Court Rules
Magistrate Judge

Judge Jennifer E. Willis

Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies

Rules last changed:
Southern District of New York

Limits & Logistics

Document Limits

Document
3 pgs
Letter Motion
6 pgs
Responsive Filing
6 pgs
Memorandum Of Law
8,750 wds
Pretrial Memorandum
3,500 wds
Letter
3 pgs

Courtesy Copies

All filings

  • 1 copy • Email • Upon Filing

Courtesy copies

  • 1 copy • Email
  • Email

Binding: Three Ring Binder

Exhibits

  • 1 copy
  • 1 copy • Email

Filings > 10 pages

  • 1 copy • Hand Delivery • Within 1 Business Day

Adjournments

2Business Daysnotice
  • Adjournment/extension requests must be ECF letter motions filed 2 business days before deadline with specific required elements
  • Extension/adjournment requests must be made at least 2 business days before deadline.
  • Requests for adjournments or extensions of time must be filed on ECF as letter motions at least 2 business days before the original deadline.
Original DateNumber Of Previous RequestsReason For RequestAdversary Position
  • Extension requests must include original date, previous requests, reasons, adversary consent, and impact on other deadlines.
  • Revised Scheduling Order in Word format required if extension affects other deadlines.
  • Late extension requests are ordinarily denied.
  • +9 more

Request must include

Original DateNumber Of Previous RequestsPrevious Requests Granted Or DeniedReason For RequestAdversary PositionAffects Other DatesProposed Rescheduled DateProposed New Dates
5Business Daysnotice
  • Extension requests for bankruptcy appeal briefs must be submitted 5 business days before due date.
Proposed New Dates
7Calendar Daysnotice
  • Settlement conference dates may be changed without cause if requested at least one week in advance via ECF letter-motion.

Communication

Email

Chambers

willisnysdchambers@nysd.uscourts.gov
EmergenciesScheduling
Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Email

Chambers

reardennysdchambers@nysd.uscourts.gov
EmergenciesTechnical IssuesScheduling
Phone

Chambers

(212) 805-0244
Deposition DisputesSchedulingEmergencies
Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
No status inquiries
Phone

Intake Unit

(212) 805-0175
Status Inquiries
Letter via ECF

Chambers

Scheduling
Letter via fax

Chambers

No status inquiries
Hand Delivery

Chambers

Emergencies
Cases:
Filters:AllMandatoryImportantFormattingLettersExhibitsDiscoveryConferencesECF FilingMemorandaJury

Page & Word Limits13 rules

Page Limits

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Letters may not exceed 3 single-spaced pages in length (exclusive of exhibits).

Summary: Letters to the Court may not exceed 3 single-spaced pages, exclusive of exhibits.

Letter

3 pages

Page Limits

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Letter motions are limited to 3 single-spaced pages (not including exhibits).

Summary: Letter motions are limited to 3 single-spaced pages, not including exhibits.

Letter Motion

3 pages

JW Willis Individual Practices in Civil Cases 2026-08-25 · Aug 2026 · p. 1
|SecI. Communications with Chambers - B. Letter Motions
Page Limits

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Any responsive letter should be submitted within 3 business days after submission of the letter motion and should be no longer than 3 single-spaced pages.

Summary: Responsive letters to discovery letter motions should be no longer than 3 single-spaced pages.

Responsive Letter

3 pages

Page Limits

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

If the meet-and-confer does not resolve the dispute, a party may submit a letter motion no longer than 3 single-spaced pages, explaining the nature of the dispute and requesting a conference.

Summary: Discovery dispute letter motions may be no longer than 3 single-spaced pages and must explain the nature of the dispute and request a conference.

Letter Motion

3 pages

Page Limits

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions may not exceed 8,750 words, and reply briefs may not exceed 3,500 words.

Summary: Memoranda of law in support of or opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words and reply briefs to 3,500 words, unless prior permission has been granted.

Memorandum

8,750 words

Reply Brief

3,500 words

Page Limits

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Letter motions shall be filed on ECF in accordance with the S.D.N.Y. Local Rules. Requests that may be made by letter motion include requests for an adjournment, an extension, a pre-motion conference, sealing, and a settlement conference. Letter motions are limited to 3 single-spaced pages (not including exhibits). Courtesy copies of letter motions are not required unless exhibits, if any, exceed 25 pages.

Summary: Letter motions (adjournment, extension, pre-motion conference, sealing, settlement) max 3 single-spaced pages, no courtesy copies unless exhibits >25 pages

3 pages

Applies to: Attorney

Page LimitsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

If the opposing party wishes to respond to the letter-motion, it should promptly send an e-mail to Chambers, copying all counsel of record, to advise that a responsive letter will be forthcoming. Any such responsive filing shall not exceed six double-spaced pages and must be filed on ECF within three business days of the filing of the letter-motion.

Summary: Responsive filing to discovery dispute letter-motion limited to 6 double-spaced pages, due within 3 business days.

Structured details unavailable. See the source text.

Page LimitsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

If the dispute is not resolved, the party may file a letter-motion on ECF pursuant to Rule 5.I below, not to exceed six double-spaced pages, explaining the nature of the dispute and requesting an informal conference.

Summary: Discovery dispute letter-motion limited to 6 double-spaced pages.

Structured details unavailable. See the source text.

Page LimitsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words.

Summary: Motion memoranda limited to 8,750 words; replies to 3,500 words.

8,750 words

Applies to: Attorney

Reply Memorandum

3,500 words

Applies to: Attorney

Page LimitsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

A pretrial memorandum of law in cases in which a party believes it would be useful to the Court, not to exceed 3,500 words (excluding the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any required certificates but including material contained in footnotes or endnotes), absent leave of Court, addressing any issues of law that are expected to arise at or before trial.

Summary: Pretrial memorandum of law limited to 3,500 words in jury and non-jury cases.

Pretrial Memorandum

3,500 words

Applies to: Attorney

Page Limits

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The letter must be less than one page (unless otherwise authorized by the Court) and marked 'Confidential Material for Use Only at Settlement Conference.'

Summary: Ex parte settlement letter limited to 1 page unless authorized.

Ex Parte Settlement Letter

1 pages

Applies to: Attorney

Page Limits

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The joint letter must not exceed three pages and should include, at a minimum, the following: (a) the history of settlement negotiations, if any, including any prior offers or demands; (b) each party’s evaluation of the settlement value of the case and the rationale for it; (c) any case law authority in support of your settlement position; and (d) any other facts that would be helpful to the Court in preparation for the conference.

Summary: Joint settlement letter limited to 3 pages with specific content requirements.

Joint Settlement Letter

3 pages

Applies to: Attorney

Page Limits

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?

Neither party may take more than depositions. Absent an agreement between the parties or an order from the Court, non-party depositions shall follow initial party depositions.

Summary: Deposition limit per party (number unspecified).

Structured details unavailable. See the source text.

Document Format Requirements10 rules

Formatting

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

All moving papers, letter-motions, and letters filed on ECF or emailed to chambers must be in searchable PDF form.

Summary: Moving papers, letter-motions, and letters filed on ECF or emailed to chambers must be in searchable PDF form.

Required Format

PDF

Formatting

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

The typeface, margins and spacing of motion papers must conform to Local Civil Rule 11.1.

Summary: Motion papers must conform to Local Civil Rule 11.1 with respect to typeface, margins, and spacing.

Formatting

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Note?

Additionally, to the extent citing unreported cases, parties are requested to use Westlaw citations whenever possible.

Summary: Parties are requested to use Westlaw citations whenever possible when citing unreported cases.

Formatting

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Letters to the Court are permitted. Letters should be filed on ECF2 except for settlement conference submissions and in camera submissions. Letters may not exceed 3 singe-spaced pages in length (exclusive of exhibits). Parties shall not copy the Court on correspondence sent between counsel or the Parties.

Summary: Letters to Court must be filed on ECF (except settlement/in camera), max 3 single-spaced pages, no copying Court on counsel correspondence

Typography
Line SpacingSingle
FormattingCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Joint proposed jury instructions, which should consist of a single document that includes the text of any requested instructions and citations to the authority from which each instruction derives and notes any areas of disagreement between the parties. A copy shall be emailed to Chambers in both Microsoft Word and .pdf format.

Summary: Joint proposed jury instructions must be emailed to Chambers in Word and PDF format with citations.

Required Format

DOCX

FormattingCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

A joint proposed verdict form, which should consist of a single document that notes any areas of disagreement between the parties. A copy shall be emailed to Chambers in both Microsoft Word and .pdf format.

Summary: Joint proposed verdict form must be emailed to Chambers in Word and PDF format.

Required Format

DOCX

FormattingCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The 56.1 Statement must be organized into numbered paragraphs, with each numbered paragraph setting forth only one factual assertion.

Summary: 56.1 statements must be numbered paragraphs with one factual assertion each.

FormattingCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

briefs must be submitted in accordance with the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure.

Summary: Bankruptcy appeals briefs must follow Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure.

Required Format

PDF

Formatting

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

If a Party is submitting a video, the clip shall be provided on a thumb drive delivered to Chambers and labeled with a case name and docket number. Alternatively, the clip may be emailed to Chambers at WillisNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov.

Summary: Video submissions must be on labeled thumb drive or emailed.

Formatting

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The courtesy copy should be placed in well-organized three-ring binder(s). Where appropriate, the binder(s) shall be separated by tab dividers preceded by an exhibit list.

Summary: Courtesy copies must be in three-ring binders with tab dividers and exhibit list.

Layout & Binding
Binding Style
Three Ring Binder

Document Filing Requirements75 rules

Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

At least 24 hours in advance of a plea, the indictment/information, plea agreement, a summary of the elements of the offense(s), and the maximum and mandatory penalties for each crime/count should be emailed to WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov.

