Judge Andrew S. Hanen
Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Document Limits
Courtesy Copies
All filings
- 1 copy • Hand Delivery • Same Day As Electronic Filing
- Promptly Upon Request
- Same Day As Electronic Filing
Courtesy copies
- 1 copy
- 1 copy • Upon Filing
- 2 copies • Immediately Upon Filing
- Not required
- Upon Filing
Deposition Proffer, Counter Proffer, Deposition Transcript
- 1 copy
Emergency Motion
- 1 copy • After Filing
- 1 copy • Immediately Upon Filing
Adjournments
- Motions for extension of deadlines in the Scheduling and Docket Control Order are not emergencies and may not be treated as such.
- Joint motions for continuances are not binding on the Court and will be granted only at the Court's discretion.
- All requests for extensions of discovery deadlines or postponement of trial must be signed by both the attorney and the party making the request.
- +15 more
Request must include
Communication
Chambers
Phone
Chambers
Phone
Chambers, Intake Unit
Phone
Clerk
Phone
Chambers
Clerk
Phone
Chambers
Letter via ECF
Intake Unit
Page & Word Limits4 rules
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
Motions are not to exceed twenty pages.
Summary: Motions are limited to 20 pages.
Motion
20 pages
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
All briefs, legal memorandum, motions, and pleadings of any kind shall be limited to 25 pages, unless permitted by the Court to exceed this limit.
Summary: All briefs, legal memoranda, motions, and pleadings are limited to 25 pages unless the Court permits exceeding that limit.
Brief
25 pages
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Motions are not to exceed twenty pages. 1) All briefs and memoranda of law must be concise, pertinent, and well organized. All briefs, legal memorandum, motions, and pleadings of any kind shall be limited to 20 pages, unless permitted by the Court to exceed this limit.
Summary: All motions, briefs, legal memoranda, and pleadings are limited to 20 pages, with court permission required to exceed.
20 pages
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The party seeking the conference must submit a one- to two-page letter to the Court with copies to all counsel and unrepresented parties, identifying the disputes and setting out the issues to be addressed.
Summary: Pre-motion letters are limited to 1-2 pages and must outline disputes and issues.
Letter
2 pages
Applies to: Attorney
Document Format Requirements17 rules
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Each party’s counsel must provide the Court with that party’s exhibits in a properly tabbed and indexed notebook.
Counsel for each party is required to provide the Court with a copy of that party’s exhibits in a properly tabbed and indexed notebook.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important
All pleadings, including plea agreements, should have numbered pages.
The pages of all pleadings (including plea agreements) are to be numbered so as to ease the review of the same by the Court and opposing counsel.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
Each requested instruction, definition, and interrogatory must be numbered and presented on a separate sheet of paper with the citation of authority upon which counsel rely.
Summary: Each requested instruction, definition, and interrogatory must be numbered, presented on a separate sheet of paper, and include the citation of authority upon which counsel rely.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
All exhibits must be marked and exchanged among counsel prior to trial. The offering party will mark his own exhibits with the party's name, case number, and exhibit number on each exhibit to be offered.
Summary: All exhibits must be marked and exchanged among counsel before trial, with the offering party marking each exhibit with the party's name, case number, and exhibit number.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
Announcements must be received in writing and shall always include how the court costs are to be divided.
Summary: Announcements of settlement must be received in writing.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
All appendices should contain a paginated table of contents and should be tabbed such that the Court can locate the materials more readily.
Summary: All appendices must be tabbed so the Court can locate the materials readily.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
If they are not e-filed in a format that may be used by the Court, counsel should email jury instructions to the Case Manager in Microsoft Word.
Summary: If jury instructions and interrogatories are not e-filed in a format usable by the Court, counsel should email them to the Case Manager in Microsoft Word.
DOCX
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Important?
Underline the names of corporations with publicly traded securities.
Summary: In the financial-interest disclosure list, the names of corporations with publicly traded securities must be underlined.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Note?
The Court prefers that deposition offers be presented in pagination order.
Summary: The Court prefers (but does not strictly require) that deposition offers be presented in pagination order.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The Southern District of Texas requires electronic filing of all pleadings. LR 5.1.
Summary: All pleadings must be electronically filed per Local Rule 5.1.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Leave of Court is required for the filing of over-sized or irregularly shaped documents which are not capable of being readily imaged by court personnel and equipment. Such documents should be filed electronically when possible.
Summary: Leave required for over-sized/irregular documents not readily imaged, with electronic filing preferred.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Leave of Court is required for the conventional filing of documents printed on both sides. Such documents should be filed electronically when possible.
Summary: Leave of Court required for conventional double-sided filing, with electronic filing preferred.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Leave of Court is required for the conventional filing of documents greater than 30 pages in length. Such documents should be filed electronically when possible.
Summary: Leave of Court required for conventional filing of documents over 30 pages, with electronic filing preferred.
Paper
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Each requested instruction, definition, and interrogatory must be numbered and presented on a separate sheet of paper with the citation of authority upon which counsel rely.
Summary: All requested jury instructions, definitions, and interrogatories must be numbered, placed on separate sheets, and include supporting authority citations.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Follow the form distributed by the Court, adapting it within reason to the size and type of case.
Summary: Joint Pretrial Order must follow the court-provided form, adapted reasonably for the case size and type.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
All exhibits must be marked and exchanged among counsel prior to trial. The offering party will mark his own exhibits with the party’s name, case number, and exhibit number on each exhibit to be offered.
Summary: Exhibits must be marked with party name, case number, and exhibit number, and exchanged among counsel before trial.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?
All appendices should contain a paginated table of contents and should be tabbed such that the Court can locate the materials more readily.
Summary: Appendices must include a paginated table of contents and be tabbed for easy navigation.
Document Filing Requirements162 rules
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
The Plaintiff must produce documents relied on to support a claim of willful violation.
f. Documents that the Plaintiff relies on to support a claim of willful violation.
Document Type
Plaintiff Initial Discovery
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
The Plaintiff must identify persons believed to know facts concerning the FLSA claims or defenses and briefly describe their knowledge.
a. Identify persons the Plaintiff believes to have knowledge of the facts concerning the FLSA Claim(s) or defenses, and a brief description of that knowledge.
Document Type
Plaintiff Initial Discovery
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
The Plaintiff must produce documents recording time worked that the Plaintiff created or maintained.
a. Documents created or maintained by the Plaintiff recording time worked.
Document Type
Plaintiff Initial Discovery
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
The Plaintiff must provide the Plaintiff’s title or position and briefly describe job duties during the relevant period.
c. The Plaintiff’s title or position and a brief description of the Plaintiff’s job duties for the relevant time period.
Document Type
Plaintiff Initial Discovery
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
The Plaintiff must produce documents recording wages or other compensation paid or unpaid by the Defendant that the Plaintiff created or maintained.
b. Documents created or maintained by the Plaintiff recording wages or other compensation paid or unpaid by the Defendant.
Document Type
Plaintiff Initial Discovery
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
The Plaintiff must produce all other documents relied on to support the Plaintiff’s FLSA claims.
g. All other documents that the Plaintiff relies on to support the Plaintiff’s FLSA Claim(s).
Document Type
Plaintiff Initial Discovery
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
The Plaintiff must provide Initial Discovery within 30 days after the Defendant submits a responsive pleading or motion, unless the court orders otherwise.
The Plaintiff’s Initial Discovery must be provided within 30 days after the Defendant has submitted a responsive pleading or motion, unless the court rules otherwise.
Document Type
Plaintiff Initial Discovery
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
The Defendant must provide Initial Discovery within 30 days after submitting a responsive pleading or motion, unless the court orders otherwise.
The Defendant’s Initial Discovery must be provided within 30 days after the Defendant has submitted a responsive pleading or motion, unless the court rules otherwise.
Document Type
Defendant Initial Discovery
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
The Defendant must produce documents relied on to support a claim that an alleged violation was in good faith.
d. Documents that the Defendant relies on to support a claim that any alleged violation was in good faith.
Document Type
Defendant Initial Discovery
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
The Plaintiff must compute each claimed damages category, stating applicable dates, unpaid-wage amounts, and the computation method, including applicable rates and hours.
e. A computation of each category of damages claimed by the Plaintiff, including a) applicable dates, b) amounts of claimed unpaid wages, and c) the method used for computation (including applicable rates and hours).
Document Type
Plaintiff Initial Discovery
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
The Defendant must produce any offer letters, employment agreements, or compensation agreements for the Plaintiff.
e. Any offer letters, employment agreements, or compensation agreements for the Plaintiff.
