Court Rules
Judge

Judge Linda Lopez

Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies

Rules last changed:
Southern District of California

Limits & Logistics

Document Limits

Separate Statement
15 pgs
Motion In Limine
10 pgs

Courtesy Copies

All filings

  • 1 copy • Hand Delivery • Within 72 Hours

Courtesy copies

Ex Parte Motions

  • Email With Return Receipt Or Overnight Mail • Immediately Upon Filing

Filings > 75 pages

  • 1 copy • Mail Or Courier • Within 3 Days

Adjournments

35Calendar Daysnotice
  • Motions must be noticed for hearing 35 days after filing.
2Court Daysnotice
  • Ex parte motions unopposed within 2 court days may be granted as unopposed.

Communication

Phone

Chambers

SchedulingEmergencies
No status inquiries
Email

Chambers

Scheduling
No status inquiries
Phone

Magistrate Judge

Scheduling
No status inquiries
Email

Opposing Counsel

Scheduling
No status inquiries
Ex Parte

Court

No status inquiries
In Person

Co Party

Scheduling
No status inquiries
Letter via ECF

Chambers

Status Inquiries
Email With Return Receipt Or Overnight Mail

Opposing Party

No status inquiries
Email

Opposing Party

Scheduling
No status inquiries
Cases:
Filters:AllMandatoryImportantFormattingExhibitsProposed OrdersJuryMemorandaCourtroom ConductTRO/InjunctionSummary Judgment

Page & Word Limits3 rules

Page LimitsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Absent leave of court, separate statements shall be limited to fifteen (15) pages and must comply with the font requirements of Civil Local Rule 5.1.

Summary: Separate statements for summary judgment motions limited to 15 pages.

Separate Statement

15 pages

Applies to: Attorney

Page LimitsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Each motion in limine and each opposition shall not exceed ten (10) pages in length. Attachments to any motion in limine or opposition shall also be limited to ten (10) pages in length.

Summary: Motions in limine and oppositions limited to 10 pages; attachments also limited to 10 pages.

Motion In Limine

10 pages

Applies to: Attorney

Page LimitsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Each side is limited to a maximum of five (5) motions in limine. Each motion in limine must be filed separately on the docket.

Summary: Each side limited to 5 motions in limine, each filed separately on the docket.

Structured details unavailable. See the source text.

Document Format Requirements5 rules

FormattingCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

proposed orders must not contain the name and law firm information of the filing party, and must not contain the word 'proposed' in the caption.

Summary: Proposed orders must not include filer's name or 'proposed' in caption.

FormattingCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

In preparing trial exhibits, the parties are directed to contact the Clerk’s Office for exhibit stickers. Parties may create their own exhibit stickers as long as the stickers include the exhibit number and case number. Pursuant to Civil Local Rule 16.1.f.2.c., Plaintiff’s exhibits must be identified numerically, starting with “1,” and Defendant’s alphabetically, starting with A to Z, then AA to AZ, then BA to BZ, etc., unless otherwise ordered by the Court.

Summary: Trial exhibits must follow specific numbering system (Plaintiff numeric, Defendant alphabetic).

FormattingCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?

F. Presentation of Evidence. Please abide by the following rules: Do not enter the well, except during voir dire, opening statement and closing argument. Conduct all examinations of witnesses from the podium. Feel free to approach witnesses during examination, but first seek permission from the Court. Please keep your visit to the witness stand brief, e.g., by quickly orienting a witness with an exhibit and returning to the podium.

Summary: Witness examinations must be conducted from podium; approaching witnesses requires court permission.

Judge Lopez Criminal Chambers Rules · p. 3
|SecF. Presentation of Evidence
FormattingCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Note?

If an exhibit is being used and counsel's view is obstructed, counsel may relocate for better viewing without requesting permission from the Court.

Summary: Counsel may relocate for better viewing of exhibits without court permission.

FormattingCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Note?

When referring to an exhibit, counsel should refer to its exhibit number whenever possible to keep a complete record.

Summary: Counsel should refer to exhibits by exhibit number when possible.

Document Filing Requirements26 rules

Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Counsel must email proposed orders in Word format to efile_Lopez@casd.uscourts.gov, and include the case number and case name in the subject line of the email.

Summary: Proposed orders must be emailed in Word format to specific address.