Summary: A pre-plea submission must include the indictment/information, plea agreement, a summary of the elements of the offense(s), and the maximum and mandatory penalties for each crime/count.

Document Type

Pre Plea Submission

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Such letter motion must state when the meet-and-confer occurred.

Summary: A discovery dispute letter motion must state when the meet-and-confer occurred.

Document Type

Discovery Letter Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Memoranda of 10 pages or more shall contain a table of contents and a table of authorities, neither of which shall count against the word limit.

Summary: Memoranda of 10 or more pages must contain a table of contents and a table of authorities, neither of which counts against the word limit.

Document Type

Memorandum

Content & Formatting
Table Of Authorities
Table Of Contents
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Where a party seeks summary judgment against a pro se litigant, the party must also comply with the notice requirements of Local Civil Rule 56.2.

Summary: A party moving for summary judgment against a pro se litigant must comply with the notice requirements of Local Civil Rule 56.2.

Document Type

Summary Judgment Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Where a party moves to dismiss or for judgment on the pleadings against a pro se litigant and refers to matters outside the pleadings, counsel must serve and file the notice set forth in Local Civil Rule 12.1.

Summary: Counsel moving to dismiss or for judgment on the pleadings against a pro se litigant that refers to matters outside the pleadings must serve and file the Local Civil Rule 12.1 notice.

Document Type

Motion To Dismiss

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

Before the Initial Case Management Conference, parties must meet and confer on a discovery plan. One week before the scheduled conference, the parties shall file on ECF a Proposed Case Management Plan and Report of Rule 26(f) Meeting. Parties shall use the template available at https://nysd.uscourts.gov/hon-jennifer-e-willis.

Summary: Parties must meet and confer on a discovery plan and file a Proposed Case Management Plan and Report of Rule 26(f) Meeting on ECF one week before the Initial Case Management Conference, using the Court's template.

Document Type

Proposed Case Management Plan

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
JW Willis Individual Practices in Civil Cases 2026-08-25 · Aug 2026 · p. 5
|SecIII. Pre-Trial Practice - A. Initial Case Management Conference
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

If any party is pro se, parties shall use the Proposed Case Management Plan for Pro Se Cases template available at https://nysd.uscourts.gov/hon-jennifer-e-willis.

Summary: If any party is pro se, the parties must use the Proposed Case Management Plan for Pro Se Cases template from the Court's website.

Document Type

Proposed Case Management Plan

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
JW Willis Individual Practices in Civil Cases 2026-08-25 · Aug 2026 · p. 5
|SecIII. Pre-Trial Practice - A. Initial Case Management Conference
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

to Judge Willis, the moving Party shall submit an Excel sheet including the relevant calculations. An Excel sheet is required even if the motion was already submitted to a District Judge. Excel sheets are required for the following motions: 1) Inquests on Damages 2) Motions for Attorney's Fees 3) FLSA Damages 4) IDEA Reimbursements.

Summary: For motions for inquests on damages, attorney's fees, FLSA damages, and IDEA reimbursements, the moving party must submit an Excel sheet with the relevant calculations to Judge Willis, even if the motion was already submitted to a District Judge.

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

In general, except in pro se cases, a Joint Pretrial Order shall include the following: a. The full caption of the action; b. The name, address, telephone number and email of each principal member of the trial team; c. A list of each claim and defense that will be tried and identification of the governing law (including applicable regulations) governing each such claim and defense; d. If applicable, a list of any claims and defenses asserted in the pleadings that are not to be tried; e. A list by each party of its trial witnesses that it, in good faith, expects to present, with an indication of whether the witnesses will testify in person or by deposition and the general subject area of the witness's testimony and anticipated length of time needed for each witness; f. A statement as to how and when the parties will give notice to each other of the order of their trial witnesses and, if the parties cannot agree, the parties' statement that they will agree to the Court's default rule (i.e. that the parties shall advise each other by no later than 48 hours before the start of trial as to the order of their witnesses); g. A list by each party of exhibits that it, in good faith, expects to offer in its case in chief, together with any specific objections thereto; h. All stipulations or statements of fact or law on which the parties have agreed; i. A proposed schedule by which the parties will exchange demonstratives that the parties intend to use at trial, notify each other of any objections thereto, consult with each other regarding those objections, and notify the Court of any remaining disputes; j. Proposed voir dire questions;

Summary: Except in pro se cases, the Joint Pretrial Order must include the caption, trial team contact information, claims and defenses with governing law, witness and exhibit lists, stipulations, a demonstratives exchange schedule, and proposed voir dire questions.

Document Type

Joint Pretrial Order

Content & Formatting
Caption
Exhibit List
JW Willis Individual Practices in Civil Cases 2026-08-25 · Aug 2026 · p. 6
|SecIV. Pretrial Procedures - A. Joint Pretrial Orders in Civil Cases
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

The Statement must be sworn by the party to be true and accurate based on the facts known by the party.

Summary: The pro se Pretrial Statement must be sworn by the party as true and accurate based on the facts known to the party.

Document Type

Pretrial Statement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

The pro se party's Pretrial Statement need take no particular form, but must be concise and contain: (1) a statement of the facts the party hopes to prove at trial; (2) a list of all documents or other physical objects that the party plans to put into evidence at trial; and (3) a list of the names and addresses of all witnesses the party intends to have testify at trial.

Summary: The pro se Pretrial Statement may take any form but must be concise and contain a statement of facts to be proven, a list of documents/objects to be offered in evidence, and a list of the names and addresses of all trial witnesses.

Document Type

Pretrial Statement

Content & Formatting
Exhibit List
Statement Of Facts
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?

In pro se cases, no Joint Pretrial Order is needed. Instead, within 30 days after the completion of discovery each party shall file its own Pretrial Statement.

Summary: In pro se cases, no Joint Pretrial Order is required; instead, each party must file its own Pretrial Statement within 30 days after completion of discovery.

Document Type

Pretrial Statement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?

The cover email should specify the time that the agent and AUSA are available to swear out the complaint or affidavit.

Summary: The cover email for a warrant application must state when the agent and AUSA are available to swear out the complaint or affidavit.

Document Type

Warrant Application Cover Email

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?

Moreover, in their own briefs, the Parties should detail the facts that they are relying upon in the facts section of their brief, and should not simply refer to their Local Civil Rule 56.1 submissions or assume the Court has sufficient familiarity with the facts of the case.

Summary: Summary judgment briefs must detail the relied-upon facts in the facts section rather than merely referring to Local Civil Rule 56.1 submissions.

Document Type

Summary Judgment Brief

Content & Formatting
Statement Of Facts
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?

G. Motions Requiring Submission of an Excel Sheet. When a Party submits any of the following motions to Judge Willis, or within fourteen days of the referral of such a motion

Summary: Certain enumerated motions require submission of an Excel sheet when submitted to Judge Willis or within fourteen days of referral (the list of motions continues beyond this excerpt).

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
JW Willis Individual Practices in Civil Cases 2026-08-25 · Aug 2026 · p. 4
|SecG. Motions Requiring Submission of an Excel Sheet
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?

A letter should also be filed on the docket providing the date and time the Excel sheet was emailed.

Summary: A letter must be filed on the docket providing the date and time the Excel sheet was emailed to Chambers.

Document Type

Letter

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?

In cases where confidential information will be exchanged, the parties may utilize the Court's model Protective Order, available at https://nysd.uscourts.gov/hon-jennifer-e-willis. Should the parties apply for a protective order that differs from the Court's model, the parties should attach the proposed order showing a comparison of how the proposed order differs from the Court's model.

Summary: Parties may use the Court's model Protective Order, and any proposed protective order that differs from the model must be submitted showing a comparison of how it differs from the Court's model.

Document Type

Protective Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
JW Willis Individual Practices in Civil Cases 2026-08-25 · Aug 2026 · p. 5
|SecIII. Pre-Trial Practice - D. Confidentiality Stipulations and Orders
Filing Requirements

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?

k. Proposed jury instructions; l. Proposed verdict sheet; m. The estimated length of trial; and n. All other matters that the Court may have ordered or that the parties believe are important to the efficient conduct of the trial, such as bifurcation or sequencing of issues to be tried, anticipated in limine motions, and any technology needed for trial.

Summary: The Joint Pretrial Order must address proposed jury instructions, a proposed verdict sheet, the estimated length of trial, and other matters such as bifurcation, anticipated in limine motions, and trial technology (list continued from prior page).

Document Type

Joint Pretrial Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Before the Initial Case Management Conference, parties must meet and confer on a discovery plan. One week before the scheduled conference, the parties shall file on ECF a Proposed Case Management Plan and Report of Rule 26(f) Meeting. Parties shall use the template available at https://nysd.uscourts.gov/hon-jennifer-e-willis.

Summary: Proposed Case Management Plan required one week before initial conference

Document Type

Case Management Plan

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
JW Willis Individual Practices for Civil Cases (5-8-25) · May 2025 · p. 5
|SecIII. Pre-Trial Practice A. Initial Case Management Conference
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

When a Party submits any of the following motions to Judge Willis, or within fourteen days of the referral of such a motion to Judge Willis, the moving Party shall submit an Excel sheet including the relevant calculations. An Excel sheet is required even if the motion was already submitted to a District Judge. Excel sheets are required for the following motions: 1) Inquests on Damages 2) Motions for Attorney’s Fees 3) FLSA Damages 4) IDEA Reimbursements. The Excel sheet should be emailed to WillisNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov and should CC all opposing counsel or the pro se litigant if they are unrepresented. A letter should also be filed on the docket providing the date and time the Excel sheet was emailed.