Document Type
Defendant Initial Discovery
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
The Plaintiff must provide the names of the Plaintiff’s supervisors during the relevant period.
f. The names of the Plaintiff’s supervisors during the relevant time period.
Document Type
Plaintiff Initial Discovery
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
If the Plaintiff complained to a government agency about the FLSA claims, the Plaintiff must identify each agency, report or complaint dates, and each report’s or complaint’s outcome or status.
g. If the Plaintiff reported or complained about the FLSA Claim(s) to any government agency, the identity of each such agency, the date(s) or such reports or complaints, and the outcome or status of each report or complaint.
Document Type
Plaintiff Initial Discovery
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
If the Plaintiff complained to the Defendant about an FLSA claim, the Plaintiff must state whether it was written or oral, when and to whom it was made, and any Defendant response.
h. If the Plaintiff reported or complained to the Defendant (including but not limited to supervisors or administrative departments such as human resources, payroll, timekeeping or benefits) about the any FLSA Claim(s), state whether the report or complaint was written or oral, when the report or complaint(s) was made, to whom any report or complaint(s) were made, and any response provided by the Defendant.
Document Type
Plaintiff Initial Discovery
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
The Defendant must produce time and pay records created or maintained for the Plaintiff.
a. Time and pay records created or maintained by the Defendant for the Plaintiff.
Document Type
Defendant Initial Discovery
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Motions must state any applicable Speedy Trial Act exceptions.
All motions shall set out any applicable exception(s) to the Speedy Trial Act.
Document Type
Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
All motions should be accompanied by a proposed order stating the specific relief sought.
A proposed order containing the specific relief sought should accompany all motions.
Document Type
Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Every motion must include a certificate of conference, certificate of service, and an appropriate order.
Motions must contain a certificate of conference, certificate of service, and an appropriate order.
Document Type
Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Motions to suppress must be specific and comply with local rules or they will be struck.
Motions to Suppress must be specific and must be in compliance with the local rules. Motions not in conformity therewith will be struck.
Document Type
Motion To Suppress
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Motions must state relevant Speedy Trial Act exceptions where applicable.
All motions shall set out the relevant exception(s) to the Speedy Trial Act, where applicable.
Document Type
Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Before final pretrial, the offering party must mark each exhibit with the party’s identity, case number, and exhibit number.
The offering party will mark its exhibits with the party’s identity, case number, and exhibit number on each exhibit to be offered. Each exhibit must be marked prior to final pretrial.
Document Type
Exhibits
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Counsel must file proposed voir dire questions and jury instructions before final pretrial.
Prior to final pretrial, Counsel must file proposed voir dire questions and proposed jury instructions.
Document Type
Proposed Voir Dire Questions And Jury Instructions
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
A pretrial motion must be written, state its specific basis, include supporting authority, and, if it raises factual issues, include an affidavit or declaration detailing the material facts.
A pretrial motion shall be in writing and state specifically the basis for the motion. The motion shall be supported by a statement of authority .... If the motion presents issues of fact, it shall be supported by affidavit or declaration which sets forth with particularity the material facts at issue.
Document Type
Pretrial Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
All pretrial motions, including motions to suppress, must comply with Local Criminal Rule 12; noncompliant suppression motions are waived and unsupported pretrial motions will not be entertained.
All pretrial motions, including motions to suppress, must comply with Local Criminal Rule 12 (Criminal Pretrial Motion Practice). Motions to suppress not complying with Local Rule 12 will be considered waived. The Court will not entertain unsupported pretrial motions.
Document Type
Pretrial Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Motions to suppress must allege specific facts.
Fifth Circuit precedent and the Local Rules establish that motions to suppress must allege specific facts.
Document Type
Motion To Suppress
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
All motions should include certificates of conference and service, and a proposed order.
All motions should include certificates of conference, certificates of service, and a proposed order.
Document Type
Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Each covered motion must include a hearing request, certificate of conference, certificate of service, and proposed order.
The motion shall be accompanied with a request for a hearing, certificate of conference, certificate of service, and proposed order.
Document Type
Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Failing to timely file a covered motion, request a hearing, or provide specific and supported objections waives those claims.
Failure to timely file such a motion, to request a hearing, or to comply with the requirement of specific and supported objections shall be considered a waiver of those claims.
Document Type
Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Each covered motion must specifically state its grounds and the alleged facts supporting them.
Each motion shall specifically state the grounds, therefore, and the alleged facts supporting those grounds.
Document Type
Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Non-specific form motions, multifarious motions or objections, and ambiguous or unsupported challenges are unacceptable and will be denied.
Non-specific form motions, multifarious motions or objections, and ambiguous or unsupported challenges shall not be acceptable, and all such motions will be denied.
Document Type
Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Each motion must be accompanied by a hearing request, certificate of conference, certificate of service, and proposed order.
The motion shall be accompanied with a request for a hearing, certificate of conference, certificate of service, and proposed order.
Document Type
Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Each motion must specifically state its grounds and the alleged facts supporting them.
Each motion shall specifically state the grounds, therefore, and the alleged facts supporting those grounds.
Document Type
Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Failure to timely file the motion, request a hearing, or provide specific and supported objections waives those claims.
Failure to timely file such a motion, to request a hearing, or to comply with the requirement of specific and supported objections shall be considered a waiver of those claims.
Document Type
Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important
Courtesy copies should identify the docket number of the filed document.
Courtesy copies should designate the docket number of the filed document.
Document Type
Courtesy Copy
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important
Motions should be tailored to the case; rote motions are inappropriate.
Rote motions are inappropriate. All motions should be tailored to the case.
Document Type
Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important
The Court will not grant a motion to blanketly adopt another party’s motions, and such motions should not be filed.
The Court will not grant a motion to blanketly adopt another party’s motions and such a motion should not be filed.
Document Type
Motion
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important
Jury instructions must be concise, numbered, presented separately, and include supporting authority citations.
Jury instructions must be short, simple, and concise. Each should be numbered and presented on a separate sheet of paper with the citation of authority upon which counsel rely.
Document Type
Jury Instructions
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important
Each proposed voir dire question must be written in question form.
Each proposed voir dire question must be in question form.
Document Type
Proposed Voir Dire Questions
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
Parties are expected to make a good faith effort to confer about the disposition of all pretrial motions. All pretrial motions must contain a certificate of conference.
Summary: All pretrial motions must contain a certificate of conference, and parties must make a good faith effort to confer before filing.
Document Type
Pretrial Motion
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
A certificate stating that the moving party has been unable to reach agreement with another party will be sufficient only if it specifies: a. The name of the opposing counsel with whom movant's counsel has conferred or attempted to confer; b. If counsel have not been able to confer, the date and time of all attempts to contact opposing counsel; and c. If counsel have conferred but have been unable to reach agreement, the precise nature of the disagreement.
Summary: A certificate of conference stating that no agreement was reached is sufficient only if it identifies the opposing counsel contacted, the date and time of all contact attempts (if conferral failed), and the precise nature of any disagreement.
Document Type
Certificate Of Conference
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
Responses, replies, and sur-replies must reference the docket entry number of the motion being responded to, preferably in the first paragraph.
Document Type
Response
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
After the motion, response, reply, and sur-reply are filed, the Court will not entertain any additional or supplemental filings unless they are accompanied by a motion for leave to file. The motion for leave to file must explain why the argument, evidence, or legal authority contained in the additional filing was not included in earlier documents already in the record and state a specific reason why the Court should grant the motion for leave in the interests of justice.
Summary: After briefing is complete, additional or supplemental filings require a motion for leave to file explaining why the material was not included earlier and why leave should be granted in the interests of justice.
Document Type
Supplemental Filing
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
All motions should be accompanied by a proposed order stating the exact relief sought.
Summary: Every motion must be accompanied by a proposed order stating the exact relief sought.
Document Type
Motion
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
No motion to dismiss for failure to state a claim or counterclaim under FED. R. CIV. P. 12(b)(6), or motion for judgment on the pleadings on a claim or counterclaim under FED. R. CIV. P. 12(c), will be considered or decided unless the moving party includes a certification that, before filing the motion, the movant notified the opposing party of the issues asserted in the motion and the parties tried but could not agree that the pleading deficiency could be cured in any part by a permissible amendment offered by the pleading party. The movant may comply with this rule
Summary: Rule 12(b)(6) motions to dismiss and Rule 12(c) motions for judgment on the pleadings must include a certification that the movant notified the opposing party of the issues and the parties tried but could not agree on a curative amendment, or the motion will not be considered.