Structured details unavailable. See the source text.

Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

A proposed order, if required, must be submitted simultaneously with the relevant motion.

Summary: Proposed orders must be submitted with the motion.

Document Type

Motion

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Under these circumstances, parties may file a notice of supplemental authority that includes a copy of the order or opinion and any case-identifying information.

Summary: Notice of supplemental authority must include order/opinion copy.

Document Type

Notice Of Supplemental Authority

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Lopez Civil Chambers Rules · Sep 2025 · p. 4
|SecSur-Replies and Notices of Supplemental Authority
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Any amended pleading—not just those accompanying a motion for leave to amend—must be accompanied by a redline showing how the amended pleading differs from the operative pleading. Pro se plaintiffs who are incarcerated are excused from this requirement.

Summary: Amended pleadings must include redline showing changes, except for incarcerated pro se plaintiffs.

Document Type

Amended Pleading

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

At the time of the filing of a joint motion, a proposed order must be submitted to the Court pursuant to Section 3(C) above.

Summary: Joint motions require a proposed order at the time of filing.

Document Type

Joint Motion

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Lopez Civil Chambers Rules · Sep 2025 · p. 9
|SecJoint Motions / Stipulations
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

If the magistrate judge does not set a deadline for the filing of a “Joint Motion to Dismiss,” the parties must file a stipulation of dismissal signed by all parties who have appeared pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 41(a)(1)(A).

Summary: If no deadline set, parties must file stipulation of dismissal signed by all appearing parties under FRCP 41(a)(1)(A).

Document Type

Stipulation Of Dismissal

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Any joint motion for dismissal that includes a provision that the court retain jurisdiction will be rejected unless it is accompanied by a consent to Magistrate Judge jurisdiction over all disputes arising out of the settlement agreement, including interpretation and enforcement of the settlement agreement, signed by all parties and their counsel.

Summary: Joint dismissal motions retaining jurisdiction require consent to magistrate judge jurisdiction over settlement disputes, signed by all parties.

Document Type

Joint Motion For Dismissal

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

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

Summary: Proposed pretrial order must strictly comply with Civil Local Rule 16.1(f)(6)(c) requirements.

Document Type

Proposed Pretrial Order

Content & Formatting
Exhibit List
Table Of Authorities
Statement Of Facts
Legal Argument
Table Of Contents
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The parties should submit proposed joint jury instructions in Word format to the Court via email at efile_Lopez@casd.uscourts.gov on the day set for motions in limine. Joint proposed supplemental instructions must be submitted as the need for them becomes apparent.

Summary: Joint jury instructions must be submitted via email on motions in limine day.

Structured details unavailable. See the source text.

Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The parties must also exchange their Final Exhibit and Witness Lists seven (7) days before trial. They must also email a copy of their Final Exhibit and Witness Lists to chambers.

Summary: Final Exhibit and Witness Lists must be exchanged and emailed to chambers 7 days before trial.

Structured details unavailable. See the source text.

Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The parties should also submit a joint proposed verdict form in Word format to the Court on the day set for motions in limine.

Summary: Joint verdict form must be submitted via email on motions in limine day.

Document Type

Verdict Form

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Fourteen (14) days before trial, counsel must serve and file proposed Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law. An electronic copy of the proposed Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law must be emailed to efile_Lopez@casd.uscourts.gov in Word format.

Summary: Proposed Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law must be filed 14 days before trial and emailed in Word format.

Document Type

Proposed Findings Conclusions

Content & Formatting
Statement Of Facts
Legal Argument
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

D. Proposed Voir Dire Questions and Verdict Forms. Counsel may serve and file proposed voir dire questions and forms of verdict on the day set for motions in limine.

Summary: Proposed voir dire questions and verdict forms must be filed on the day set for motions in limine.

Document Type

Proposed Voir Dire Questions

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Service
Judge Lopez Criminal Chambers Rules · p. 3
|SecD. Proposed Voir Dire Questions and Verdict Forms
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

C. Trial Briefs. Pursuant to Criminal Local Rule 23.1, the parties may, no later than five court days before the date of trial, serve and file briefs on all significant disputed issues of law, including foreseeable procedural and evidentiary issues.

Summary: Trial briefs on significant disputed issues of law must be filed no later than five court days before trial.