Summary: Excel sheet required for specific motions with email submission to chambers

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
JW Willis Individual Practices for Civil Cases (5-8-25) · May 2025 · p. 5
|SecG. Motions Requiring Submission of an Excel Sheet
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

If any party is pro se, parties shall use the Proposed Case Management Plan for Pro Se Cases template available at https://nysd.uscourts.gov/hon-jennifer-e-willis. The pro se party should submit the Proposed Case Management Plan for Pro Se Cases to the Pro Se Intake Unit and the represented party should submit it via ECF and simultaneously mail a copy to the pro se party.

Summary: Pro se parties use different template and submit to Pro Se Intake Unit

Document Type

Case Management Plan

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
JW Willis Individual Practices for Civil Cases (5-8-25) · May 2025 · p. 5
|SecIII. Pre-Trial Practice A. Initial Case Management Conference
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, within 30 days from the date of completion of discovery in a civil case, the parties shall submit to the Court for its approval a Joint Pretrial Order. In general, except in pro se cases, a Joint Pretrial Order shall include the following: a. The full caption of the action; b. The name, address, telephone number and email of each principal member of the trial team; c. A list of each claim and defense that will be tried and identification of the governing law (including applicable regulations) governing each such claim and defense; d. If applicable, a list of any claims and defenses asserted in the pleadings that are not to be tried; e. A list by each party of its trial witnesses that it, in good faith, expects to present, with an indication of whether the witnesses will testify in person or by deposition and the general subject area of the witness’s testimony and anticipated length of time needed for each witness; f. A statement as to how and when the parties will give notice to each other of the order of their trial witnesses and, if the parties cannot agree, the parties’ statement that they will agree to the Court’s default rule (i.e. that the parties shall advise each other by no later than 48 hours before the start of trial as to the order of their witnesses); g. A list by each party of exhibits that it, in good faith, expects to offer in its case in chief, together with any specific objections thereto; h. All stipulations or statements of fact or law on which the parties have agreed;

Summary: Joint Pretrial Order required within 30 days of discovery completion with specific content requirements

Document Type

Joint Pretrial Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
JW Willis Individual Practices for Civil Cases (5-8-25) · May 2025 · p. 6
|SecIV. Pretrial Procedures A. Joint Pretrial Orders in Civil Cases
Filing Requirements

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

In cases where confidential information will be exchanged, the parties may utilize the Court’s model Protective Order, available at https://nysd.uscourts.gov/hon-jennifer-e-willis. Should the parties apply for a protective order that differs from the Court’s model, the parties should attach the proposed order showing a comparison of how the proposed order differs from the Court’s model.

Summary: Model protective order available; comparison required for non-model orders

Document Type

Protective Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
JW Willis Individual Practices for Civil Cases (5-8-25) · May 2025 · p. 6
|SecIII. Pre-Trial Practice D. Confidentiality Stipulations and Orders
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

In cases invoking the Court’s diversity jurisdiction, the parties’ joint letter must state: a. If any party is a corporation, that party’s place of incorporation and the principal place of business, as defined in Hertz Corp. v. Friend, 559 U.S. 77 (2010). b. If any party is a partnership, limited partnership, limited liability company, or trust, the citizenship of each entity’s members, shareholders, partners, and/or trustees.

Summary: For diversity jurisdiction cases, joint letter must include corporate citizenship and partnership/entity member citizenship.

Document Type

Joint Letter

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Such a letter-motion must include a representation that the parties engaged in a good faith meet-and-confer process that proved unsuccessful.

Summary: Discovery dispute letter-motion must include representation of unsuccessful meet-and-confer.

Document Type

Letter Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The attorney who will serve as principal trial counsel must appear at all conferences with the Court.

Summary: Principal trial counsel must attend all conferences.

Document Type

Conference

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

In addition to filing the proposed temporary restraining order in accordance with the S.D.N.Y. Electronic Case Filing Rules and Instructions, the movant shall file a letter-motion stating whether: i. The adversary has been notified, and whether the adversary consents to temporary injunctive relief; or ii. The requirements of Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(b) are satisfied, and no notice is necessary.

Summary: TRO application requires letter-motion stating adversary notification/consent or Rule 65(b) satisfaction.

Document Type

Troc

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Any party wishing to seek a temporary restraining order should file a motion for a temporary restraining order, supporting documents, and a proposed order on ECF in accordance with the procedures in the S.D.N.Y. Electronic Case Filing Rules and Instructions.

Summary: TRO applications must be filed on ECF with supporting documents and proposed order.

Document Type

Troc

Content & Formatting
Proposed Order
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

At least one week before the final pretrial conference, the parties shall provide the Court with a digital copy of exhibits and demonstrative aids that they intend to use in their case in chief at trial, as well as an index. The parties shall email ReardenNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov requesting a link to upload these materials.

Summary: One week before final pretrial conference, email Chambers to request upload link for digital exhibits and demonstrative aids.

Document Type

Exhibit

Content & Formatting
Exhibit List
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The index shall be marked as specified in paragraph 7.A.xii above.

Summary: Exhibit index must be marked as specified in paragraph 7.A.xii.

Document Type

Exhibit Index

Content & Formatting
Exhibit List
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The parties shall also email a list of all exhibits sought to be admitted, both in Microsoft Word and .pdf format. The list shall be divided into four columns labeled as follows: (1) Exhibit Number; (2) Description (of the exhibit); (3) Date Identified; and (4) Date Admitted. The parties shall complete the first two columns but leave the third and fourth columns blank, for use by the Court.

Summary: Email exhibit list in Word and PDF format with four columns, completing only first two columns.

Document Type

Exhibit List

Content & Formatting
Exhibit List
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

three business days prior to trial, the parties shall submit to Chambers physical copies of all documentary exhibits, organized by exhibit number. Hard copies of the exhibits shall be submitted to Chambers in a tabbed binder, containing one copy of each exhibit; the Court shall be provided with two hard copy sets.

Summary: Three business days before trial, submit two tabbed binders with one copy of each documentary exhibit to Chambers.

Document Type

Exhibit

Content & Formatting
Exhibit List
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Upon the Court’s approval, Chambers will coordinate with the District Executive’s Office to issue the order and forward a copy to counsel. The order must be presented upon bringing the electronic device(s) into the Courthouse.

Summary: Present approved electronic device order when bringing devices into Courthouse.

Document Type

Electronic Device Order

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Service
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

At least one week before trial, each of the parties must submit to the Court any disclosures pertaining to expert witnesses under Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 16 or Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 26(a)(2).

Summary: One week before trial, submit expert witness disclosures under FRCP 26(a)(2) or FRCrP 16.

Document Type

Expert Witness Disclosure

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Service
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The motion must be supported by the following papers:

Summary: Motion for default judgment must include specific supporting papers.

Document Type

Motion For Default Judgment

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Obtain a Certificate of Default for each defaulting party pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 55(a) and Local Civil Rule 55.1.

Summary: Certificate of Default required for each defaulting party under FRCP 55(a) and Local Rule 55.1.

Document Type

Certificate Of Default

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Within two business days of filing the motion for default judgment, the plaintiff must (1) serve the motion and all supporting papers on the party against whom a default judgment is sought, and (2) file an affidavit of service on ECF. The Court will not consider the motion for default judgment unless and until such affidavit of service is filed.

Summary: Plaintiff must serve motion and file affidavit of service within 2 business days.

Document Type

Motion For Default Judgment

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Service
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

The Court will review the motion for default judgment and, if appropriate, issue an order setting a date and time for a default judgment hearing. If the Court issues such an order, the movant must then serve on the party against whom default judgment is sought the Court’s order setting a date and time for the hearing. The plaintiff must file proof of such service on the docket in the manner and date specified in the Court’s order.

Summary: Proof of service required for court's default judgment hearing order.

Document Type

Court Order

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Service
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Opposing parties must reproduce each entry in the moving party’s Rule 56.1 Statement and set out the opposing party’s response directly beneath it.

Summary: Opposing parties must reproduce and respond to each 56.1 entry.

Document Type

Opposition To Summary Judgment

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Joint proposed voir dire questions, which should consist of a single document that includes the text of any requested questions and notes any areas of disagreement between the parties.

Summary: Joint proposed voir dire questions must note areas of disagreement.

Document Type

Joint Proposed Voir Dire

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

counsel for all parties must file notices of appearance in this Court promptly upon removal.

Summary: All parties must file notices of appearance promptly upon removal.

Document Type

Notice Of Appearance

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Where parties rely on deposition or hearing testimony, they should not include excerpts of transcripts as exhibits, but rather should include (only once) the entire transcript as an exhibit.

Summary: Entire transcripts must be included as exhibits, not excerpts.

Document Type

Summary Judgment Motion

Content & Formatting
Exhibit List
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

A statement of whether the parties consent to less than a unanimous verdict.

Summary: Parties must state consent to less than unanimous verdict.

Document Type

Unanimous Verdict Consent

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

A list of all trial witnesses, indicating whether such witnesses will testify in person or by deposition, whether such witnesses will require an interpreter (and, if so, which party will pay the costs for the interpreter), and a brief summary of the substance of each witness's testimony.

Summary: Trial witness list must include testimony method, interpreter needs, and summary.

Document Type

Trial Witness List

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Joint proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law, which should be detailed and note any areas of disagreement between the parties and, for each proposed factual finding, shall include citations to the proffered trial testimony and exhibits.

Summary: Joint proposed findings must be detailed with citations to trial testimony and exhibits.

Document Type

Joint Proposed Findings Conclusions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Each factual assertion must be followed by citation(s) to the portion(s) of the evidentiary record relied upon.

Summary: Each 56.1 assertion must include evidentiary record citations.

