procedural change must meet and confer prior to contacting the Court. If the parties reach an agreement, they must file a joint motion

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Page 2 | III. MOTION PRACTICE GENERALLY

When parties cannot agree on a continuance or extension, the requesting party must file an ex parte motion containing specific required elements.

If the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the requesting party must file an ex parte motion satisfying the applicable legal standard, with a particular focus on the diligence of the party seeking delay and any prejudice that may result therefrom. In addition, the ex parte motion must state: (1) the original date; (2) the number of previous continuances and requests that have been made; (3) whether previous requests were granted or denied; and (4) opposing counsel's position regarding the ex parte motion

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Page 3 | III. MOTION PRACTICE GENERALLY

A joint motion to continue must state the reason establishing good cause, and defendants not in custody must acknowledge the next court date in writing.

Joint motions to continue must state: (1) a reason for the circumstances establishing good cause for the continuance; and (2) defendants who are not in custody must acknowledge the next court date in writing.

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

Page 4 | Pretrial Motions

Parties must notify Courtroom Deputy at earliest possible time for continuance requests.

A party seeking a continuance of a hearing must notify Judge Cheeks' Courtroom Deputy at the earliest possible time.

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Page 2 | CALENDAR

Sentencing continuances limited to 60 days and max 2 continuances.

The Courtroom Deputy may administratively continue sentencing matters where all parties agree, if the case has not been continued twice before, and in no event longer than sixty (60) days from the originally scheduled date.

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Page 2 | CALENDAR

Continuance requests should be made by joint motion prior to the hearing, not at the hearing.

Except as provided above, the Court prefers that continuance requests be made by joint motion prior to the scheduled date, and NOT at the time of the hearing.

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Page 2 | CALENDAR

Continuance requests should be made by joint motion before hearing, not at hearing.

Except as provided above, the Court prefers that continuance requests be made by joint motion prior to the scheduled date, and NOT at the time of the hearing.

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Page 2 | CALENDAR

Parties must meet and confer before requesting any continuance or procedural change.

Parties requesting a continuance of any conference, scheduled motion, hearing date, deadline, briefing schedule, or any other procedural change must meet and confer prior to contacting the Court.

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Example: Monday hearing continuance must be filed by 5:00 p.m. Wednesday.

By way of example, a motion to continue a hearing set for Monday must be filed by 5:00 p.m. on the preceding Wednesday.

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Page 2 | CALENDAR

Chambers Communication Rules

Counsel must contact the magistrate judge’s chambers directly about all discovery matters.

Counsel must contact the magistrate judge’s chambers directly for all matters pertaining to discovery.

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Page 2 | II. DISCOVERY

Chambers must be contacted before making an appropriate ex parte motion.

Appropriate ex parte motions may be made at any time after first contacting chambers, but must ultimately be filed electronically on CM/ECF.

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Page 5 | V. Ex Parte Proceedings

When counsel knows a disposition will occur in a case calendared for motions, counsel must promptly call the Courtroom Deputy Clerk to inform the Court.

Any time a case is calendared for motions and counsel for either side knows that a disposition is to take place, counsel has a duty to call the Courtroom Deputy Clerk at (619) 557-6038 at the earliest available time to inform the Court of the disposition.

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Page 11 | XI. NOTICE TO COURT OF DISPOSITION

Letters and emails to chambers are prohibited unless the Court specifically requests them.

Letters or emails to chambers are prohibited unless specifically requested by the Court.

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Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Counsel should not call chambers with procedural questions or to ask about action on a previously submitted filing.

Counsel should not call Chambers with procedural questions or to inquire whether any action has been taken with regard to a previously-submitted filing.

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Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Secretaries, legal assistants, paralegals, and represented parties may not call chambers.

Calls from secretaries, legal assistants, paralegals, or parties represented by counsel are prohibited.

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Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Parties should not contact chambers to obtain a motion hearing date.

Parties should not contact chambers for a motion hearing date.

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Page 2 | III. MOTION PRACTICE GENERALLY

Opposing counsel must call chambers to modify the schedule if more response time is needed.

If more time is needed, opposing counsel must call chambers to modify the schedule.

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Page 6 | V. Ex Parte Proceedings

Telephonic appearances are permitted only in emergencies and with court approval.

Telephonic appearances will be permitted only in emergency circumstances upon court approval.

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Page 7 | XI. TELEPHONIC APPEARANCES

Counsel must notify the Court if an interpreter is needed and arrange interpreter services through the department at the stated phone number.