Document Type

Trial Brief

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Service
Legal Argument
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

H. Exhibits. Government counsel must provide a list of exhibits and give it to the Courtroom Deputy Clerk on the first day of trial. All exhibits must be pre-marked on the first day of trial. Exhibit stickers may be obtained from the Clerk of the Court or from the Courtroom Deputy Clerk, in advance of trial.

Summary: Government counsel must provide exhibit list to Courtroom Deputy Clerk on first day of trial.

Document Type

Exhibit List

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Service
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Before publishing an exhibit to the jury, counsel must either move for admission of the exhibit or allow the Court to inquire whether the opposing side has any objection to publication.

Summary: Counsel must move for admission or allow court inquiry before publishing exhibits to jury.

Document Type

Exhibit Publication

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?

If the briefing is not coordinated or consolidated, counsel for each party must file a declaration concurrently with the briefing describing the efforts and explaining why they were not successful.

Summary: Declaration required if briefing coordination fails.

Structured details unavailable. See the source text.

Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?

Proposed orders or other documents requiring the judge’s signature must not be filed on the docket.

Summary: Documents requiring judge's signature must not be filed on docket.

Document Type

Proposed Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?

Counsel may not include any argument in the notice.

Summary: No argument allowed in notice of supplemental authority.

Document Type

Notice Of Supplemental Authority

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Lopez Civil Chambers Rules · Sep 2025 · p. 4
|SecSur-Replies and Notices of Supplemental Authority
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?

The Court requires no duplication of briefing and exhibits.

Summary: No duplication of briefing or exhibits allowed.

Document Type

Briefing

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Lopez Civil Chambers Rules · Sep 2025 · p. 4
|SecMotions and Cross-Motions for Summary Judgment
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?

Sur-replies and notices of supplemental authority may not be filed unless leave of court has been granted.

Summary: Sur-replies and notices of supplemental authority require leave of court.

Document Type

Sur Reply

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Lopez Civil Chambers Rules · Sep 2025 · p. 4
|SecSur-Replies and Notices of Supplemental Authority
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Note?

The only exception to this requirement is if there is a change in binding intervening law that is directly on point issued after the filing.

Summary: Exception for binding intervening law changes.

Document Type

Notice Of Supplemental Authority

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Lopez Civil Chambers Rules · Sep 2025 · p. 4
|SecSur-Replies and Notices of Supplemental Authority
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Note?

Cross motions for summary judgment have the same filing deadline as a motion for summary judgment.

Summary: Cross motions for summary judgment have same deadline as motions.

Document Type

Cross Motion For Summary Judgment

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Lopez Civil Chambers Rules · Sep 2025 · p. 4
|SecMotions and Cross-Motions for Summary Judgment
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Note?

This responsibility includes preparing any writs of habeas corpus ad testificandum for the incarcerated pro se plaintiff and any of his or her incarcerated witnesses, as authorized by the Court.

Summary: Defense counsel must prepare writs of habeas corpus ad testificandum for incarcerated pro se plaintiffs and witnesses.

Document Type

Writ Of Habeas Corpus Ad Testificandum

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Note?

E. Jury Selection. The Courtroom Deputy Clerk will provide counsel with a numerical list of the jury panel ("strike sheet") at the start of voir dire. The Court will conduct the initial jury voir dire. The Court will permit follow-up voir dire conducted by the attorneys. If voir dire by counsel is permitted, ten minutes per side on non-complex cases generally will be allowed.

Summary: Court conducts initial voir dire; counsel gets 10 minutes per side for follow-up on non-complex cases.

Document Type

Voir Dire Procedure

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Note?

Pursuant to Local Criminal Rule 1.1(e) and Local Civil rule 79.1, all exhibits will be returned to the party who produced them at the end of trial.

Summary: All exhibits will be returned to producing party at end of trial.

Document Type

Exhibit Return

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.

Filing & Service rules

Courtesy Copy Requirements

Courtesy copies required for filings over 75 pages, delivered within 3 days.

Courtesy copies of filings that exceed 75 pages in length, including attachments and exhibits, must be submitted in accordance with Section 2(e) of the ECF Manual via United States Postal Service mail, courier, or delivery to the Clerk’s Office at 333 West Broadway, Suite 420, San Diego, CA 92101. Courtesy copies must be received by the Court no later than three days after the filing date.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 6 | Courtesy Copies

Ex parte applications must be served on opposing counsel via email with return receipt or overnight mail.