Document Type

56 1 Statement

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCivil cases

Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?

Motion papers shall be filed promptly after service. Motion papers shall be accompanied by a letter no longer than three pages outlining the substantive argument advanced in the papers.

Summary: Motion papers must be filed promptly and accompanied by 3-page letter.

Document Type

Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.

Filing & Service rules

Electronic Filing Rules

Letter motions must be filed on ECF in accordance with the S.D.N.Y. Local Rules.

Letter motions shall be filed on ECF in accordance with the S.D.N.Y. Local Rules.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 1 | I. Communications with Chambers - B. Letter Motions

Sealed documents must be e-filed through ECF; a party unable to comply, or believing a document should not be e-filed, must move for leave to file on paper.

Any party unable to comply with the requirement for electronic filing under seal through the ECF system, or who has reason to believe that a particular document should not be electronically filed, must move for leave of the Court to file on paper.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 4 | E. Requests to File Materials Under Seal

In pro se cases, the pro se party submits the Proposed Case Management Plan for Pro Se Cases to the Pro Se Intake Unit while the represented party submits it via ECF.

The pro se party should submit the Proposed Case Management Plan for Pro Se Cases to the Pro Se Intake Unit and the represented party should submit it via ECF and simultaneously mail a copy to the pro se party.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 5 | III. Pre-Trial Practice - A. Initial Case Management Conference

Trial exhibits are not required to be filed electronically on ECF.

Exhibits need not be filed electronically on ECF.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 7 | B. Courtesy Copies of Trial Exhibits

Letters to the Court should be filed on ECF, except for settlement conference submissions and in camera submissions.

Letters should be filed on ECF except for settlement conference submissions and in camera submissions.

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

Page 1 | I. Communications with Chambers - A. Letters

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

Pre-sentence submissions in misdemeanor cases must be submitted no later than 2 weeks before the scheduled sentencing.

Pre-sentence submissions for misdemeanors should be submitted no later than 2 weeks before the scheduled sentencing.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Criminal cases

Page 1 | III. Misdemeanor Sentencing

Pre-plea submissions must be emailed to WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov at least 24 hours before the plea.

At least 24 hours in advance of a plea, the indictment/information, plea agreement, a summary of the elements of the offense(s), and the maximum and mandatory penalties for each crime/count should be emailed to WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Criminal cases

Page 1 | II. Pleas

Failure to respond to a discovery letter motion within 3 business days results in waiver of any objections.

Failure to respond within 3 business days will result in a waiver of any objections.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 2 | II. Motions - Discovery Motions

Responsive letters to discovery letter motions are due within 3 business days after submission of the letter motion.

Any responsive letter should be submitted within 3 business days after submission of the letter motion and should be no longer than 3 single-spaced pages.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 2 | II. Motions - Discovery Motions

The Proposed Case Management Plan and Report of Rule 26(f) Meeting must be filed on ECF one week before the scheduled Initial Case Management Conference.

One week before the scheduled conference, the parties shall file on ECF a Proposed Case Management Plan and Report of Rule 26(f) Meeting.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 5 | III. Pre-Trial Practice - A. Initial Case Management Conference

In consent cases, the parties must submit a Joint Pretrial Order for the Court's approval within 30 days after completion of discovery, unless otherwise ordered.

Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, within 30 days from the date of completion of discovery in a civil case, the parties shall submit to the Court for its approval a Joint Pretrial Order.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 6 | IV. Pretrial Procedures - A. Joint Pretrial Orders in Civil Cases

In pro se cases, each party's Pretrial Statement is due within 30 days after the completion of discovery.

within 30 days after the completion of discovery each party shall file its own Pretrial Statement

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 7 | Pretrial Order (continued)

Responsive letters to letter motions should be submitted within 3 business days after the letter motion is submitted.

Any responsive letter should be submitted within 3 business days after submission of the letter motion.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 3 | II. Motions

Service and Proof of Service Rules

If any other party is not an ECF user, a pro se party must send copies of any filing to that party and include proof of service.

If any other party is not a user of the ECF System (e.g., if there is another pro se party in the case), a pro se party must send copies of any filing to the party and include proof of service affirming that he or she has done so.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 1 | I. Communications with Chambers - Pro se Parties

Pro se parties must mail all communications with the Court to the Pro Se Intake Unit at 500 Pearl St., Room 230, New York, NY 10007.

By Standing order, a pro se party must mail all communications with the Court to the Pro Se Intake Unit located at 500 Pearl St., Room 230, New York, NY 10007.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 1 | I. Communications with Chambers - Pro se Parties

Counsel must provide pro se litigants with printed copies of any cited decisions reported exclusively in computerized databases, as required by Local Civil Rule 7.2.

As required by Local Civil Rule 7.2, counsel must provide a pro se litigant with printed copies of decisions cited in any submission that are reported exclusively in computerized databases.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 4 | F. Motions in Pro Se Cases

Each party must file an original Pretrial Statement with the Pro Se Office, serve a copy on all other parties or their counsel, and the original must indicate the date the copy was mailed.

The party must file an original Pretrial Statement with the Pro Se Office and serve a copy on all other parties or their counsel if represented. The original Pretrial Statement must indicate the date a copy was mailed to the other party or that party's attorney.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 7 | Pretrial Order (continued)

Pro se submissions requiring immediate attention should be hand-delivered to the Pro Se Intake Unit.

Submissions requiring immediate attention should be hand-delivered to the Pro Se Intake Unit.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 1 | I. Communications with Chambers - Pro se Parties

Hand-delivered mail must be left with the Court Security Officers at the Worth Street entrance of 500 Pearl Street and may not be brought directly to Chambers.

Hand-delivered mail should be left with the Court Security Officers at the Worth Street entrance of 500 Pearl Street and may not be brought directly to Chambers.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 2 | I. Communications with Chambers - D. Hand Deliveries

The represented party must simultaneously mail a copy of the Proposed Case Management Plan for Pro Se Cases to the pro se party.

The pro se party should submit the Proposed Case Management Plan for Pro Se Cases to the Pro Se Intake Unit and the represented party should submit it via ECF and simultaneously mail a copy to the pro se party.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 5 | III. Pre-Trial Practice - A. Initial Case Management Conference

Pro se communications with the Court are docketed upon receipt, and that docketing constitutes service on any ECF system user, unless the Court orders otherwise.

Unless the Court orders otherwise, all communications with the Court will be docketed upon receipt; such docketing shall constitute service on any user of the ECF system.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 1 | I. Communications with Chambers - Pro se Parties

Courtesy Copy Requirements

Courtesy copies of the unredacted version of documents subject to a pending sealing application must be provided to Chambers.

The parties shall comply with such deadlines by filing the redacted version on ECF, serving the unredacted papers at issue on any opposing parties, and providing courtesy copies of the unredacted version to Chambers.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 4 | E. Requests to File Materials Under Seal

The party who orders a hearing transcript must email a courtesy copy of the transcript to Chambers; pro se parties are exempt.

When applicable, parties shall coordinate the ordering of a hearing transcript from the court reporter. The ordering party shall send a courtesy copy of the transcript to Chambers via email. Pro se parties are exempt from this Rule.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 6 | III. Pre-Trial Practice - F. Hearing Transcripts

Each party must send a courtesy copy of all pre-marked trial exhibits to the Chambers email address WillisNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov.

The parties shall each send a courtesy copy of all exhibits, pre-marked, to WillisNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 7 | B. Courtesy Copies of Trial Exhibits

Each party must also submit one hard copy of the pre-marked exhibits in a well-organized three-ring binder separated by tab dividers.

The parties shall also each submit one hard copy of the pre-marking exhibits in a well-organized three-ring binder, separated by tab dividers.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 7 | B. Courtesy Copies of Trial Exhibits

Courtesy copies of letter motions are required only when the exhibits exceed 25 pages.

Courtesy copies of letter motions are not required unless exhibits, if any, exceed 25 pages.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 1 | I. Communications with Chambers - B. Letter Motions

No courtesy copies for letter motions unless exhibits exceed 25 pages

Courtesy copies of letter motions are not required unless exhibits, if any, exceed 25 pages.

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Page 1 | I. Communications with Chambers

Courtesy copy of hearing transcript required for chambers (pro se exempt)

When applicable, parties shall coordinate the ordering of a hearing transcript from the court reporter. The ordering party shall send a courtesy copy of the transcript to Chambers via email. Pro se parties are exempt from this Rule.

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Page 6 | III. Pre-Trial Practice F. Hearing Transcripts

Courtesy copies of trial exhibits must be emailed and submitted in three-ring binder.

The parties shall each send a courtesy copy of all exhibits, pre-marked, to WillisNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov. Exhibits need not be filed electronically on ECF. The parties shall also each submit one hard copy of the pre-marking exhibits in a well-organized three-ring binder, separated by tab dividers.

Machine summary. Not checked yet.

Email text-searchable transcript copies to chambers if available.

The parties shall provide the Court by email with an electronic, text-searchable copy of the transcript, if such a copy is available.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Email Word versions of proposed orders/stipulations/judgments to chambers.

The parties must also email a Microsoft Word version of proposed orders, stipulations, and judgments to ReardenNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Courtesy copies required for pleadings filed in state court before removal.

counsel for the removing party or parties must provide the Court with a courtesy copy of any pleading filed or served while the case remained in state court.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Email courtesy copies of fully submitted motions to chambers.

Once a motion has been fully submitted, the movant shall email a courtesy copy of all motion papers, including any oppositions, replies, declarations, and exhibits, to ReardenNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Courtesy copies of trial exhibits must be sent to chambers email and submitted in three-ring binder.