Notify the Court if an interpreter is needed. It is counsel’s responsibility to make arrangements with the Interpreter Services Department at (619) 557-5172.

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Page 9 | Use of the Well/Examining and Approaching Witnesses

Chambers staff may be reached by telephone at (619) 446-3972.

Chambers staff may be reached at (619) 446-3972.

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Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Callers to chambers should be prepared to identify the case name and case number.

When calling chambers, be prepared to identify your matter by case name and case number so your call can be directed to the appropriate law clerk.

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Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

If chambers does not answer, callers may leave a voicemail with their name, contact information, case number, and a detailed message.

If your call is not answered, you may leave a voicemail, including your name, contact information, case number, and a detailed message.

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Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

For matters other than docketing, scheduling, or calendaring, call chambers and address inquiries to the Law Clerks.

For matters other than docketing, scheduling, or calendaring, call chambers at (619) 446-3972 and address your inquiries to the Law Clerks.

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Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Letters and emails to chambers are prohibited unless specifically requested by the Court.

Letters or emails to chambers are prohibited unless specifically requested by the Court. If letters or emails are requested, copies of the same must be simultaneously delivered to all counsel.

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Page 1 | COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Digital courtesy copies of sealed documents must be submitted to chambers via efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov.

All parties who file a document under seal MUST also submit a digital courtesy copy of the filing to this Court's e-file email address at efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov.

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Page 7 | VIII. COURTESY COPIES

Counsel must call Courtroom Deputy Clerk to report case disposition before motion calendar.

Any time a case is calendared for motions and counsel for either side knows that a disposition is to take place, counsel has a duty to call the Courtroom Deputy Clerk at (619) 557-6038 at the earliest available time to inform the Court of the disposition.

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Page 11 | XI. NOTICE TO COURT OF DISPOSITION

Counsel must call the Courtroom Deputy Clerk at earliest available time to notify the Court when a disposition will occur in a case calendared for motions.

Any time a case is calendared for motions and counsel for either side knows that a disposition is to take place, counsel has a duty to call the Courtroom Deputy Clerk at (619) 557-6038 at the earliest available time to inform the Court of the disposition.

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Letters/emails to chambers are prohibited unless specifically requested by the Court.

Letters or emails to chambers are prohibited unless specifically requested by the Court. If letters or emails are requested, copies of the same must be simultaneously delivered to all counsel. Copies of correspondence between counsel may not be sent to the Court unless specifically requested by the Court.

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Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Telephone calls to chambers are restricted to counsel of record only.

Telephone Calls: Parties seeking a motion date for a noticed motion should refer to Section III below. In light of the Court’s procedure for setting motion dates, telephone calls to Chambers are rarely necessary. Such calls may only be made by counsel of record with knowledge of the case. Calls from secretaries, legal assistants, paralegals, or parties represented by counsel are prohibited. Counsel should not call Chambers with procedural questions or to inquire whether any action has been taken with regard to a previously-submitted filing. The Court does not provide time estimates for its written rulings. Court personnel are prohibited from giving legal advice or discussing the merits of a case.

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Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Joint proposed pretrial order must be lodged by email to chambers at least 14 days before pretrial conference.

Pursuant to Civil Local Rule 16.1(f)(6), the Court requires that the parties lodge by email to chambers (efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov) a joint proposed pretrial order at least fourteen (14) days before the pretrial conference.

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Page 8 | XII. TRIAL PROCEDURES - A. Pretrial Conference

Letters or emails to chambers are prohibited unless specifically requested by the Court.

Letters or emails to chambers are prohibited unless specifically requested by the Court. If letters or emails are requested, copies of the same must be simultaneously delivered to all counsel. Copies of correspondence between counsel may not be sent to the Court unless specifically requested by the Court.

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Upon settlement, counsel must immediately notify the Court and the magistrate judge.

If the parties settle a case, counsel must immediately notify this Court and the magistrate judge of the settlement.

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Page 7 | IX. SETTLEMENT AND DISMISSAL

A party seeking a telephonic appearance must contact chambers and leave a voicemail immediately upon learning of the emergency.

If a party needs to appear telephonically before this Court, he or she must contact chambers immediately upon learning of the emergency and leave a voicemail.

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

Page 7 | XI. TELEPHONIC APPEARANCES

A Word-format copy of proposed jury instructions and verdict forms must be emailed to the stated address; the filing deadline is seven days before trial unless otherwise ordered.