Document Type
Motion To Dismiss 12b6 Or Judgment On Pleadings 12c
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
Any brief or memorandum with more than 10 pages of argument must also contain the following items: Table of Contents: setting forth the page number of each section, including all headings designated in the body of the brief or memorandum. Table of Authorities: listing cases, statutes, rules, textbooks, and other authorities, arranged alphabetically by category. Statement of the Nature and Stage of the Proceeding.
Summary: Briefs or memoranda with more than 10 pages of argument must also include a Table of Contents, a Table of Authorities, and a Statement of the Nature and Stage of the Proceeding.
Document Type
Brief
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
motion to dismiss. A motion that does not contain the required certification may be stricken without further notice.
Summary: Motions to dismiss must contain the required certification, and motions lacking it may be stricken without further notice.
Document Type
Motion To Dismiss
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet.Mandatory?
hear discovery motions unless moving counsel has advised the Court, in the motion, that counsel have conferred in a good faith effort to resolve the matters in dispute but are unable to reach an agreement. If counsel have been unable to confer because of unavailability or unwillingness of opposing counsel to do so, the statement shall recite the facts concerning attempts to confer.
Summary: Discovery motions must include a statement that counsel conferred in good faith to resolve the disputes but could not reach agreement, and if conferral was impossible due to opposing counsel's unavailability or unwillingness, the statement must recite the facts of the attempts to confer.
Document Type
Discovery Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
All pretrial motions, including motions to suppress, must comply with Local Criminal Rule 12 (Criminal Pretrial Motion Practice). Motions to suppress not complying with Local Rule 12 will be considered waived. The Court will not entertain unsupported pretrial motions.
Summary: All pretrial motions including motions to suppress must comply with Local Criminal Rule 12; non-compliant motions to suppress are waived and unsupported pretrial motions are not entertained.
Document Type
Pretrial Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
All motions to suppress not complying with the requirements of form will be considered waived pursuant to Rule 12.1.
Summary: Motions to suppress that do not comply with form requirements are waived under Rule 12.1.
Document Type
Motion To Suppress
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
Case-related correspondence must be addressed to and electronically filed with the United States District Clerk at the stated address.
2) Case-related correspondence must be addressed to and e-filed with: United States District Clerk 515 Rusk Street, Room 5300 Houston, Texas 77002
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 3 | CONTACT WITH COURT PERSONNEL — Correspondence
Counsel must electronically file copies of their exhibit and witness lists.
Counsel must provide electronically filed copies of their exhibit and witness lists
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 7 | REQUIRED PRETRIAL MATERIALS
Each party must enter its exhibit on the Court’s ECF system.
Each party is responsible for entering their exhibit on the Court’s ECF system.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 8 | EXHIBITS
Electronic filings must comply with the Administrative Procedures for Electronic Filing in Civil and Criminal Cases; filing questions should be directed to the Clerk’s Office.
B. Electronic filings shall be in accordance with Administrative Procedures for Electronic Filing in Civil and Criminal Cases. Questions regarding electronic filing should be directed to the Clerk’s Office.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 4 | ELECTRONIC FILINGS
Electronic filings must comply with the Administrative Procedures for Electronic Filing in Civil and Criminal Cases.
Electronic filings shall be in accordance with Administrative Procedures for Electronic Filing in Civil and Criminal Cases.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 4 | 3. Electronic Filings
The Southern District of Texas requires electronic filing of all pleadings under Local Rule 5.1.
The Southern District of Texas requires electronic filing of all pleadings. LR 5.1.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 4 | 3. Electronic Filings
Conventional (paper) filing of documents greater than 25 pages requires leave of court, and such documents should be filed electronically when possible.
Leave of Court is required for the conventional filing of documents greater than 25 pages in length. Such documents should be filed electronically when possible.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 5 | 3. Electronic Filings
Conventional filing of over-sized or irregularly shaped documents that cannot be readily imaged requires leave of court, and such documents should be filed electronically when possible.
Leave of Court is required for the filing of over-sized or irregularly shaped documents which are not capable of being readily imaged by court personnel and equipment. Such documents should be filed electronically when possible.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 5 | 3. Electronic Filings
Conventional filing of double-sided documents requires leave of court, and such documents should be filed electronically when possible.
Leave of Court is required for the conventional filing of documents printed on both sides. Such documents should be filed electronically when possible.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 5 | 3. Electronic Filings
For proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law, counsel must e-file the originals, provide hard copies to the Case Manager, and email the Word version to the Case Manager.
Counsel must e-file the originals, provide hard copies to the Case Manager, and email the Word version to the Case Manager.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 15 | 11. Required Pretrial Materials - Non-Jury Trials
Memoranda of Law should be e-filed under the prevailing rule, with hard copies required only for authorities not readily available.
Memorandum of Law should be e-filed according to the prevailing rule. Hard copies need only be filed of those authorities not readily available.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 15 | 11. Required Pretrial Materials - Non-Jury Trials
Each party must enter its exhibits on the Court's ECF system.
Each party is responsible for entering their exhibit on the Court's ECF system.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 16 | 13. Exhibits
Filing oversized or irregularly shaped documents that cannot readily be imaged requires leave of Court, and electronic filing should be used when possible.
3) Leave of Court is required for the filing of over-sized or irregularly shaped documents which are not capable of being readily imaged by court personnel and equipment. Such documents should be filed electronically when possible.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 4 | ELECTRONIC FILINGS — Voluminous, double-sided, or irregular documents
All pleadings must be filed electronically in the Southern District of Texas.
A. The Southern District of Texas requires electronic filing of all pleadings. LR 5.1.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 4 | ELECTRONIC FILINGS
Conventional filing of documents longer than 20 pages requires leave of Court, and electronic filing should be used when possible.
1) Leave of Court is required for the conventional filing of documents greater than 20 pages in length. Such documents should be filed electronically when possible.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 4 | ELECTRONIC FILINGS — Voluminous, double-sided, or irregular documents
Conventional filing of double-sided documents requires leave of Court, and electronic filing should be used when possible.
2) Leave of Court is required for the conventional filing of documents printed on both sides. Such documents should be filed electronically when possible.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 4 | ELECTRONIC FILINGS — Voluminous, double-sided, or irregular documents
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
Exhibit and witness lists must be electronically filed at least 24 hours before the hearing.
Exhibit and witness lists must be electronically filed at least 24 hours prior to the hearing.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 6 | MOTION PRACTICE
An opposition to discovery must be filed immediately, and responses must comply with the specified Local Rules.
If discovery is opposed, opposition must be filed immediately and response(s) must comply with the Local Rules for the Southern District of Texas, in particular SDTX CrLR 12.3.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 12 | SCHEDULING ORDER
The specified motions must be filed with a hearing request at least 30 days before jury selection.
All Motions to Dismiss the Indictment, Motions to Sever or for Separate Trials, and any other motions, regardless of how styled, which challenge and/or collaterally attack a prior order of deportation [for example, those made pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 2241] shall be filed together with a request for a hearing at least thirty (30) days before jury selection.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 23 | APPENDIX “B”
The specified motions must be filed with a hearing request at least 30 days before jury selection.
All Motions to Dismiss the Indictment, Motions to Sever or for Separate Trials, and any other motions, regardless of how styled, which challenge and/or collaterally attack a prior order of deportation [for example, those made pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 2241] shall be filed together with a request for a hearing at least thirty (30) days before jury selection.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 1 | ORDER
Nondispositive motions must be filed at least 45 days before the final pretrial conference unless the Scheduling Order provides otherwise.
Unless otherwise indicated in the Scheduling Order entered at the Initial Pretrial Conference, dispositive motions must be filed at least 120 days, and nondispositive motions must be filed at least 45 days, before the date set for final pretrial conference (also referred to as docket call).
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 7 | Motion Practice - B
Dispositive motions, including Daubert motions, must be filed at least 120 days before the final pretrial conference unless the Scheduling Order provides otherwise.
Unless otherwise indicated in the Scheduling Order entered at the Initial Pretrial Conference, dispositive motions must be filed at least 120 days, and nondispositive motions must be filed at least 45 days, before the date set for final pretrial conference (also referred to as docket call). A Daubert motion falls under the rule governing dispositive motions.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 7 | Motion Practice - B
Attempts to reach opposing counsel made less than two full business days before filing do not satisfy the conference requirement.
The Court will not consider the conference requirement to be satisfied by an unsuccessful attempt to reach opposing counsel occurring less than two full business days before a motion is filed.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 7 | Motion Practice - C
Replies must be filed within 10 days after the response and should only address new arguments, authority, or evidence presented in the response.