The parties shall each send a courtesy copy of all exhibits, pre-marked, to WillisNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov. Exhibits need not be filed electronically on ECF. The parties shall also each submit one hard copy of the pre-marking exhibits in a well-organized three-ring binder, separated by tab dividers.

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Page 7 | Courtesy Copies of Trial Exhibits

Courtesy copies required for settlement letters over 10 pages.

If the settlement letter and exhibits exceed 10 pages, the parties are required to submit a courtesy copy to the Court no later than one business day after submission of the letter.

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Large exhibits need not be emailed if available on ECF.

If exhibits to a motion are available on ECF and email transmission of the exhibits would be cumbersome (e.g., due to file size), the movant need not email the exhibit files to Chambers but should instead state in the email that the motion exhibits are available on ECF.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Sealing & Redaction Procedures

Confidential Materials may be redacted or filed under seal only as the Court directs upon appropriate application or as required by FRCP 5.2.

All Confidential Materials filed with the Court may be redacted or filed under seal only as the Court directs upon appropriate application by either party or as required by Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 5.2, which describes sensitive information that must be redacted from public court filings.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 3 | E. Requests to File Materials Under Seal

A party seeking to file redacted material based on a Confidential designation must request leave by letter motion explaining the reasons for sealing.

Any party wishing to file in redacted form any pleading, motion, memorandum, exhibit, or other document, or any portion thereof, based on a party's designation of information as Confidential, must make a specific request to the Court by letter motion explaining the reasons for seeking to file that submission under seal.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 3 | E. Requests to File Materials Under Seal

A pending sealing application does not toll deadlines; parties must file the redacted version on ECF, serve the unredacted papers on opposing parties, and provide courtesy copies of the unredacted version to Chambers.

The pendency of the application to seal does not affect any deadlines that may govern the proposed filing. The parties shall comply with such deadlines by filing the redacted version on ECF, serving the unredacted papers at issue on any opposing parties, and providing courtesy copies of the unredacted version to Chambers.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 4 | E. Requests to File Materials Under Seal

The letter motion to seal must be filed in public view, explain the reasons for sealing, and exclude the confidential information; supporting papers are filed separately and may be sealed or redacted only to the extent necessary.

The letter motion must be filed in public view, must explain the particular reasons for seeking to file that information under seal, and should not include confidential information sought to be filed under seal. Supporting papers must be filed separately and may be filed under seal or redacted only to the extent necessary to safeguard information to be filed under seal.

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Page 4 | E. Requests to File Materials Under Seal

If sealing is approved no further submissions are required; if denied in part, the party must refile the document with modified redactions as directed by the Court.

If the Court approves the filing under seal, no further submissions shall be required. If the Court denies, in part, the motion for filing under seal, the party who made the submission shall be required to refile the document with modified redactions as directed by the Court.

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Page 4 | E. Requests to File Materials Under Seal

The filing party must publicly file the redacted document and electronically file under seal the unredacted document with the proposed redactions highlighted.

The filing party shall also (a) publicly file the document with the proposed redactions, and (b) electronically file under seal a copy of the unredacted document with the proposed redactions highlighted.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 4 | E. Requests to File Materials Under Seal

The proposed sealed document must be contemporaneously filed under seal on ECF and electronically related to the letter motion, with a public docket text that excludes confidential information.

The proposed sealed document must be contemporaneously filed under seal in the ECF system and electronically related to the letter motion. The summary docket text, but not the sealed document, will be open to public inspection and should not include confidential information sought to be filed under seal.

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Page 4 | E. Requests to File Materials Under Seal

Parties must meet and confer with opposing parties before seeking to file sealed or redacted documents.

Any party seeking to file a document under seal or in redacted form shall proceed as follows: i. Meet and Confer. The party seeking leave to file sealed or redacted materials should meet and confer with any opposing party (or any third party seeking confidential treatment of the information) in advance to narrow the scope of the redaction or sealing request.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Redactions or sealing of public court filings require court approval unless permitted by Rule 9.A.

Except for redactions permitted by Rule 9.A, all redactions or sealing of public court filings require Court approval. To be approved, any redaction or sealing of a court filing must be narrowly tailored to serve whatever purpose justifies the redaction or sealing and must otherwise be consistent with the presumption in favor of public access to judicial documents. See, e.g., Lugosch v. Pyramid Co. of Onondaga, 435 F.3d 110, 119-20 (2d Cir. 2006). In general, the parties’ consent, or the fact that information is subject to a confidentiality agreement between litigants, is not sufficient to overcome the presumption in favor of public access to judicial documents. See, e.g., In re Gen. Motors LLC Ignition Switch Litig., No. 14-MD-2543 (JMF), 2015 WL 4750774, at *4 (S.D.N.Y. Aug. 11, 2015).

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Sealed/redacted motions must comply with Rule 9.

When leave is sought to file a motion under seal or with redactions, the parties must comply with Rule 9.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Redacted documents require a letter-motion filed in public view, with the redacted version publicly filed and the unredacted version filed under seal on ECF.

iii. Redacted Document(s). Where a party wishes to file a document in redacted form, the party shall electronically file a letter-motion seeking leave to file a document in redacted form on ECF in accordance with Standing Order 19-MC-583 and Section 6 of the S.D.N.Y. Electronic Case Filing Rules and Instructions. The letter-motion itself shall be filed in public view, should explain the reasons for seeking to file the document in redacted form, and should not include confidential information. At the same time, the party shall: (1) publicly file on ECF and electronically relate to the letter-motion a copy of the document with the proposed redactions; and (2) file under seal on ECF (with the appropriate level of restriction) and electronically relate to the motion an unredacted copy of the document with the proposed redactions highlighted.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Parties may redact sensitive information and information requiring caution without court approval, following specific formatting rules.

Without prior permission from the Court, parties may redact two categories of information from public court filings: “sensitive information,” and information requiring “caution.” Unless necessary, parties should not include in public filings the five categories of “sensitive information” (i.e., social security numbers [use the last four digits only], names of minor children [use the initials only], dates of birth [use the year only], financial account numbers [use the last four digits only], and home addresses [use the City and State only]). Without Court approval, parties may also redact from public filings the six categories of information requiring “caution” described in the Privacy Policy (i.e., any personal identifying number, medical records [including information regarding treatment and diagnosis], employment history, individual financial information, proprietary or trade secret information, and information regarding an individual’s cooperation with the Government).

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Sealed documents require a letter-motion filed in public view, with the sealed document filed separately under seal on ECF.

ii. Sealed Document(s). The party shall electronically file a letter-motion seeking leave to file a document under seal on ECF in accordance with Standing Order 19-MC-583 and Section 6 of the S.D.N.Y. Electronic Case Filing Rules and Instructions. The letter-motion itself shall be filed in public view, should explain the reasons for seeking to file the document under seal, and should not include confidential information. The proposed sealed document shall be separately and contemporaneously filed under seal on ECF (with the appropriate level of restriction) and electronically related to the motion (or to the relevant Court order, if the Court previously granted leave to file the document under seal). Note that the summary docket text, but not the document itself, will be open to public inspection and, thus, should not include confidential information sought to be filed under seal.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Parties unable to file electronically under seal may email letter-motions to chambers with specific formatting requirements.

iv. Submission by Email. Any party unable to comply with the requirement for electronic filing under seal on ECF, or who believes that a particular document should not be electronically filed at all, shall file a letter-motion by email, seeking leave of the Court to file in a different manner. Such letter-motions may be emailed to ReardenNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov as text-searchable PDF attachments, with copies simultaneously delivered to all counsel. In the subject line, the cover email should state clearly: (1) the caption of the case, including the lead party names and docket number; and (2) a brief description of the contents of the letter. Parties shall not include substantive communications in the body of the email. Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, letter-motions seeking leave to file in a different manner shall not exceed five double-spaced pages.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Filing Bundling Requirements

Related cases must include both docket numbers in all filings.

After an action has been accepted as related to a prior filing, all future court papers and correspondence must contain the docket number of the new filing, as well as the docket number of the case to which it is related.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Summary judgment generally not available in non-jury cases.

Absent good cause, the Court ordinarily will not permit summary judgment practice in a non-jury case.

Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases

Pre-Motion Conference Requirements

For non-discovery motions, the moving party must submit a letter motion in accordance with Individual Practice I.B to arrange a pre-motion conference.

To arrange a pre-motion conference for non-discovery matters, the moving party shall submit a letter motion in accordance with Individual Practice I.B.

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Page 2 | II. Motions - Motions other than Discovery Motions

Before raising a discovery dispute with the Court, a party must first confer in good faith with the opposing party, in person or by telephone, as required by Local Rule 37.2 as modified.

Any party wishing to raise a discovery dispute with the Court must first confer in good faith with the opposing party, in person or by telephone, in an effort to resolve the dispute.

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Page 2 | II. Motions - Discovery Motions

Pre-motion letters proposing a briefing schedule are required for motions returnable before or referred to Judge Willis, except for pro hac vice, pro se incarcerated litigant, reconsideration/reargument, new trial, in limine, Fed. R. App. P. 4(a)(4)(A), recusal, habeas, order to show cause, and Rule 12(b)(6) motions filed in lieu of an Answer.

Pre-motion letters seeking a conference should propose a briefing schedule and are required where the proposed motion is returnable before Judge Willis, or where the proposed motion has been referred to Judge Willis, except that no pre-motion letter is required for (i) motions for admission pro hac vice, (ii) motions by litigants in actions where a party is both pro se and incarcerated, (iii) motions for reconsideration or reargument, (iv) motions for a new trial, (v) motions in limine, (vii) motions listed in Fed. R. App. P. 4(a)(4)(A), (viii) motions for recusal, (ix) habeas corpus petitions, (x) applications made by order to show cause, and (xi) Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 12(b)(6) motions to dismiss in lieu of an Answer.