The parties must file proposed jury instructions and verdict forms seven (7) days prior to the date of trial, unless otherwise ordered by the Court and email a copy in Word format to efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov.

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

Page 9 | Proposed Jury Instructions

Letters/emails to chambers are prohibited unless specifically requested by the Court.

Letters or emails to chambers are prohibited unless specifically requested by the Court. If letters or emails are requested, copies of the same must be simultaneously delivered to all counsel.

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Page 1 | COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Telephonic appearances require court approval and emergency circumstances.

Telephonic appearances will be permitted only in emergency circumstances upon court approval. If a party needs to appear telephonically before this Court, he or she must contact chambers immediately upon learning of the need.

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Page 7 | XI. TELEPHONIC APPEARANCES

Telephonic appearances only permitted in emergency circumstances upon court approval; must contact chambers immediately.

Telephonic appearances will be permitted only in emergency circumstances upon court approval. If a party needs to appear telephonically before this Court, he or she must contact chambers immediately upon learning of the

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Page 7 | XI. TELEPHONIC APPEARANCES

Counsel may not call Chambers with procedural questions or to inquire about status of filings.

Counsel should not call Chambers with procedural questions or to inquire whether any action has been taken with regard to a previously-submitted filing. The Court does not provide time estimates for its written rulings.

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Counsel may not send the Court copies of their correspondence unless the Court specifically requests them.

Copies of correspondence between counsel may not be sent to the Court unless specifically requested by the Court.

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Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Parties seeking a date for a noticed motion should follow the procedure in Section III rather than contact chambers for a date.

Parties seeking a motion date for a noticed motion should refer to Section III below.

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Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Letters or emails to chambers, including counsel correspondence, are prohibited unless requested by the Court; requested correspondence must be copied simultaneously to all counsel.

Letters or emails to chambers are prohibited unless specifically requested by the Court. If letters or emails are requested, copies of the same must be simultaneously delivered to all counsel. Copies of correspondence between counsel may not be sent to the Court unless specifically requested by the Court.

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

Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Proposed orders related to continuance requests should be emailed to Judge Cheeks’ efile.

All proposed orders should be emailed to Judge Cheeks’ efile.

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

Page 2 | III. CALENDAR

Call chambers for matters other than docketing, scheduling, or calendaring.

For matters other than docketing, scheduling, or calendaring, call chambers at (619) 446-3972 and address your inquiries to the Law Clerks.

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Page 1 | COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Contact Courtroom Deputy Tisha Weisbeck for docketing, scheduling, and calendaring matters.

For docketing, scheduling, and calendaring matters, call Courtroom Deputy Tisha Weisbeck at (619) 557-6038 or email her at Tisha_Weisbeck@casd.uscourts.gov.

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Page 1 | COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Contact Courtroom Deputy for scheduling; call chambers for other matters.

For docketing, scheduling, and calendaring matters, call Courtroom Deputy Tisha Weisbeck at (619) 557-6038 or email her at Tisha_Weisbeck@casd.uscourts.gov. For matters other than docketing, scheduling, or calendaring, call chambers at (619) 446-3972 and address your inquiries to the Law Clerks.

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Page 1 | COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Proposed jury instructions must be emailed to chambers at efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov.

email a copy in Word format to efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov

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Page 9 | F. Proposed Jury Instructions

When calling chambers, counsel must identify matter by case name/number and may leave detailed voicemail.

When calling chambers, be prepared to identify your matter by case name and case number so your call can be directed to the appropriate law clerk. If your call is not answered, you may leave a voicemail, including your name, contact information, case number, and a detailed message.

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Counsel should contact the CRD for equipment details, instructions, scheduling a preview, and questions about equipment not provided by the Court.

Counsel should contact the CRD for details and instructions and to schedule a preview of the equipment. Counsel should contact the CRD with any questions regarding the use of any other equipment not provided by the Court.

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

Page 11 | M. Use of Electronic Equipment in the Courtroom

Contact the Courtroom Deputy by phone or email for docketing, scheduling, and calendaring matters.

For docketing, scheduling, and calendaring matters, call Courtroom Deputy Tisha Weisbeck at (619) 557-6038 or email her at Tisha_Weisbeck@casd.uscourts.gov.

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

Page 1 | I. COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

Junior Lawyer Participation Incentives

The Court will hold argument on civil motions when attorneys admitted for under five years will argue for both opposing sides, or when one such attorney will argue and the opposing attorney also requests argument.