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

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 9 | Ex Parte Applications

Trial exhibits require 1 courtesy copy and USB drive submission 3 days before trial.

For both bench trial and jury trials, the parties must submit one (1) courtesy copy of the trial exhibits three (3) days before trial is set to begin. Counsel should contact the Court’s courtroom deputy to arrange a time to deliver the courtesy copies. The parties must also submit the trial exhibits on a USB flash drive three (3) days before trial is set to begin.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 12 | Trial Exhibits

Exhibits must be tabbed if more than 3 in courtesy copies.

If a filing has more than three (3) exhibits, the exhibits must be tabbed.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 6 | Courtesy Copies

Sealing & Redaction Procedures

Documents filed under seal must be accompanied by a motion authorizing the sealing.

Any document submitted for filing under seal (including motions, responses, declarations, exhibits, etc.) must be accompanied by a motion authorizing such filing.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 7 | 4. Seeking Leave to File Documents Under Seal

Public redacted version must be filed simultaneously with motion to seal.

The party requesting sealing must file a "public" version of the document(s) it seeks to file under seal. In the public version, the party may redact only that information that is deemed confidential or privileged. The party shall file the redacted document(s) simultaneously with the motion requesting that the confidential portions of the document(s) be filed under seal.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 8 | 4. Seeking Leave to File Documents Under Seal

Motion to seal must describe documents to be sealed and include declarations showing compelling reason.

The motion to seal must provide the Court with a specific description of the particular document or categories of documents to be protected, including, for each document subject to the motion, whether the moving party seeks to seal the document in full or in part (i.e., with redactions). The motion to seal must be accompanied by declaration(s) from individual(s) with knowledge of the content of the documents demonstrating a compelling reason or good cause to protect those documents from disclosure.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 8 | 4. Seeking Leave to File Documents Under Seal

Sealed documents must be filed immediately in CM/ECF with specific formatting requirements.

After filing a motion to seal, the moving party must immediately file the proposed sealed documents in CM/ECF using the “Sealed Lodged Proposed Document” in accordance with Section 2(j) of the ECF Manual. If the moving party seeks to seal the document in full, the document should be lodged in full, without redactions. If the moving party seeks to seal only portions of the document by using redactions, the document should be lodged with the alleged confidential or privileged information highlighted in yellow for the Court’s consideration.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 8 | 4. Seeking Leave to File Documents Under Seal

Meet and confer required before sealing documents with protective order designations; response due within 7 days.

Parties often seek to seal a document only because another party designated the document as sensitive under a protective order, including with a “confidential” or “attorneys’ eyes only” designation. In these circumstances, the moving party must first meet and confer with the designating party to determine whether the designating party maintains that any portion of the document must be filed under seal. If so, the moving party must file a motion to seal. In addition, the designating party must file a response to the sealing motion within seven days that satisfies the sealing standard described above. If no response is filed, the Court may order that the document be filed in the public record.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 8 | 4. Seeking Leave to File Documents Under Seal

Filing Bundling Requirements

Stipulations must be filed as joint motions, except for certain dismissals under FRCP 41(a)(1)(A)(ii).

Pursuant to Civil Local Rule 7.2 and Section 2(f)(4) of the ECF Manual, all stipulations must be filed as joint motions, except for a properly executed stipulation of dismissal pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 41(a)(1)(A)(ii) that does not require a court order to terminate a case.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 9 | Joint Motions / Stipulations

Pre-Motion Conference Requirements

7-day meet-and-confer conference required before filing most motions.

Any party contemplating the filing of any noticed motion before this Court must first contact opposing counsel to discuss thoroughly—preferably in person—the substance of the contemplated motion and any potential resolution. The conference must take place at least seven (7) days prior to the filing of the motion. If the parties are unable to reach a resolution that eliminates the need to file the anticipated motion, counsel for the moving party must include in the notice of motion a statement to the following effect: “This motion is made following the conference of counsel that took place on [date].”

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 2 | Motion Practice

Ex parte applications require meet-and-confer declaration documenting contact efforts and opposing counsel's position.