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Page 2 | II. Motions - A. Pre-Motion Conferences Letters in Civil Cases

Sur-reply memoranda will not be accepted unless the party first obtains permission of the Court.

Sur-reply memoranda will not be accepted without prior permission of the Court.

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Page 3 | Memoranda of Law

Before filing a letter with the Court, the parties are expected to meet and confer regarding a briefing schedule for any anticipated motion.

In advance of filing a letter with the Court, the Parties are expected to meet and confer regarding a briefing schedule for any anticipated motion.

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Page 2 | II. Motions - A. Pre-Motion Conferences Letters in Civil Cases

Before filing the letter seeking leave to move for summary judgment, the parties must meet and confer and prepare a joint submission of undisputed facts, or submit a separate letter explaining why they cannot.

At the meet and confer held before filing the letter seeking leave to move for summary judgment, the Parties should discuss and prepare a joint submission indicating all facts that are not in dispute. If for any reason the Parties are unable to do so, they should submit a separate letter explaining why they should be relieved of that obligation.

The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.

Page 3 | B. Summary Judgement Motions

Pre-motion letters required for most motions before Judge Willis except specified exemptions

Pre-motion letters seeking a conference should propose a briefing schedule and are required where the proposed motion is returnable before Judge Willis, or where the proposed motion has been referred to Judge Willis, except that no pre-motion letter is required for (i) motions for admission pro hac vice, (ii) motions by litigants in actions where a party is both pro se and incarcerated, (iii) motions for reconsideration or reargument, (iv) motions for a new trial, (v) motions in limine, (vii) motions listed in Fed. R. App. P. 4(a)(4)(A), (viii) motions for recusal, (ix) habeas corpus petitions, (x) applications made by order to show cause, and (xi) Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 12(b)(6) motions to dismiss in lieu of an Answer.

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Page 2 | II. Motions

Discovery disputes require meet-and-confer, then 3-page letter motion, 3-day response window, waiver for late response

Any party wishing to raise a discovery dispute with the Court must first confer in good faith with the opposing party, in person or by telephone, in an effort to resolve the dispute. If the meet-and-confer does not resolve the dispute, a party may submit a letter motion no longer than 3 single-spaced pages, explaining the nature of the dispute and requesting a conference. Such letter motion must state when the meet-and-confer occurred. Any responsive letter should be submitted within 3 business days after submission of the letter motion and should be no longer than 3 single-spaced pages. Failure to respond within 3 business days will result in a waiver of any objections. The Court will endeavor to resolve the issue without a conference and without the need for formal briefing. However, if formal briefing is required, the Court will either schedule a conference or set a schedule for such briefing.

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Page 2 | II. Motions

Non-discovery pre-motion conferences require letter motion following Individual Practice I.B requirements

To arrange a pre-motion conference for non-discovery matters, the moving party shall submit a letter motion in accordance with Individual Practice I.B. The letter motion should set forth the nature of the anticipated

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Page 2 | II. Motions

One week before conference, file joint Case Management Plan and Scheduling Order on ECF, plus joint letter and email courtesy copy of pleadings.

The Notice will direct the parties to file on ECF, approximately one week prior to the conference, a joint proposed Case Management Plan and Scheduling Order (using Judge Rearden’s fillable Civil Case Management Plan and Scheduling Order), as well as a joint letter. At that time, one courtesy copy of the pleadings should also be emailed to ReardenNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov.

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Page 3 | 3. Conferences - B. Initial Case Management Conference

Good faith meet-and-confer required before filing discovery dispute letter-motion.

Any party wishing to raise a discovery dispute with the Court must first confer in good faith with the opposing party—in person, virtually, or by telephone—in an effort to resolve the dispute. Conferring in writing does not satisfy this requirement.

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Page 3 | 3. Conferences - C. Discovery Disputes

Good faith meet-and-confer required before TRO application unless Rule 65(b) requirements met.

Unless the requirements of Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(b) are met, the movant shall confer with its adversary before making an application for a temporary restraining order or other emergency relief.

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Page 4 | 4. Applications for Temporary Restraining Orders - B.

Motion for default judgment required under FRCP 55(b)(2) and Local Rule 55.2(b); order to show cause not permitted.

File a motion for default judgment pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 55(b)(2) and Local Civil Rule 55.2(b). A party seeking a default judgment should not proceed by order to show cause.

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Page 16 | DEFAULT JUDGMENT PROCEDURE

Motions in limine opposition due within 7 days, replies not permitted.

Motions addressing any evidentiary issues or other matters that should be resolved in limine. Opposition papers shall be filed within seven days thereafter. Replies will not be entertained.

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Pre-motion conferences required only for discovery-related motions.

A pre-motion conference is required only for discovery-related motions (including discovery letter-motions addressed in Rule 3.C). A pre-motion conference will not be held for any other motion.

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Responses to pretrial memorandum due within one week.

Responses or oppositions to those legal issues shall be filed within one week thereafter.

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Parties must not attend the pre-conference phone call.

The Parties themselves should not attend the call.

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If adversary notified but doesn’t consent to TRO, application must be heard at mutually agreeable time.

If the movant’s adversary has been notified but does not consent to temporary injunctive relief, the movant must bring the application to the Court at a mutually agreeable time, so that the Court may hear argument from both sides in reaching a determination.

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Page 4 | 4. Applications for Temporary Restraining Orders - D.

Initial Rule 16 conference scheduled within one month of Answer filing.

The Court will generally schedule a Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 16 conference to take place within one month of the filing of an Answer to the Complaint.

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Page 3 | 3. Conferences - B. Initial Case Management Conference

Pre-conference phone call scheduled approximately one week before conference.

The Court will schedule a pre-conference phone call between the Court and Counsel for the Parties approximately a week before the settlement conference.

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Adjournment & Extension Requirements

Requests for adjournments or extensions of time must be filed on ECF as letter motions at least 2 business days before the original deadline.

All requests for adjournments or extensions of time must be filed on ECF as letter motions at least 2 business days before the original deadline.

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Page 2 | I. Communications with Chambers - C. Requests for Adjournments or Extensions of Time

Adjournment and extension letter motions must state the original dates, the number of previous requests, the reason for the request, and the adversary's consent position.

The letter motion must state: (1) the original date(s); (2) the number of previous requests for adjournment or extension; (3) the reason for the extension; and (4) whether the adversary consents and, if not, the reasons given by the adversary for refusing to consent.

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Page 2 | I. Communications with Chambers - C. Requests for Adjournments or Extensions of Time

Emergency adjournment or extension requests should be emailed to chambers and filed on the docket citing the nature of the emergency.

Emergency requests should be emailed to WillisNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov and filed on the docket citing the nature of the emergency.

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Page 2 | I. Communications with Chambers - C. Requests for Adjournments or Extensions of Time

Adjournment/extension requests must be ECF letter motions filed 2 business days before deadline with specific required elements

All requests for adjournments or extensions of time must be filed on ECF as letter motions at least 2 business days before the original deadline. The letter motion must state: (1) the original date(s); (2) the number of previous requests for adjournment or extension; (3) the reason for the extension; and (4) whether the adversary consents and, if not, the reasons given by the adversary for refusing to consent. Emergency requests should be emailed to WillisNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov and filed on the docket citing the nature of the emergency.

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Page 2 | I. Communications with Chambers

Revised Scheduling Order in Word format required if extension affects other deadlines.

If the requested adjournment or extension would affect any other scheduled deadlines or dates, a proposed Revised Scheduling Order must be attached. A Microsoft Word version of the Revised Scheduling Order must be emailed to ReardenNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov.

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Extension/adjournment requests must be made at least 2 business days before deadline.

All requests for extensions of time or adjournment of motions, pretrial conferences, or other matters must be made not less than two business days before the scheduled deadline or date.

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Late extension requests are ordinarily denied.

Requests for extensions made after the expiration of the original deadline or date will ordinarily be denied.

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Extension requests for bankruptcy appeal briefs must be submitted 5 business days before due date.

Counsel may seek to extend the default deadlines by submitting a stipulation on ECF (with a courtesy copy in Microsoft Word format emailed to ReardenNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov), not later than five business days before the brief is due.

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Extension requests must include original date, previous requests, reasons, adversary consent, and impact on other deadlines.

All such requests must be made in writing and filed on ECF as letter-motions, and should state: (1) the original date; (2) the number of previous requests for adjournment or extensions of time; (3) whether those previous requests were granted or denied; (4) the reason(s) for the requested extension; (5) whether the adversary consents, and, if not, the reason(s) given by the adversary for declining to consent; and (6) the date of the parties’ next scheduled appearance before the Court, as well as any other existing deadlines, and whether the requested adjournment or extension would affect those other deadlines or any other scheduled dates.

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Date changes required if adjournment enables necessary discovery or allows client to attend in person instead of by phone.

In addition, the parties are required to seek a change in the date if (a) an adjournment would permit necessary discovery or exchange of information that would make the conference more fruitful, or (b) a client who would otherwise be permitted to participate by telephone would be available to attend the conference were it held on another date.

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Page 4 | Adjournments of Settlement Conferences

Adjournment requests require consultation with all parties, filing letter-motion on ECF, and Court approval.

To seek a change in date, the Party should first consult with all other counsel as to their and their clients' (and insurers' if applicable) availability on at least three dates. The Party must then file forthwith on ECF, as a letter-motion, a request to adjourn the settlement conference to the agreed-upon date and time. The conference date will not be deemed changed until Chambers receives the letter-motion and it is approved by the Court.

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Page 5 | Adjournments of Settlement Conferences

Settled cases before conference require letter-motion on ECF to adjourn sine die.