However, for lawyers with less than 5 years admission to the bar, the Court will hold argument on civil motions where: (1) the motion will be argued by attorneys with less than 5 years of admission to the bar for at least two opposing sides; or (2) where the motion will be argued by an attorney with less than 5 years of admission to the bar on one side and the opposing attorney, notwithstanding their time admitted to the bar, also requests oral argument.

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Page 2 | III. MOTION PRACTICE GENERALLY

Junior lawyers (under 5 years) may increase likelihood of oral argument on civil motions.

The Court generally decides motions based on the papers submitted by the parties. However, for lawyers with less than 5 years admission to the bar, the Court will hold argument on civil motions where: (1) the motion will be argued by attorneys with less than 5 years of admission to the bar for at least two opposing sides; or (2) where the motion will be argued by an attorney with less than 5 years of admission to the bar on one side and the opposing attorney, notwithstanding their time admitted to the bar, also requests oral argument. Counsel must meet and confer on this issue and advise the Court of their request for oral argument no less than seven (7) days before the hearing by written pleading.

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Page 2 | III. MOTION PRACTICE GENERALLY

Junior lawyers (under 5 years) may be granted oral argument if both sides have junior attorneys or if opposing counsel also requests argument.

However, for lawyers with less than 5 years admission to the bar, the Court will hold argument on civil motions where: (1) the motion will be argued by attorneys with less than 5 years of admission to the bar for at least two opposing sides; or (2) where the motion will be argued by an attorney with less than 5 years of admission to the bar on one side and the opposing attorney, notwithstanding their time admitted to the bar, also requests oral argument. Counsel must meet and confer on this issue and advise the Court of their request for oral argument no less than seven (7) days before the hearing by written pleading.

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About United States District Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks

**District Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks** was appointed to the Southern District of California by President Joseph R. Biden in 2025. Judge Cheeks was born in 1977 in Albany, Georgia. He was nominated on November 18, 2024, confirmed by the Senate on December 20, 2024, and received his commission on January 9, 2025, filling the seat vacated by Gonzalo Paul Curiel. Prior to his district court appointment, he served briefly as a U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Southern District of California in 2024 and maintained a private practice in San Diego. **Education** - American University, Washington College of Law, J.D., 2003 - University of Miami, B.A., 2000 **Career** - Assistant District Attorney, New York City (2003–2010) - Assistant U.S. Attorney, Southern District of California (2010–2013) - Adjunct Professor, Thomas Jefferson School of Law (2012–2013) - Adjunct Professor, California Western School of Law (2014–2022) - Private practice, San Diego (2013–2024) - U.S. Magistrate Judge, Southern District of California (2024–2025)

**Courthouse:** James M. Carter and Judith N. Keep U.S. Courthouse, 333 W. Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101 **Chambers:** Courtroom 3A **Phone:** (619) 446-3972 **Chambers Staff** - Courtroom Deputy: T. Weisbeck, (619) 557-6038

Common questions about Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks's rules

Are courtesy copies required for Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks?

Courtesy-copy rule applies for ex parte documents. Details: delivery immediately upon filing, by email. Paper ex parte filings require digital courtesy copy to efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov.

View ruleSource: page 3, section VI. EX PARTE REQUESTS

Does Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks require a pre-motion conference or letter before filing a motion?

Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks's rules set a pre-motion procedure for covered motions. Pretrial motions filed 14 days before hearing; oppositions 7 days before.

View ruleSource: page 4, section VII. PRETRIAL MOTIONS

What page or word limits apply to trial brief before Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks?

Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks' rule states these limits: attorney: 25 pages. Trial briefs are limited to 25 pages.

View ruleSource: page 9, section D. Trial Briefs

What page or word limits apply to motion for reconsideration before Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks?

Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks' rule states these limits: attorney: 10 pages. Reconsideration motions limited to 10 pages, no attachments or exhibits.

View ruleSource: page 4, section Reconsideration Motions

What formatting rules apply to filings before Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks?

Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks' formatting rule includes file format docx and documents submitted in word perfect will be rejected by the court. Proposed orders and documents must be submitted in Microsoft Word format; Word Perfect is rejected.

View ruleSource: page 1, section COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

What must be included with proposed order filings before Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks?

The rule requires notice of electronic filing. Proposed orders must be emailed in Microsoft Word format; Word Perfect documents will be rejected.

View ruleSource: page 1, section COMMUNICATIONS WITH CHAMBERS

What must be included with jury instructions filings before Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks?