If the movant desires to file a reply, it must be filed within 10 days thereafter. The reply should not unnecessarily repeat arguments made in the motion and should only respond to any new arguments, authority, or evidence presented by the opposing party in the response.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 8 | Motion Practice - D
Responses to opposed motions are due within 21 days after the motion is filed with the Clerk's Office, unless otherwise ordered.
Unless otherwise ordered, counsel must respond to an opposed motion within 21 days from the date the motion is filed with the Clerk's Office.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 8 | Motion Practice - D
Late-filed motions, responses, or replies must be accompanied by a motion for leave to file showing good cause; late filings without such a motion will not be considered.
Any motion, response, or reply filed after the time limits contained in these rules must be accompanied by a motion for leave to file that explains why the document was not timely filed. The Court will only grant a motion for leave to file a motion, response, or reply late if good cause is shown. A motion, response, or reply filed late, and not accompanied by a motion for leave, will not be considered.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 8 | Motion Practice - G
Failure to respond, or to respond timely, to a motion is treated as no opposition and as agreement to the motion and the relief requested.
Failure to respond to a motion will be taken as a representation of no opposition. Failure to file a timely response shall be taken as an indication that the opposing party agrees to the motion and the relief requested.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 8 | Motion Practice - D
Counsel must file a joint case management plan at least 14 days before the initial pretrial and scheduling conference.
At least 14 days before the conference, counsel must file a joint case management plan including the identity and purpose of witnesses, sources and types of documents, and other requirements for a prompt and inexpensive preparation of the case for disposition by motion or trial. See FED. R. CIV. P. 26(f).
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 12 | 10. Initial Pretrial and Scheduling Conference
Pretrial disclosures must be made at least 30 days before trial unless otherwise directed by the court.
Unless otherwise directed by the court, these disclosures must be made at least 30 days before trial. See FED. R. CIV. P. 26(a)(3).
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 13 | 11. Required Pretrial Materials - A. Pretrial Disclosures
Objections to deposition designations must be filed at least three business days before the final pretrial conference, and objecting counsel bears the burden of securing a ruling before trial begins.
Objections to those portions, citing page and line numbers, with supporting authority must be filed at least three (3) business days before the final pretrial conference. Counsel making such objection shall have the burden of securing a ruling from the Court either at the final pretrial conference or at some other time before the trial has begun.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 19 | 17. DEPOSITIONS
Within 15 days of receiving this order, counsel must file a list of all financially interested entities (including parent, subsidiary, and affiliated corporations and all known attorneys of record), with group descriptions permitted where effective disclosure.
Within 15 days of receiving this order, counsel must file a list of all entities that are financially interested in this litigation, including parent, subsidiary, and affiliated corporations as well as all known attorneys of record. When a group description is effective disclosure, an individual listing is not necessary.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 23 | Order Setting Conference
Counsel must file a joint case management plan at least 14 days before the initial pretrial conference.
At least 14 days before the conference, counsel must file a joint case management plan listing the identities and purposes of witnesses, sources and types of documents, and other requirements for a prompt and inexpensive preparation of this case for disposition by motion or trial. See FED. R. CIV. P. 26(f).
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 23 | Order Setting Conference
In employment cases subject to the Initial Discovery Protocols, the parties must exchange the protocol documents and information within 30 days after the defendant's submission of a responsive pleading or motion, superseding FRCP 26(a)(1) initial disclosures.
Within 30 days after the defendant’s submission of a responsive pleading or motion, the parties must provide to one another the documents and information described in the Initial Discovery Protocols for the relevant time period. This obligation supersedes the parties’ obligations to provide initial disclosures under FED. R. CIV. P. 26(a)(1).
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 43 | Initial Discovery Protocols for Employment Cases Alleging Adverse Action
A party seeking a protective order should request it from the court as soon as possible and no later than 15 days after the defendant's submission of a responsive pleading or motion.
If any of the parties think that a protective order should be entered in this case, the part[y/ies] seeking the order should request an order from the court as soon as possible, but no later than 15 days after the defendant’s submission of a responsive pleading or motion.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 44 | Initial Discovery Protocols for Employment Cases Alleging Adverse Action
Motions in limine may be filed with the Final Pretrial Order but must not be used as a substitute for dispositive or Daubert motions.
Motions in limine may be filed with the Final Pretrial Order, but counsel are cautioned not to try to utilize a limine motion in lieu of a motion that should have been filed as a dispositive or Daubert motion.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 7 | Motion Practice - B
Failure to designate material as confidential at production is not a waiver, provided the material is designated no later than the later of 14 days after the close of discovery or 14 days after production.
The disclosure of a document or information without designating it as “confidential” shall not constitute a waiver of the right to designate such document or information as Confidential Information provided that the material is designated pursuant to the procedures set forth herein no later than that latter of fourteen (14) days after the close of discovery or fourteen (14) days after the document or information’s production.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 51 | Stipulation and Order Regarding Confidential Information, Paragraph 7
Counsel must file a list of financially interested entities within 15 days of receiving the order and amend it as parties are added.
Within 15 days of receiving this order, counsel must file a list of all entities that are financially interested in this litigation, including parent, subsidiary, and affiliated corporations as well as all known attorneys of record. When a group description is effective disclosure, an individual listing is not necessary. Underline the names of corporations with publicly traded securities. Counsel must promptly amend the list when parties are added or additional interested parties are identified.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 1 | Order Setting Conference
Counsel must file a joint case management plan at least 14 days before the conference.
At least 14 days before the conference, counsel must file a joint case management plan listing the identities and purposes of witnesses, sources and types of documents, and other requirements for a prompt and inexpensive preparation of this case for disposition by motion or trial. See FED. R. CIV. P. 26(f).
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 1 | Order Setting Conference
Sur-replies are permitted under the local rules, but the Court may rule on a motion once it is ripe without waiting for a sur-reply or any filing.
A sur-reply may be filed as per the local rules; but the Court will not wait on a sur-reply to rule. The Court may rule on any motion once it becomes ripe regardless of whether a response, reply, or sur-reply has been filed.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 8 | Motion Practice - D
Service and Proof of Service Rules
Opposing counsel should receive copies of courtesy documents at the same time unless they are automatically copied electronically.
Obviously, opposing counsel should be copied at the same time unless they are automatically copied electronically.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 3 | CONTACT WITH COURT PERSONNEL
Counsel requiring authentication of an exhibit must notify opposing counsel in writing within 5 business days after the exhibit is made available, otherwise authenticity is deemed admitted.
Any counsel requiring authentication of an exhibit must notify counsel in writing within five (5) business days after the exhibit is made available to opposing counsel for examination. Failure to do so is an admission of authenticity.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 16 | 13. Exhibits
Service on the defendant must be perfected within 90 days after the complaint is filed, or the claim will be dismissed for want of prosecution under Fed. R. Civ. P. 4(m).
Any cause of action in which service upon defendant has not been perfected within 90 days after filing of the complaint will be dismissed for want of prosecution in accordance with FED. R. CIV. P. 4(m).
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 21 | 18. Settlement and Orders of Dismissal
The plaintiff must serve the defendant within 90 days of filing the complaint, and failure to file proof of service within that time may result in dismissal under FRCP 4(m).
The plaintiff must serve the defendant within 90 days of filing the complaint. The plaintiff's failure to file proof of service within that time may result in dismissal by the court on its own initiative. See FED. R. CIV. P. 4(m).
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 23 | Order Setting Conference
The plaintiff or removing party must serve the order for conference and the Rule 26(f) joint report/case management plan form on opposing parties contemporaneously with the summons and complaint.
The Plaintiff(s) filing this suit, or the party removing this suit from state court, SHALL SERVE THE OPPOSING PARTY OR PARTIES with copies of: A. this ORDER FOR CONFERENCE, B. the form for the JOINT REPORT ON MEETING REQUIRED BY RULE 26(f) AND JOINT DISCOVERY/CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN. These papers SHALL BE SERVED CONTEMPORANEOUSLY WITH THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 24 | Order Setting Conference
Any party receiving the order must provide a copy of the order to all other parties.
All parties receiving this order shall copy all other parties with a copy of this order.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 25
A party requiring authentication of an exhibit must notify offering counsel in writing within five days after the exhibit is listed and made available, and failure to object in writing before trial concedes authenticity.