Before filing any ex parte application, counsel must contact the opposing party to meet and confer regarding the subject of the ex parte application. All ex parte applications must comply with Civil Local Rule 83.3(g) including a declaration from the movant documenting: (1) efforts to contact opposing counsel, (2) counsel’s good faith, in person or by telephone meet-and-confer efforts to resolve differences with opposing counsel, and (3) opposing counsel’s general position regarding the ex parte application.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 9 | Ex Parte Applications

Temporary restraining order motions must be briefed; ex parte hearings only in extraordinary circumstances.

All motions for temporary restraining orders must be briefed. While temporary restraining orders may be heard in true ex parte fashion (i.e., without notice to an opposing party), the Court will do so only in extraordinary circumstances.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 10 | Temporary Restraining Orders

Replies to motions in limine not permitted unless directed by Court.

No replies shall be filed unless directed by the Court.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 10 | Motions in Limine

Exceptions to meet-and-confer: pro se plaintiffs, TROs/PIs, summary judgment motions.

The only exceptions to this meet-and-confer requirement are: (1) in cases where the plaintiff is appearing pro se and is not an attorney; (2) for applications for temporary restraining orders or preliminary injunctions; and (3) motions and cross-motions for summary judgment.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 2 | Motion Practice

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

Motions must be noticed for hearing 35 days after filing.

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

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 3 | Motion Hearing Dates

Ex parte motions unopposed within 2 court days may be granted as unopposed.

Any ex parte motion that is not opposed within two (2) Court days will be considered unopposed and may be granted on that ground.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 9 | Ex Parte Applications

Chambers Communication Rules

Letters, faxes, and emails prohibited unless authorized; e-file account only for specific documents.

Letters, faxes, and emails are prohibited unless otherwise authorized by the Court. The Court’s e-file email account must only be used to lodge or submit proposed orders, required trial documents, or other documents requested by the Court. It is generally not to be used for communication purposes (e.g., asking questions).

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 1 | Communications with Chambers

Magistrate judge chambers must be contacted for hearing dates in referred cases.

Parties must contact the assigned magistrate judge’s chambers for hearing and scheduling dates needed for cases referred—either by operation of local rule or by order—to the magistrate judge.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 3 | Motion Hearing Dates

Ex parte request required for leave of court.

The parties must obtain leave of court by filing an ex parte request before filing any sur-replies or notices of supplemental authority.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 4 | Sur-Replies and Notices of Supplemental Authority

Meet and confer required 15 days before dispositive motion deadline.

No later than fifteen (15) days before the deadline for filing dispositive motions, all parties on the same side of the case (i.e., all defendants or all plaintiffs), must meet and confer about whether they intend to file a motion for summary judgment, and if so, the bases for that motion.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 4 | Motions and Cross-Motions for Summary Judgment

Parties must immediately notify court and magistrate judge of case settlement.

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

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 9 | Settlement and Dismissal

Proposed pretrial order must be emailed 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 a proposed pretrial order at least fourteen (14) days before the pretrial conference.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 10 | Pretrial Conference

Chambers calls limited to counsel with case knowledge; no procedural questions or time estimates.

Parties seeking a hearing date must refer to the procedure for doing so below in Section 3B. In light of the Court’s procedure for setting motion hearing dates, telephone calls to chambers are rarely necessary. Such calls may only be made by counsel with knowledge of the case. Counsel should not call chambers with procedural questions. The Court does not give time estimates for its written rulings. Court personnel are prohibited from giving legal advice or discussing the merits of

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 1 | Communications with Chambers

Oral argument not permitted unless separately ordered.

PER CHAMBERS RULES, NO ORAL ARGUMENT UNLESS SEPARATELY ORDERED BY THE COURT.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 3 | Motion Hearing Dates

Chambers may not be contacted for hearing dates.

Parties intending to file a motion may not contact chambers for a hearing date.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 3 | Motion Hearing Dates

Court prefers opposing party be served and given opportunity to oppose; otherwise follow ex parte procedures.

The Court’s strong preference is for the opposing party to be served and afforded a reasonable opportunity to file an opposition. Absent extraordinary circumstances, the parties shall follow the same procedures required for ex parte applications, as set forth in Section 5 above.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 10 | Temporary Restraining Orders

Telephonic appearances only allowed in emergencies with court approval.