The rule requires joint set required and separate objections required. Joint jury instructions required with separate objections.

View ruleSource: page 9, section Jury Instructions

How may parties contact Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks' chambers?

The rule addresses phone communications with Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks' chambers. The rule lists phone (619) 557-6038. Counsel must call Courtroom Deputy Clerk to report case disposition before motion calendar.

View ruleSource: page 11, section XI. NOTICE TO COURT OF DISPOSITION

How does Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks handle sealed or redacted filings?

A motion to seal is required for covered sealed filings before Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks. Process: file redacted on ecf and file unredacted to chambers. Motion to seal must include description, legal analysis, supporting affidavits, and documents.

View ruleSource: page 7, section VIII. COURTESY COPIES

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks?

Advance notice is not fully stated in the structured details. The request must include reason for request, original date, number of previous requests, previous requests granted or denied, adversary position, and proposed new dates. Continuance requests require joint or unopposed motion.

View ruleSource: page 2, section CALENDAR

Is electronic filing required before Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks?

Yes. Electronic filing is required for the covered filings. Appropriate ex parte motions may be made after first contacting chambers and must ultimately be filed electronically on CM/ECF.

View ruleSource: page 5, section V. Ex Parte Proceedings

What filing deadlines does Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks set?

A noticed motion’s hearing date must be set 35 days after the motion is filed.

View ruleSource: page 2, section III. MOTION PRACTICE GENERALLY

What rule applies to service for ex parte motion before Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks?

The rule addresses service method, recipient, or timing requirements. Details: recipient: the opposing party. An ex parte motion filed with the Court must be served on opposing counsel by fax, email with return receipt requested, or overnight mail.

View ruleSource: page 5, section V. Ex Parte Proceedings

Does Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks encourage junior lawyer participation?

Yes. Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks's rules include a junior lawyer participation incentive. Junior lawyers (under 5 years) may increase likelihood of oral argument on civil motions.

View ruleSource: page 2, section III. MOTION PRACTICE GENERALLY
Complete rules summary for Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks

Proposed orders must be emailed in Microsoft Word format; Word Perfect documents will be rejected.

Letters/emails to chambers are prohibited unless specifically requested by the Court.

Contact Courtroom Deputy for scheduling; call chambers for other matters.

Bail matters referred to magistrate judges unless trial is set, guilty plea accepted, or Judge Cheeks set bond.

Criminal matters heard Mondays at 9:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Continuance requests require joint or unopposed motion.

Sentencing continuances limited to 60 days and max 2 continuances.

Joint jury instructions required with separate objections.

Parties must notify Courtroom Deputy at earliest possible time for continuance requests.

Continuance requests should be made by joint motion before hearing, not at hearing.

Continuance requests must be made at least 3 court days before hearing.

Example: Monday hearing continuance must be filed by 5:00 p.m. Wednesday.

Attorneys must confer within 14 days after arraignment to agree on timetable.

Discovery timetable and Rule 16 expert disclosure must be submitted 7 days before first motion hearing.

Motions must be filed 14 days before hearing date under Criminal Local Rule 47.1.

All motions and ex parte applications require a non-conclusory declaration with specific reasons.

Paper ex parte filings require digital courtesy copy to efile_cheeks@casd.uscourts.gov.

Most motions must be filed 14 days before hearing date.

Continuance requests must be filed at least 3 court days before hearing.

Witness and exhibit lists due 7 days before trial.

Local Rule 16.1 report of counsel must be on file with discovery timetable and Rule 16 expert disclosure.

Criminal motions requiring factual findings must be supported by declaration(s).

Courtesy copies required for documents over 20 pages.

Sealed documents require digital courtesy copy to efile email.

Motion to seal must include description, legal analysis, supporting affidavits, and documents.

Denied motions to seal result in immediate public filing on CM/ECF.

Motions to seal must include next scheduled hearing date.

All witnesses must be present or readily available at trial start.

Stipulated transcript required for all video/audio exhibits.

Thumb drives required for audio/video exhibits; discs prohibited.

More Judges in Southern District of California

Allison H. Goddard
Magistrate Judge
Andrew G. Schopler
Judge
Anthony J. Battaglia
Senior Judge
Barbara L. Major
Magistrate Judge
Barry Ted Moskowitz
Senior Judge
Brian J. White
Magistrate Judge
Cathy Ann Bencivengo
Judge
Cynthia A. Bashant
Judge