B. A party requiring authentication of an exhibit must notify the offering counsel in writing within five days after the exhibit is listed and made available; failure to object in writing in advance of the trial concedes authenticity.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 32 | REQUIRED CONTENTS OF THE JOINT PRETRIAL ORDER - Exhibits
Other objections to exhibit admissibility must be made at least three business days before trial, with written notice to the Court including copies of the disputed exhibit and authority.
C. Within reason, other objections to admissibility of exhibits must be made at least three business days before trial; the Court will be notified in writing of disputes, with copies of the disputed exhibit and authority.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 32 | REQUIRED CONTENTS OF THE JOINT PRETRIAL ORDER - Exhibits
Plaintiff must serve the defendant within 90 days of filing the complaint and file proof of service, or risk dismissal.
The plaintiff must serve the defendant within 90 days of filing the complaint. The plaintiff’s failure to file proof of service within that time may result in dismissal by the court on its own initiative. See FED. R. CIV. P. 4(m).
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 1 | Order Setting Conference
Opposing counsel should be copied at the same time courtesy copies of urgent documents are sent to Chambers, unless they are automatically copied electronically.
Obviously, opposing counsel should be copied at the same time unless they are automatically copied electronically.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 3 | 1. Contact with Court Personnel
All counsel of record should be copied on case-related correspondence.
All counsel of record should be copied.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 3 | 1. Contact with Court Personnel
Counsel must keep their email addresses current in CM/ECF because the Clerk transmits orders and motions through that interface.
All counsel are advised to keep their email addresses current in CM/ECF as the Clerk of the Court provides transmission of orders and motions through that interface.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 3 | 1. Contact with Court Personnel
Newly identified trial witnesses must be reported to opposing counsel in writing as soon as they are known, except rebuttal or impeachment witnesses.
B. If other witnesses to be called at the trial become known, their names, addresses, and subject of their testimony will be reported to opposing counsel in writing as soon as they are known; this does not apply to rebuttal or impeachment witnesses.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 32 | REQUIRED CONTENTS OF THE JOINT PRETRIAL ORDER - Witnesses
The plaintiff or removing party must serve the opposing party with copies of the order and joint report form contemporaneously with the summons and complaint.
The Plaintiff(s) filing this suit, or the party removing this suit from state court, SHALL SERVE THE OPPOSING PARTY OR PARTIES with copies of: A. this ORDER FOR CONFERENCE, B. the form for the JOINT REPORT ON MEETING REQUIRED BY RULE 26(f) AND JOINT DISCOVERY/CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN. These papers SHALL BE SERVED CONTEMPORANEOUSLY WITH THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 2 | Order Setting Conference
Opposing counsel must receive notice when exhibit and witness lists are provided.
with notice to opposing counsel.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 7 | REQUIRED PRETRIAL MATERIALS
All counsel of record should receive copies of case-related correspondence.
3) All counsel of record should be copied.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 3 | CONTACT WITH COURT PERSONNEL — Correspondence
Counsel should give opposing counsel appropriate notice.
Appropriate notice should be given to opposing counsel.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 6 | MOTION PRACTICE
Courtesy Copy Requirements
A courtesy copy must be made available to the Court for documents exceeding 25 pages.
A courtesy copy must be made available to the Court if it exceeds 25 pages.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 12 | SCHEDULING ORDER
If possible, file the courtesy hard copy on the same day as the electronic filing.
D. If possible, both the courtesy hard copy and the electronic filing must be filed on the same day.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 5 | ELECTRONIC FILINGS
Parties must submit courtesy hard copies to the Case Manager if any part of a filing is sealed.
Nevertheless, parties should submit courtesy hard copies to the Case Manager if any part of a filing is sealed.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 4 | 3. Electronic Filings
In addition to physical or electronic filing, counsel must send a file-stamped courtesy hard copy of emergency motions directly to the Case Manager.
In addition to any physical filing or electronic filing of emergency motions, counsel shall send a file-stamped courtesy hard copy of emergency motions directly to the Case Manager so that they quickly reach the Court’s attention.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 4 | 2. Emergencies
Where a courtesy copy is required, the courtesy hard copy and the electronic filing must both be filed on the same day.
In cases where a courtesy copy is required, both the courtesy hard copy and the electronic filing must be filed on the same day.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 5 | 3. Electronic Filings
The party making a deposition proffer must provide a copy of the proffer, counter-proffer, and a complete copy of the deposition (sentence appears truncated in source; rulings on admission are made at the Pretrial Conference).
For any deposition proffers and counter-proffers, the party making the proffer will provide a copy of the proffer, counter-proffer and a complete copy of the deposition
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 15 | 12. Trial Settings
Parties must provide the Court a copy of all potential exhibits at the Pretrial Conference.
The parties are to provide the Court a copy of all potential exhibits at the Pretrial Conference.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 15 | 12. Trial Settings
Each party must provide the Court a copy of its exhibits in a properly tabbed and indexed notebook, in addition to the original exhibits.
In addition to the original exhibits, counsel for each party is required to provide the Court with a copy of that party's exhibits in a properly tabbed and indexed notebook.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 16 | 13. Exhibits
Two copies of any documents filed immediately before or during trial must be submitted to the Case Manager.
Two copies of documents filed immediately prior to and during the trial should be submitted to the Case Manager.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 17 | 15. Courtroom Procedures - D. Filing Documents
The Court may request a courtesy hard copy from any party at any time, and parties should promptly deliver the copy to Chambers.
Additionally, the Court may request a courtesy hard copy of any party at any time and the parties should promptly deliver the copy to Chambers.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 4 | 3. Electronic Filings
Parties generally should not submit courtesy hard copies to the Case Manager, except when a filing is sealed or the Court requests one.
Generally, parties should not submit courtesy hard copies to the Case Manager.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 4 | 3. Electronic Filings
Counsel must send a file-stamped courtesy hard copy of each emergency motion directly to the Case Manager in addition to filing it physically or electronically.
D. In addition to any physical filing or electronic filing of emergency motions, counsel shall send a file-stamped courtesy hard copy of emergency motions directly to the Case Manager so that they quickly reach the Court’s attention.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 4 | EMERGENCIES
A file-stamped courtesy hard copy of any filing, including attachments, longer than 20 pages must be submitted to the Case Manager.
The parties shall submit a file-stamped courtesy hard copy to the Case Manager of all filings, including any attachments, that are greater than 20 pages in length.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 4 | ELECTRONIC FILINGS
Filings over 20 pages require a file-stamped hard copy courtesy copy sent to the Case Manager.
The parties shall submit a file-stamped courtesy hard copy to the Case Manager of all filings, including any attachments, that are greater than 20 pages in length.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 4 | ELECTRONIC FILINGS
Emergency motions require a file-stamped hard copy courtesy copy sent to the Case Manager upon filing.
In addition to any physical filing or electronic filing of emergency motions, counsel shall send a file-stamped courtesy hard copy of emergency motions directly to the Case Manager so that they quickly reach the Court’s attention.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 4 | EMERGENCIES
Courtesy hard copies and electronic filings must be filed on the same day when possible.
If possible, both the courtesy hard copy and the electronic filing must be filed on the same day.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 5 | ELECTRONIC FILINGS
Counsel must provide the Court with a tabbed, indexed notebook copy of their exhibits.
In addition to the original exhibits, counsel for each party is required to provide the Court with a copy of that party’s exhibits in a properly tabbed and indexed notebook.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 16 | EXHIBITS
Two copies of documents filed immediately before or during trial should be submitted to the Case Manager.
Two copies of documents filed immediately prior to and during the trial should be submitted to the Case Manager.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 17 | COURTROOM PROCEDURES
Courtesy copy required for proposed voir dire questions and jury instructions exceeding 25 pages.
A courtesy copy must be made available to the Court if it exceeds 25 pages.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Criminal cases
Page 1 | 4. Docket call and Final Pretrial Conference
File-stamped courtesy copies of urgent documents may be sent to Chambers via the Case Manager after the originals are filed, must designate the docket number, must include all exhibits, and should not be redacted even if the filed motion is.
File-stamped courtesy copies of urgent documents may be sent to Chambers (via the Case Manager) after the originals are filed with the Clerk of the Court. Courtesy copies should designate the docket number of the filed document. They should include all exhibits and should not be redacted even if the filed motion is.
We could not find this wording in the court's document. Open the source before relying on it. · Civil cases
Page 3 | 1. Contact with Court Personnel
File-stamped courtesy copies of urgent documents may be sent to Chambers through the Case Manager after the originals are filed.
E. File-stamped courtesy copies of urgent documents may be sent to Chambers (via the Case Manager) after the originals are filed with the Clerk of the Court.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 3 | CONTACT WITH COURT PERSONNEL
Submit two copies of documents filed immediately before or during trial to the Case Manager.