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 emergency and leave a voicemail. Upon reviewing the voicemail, the Court will contact the party. Until the Court grants permission for telephonic appearance, the party needing to appear telephonically must arrange to have a colleague appear on his or her behalf.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 11 | Telephonic Appearances

Sidebar conferences are disfavored; requests outside jury's presence should be made at recess or end of day.

G. Bench Conferences. Sidebar conferences are disfavored. If counsel desire to speak to the Court outside the jury's presence, counsel may request to do so at the start of a recess or at the end of the day. Requests to see the Court outside the presence of the jury when the Court is about to begin the day of trial or reconvene following a recess generally will not be granted. These matters usually can wait until the next recess.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Criminal cases

Page 3 | G. Bench Conferences

Discovery matters go to magistrate judge; objections filed as motion under Civ. L.R. 7.1.

Counsel must contact the magistrate judge’s chambers directly for all matters pertaining to discovery. Any objection to a discovery ruling of the magistrate judge must be filed as a motion pursuant to Civil Local Rule 7.1.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 2 | Discovery

Oral argument may be requested by separate filing with explanation.

A party may request oral argument by filing a separate request that explains why oral argument would be helpful to the Court.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 3 | Motion Hearing Dates

Multiple parties must coordinate briefing to avoid duplication.

If multiple parties are moving for substantially the same relief or opposing a motion seeking substantially the same relief sought against them, and noticed for the same hearing date, counsel must make every effort to coordinate and consolidate the briefing or use the notice of joinder procedure to avoid duplication in briefing.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 3 | Proposed Orders

Multiple parties must coordinate for same hearing date.

If multiple parties are moving for substantially the same relief, they must make every effort to obtain the same hearing date for their motions.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 3 | Proposed Orders

Parties must coordinate motion and cross motion filings.

To the extent possible, the parties shall coordinate the filings of a motion and cross motion for summary judgment so that a consolidated briefing schedule may be applied.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 4 | Motions and Cross-Motions for Summary Judgment

Multiple parties must coordinate briefing to avoid duplication.

If multiple parties are moving for substantially the same relief or opposing a motion seeking substantially the same relief sought against them, counsel must make every effort to coordinate and consolidate the briefing or use the notice of joinder procedure to avoid duplication in briefing.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 4 | Motions and Cross-Motions for Summary Judgment

Defense counsel and government entities must cooperate in facilitating pro se prisoner appearances for conferences, hearings, or trials.

In cases involving pro se prisoners as litigants, the Court expects defense counsel and the government entity with which a defendant is associated to cooperate in facilitating the prisoner’s telephonic appearances or personal appearances for any scheduled conference, hearing, or trial.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 10 | Pro Se Prisoner Cases

All parties must cooperate in completing the proposed pretrial order.

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

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Page 10 | Pretrial Conference

About United States District Judge Linda Lopez

**District Judge Linda Lopez** was appointed to the Southern District of California by President Joseph R. Biden in 2021. Judge Lopez was born in 1968 in Miami Beach, Florida. She was nominated on September 30, 2021, confirmed by the Senate on December 17, 2021, and received her commission on December 21, 2021, filling the seat vacated by Roger T. Benitez. Prior to her district court appointment, she served as a U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Southern District of California from 2018 to 2021 and as a senior trial attorney with Federal Defenders of San Diego. **Education** - University of Miami School of Law, J.D., 1999 - Florida International University, B.A., 1996 - Miami Dade College, A.S., 1994 - Miami Dade College, A.A., 1992 **Career** - Private practice, Miami, Florida (1999–2007) - Senior trial attorney, Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc. (2007–2018) - U.S. Magistrate Judge, Southern District of California (2018–2021)

**Courthouse:** James M. Carter and Judith N. Keep U.S. Courthouse, 333 W. Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101 **Chambers:** Courtroom 14B **Phone:** (619) 557-5585 **Chambers Staff** - Courtroom Deputy: R. Andrews, (619) 557-6412 - Court Reporter: J. Borynack

Common questions about Judge Linda Lopez's rules

Are courtesy copies required for Judge Linda Lopez?

Courtesy-copy rule applies when a filing is > 75 pages. Details: 1 copy, delivery within 3 days, by mail or courier. Courtesy copies required for filings over 75 pages, delivered within 3 days.