If all parties advise the Court in writing that the case has settled prior to the scheduled conference, I will ordinarily adjourn the conference sine die. In these circumstances, the parties should file a letter-motion on ECF requesting an adjournment of the settlement conference sine die, and the Court will then issue a text-only order.

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Page 5 | Adjournments of Settlement Conferences

Extension request for service must be filed via ECF letter.

If more than two business days are required to complete service of the motion for default judgment and supporting papers, the plaintiff should file a letter on ECF explaining why additional time is necessary and when the plaintiff anticipates service will be completed.

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Page 17 | Default Judgment Procedure

Extension requests for magistrate-referred matters go to the magistrate judge.

Requests for extensions regarding a matter that has been referred to a Magistrate Judge shall be addressed to the assigned Magistrate Judge.

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Late adjournment requests must include reasons and be filed promptly via ECF letter-motion.

Otherwise, counsel should set forth the reasons for seeking the change in date and must make the application by letter-motion as soon as counsel becomes aware of the need of or potential need for the change.

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Page 4 | Adjournments of Settlement Conferences

Last-minute adjournment requests are strongly disfavored and unlikely to be granted.

Requests for an adjournment on the eve of the scheduled settlement conference are strongly disfavored and not likely to be granted.

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Page 4 | Adjournments of Settlement Conferences

Settlement conference dates may be changed without cause if requested at least one week in advance via ECF letter-motion.

A Party may make a written application by letter-motion filed on ECF consistent with Rule I.C. of the Court’s Individual Practices to adjourn or advance the date of the settlement conference without providing cause if the application for a change in date is made at least one week prior to the scheduled conference date.

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Page 4 | Adjournments of Settlement Conferences

Chambers Communication Rules

For an anticipated late-night or weekend warrant, counsel must email WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov in advance.

If you anticipate the need for a late-night or weekend warrant, please send Judge Willis an email at WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov, and call Judge Willis on her personal cell phone, available on the criminal duty roster.

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Page 1 | I. Criminal Applications - c. Late-night or weekend warrants

Applications for PEN registers, NDOs, and OCs that require Judge Willis's review and signature must be emailed to WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov.

All applications requiring Judge Willis's review and signature should be sent to WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov.

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Page 1 | I. Criminal Applications - b. PEN Registers, NDOs, and OCs

Arrest and search warrant applications (including cell site, triggerfish, and GPS tracking applications) must be emailed to WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov.

Arrest and search warrants, including applications for cell site information, triggerfish, and GPS tracking, should be emailed to WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov.

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Page 1 | I. Criminal Applications - a. Warrants

Pro se parties may not call Chambers or send any document or filing directly to Chambers.

A pro se party may not call Chambers or send any document or filing directly to Chambers.

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Page 1 | I. Communications with Chambers - Pro se Parties

The required Excel sheet must be emailed to WillisNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov, copying all opposing counsel or the unrepresented pro se litigant.

The Excel sheet should be emailed to WillisNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov and should CC all opposing counsel or the pro se litigant if they are unrepresented.

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Page 5 | II. Motions

Parties must not copy the Court on correspondence exchanged between counsel or the parties.

Parties shall not copy the Court on correspondence sent between counsel or the Parties.

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Page 1 | I. Communications with Chambers - A. Letters

Electronic device requests must be made by completing the court's form and emailing it to Chambers (copying opposing counsel) by close of business the day before the appearance, without docketing.

To the extent Parties or counsel need electronic devices during any proceedings before the Court, the requesting party should complete the form at https://nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Electronic%20Dev.pdf and return it via email to Chambers, copying opposing counsel. Such electronic device request need not be filed on the docket. Electronic device requests should be submitted by close of business the day before any scheduled appearance.

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Page 3 | D. Electronic Device Requests

If a deposition dispute cannot be resolved after good-faith efforts, the parties should jointly call Chambers at (212) 805-0244 so staff can relay the dispute to Judge Willis for resolution by video conference or written order.

After doing so, if the dispute cannot be resolved, the Parties should jointly contact the Court at (212) 805-0244. Chambers staff will take a message summarizing the dispute and check to see if Judge Willis is available to resolve the issue either through a video conference or a written order.

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Page 5 | III. Pre-Trial Practice - C. Deposition Disputes

Questions from pro se parties can be directed to the Pro Se Intake Unit at (212) 805-0175.

Questions can be directed to the Pro Se Intake Unit at (212) 805-0175.

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Page 1 | I. Communications with Chambers - Pro se Parties

Requests for reasonable accommodations on account of disability or religion may be emailed to Judge Willis's chambers email address.

Requests for reasonable accommodations on account of disability or religion with respect to the Court's rules or in connection with any proceeding before Judge Willis may be emailed to WillisNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov.

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Page 1 | Footnote 1

For docketing, scheduling, and calendar matters, parties may call Chambers at (212) 805-0244 between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM or email WillisNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov.

For docketing, scheduling and calendar matters, call Chambers at (212) 805-0244 between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM or email Chambers at WillisNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov.

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Page 2 | I. Communications with Chambers - E. Calendar Matters

Emergency adjournment/extension requests must be emailed to chambers and filed on docket

Emergency requests should be emailed to WillisNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov and filed on the docket citing the nature of the emergency.

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Page 2 | I. Communications with Chambers

Deposition disputes: attempt to proceed, don't unilaterally terminate, jointly contact court

If a dispute arises during a deposition, the Parties should attempt to proceed through as much of the deposition as possible that is unaffected by the dispute. Parties should not unilaterally terminate a deposition and the Court expects good faith efforts to resolve any disputes. After doing so, if the dispute cannot be resolved, the Parties should jointly contact the Court at (212) 805-0244. Chambers staff will take a message summarizing the dispute and check to see if Judge Willis is available to resolve the issue either through a video conference or a written order.

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Page 5 | III. Pre-Trial Practice C. Deposition Disputes

TRO filer must email Chambers with filing notice and requested time frame; copy all parties if on notice.

The movant should then email ReardenNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov, giving notice of the filing and the time frame requested for Court action. Where the motion is made on notice, all parties should be copied on the email.

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Page 4 | 4. Applications for Temporary Restraining Orders - E.

Email completed Model Court Order to Chambers 5 business days before trial for electronic device permission under Standing Order M10-468.

Attorneys’ use of personal electronic devices (including mobile phones) and general purpose computing devices (such as laptops and tablets) within the Courthouse and its environs is governed by Standing Order M10-468. When Court permission is required under the Standing Order, attorneys seeking to bring electronic devices to the Court should email a completed Model Court Order to ReardenNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov five business days before the relevant trial or hearing.

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Page 12 | Policy on the Use of Electronic Devices

Faxes to chambers are prohibited.

Faxes to Chambers are not permitted.

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Call chambers directly for emergencies; email to request contact information.

For situations requiring immediate attention from the Court, counsel should call Chambers directly; in such situations, parties should email ReardenNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov requesting the Court’s contact information.

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All communications with chambers must be via ECF letter or letter-motion.

Communications with Chambers, including requests for extensions or adjournments, shall be by letter or letter-motion filed on ECF in accordance with these Rules and Practices.

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Criminal warrants should be emailed with agent/AUSA availability times.

Warrants. Arrest and search warrants, including applications for cell site information, triggerfish, and GPS tracking, should be emailed to WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov. The cover email should specify the time that the agent and AUSA are available to swear out the complaint or affidavit.

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Page 1 | Criminal Applications

Plea materials must be emailed 24 hours in advance.

Pleas. At least 24 hours in advance of a plea, the indictment/information, plea agreement, a summary of the elements of the offense(s), and the maximum and mandatory penalties for each crime/count should be emailed to WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov.

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Page 1 | Pleas

PEN Registers, NDOs, and OCs should be emailed to chambers.

PEN Registers, NDOs, and OCs. All applications requiring Judge Willis’s review and signature should be sent to WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov.

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Page 1 | Criminal Applications

Late-night/weekend warrants require email and phone call to Judge.

Late-night or weekend warrants. If you anticipate the need for a late-night or weekend warrant, please send Judge Willis an email at WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov, and call Judge Willis on her personal cell phone, available on the criminal duty roster.

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Page 1 | Criminal Applications

Government agencies must send knowledgeable representative or make official available by phone if over 100 miles away.

When any government agency is a Party, counsel of record must be accompanied by a knowledgeable representative from the agency (or, if the agency official with knowledge is more than 100 miles from the Courthouse, the official must be available to participate by telephone).

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Page 3 | Attendance of Parties Required

Telephone adjournment requests are never accepted; must be filed via ECF letter-motion.

In no circumstances will a telephone request for an adjournment be entertained.

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Page 4 | Adjournments of Settlement Conferences

Email Chambers at ReardenNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov to request upload link for trial materials.

The parties shall email ReardenNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov requesting a link to upload these materials.

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Page 11 | Trial Exhibits and Demonstrative Aids

Contact Courtroom Deputy for docketing, scheduling, or calendar matters.

For questions that cannot be answered by reference to these Rules or the S.D.N.Y. Local Rules, or for docketing, scheduling, or calendar matters, counsel may contact the Courtroom Deputy, Khalilah Williams.

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Hand deliveries go to Court Security Officers at Worth Street entrance.

Hand deliveries should be left with the Court Security Officers at the Worth Street entrance of the Courthouse. If a hand delivery requires the Court’s immediate attention, ask the Court Security Officers to notify Chambers that an urgent package has arrived.

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Parties more than 100 miles away may attend by phone with advance written application.