Two copies of documents filed immediately prior to and during the trial should be submitted to the Case Manager.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 9 | COURTROOM PROCEDURES
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
Confidential information filed with the Court must be filed under seal to the extent permitted by law and remain sealed until further order; the producing party must satisfy any additional court preconditions, and only confidential portions should be sealed where possible.
All information subject to confidential treatment in accordance with the terms of this Stipulation and Order that is filed with the Court, and any pleadings, motions or other papers filed with the Court disclosing any Confidential Information, shall be filed under seal to the extent permitted by law (including without limitation any applicable rules of court) and kept under seal until further order of the Court. To the extent the Court requires any further act by the parties as a precondition to the filing of documents under seal (beyond the submission of this Stipulation and Order Regarding Confidential Information), it shall be the obligation of the producing party of the documents to be filed with the Court to satisfy any such precondition. Where possible, only confidential portions of filings with the Court shall be filed under seal.
Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Civil cases
Page 8
Any pleadings, motions, or other papers filed with the Court that disclose Confidential Information must be filed under seal and kept under seal until further order of the Court.
Stipulation and Order that is filed with the Court, and any pleadings, motions or other papers filed with the Court disclosing any Confidential Information, shall be filed under seal to the extent permitted by law (including without limitation any applicable rules of court) and kept under seal until further order of the Court.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 52 | Stipulation and Order Regarding Confidential Information, Paragraph 8
Counsel must comply with FRCP 5.2(a) to protect the identities and privileged information of minors in filings.
Counsel shall keep in mind and comply with FED. R. CIV. P. 5.2(a) to protect the identities and other privileged information of minors.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 20 | 18. SETTLEMENT AND ORDERS OF DISMISSAL
Only the confidential portions of court filings should be placed under seal where possible, with non-confidential portions remaining public.
Where possible, only confidential portions of filings with the Court shall be filed under seal.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 52 | Stipulation and Order Regarding Confidential Information, Paragraph 8
If the Court requires any further preconditions to sealing beyond submission of the Stipulation and Order, the producing party of the documents must satisfy those preconditions.
To the extent the Court requires any further act by the parties as a precondition to the filing of documents under seal (beyond the submission of this Stipulation and Order Regarding Confidential Information), it shall be the obligation of the producing party of the documents to be filed with the Court to satisfy any such precondition.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 52 | Stipulation and Order Regarding Confidential Information, Paragraph 8
Counsel must comply with Fed. R. Civ. P. 5.2(a) to protect minor plaintiffs' identities and privileged information.
Counsel shall keep in mind and comply with FED. R. CIV. P. 5.2(a) to protect the identities and other privileged information of minors.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 20 | 18. SETTLEMENT AND ORDERS OF DISMISSAL
Filing Bundling Requirements
Counsel may not combine two different and unrelated pleadings (motions, responses, replies, or exhibits) into a single electronically filed document.
Counsel shall not combine two different and unrelated pleadings (motions, responses, replies, or exhibits) into the same electronically filed document.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 5 | 3. Electronic Filings
Briefs must be filed together with or incorporated within the related motion, response, or reply, and motions should incorporate their supporting briefs, authority, and pertinent exhibits.
All motions should incorporate supporting briefs or authority and pertinent exhibits. Motions are not to exceed twenty pages. Briefs must be filed together with or incorporated within a motion, response, or reply.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 9 | 7. Motion Practice
Required pretrial order attachments must be filed as separate documents rather than bundled with the joint pretrial order.
14. Attachments. Each party must file as a separate document (captioned, signed by counsel, and with service certified) these required attachments in duplicate.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 32 | REQUIRED CONTENTS OF THE JOINT PRETRIAL ORDER - Attachments
Prohibited from separating motions, briefs, attachments, or exhibits into separate filings to avoid courtesy copy requirements.
Counsel should NOT attempt to avoid this requirement by unnecessarily separating a motion, brief, and attachments or exhibits into separate submissions.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 4 | ELECTRONIC FILINGS
Prohibited from combining unrelated pleadings into a single electronically filed document.
Counsel shall not combine two different and unrelated pleadings (motions, responses, replies, or exhibits) into the same electronically filed document.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 5 | ELECTRONIC FILINGS
Briefs must be filed together with or incorporated into a motion, response, or reply.
Briefs must be filed together with or incorporated within a motion, response, or reply.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 9 | MOTION_PRACTICE
Counsel should not evade the courtesy-copy requirement by unnecessarily filing a motion, brief, attachments, or exhibits separately.
Counsel should NOT attempt to avoid this requirement by unnecessarily separating a motion, brief, and attachments or exhibits into separate submissions.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 4 | ELECTRONIC FILINGS
Counsel must not combine different, unrelated pleadings in one electronically filed document.
Counsel shall not combine two different and unrelated pleadings (motions, responses, replies, or exhibits) into the same electronically filed document.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 5 | ELECTRONIC FILINGS
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
Applications for restraining orders or immediate relief must be presented to the Court via the Case Manager only after counsel affirms that the opposing party has been contacted and both parties can be available for a conference.
Applications shall be presented to the Court via the Case Manager following counsel’s affirmation that the opposing party has been contacted and that both parties can be available for a conference before the Court.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 4 | 2. Emergencies
Ex parte applications for restraining orders are discouraged and will not be entertained unless the requirements of Fed. R. Civ. P. 65(b) are satisfied.
Ex parte applications for restraining orders are discouraged and will not be entertained by the Court unless the requirements of FED. R. CIV. P. 65(b) have been satisfied.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 4 | 2. Emergencies
The party seeking the pre-motion conference must submit a one- to two-page letter (copies to all counsel and unrepresented parties) identifying the disputes and issues, and the letters must include a written statement that counsel conferred in good faith without agreement; opposing parties must respond in similar fashion before the conference.
The party seeking the conference must submit a one- to two-page letter to the Court with copies to all counsel and unrepresented parties, identifying the disputes and setting out the issues to be addressed. This is not a brief and need not set out case law or argument. Instead, the letter is an agenda for the pre-motion conference and should simply set out the dispute. Opposing parties must respond in similar fashion before the Conference, with the same limitations. The letters must include a written statement that counsel have actually conferred in a good-faith effort to resolve the issues but are unable to reach an agreement.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 11 | 8. Discovery and Other Pretrial Disputes
Before arranging the pre-motion conference, the parties must actually confer (speak) to attempt to resolve the issues; an email or phone call alone is not a valid conferral.
Prior to arranging for this conference, the parties must have actually conferred in an attempt to work out the issues. Merely sending an e-mail or making a phone call is not a valid attempt to work out the dispute. The attorneys must have actually talked. See Section 7C above.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 11 | 8. Discovery and Other Pretrial Disputes
Parties must arrange a pre-motion conference with the Court (by emailing the Case Manager and opposing counsel) before filing any motion, brief, or accompanying material on disputed discovery or other pretrial matters.
Any party wishing to raise disputed discovery or other pretrial matters must arrange for a conference with the Court before filing any motion, brief, or accompanying material. The party must email the Case Manager and opposing counsel to arrange for a pre-motion conference.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 11 | 8. Discovery and Other Pretrial Disputes
The Court schedules the pre-motion conference as soon as practicable (generally within a few days of the request), and counsel may participate only by land-based telephone unless otherwise directed.
The Court will schedule the pre-motion conference as soon as practicable commensurate to the demands of its docket, generally within a few days after the request is made. Unless otherwise directed, counsel may participate only by a land-based telephone.
The quote is in the court's document. The summary is not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 11 | 8. Discovery and Other Pretrial Disputes
Disputed discovery/pretrial issues are resolved at the pre-motion conference when possible, and written submissions and a filing schedule are set at the conference only if the Court cannot resolve the issues without them.
To the extent possible, the disputed issues will be resolved at the pre-motion conference, without the need for a formal motion or response. If the Court cannot resolve all or part of the issues raised without a written submission and response, the issues to be addressed and a filing schedule will be set during the conference.
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Page 11 | 8. Discovery and Other Pretrial Disputes
Restraining order applications are presented to the Court by the Case Manager after counsel affirms opposing party contact and both parties' availability for conference.
Applications shall be presented to the Court by the Case Manager following counsel’s affirmation that the opposing party has been contacted and that both parties can be available for a conference before the Court.
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Page 4 | EMERGENCIES
Ex parte restraining order applications are only entertained if they meet Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65(b) requirements.