View ruleSource: page 6, section Courtesy Copies

Does Judge Linda Lopez require a pre-motion conference or letter before filing a motion?

The rule does not state that a pre-motion letter is required, but it sets the applicable pre-motion procedure. 7-day meet-and-confer conference required before filing most motions.

View ruleSource: page 2, section Motion Practice

What page or word limits apply to separate statement before Judge Linda Lopez?

Judge Linda Lopez's rule states these limits: attorney: 15 pages. Separate statements for summary judgment motions limited to 15 pages.

View ruleSource: page 6, section Separate Statements

What page or word limits apply to motion in limine before Judge Linda Lopez?

Judge Linda Lopez's rule states these limits: attorney: 10 pages. Excludes caption, index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, certificates, exhibits, appendices, and attachments. Motions in limine and oppositions limited to 10 pages; attachments also limited to 10 pages.

View ruleSource: page 10, section Motions in Limine

What formatting rules apply to filings before Judge Linda Lopez?

Judge Linda Lopez's rules include formatting requirements. Proposed orders must not include filer's name or 'proposed' in caption.

View ruleSource: page 3, section Proposed Orders

What must be included with motion filings before Judge Linda Lopez?

The rule requires proposed order. Proposed orders must be submitted with the motion.

View ruleSource: page 3, section Proposed Orders

What must be included with proposed order filings before Judge Linda Lopez?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. Proposed orders must be emailed in Word format to specific address.

View ruleSource: page 3, section Proposed Orders

How may parties contact Judge Linda Lopez's chambers?

The rule addresses email communications with Judge Linda Lopez's chambers. Letters, faxes, and emails prohibited unless authorized; e-file account only for specific documents.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Communications with Chambers

How does Judge Linda Lopez handle sealed or redacted filings?

A motion to seal is required for covered sealed filings before Judge Linda Lopez. Process: file redacted on ecf and file unredacted to chambers. Documents filed under seal must be accompanied by a motion authorizing the sealing.

View ruleSource: page 7, section 4. Seeking Leave to File Documents Under Seal

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge Linda Lopez?

Requests should be made at least 35 calendar days in advance when this rule applies before Judge Linda Lopez. Motions must be noticed for hearing 35 days after filing.

View ruleSource: page 3, section Motion Hearing Dates

Does Judge Linda Lopez require motion papers to be bundled?

Yes. Judge Linda Lopez requires bundling for covered papers. Stipulations must be filed as joint motions, except for certain dismissals under FRCP 41(a)(1)(A)(ii).

View ruleSource: page 9, section Joint Motions / Stipulations
Complete rules summary for Judge Linda Lopez

Chambers calls limited to counsel with case knowledge; no procedural questions or time estimates.

Letters, faxes, and emails prohibited unless authorized; e-file account only for specific documents.

Discovery matters go to magistrate judge; objections filed as motion under Civ. L.R. 7.1.

7-day meet-and-confer conference required before filing most motions.

Exceptions to meet-and-confer: pro se plaintiffs, TROs/PIs, summary judgment motions.

Motions must be noticed for hearing 35 days after filing.

Chambers may not be contacted for hearing dates.

Oral argument not permitted unless separately ordered.

Oral argument may be requested by separate filing with explanation.

Magistrate judge chambers must be contacted for hearing dates in referred cases.

Proposed orders must be submitted with the motion.

Proposed orders must not include filer's name or 'proposed' in caption.

Proposed orders must be emailed in Word format to specific address.

Documents requiring judge's signature must not be filed on docket.

Multiple parties must coordinate for same hearing date.

Multiple parties must coordinate briefing to avoid duplication.

Declaration required if briefing coordination fails.

Sur-replies and notices of supplemental authority require leave of court.

Ex parte request required for leave of court.

Exception for binding intervening law changes.

Notice of supplemental authority must include order/opinion copy.

No argument allowed in notice of supplemental authority.

Cross motions for summary judgment have same deadline as motions.

Parties must coordinate motion and cross motion filings.

No duplication of briefing or exhibits allowed.

Meet and confer required 15 days before dispositive motion deadline.

Multiple parties must coordinate briefing to avoid duplication.

Separate statements for summary judgment motions limited to 15 pages.

Joint motions require a proposed order at the time of filing.

Courtesy copies required for filings over 75 pages, delivered within 3 days.

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