If a Party resides more than 100 miles from the Courthouse and it would be a great hardship for the Party to attend in person, upon written application in advance of the conference in the form of a letter-motion to be filed on ECF, I will sometimes excuse that Party’s presence but I will require that Party to be available by telephone throughout the settlement conference.

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Page 3 | Attendance of Parties Required

Junior Lawyer Participation Incentives

Oral argument requests are more likely to be granted when a lawyer who graduated law school within the previous five years is identified to argue, and junior attorneys are invited to argue motions they helped prepare.

Junior members of legal teams representing clients are invited to argue motions they have helped prepare and to question witnesses with whom they have worked. Firms are encouraged to provide this opportunity to junior attorneys for training purposes; a request for oral argument is more likely to be granted if a party identifies a lawyer to argue the motion who has graduated law school within the previous five years.

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Page 3 | C. Oral Argument on Motions

Junior members of legal teams are invited to address the Court at case management conferences so firms can give them training opportunities.

Junior members of legal teams are invited to address the Court at case management conferences. Firms are encouraged to provide this opportunity to junior attorneys for training purposes.

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Page 5 | III. Pre-Trial Practice - B. Case Management Conferences

Junior attorneys invited to address court at case management conferences

Junior members of legal teams are invited to address the Court at case management conferences. Firms are encouraged to provide this opportunity to junior attorneys for training purposes.

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Page 5 | III. Pre-Trial Practice B. Case Management Conferences

Court encourages junior attorneys (under 5 years) to participate in courtroom proceedings and allows multiple attorneys to speak.

To assist in training the next generation of attorneys, the Court strongly encourages relatively inexperienced attorneys—in particular, attorneys with less than five years’ experience—to participate in all courtroom proceedings. Further, the Court is amenable to having multiple attorneys speak on behalf of a single party if doing so creates an opportunity for a lawyer who is relatively inexperienced.

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Page 4 | 3. Conferences - D. Participation by Junior Attorneys

About United States Magistrate Judge Jennifer E. Willis

**Magistrate Judge Jennifer E. Willis** was appointed to the Southern District of New York on February 11, 2022, succeeding Judge Margaret Fox. Before joining the bench, Judge Willis served as Director of Strategic Litigation at the Federal Defenders of New York, which she joined as an Assistant Federal Defender in 2015. In that role she led a litigation-based anti-racism initiative addressing systemic racial disparities in criminal cases. She began her career as a public defender in Massachusetts and Illinois before joining the Federal Defenders of New York. **Education** - New York University School of Law, J.D., 2000 - Columbia University, B.A. in political science, 1997 **Career** - U.S. Magistrate Judge, Southern District of New York (2022–present) - Director of Strategic Litigation, Federal Defenders of New York (2020–2022) - Assistant Federal Defender, Federal Defenders of New York (2015–2020) - Public Defender, Cook County Public Defender's Office, Illinois - Staff attorney, Committee for Public Counsel Services, Massachusetts

**Courthouse:** Thurgood Marshall United States Courthouse, 40 Foley Square, New York, NY 10007 **Courtroom:** 228 **Phone:** (212) 805-0244 **Fax:** (212) 805-7906 **Chambers Staff** - Scheduling/Contact: WillisNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov

Common questions about Judge Jennifer E. Willis's rules

Are courtesy copies required for Judge Jennifer E. Willis?

Details: 1 copy, by email. Courtesy copies of trial exhibits must be emailed and submitted in three-ring binder.

Does Judge Jennifer E. Willis require a pre-motion conference or letter before filing a motion?

Yes. A pre-motion letter is required for covered motions. Pre-motion letters required for most motions before Judge Willis except specified exemptions

View ruleSource: page 2, section II. Motions

What page or word limits apply before Judge Jennifer E. Willis?

Judge Jennifer E. Willis' rule states these limits: attorney: 3 pages. Letter motions (adjournment, extension, pre-motion conference, sealing, settlement) max 3 single-spaced pages, no courtesy copies unless exhibits >25 pages

View ruleSource: page 1, section I. Communications with Chambers

What page or word limits apply to letter motion before Judge Jennifer E. Willis?

Judge Jennifer E. Willis' rule states these limits: attorney: 6 pages. Discovery dispute letter-motion limited to 6 double-spaced pages.

View ruleSource: page 3, section 3. Conferences - C. Discovery Disputes

What formatting rules apply to filings before Judge Jennifer E. Willis?

Judge Jennifer E. Willis' formatting rule includes single spacing. Letters to Court must be filed on ECF (except settlement/in camera), max 3 single-spaced pages, no copying Court on counsel correspondence

View ruleSource: page 1, section I. Communications with Chambers

What must be included with motion filings before Judge Jennifer E. Willis?

The rule requires excel sheet. Excel sheet required for specific motions with email submission to chambers

View ruleSource: page 5, section G. Motions Requiring Submission of an Excel Sheet

What must be included with case management plan filings before Judge Jennifer E. Willis?

The rule requires rule 26 f meeting report. Proposed Case Management Plan required one week before initial conference

View ruleSource: page 5, section III. Pre-Trial Practice A. Initial Case Management Conference

How may parties contact Judge Jennifer E. Willis' chambers?

The rule addresses email communications with Judge Jennifer E. Willis' chambers. The rule lists email WillisNYSDChambers@nysd.uscourts.gov. Emergency adjournment/extension requests must be emailed to chambers and filed on docket

View ruleSource: page 2, section I. Communications with Chambers

How does Judge Jennifer E. Willis handle sealed or redacted filings?

A motion to seal is required for covered sealed filings before Judge Jennifer E. Willis. Sealed/redacted motions must comply with Rule 9.

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge Jennifer E. Willis?

Requests should be made at least 2 business days in advance when this rule applies before Judge Jennifer E. Willis. The request must include original date, number of previous requests, reason for request, and adversary position. Adjournment/extension requests must be ECF letter motions filed 2 business days before deadline with specific required elements

View ruleSource: page 2, section I. Communications with Chambers

Does Judge Jennifer E. Willis require motion papers to be bundled?

Yes. Judge Jennifer E. Willis requires bundling for covered papers. Related cases must include both docket numbers in all filings.

Is electronic filing required before Judge Jennifer E. Willis?

Yes. Electronic filing is required for the covered filings. Letter motions must be filed on ECF in accordance with the S.D.N.Y. Local Rules.

View ruleSource: page 1, section I. Communications with Chambers - B. Letter Motions

What filing deadlines apply to pre plea submission filings before Judge Jennifer E. Willis?

Pre-plea submissions must be emailed to WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov at least 24 hours before the plea.

View ruleSource: page 1, section II. Pleas

What rule applies to service by mail for the court before Judge Jennifer E. Willis?

The rule addresses service method, recipient, or timing requirements. Details: method: service by mail, recipient: the court. Pro se parties must mail all communications with the Court to the Pro Se Intake Unit at 500 Pearl St., Room 230, New York, NY 10007.

View ruleSource: page 1, section I. Communications with Chambers - Pro se Parties

Does Judge Jennifer E. Willis encourage junior lawyer participation?

Yes. Judge Jennifer E. Willis's rules include a junior lawyer participation incentive. Junior attorneys invited to address court at case management conferences

View ruleSource: page 5, section III. Pre-Trial Practice B. Case Management Conferences
Complete rules summary for Judge Jennifer E. Willis

Letter motions (adjournment, extension, pre-motion conference, sealing, settlement) max 3 single-spaced pages, no courtesy copies unless exhibits >25 pages

Courtesy copies of trial exhibits must be emailed and submitted in three-ring binder.

Adjournment/extension requests must be ECF letter motions filed 2 business days before deadline with specific required elements

Emergency adjournment/extension requests must be emailed to chambers and filed on docket

Pre-motion letters required for most motions before Judge Willis except specified exemptions

Discovery disputes require meet-and-confer, then 3-page letter motion, 3-day response window, waiver for late response

Non-discovery pre-motion conferences require letter motion following Individual Practice I.B requirements

Excel sheet required for specific motions with email submission to chambers

Proposed Case Management Plan required one week before initial conference

Pro se parties use different template and submit to Pro Se Intake Unit

Lead counsel expected to attend initial conference; accommodations for disability/incarcerated parties

Deposition disputes: attempt to proceed, don't unilaterally terminate, jointly contact court

Model protective order available; comparison required for non-model orders

Model ESI Plan available; parties should agree early

Courtesy copy of hearing transcript required for chambers (pro se exempt)

Joint Pretrial Order required within 30 days of discovery completion with specific content requirements

Junior attorneys invited to address court at case management conferences

Letters to Court must be filed on ECF (except settlement/in camera), max 3 single-spaced pages, no copying Court on counsel correspondence

No courtesy copies for letter motions unless exhibits exceed 25 pages

Arrest and search warrant applications (including cell site, triggerfish, and GPS tracking applications) must be emailed to WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov.

The cover email for a warrant application must state when the agent and AUSA are available to swear out the complaint or affidavit.

Applications for PEN registers, NDOs, and OCs that require Judge Willis's review and signature must be emailed to WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov.

For an anticipated late-night or weekend warrant, counsel must email WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov in advance.

Pre-plea submissions must be emailed to WillisCriminalDuty@nysd.uscourts.gov at least 24 hours before the plea.

A pre-plea submission must include the indictment/information, plea agreement, a summary of the elements of the offense(s), and the maximum and mandatory penalties for each crime/count.

Pre-sentence submissions in misdemeanor cases must be submitted no later than 2 weeks before the scheduled sentencing.

Bankruptcy appeals briefs must follow Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure.

Extension/adjournment requests must be made at least 2 business days before deadline.

Extension requests must include original date, previous requests, reasons, adversary consent, and impact on other deadlines.

Revised Scheduling Order in Word format required if extension affects other deadlines.

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