Ex parte applications for restraining orders are discouraged and will not be entertained by the Court unless the requirements of FED. R. CIV. P. 65(b) have been satisfied.
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Page 4 | EMERGENCIES
Opposed motions require response within 21 days, reply within 10 days after response; sur-replies allowed per local rules, and court may rule when motion is ripe.
Unless otherwise ordered, counsel must respond to an opposed motion within 21 days from the date the motion is filed with the Clerk’s Office. If the movant desires to file a reply, it must be filed within 10 days thereafter. A sur-reply may be filed as per the local rules; but the Court will not wait on a sur-reply to rule. The Court may rule on any motion once it becomes ripe regardless of whether a response, reply, or sur-reply has been filed.
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Page 7 | D. Motion Response and Reply Deadlines
Pre-motion conference is required before filing motions or briefs related to disputed discovery or pretrial matters.
Any party wishing to raise disputed discovery or other pretrial matters must arrange for a conference with the Court before filing any motion, brief, or accompanying material.
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Page 11 | DISCOVERY AND OTHER PRETRIAL DISPUTES
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
A trial will not be continued because a witness, expert, or other party is unavailable.
Trial will not be continued because a witness, expert, or other party is unavailable.
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Page 6 | CONTINUANCES
Continuance motions must be filed at least three business days before the court setting; same-day motions require good cause and remain subject to the Court’s discretion.
Motions for continuance must be filed at least three (3) business days prior to the date of the court setting and will be granted only at the Court’s discretion. Motions for continuance made on the day the matter is set will not be granted absent a showing of good cause.
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Page 13 | CONTINUANCES
Joint continuance motions are not binding and are granted only at the Court’s discretion.
Joint motions for continuances are not binding, and they will be granted only at the Court’s discretion.
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases
Page 5 | CONTINUANCES
All requests for extensions of discovery deadlines or postponement of trial must be signed by both the attorney and the party making the request.
Counsel are reminded that, as required by The Civil Justice Reform Act of 1990, 28 U.S.C. § 473(b)(3), the Cost and Delay Reduction Plan, “all requests for extensions of deadlines from completion of discovery or for postponement of the trial [must] be signed by the attorney and the party making the request.”
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Page 5 | 4. CONTINUANCES
Once a trial is scheduled, a continuance will be granted only in extraordinary circumstances.
once a trial is scheduled, a continuance will only be granted in extraordinary circumstances.
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Page 6 | 4. CONTINUANCES
Motions to extend discovery deadlines must be filed far enough in advance of the deadline to allow opposing counsel to respond before it expires.
Motions for extension of discovery deadlines must be filed far enough in advance of the deadline so that opposing counsel may respond prior to the deadline.
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Page 12 | 8. Discovery and Other Pretrial Disputes
Other case management plan deadlines may be changed only if all parties agree and a letter signed by all counsel memorializing the change is filed with the Court.
Counsel may change other deadlines, if all parties agree and a letter memorializing the change signed by counsel for all the parties is filed with the Court.
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Page 13 | Scheduling Order / Case Management Plan
Agreements between counsel cannot change deadlines for dispositive motions, replies thereto, the final pretrial order, the final pretrial conference, or jury selection.
Counsel are advised to give these dates careful consideration as the Court will not automatically honor agreements between counsel to alter such dates in the case management plan. Agreements between counsel changing deadlines for dispositive motions, replies thereto, final pretrial order, final pretrial conference, and jury selection will not be honored.
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Page 13 | Scheduling Order / Case Management Plan
The Court will not grant a continuance based on information obtained from discovery conducted after the discovery deadline.
No continuance will be granted because of information acquired in post-deadline discovery.
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Page 29 | Scheduling Order - 5. Discovery must be completed by
Motions for extension of deadlines in the Scheduling and Docket Control Order are not emergencies and may not be treated as such.
Motions for extension of deadlines in the Scheduling and Docket Control Order are not emergencies.
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Page 4 | 2. Emergencies
A trial will not be continued due to an unavailable expert or medical witness; counsel must be prepared to present that testimony by written deposition, videotaped deposition, or stipulation.
A trial will not be continued because an expert or medical witness is unavailable. Counsel should anticipate such possibilities and be prepared to present testimony by written deposition, videotaped deposition, or by stipulation.
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Page 5 | 4. CONTINUANCES
Joint motions for continuances are not binding on the Court and will be granted only at the Court's discretion.
Joint motions for continuances are not binding on the Court, and they will be granted only at the Court’s discretion.
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Page 5 | 4. CONTINUANCES
The Court will not recess so counsel can call a missing witness unless that witness was subpoenaed and failed to appear.
Counsel should bear in mind the Court's hours and arrange for witnesses accordingly. The Court will not recess to permit counsel to call a missing witness unless he or she has been subpoenaed and has failed to appear.
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Page 18 | 15. Courtroom Procedures - F. Witnesses
Counsel may extend the discovery deadline by agreement, but the Court will not intervene in or approve such extensions.
Counsel may agree to continue discovery beyond the deadline, but there will be no intervention by the Court.
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Page 29 | Scheduling Order - 5. Discovery must be completed by
A motion requesting a continuance must state the requested length of the continuance.
All motions shall set out the length of time for which the continuance is requested.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 6 | CONTINUANCES
Extensions of Scheduling and Docket Control Order deadlines are not considered emergencies.
Motions for extension of deadlines in the Scheduling and Docket Control Order are not emergencies.
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Page 4 | CONTINUANCES
Extension and trial postponement requests must be signed by the attorney and party making the request.
All requests for extensions of deadlines from completion of discovery or for postponement of the trial [must] be signed by the attorney and the party making the request.
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Page 5 | CONTINUANCES
Continuances not granted for expert or medical witness unavailability; use depositions or stipulations instead.
A trial will not be continued because an expert or medical witness is unavailable. Counsel should anticipate such possibilities and be prepared to present testimony by written deposition, videotaped deposition, or by stipulation.
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Page 5 | CONTINUANCES
Continuances granted only in extraordinary circumstances once trial is scheduled.
Once a trial is scheduled, a continuance will only be granted in extraordinary circumstances.
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Page 6 | CONTINUANCES
Late motions, responses, or replies must include a motion for leave explaining the delay; only granted for good cause, and late filings without leave will not be considered.
Any motion, response, or reply filed after the time limits contained in these rules must be accompanied by a motion for leave to file that explains why the document was not timely filed. The Court will only grant a motion for leave to file a motion, response, or reply late if good cause is shown. A motion, response, or reply filed late, and not accompanied by a motion for leave, will not be considered.
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Page 8 | G. Late Filings
Extensions of certain pretrial deadlines are prohibited, while other deadlines may be extended with all parties' agreement and a filed signed letter.
Agreements between counsel changing deadlines for dispositive motions, replies thereto, final pretrial order, final pretrial conference, and jury selection will not be honored. Counsel may change other deadlines, if all parties agree and a letter memorializing the change signed by counsel for all the parties is filed with the Court.
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Page 13 | PRETRIAL CONFERENCE
Continuance motions require 3 business days' notice; same-day motions need good cause.
Motions for continuance must be filed at least three (3) business days prior to the date of the court setting and will be granted only at the Court’s discretion. Motions for continuance made on the day the matter is set will not be granted absent a showing of good cause.
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Page 2 | 7. Motions for continuance
Chambers Communication Rules
The District Clerk’s Office telephone number is (713) 250-5500.
District Clerk’s Office: (713) 250-5500
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Page 1 | CONTACT WITH COURT PERSONNEL
Obtain filing, order-entry, and docket information through CM/ECF, PACER, or the Clerk’s Office by telephone.
C. Information about the filing of documents, entry of orders, or docket entries should be obtained by logging into CM/ECF, PACER, or from the Clerk’s Office at (713) 250-5500.
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Page 3 | CONTACT WITH COURT PERSONNEL
Except as permitted under Section 8A, parties must not address substantive issues in letter form to the Court because such letters may not be docketed or included in the appellate record.
Unless pursuant to Section 8A, do not address substantive issues in letter form addressed to the Court because they may not be docketed or included in the appellate record.
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Page 3 | 1. Contact with Court Personnel
Case-related correspondence must be addressed to and e-filed with the United States District Clerk, 515 Rusk Street, Room 5300, Houston, Texas 77002.
Case-related correspondence must be addressed to and e-filed with: United States District Clerk, 515 Rusk Street, Room 5300, Houston, Texas 77002
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Page 3 | 1. Contact with Court Personnel
Counsel shall email or call the Case Manager at (713) 250-5518 for matters requiring immediate attention.
Counsel shall email or contact the Case Manager at (713) 250-5518 for matters requiring immediate attention.
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Page 4 | 2. Emergencies
Applications for restraining orders or other immediate relief must be made through the Clerk's Office at 515 Rusk Street, Room 5300, Houston, Texas 77002, (713) 250-5500.
Applications for restraining orders or other applications for immediate relief must be made through the Clerk’s Office: U.S. District Clerk’s Office, 515 Rusk Street, Room 5300, Houston, Texas 77002, (713) 250-5500.
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Page 4 | 2. Emergencies
Counsel must immediately notify the Case Manager by e-mail when any case settles.
Counsel shall immediately notify the Case Manager via e-mail upon settlement of any case.
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Page 20 | 18. SETTLEMENT AND ORDERS OF DISMISSAL
All contact with law clerks is ex parte contact with the Court and must be made through the Case Manager.
Contact with the law clerks is ex parte contact with the Court. Contact must be through the Case Manager.
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Page 1 | Courtroom Etiquette
Case-related inquiries must go only to the Case Manager at (713) 250-5518 or Rhonda_Hawkins@txs.uscourts.gov (email preferred), and not to the Court, the judicial assistant, or law clerks.
Case-related inquiries are to be made to the Case Manager only at (713) 250-5518 or to Rhonda_Hawkins@txs.uscourts.gov. E-mail is the preferred method of communication with the Case Manager. Inquiries should not be made to the Court, the Court’s judicial assistant, or law clerks.
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Page 3 | 1. Contact with Court Personnel
Court staff will not take telephone messages for counsel, and counsel may not request use of telephones in chambers.
Telephone messages for counsel will not be taken by the Court's staff, and counsel shall refrain from requesting use of telephones in chambers.
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Page 17 | 15. Courtroom Procedures - C. Telephones
Judge Hanen's chambers can be reached by phone at (713) 250-5908 at the United States Courthouse, 515 Rusk Street, Room 8631, Houston, Texas.
JUDGE ANDREW S. HANEN United States Courthouse 515 Rusk Street, Room 8631 Houston, Texas 77002 (713) 250-5908
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Page 1 | CIVIL PROCEDURES (letterhead)
The District Clerk's Office can be reached at (713) 250-5500.
District Clerk's Office: (713) 250-5500
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Page 1 | CIVIL PROCEDURES (letterhead)
Case Manager Rhonda S. Hawkins (chambers staff) can be reached at her direct line (713) 250-5518 or by email at Rhonda_Hawkins@txs.uscourts.gov.
Rhonda S. Hawkins, Case Manager United States District Clerk 515 Rusk Street, Room 8631 Houston, Texas 77002 Direct No.: (713) 250-5518 Rhonda_Hawkins@txs.uscourts.gov
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Page 1 | CIVIL PROCEDURES (letterhead)
Information about filings, orders, and docket entries should be obtained via CM/ECF, PACER, or the Clerk's Office at (713) 250-5500.
Information about the filing of documents, entry of orders, or docket entries should be obtained by logging into CM/ECF or PACER, or from the Clerk’s Office at (713) 250-5500.
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Page 3 | 1. Contact with Court Personnel
Questions regarding electronic filing should be directed to the Clerk's Office.
Questions regarding electronic filing should be directed to the Clerk’s Office.
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Page 4 | 3. Electronic Filings
Out-of-town counsel seeking to appear by telephone should make a written request to the Case Manager as far in advance as possible, and email contact with the Case Manager is permitted.
If out-of-town counsel desire to appear by telephone, a written request should be made to the Case Manager as far as reasonably possible in advance of the conference. Email contact with the Case Manager is permitted.
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Page 6 | 5. APPEARANCES
During jury deliberations, counsel should supply a telephone number to the Case Manager so they can be reached about jury notes or a verdict.
Counsel should supply a telephone number to the Case Manager for contact during deliberations.
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Page 19 | 15. Courtroom Procedures (H. Deliberations)
Judge Hanen's chambers can be reached by phone through case manager Rhonda Hawkins (713-250-5518) and judicial assistant Lauren Webster (713-250-5068).
CASE MANAGER TO JUDGE HANEN: RHONDA HAWKINS...................................................................................713-250-5518 JUDICIAL ASSISTANT TO JUDGE HANEN: LAUREN WEBSTER................................................................................... 713-250-5068
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Page 40 | For Information Regarding the Following
For matters requiring immediate attention, counsel must email or contact the Case Manager at the stated number.
A. Counsel shall email or contact the Case Manager at (713) 250-5518 for matters requiring immediate attention.
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases
Page 4 | EMERGENCIES
Contact with law clerks is ex parte contact with the Court, and contact must occur only through the Case Manager.
I. Contact with the law clerks is ex parte contact with the Court. Contact must only be through the Case Manager.
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Page 24 | APPENDIX “C”
All counsel of record must be copied on case-related correspondence.
All counsel of record should be copied.
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Page 3 | CONTACT WITH COURT PERSONNEL
Filing, order, and docket entry information must be obtained via CM/ECF, PACER, or the Clerk’s Office phone number (713) 250-5500.
Information about the filing of documents, entry of orders, or docket entries should be obtained by logging into CM/ECF or PACER, or from the Clerk’s Office at (713) 250-5500.
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Page 3 | CONTACT WITH COURT PERSONNEL
Junior Lawyer Participation Incentives
The Court strongly encourages giving lawyers with less than seven years' experience primary speaking roles in conferences, trials, and evidentiary presentations, and will consider such participation in deciding whether to grant oral argument on motions it would otherwise decide on the papers.
Young Lawyers. Today there are fewer opportunities for lawyers to speak in court. This is particularly true for lawyers with less than seven years of experience. The Court strongly encourages more experienced senior or supervisory lawyers and their clients to allow less experienced lawyers to have the primary or only speaking roles in pretrial or motion conferences, and in trials and other proceedings when evidence and arguments are presented. This opportunity is particularly important and appropriate when the less experienced lawyer has drafted or contributed significantly to the underlying motion or response or to the trial or hearing preparation. The Court understands that, in some circumstances, it may not be appropriate to allow a less experienced lawyer such a prominent role. If the only lawyer who drafted or substantially prepared the motion, brief, or evidentiary presentation is the senior lawyer, or if the motion is dispositive in a "bet-the-company" case, litigants may justifiably want the senior lawyer to do all or most of the in-court presentation. Excluding these rare cases, it is crucial to provide substantive speaking opportunities to less experienced lawyers. The Court strongly encourages all lawyers and their clients to do so. The Court will take this into consideration in deciding whether to grant requests for oral argument on motions or issues that the Court would usually or otherwise decide on the papers.
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Page 9 | 7. Motion Practice
Counsel may indicate in motion papers whether the movant's lawyer who actually researched and drafted the motion qualifies as a young lawyer under Paragraph K.
While requests for hearings are not needed, counsel may indicate if the movant's lawyer is the one who actually researched and drafted the motion and if that lawyer is qualified as a young lawyer as defined in Paragraph K.
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Page 9 | 7. Motion Practice
Lawyers with less than 7 years of experience are young lawyers; court encourages them to have primary speaking roles and considers this when granting oral argument requests.
2) While requests for hearings are not needed, counsel may indicate if the movant’s lawyer is the one who actually researched and drafted the motion and if that lawyer is qualified as a young lawyer as defined in Paragraph K. K. Young Lawyers. Today there are fewer opportunities for lawyers to speak in court. This is particularly true for lawyers with less than seven years of experience. The Court strongly encourages more experienced senior or supervisory lawyers and their clients to allow less experienced lawyers to have the primary or only speaking roles in pretrial or motion conferences, and in trials and other proceedings when evidence and arguments are presented. This opportunity is particularly important and appropriate when the less experienced lawyer has drafted or contributed significantly to the underlying motion or response or to the trial or hearing preparation. The Court understands that, in some circumstances, it may not be appropriate to allow a less experienced lawyer such a prominent role. If the only lawyer who drafted or substantially prepared the motion, brief, or evidentiary presentation is the senior lawyer, or if the motion is dispositive in a “bet-the-company” case, litigants may justifiably want the senior lawyer to do all or most of the in-court presentation. Excluding these rare cases, it is crucial to provide substantive speaking opportunities to less experienced lawyers. The Court strongly encourages all lawyers and their clients to do so. The Court will take this into consideration in deciding whether to grant requests for oral argument on motions or issues that the Court would usually or otherwise decide on the papers.
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Page 9 | MOTION_PRACTICE