Judge Julie K. Hampton
Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Document Limits
Courtesy Copies
Courtesy copies
Emergency Motions
- 1 copy • Email • Upon Filing
Exhibit
- 3 copies • Simultaneously With Exhibit Lists
Filings >= 50 pages
- 1 copy • Promptly
Adjournments
- Discovery extension motions must be filed sufficiently early to allow opposing counsel to respond before the discovery deadline.
- Party agreements on continuance of deadlines are not binding on the Court but are considered.
- Plaintiff may request a reasonable continuance of the scheduling conference if service has not been perfected.
- +5 more
Request must include
Communication
Duty Judge
Clerk, Chambers
Phone
Clerk
Phone
Chambers
Letter via ECF
Chambers
Page & Word Limits2 rules
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
To obtain permission, the party seeking relief must submit a letter not exceeding two pages. [...] The opposing party should promptly submit a responsive letter of similar length identifying any disagreement.
Summary: Pre-motion initial and responsive letters limited to 2 pages.
Pre Motion Letter
2 pages
Applies to: Attorney
Pre Motion Response Letter
2 pages
Applies to: Attorney
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
(approximately twenty-five pages). Limit any reply to 2,000 words (approximately ten pages). Do not file a sur-reply absent permission. Word limits do not include the case caption, table of contents, table of authorities, signature block, and certificates.
Summary: Support/opposition briefs limited to 25 pages; reply briefs limited to 2000 words; word counts exclude specified items; no sur-replies without permission.
Brief
25 pages
Applies to: Attorney
Reply Brief
2,000 words
Applies to: Attorney
Document Format Requirements18 rules
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Underline the name of each corporation whose securities are publicly traded.
Summary: Interested party certificates must underline the names of corporations with publicly traded securities.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Style. Use American letter-size paper, a minimum 12-point font, and a minimum of 1inch margins with ½ inch margins for footnotes, page numbers and any headers or footers. Double space except for lengthy quotations, headings, and footnotes.
Summary: Motion papers must use letter-size paper, minimum 12-point font, 1-inch margins (½ inch for footnotes/headers/footers), double-spaced except as noted.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Provide pinpoint citation for all legal authority. Do the same for evidence. For instance, cite to page and line for depositions, to page and paragraph number for affidavits and pleadings, and to page and section number for contracts and similar materials. Use Bates numbers as the page reference where available.
Summary: All legal authority and evidence must have pinpoint citations; specific citation formats required for different evidence types; use Bates numbers where available.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Use Form 6 to prepare a Joint Pretrial Order. Adapt this form within reason to accommodate the nature and complexity of the case.
Summary: Joint Pretrial Orders must be prepared using Form 6, adaptable within reason for case complexity.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
through Westlaw or Lexis-Nexis as an appendix to any filing. Provide a cover sheet to identify and separate each authority.
Summary: Appendix of Westlaw or Lexis-Nexis authorities must include a cover sheet identifying and separating each authority.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
List only those exhibits intended in good faith for use before the jury during trial.
Summary: Trial exhibit lists must only include exhibits intended in good faith for use before the jury during trial.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Confer and prepare a joint trial notebook to provide the Court. Include each party’s materials paired together in the order listed above. In civil cases, include the Joint Pretrial Order as the first item.
Summary: Joint trial notebooks must include each party’s materials paired in order, with Joint Pretrial Order first in civil cases.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Each offering party must mark its own exhibits with the party’s name, case number, and exhibit number.
Summary: Each party must mark their exhibits with their name, the case number, and the exhibit number.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Use Form 7 to prepare a trial exhibit list. Also refer to Section 12.
Summary: Trial exhibit lists must be prepared using Form 7.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The designator must prepare and have ready at the Court’s request each designated deposition. Include a cover sheet with concise summary of topics for each witness, the first deposition page, and at least two pages prior to and after any designation. Highlight in contrasting colors to indicate all designated testimony, counter-designations, and objections. Use a condensed transcript (four pages to one) when available.
Summary: Deposition designations must include a cover sheet, required pages, highlighted designations, and condensed transcripts when available.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Do not use footnotes to argue or explain disagreements.
Summary: Footnotes may not be used to argue or explain disagreements in civil jury instructions.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Identify by bold or italicized font any disputed language and which party requests each competing version;
Summary: Disputed language in civil jury instructions must be marked with bold or italic font, and the requesting party must be identified.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
In civil cases, counsel for Plaintiff must also jointly submit a Word version by email or USB drive.
Summary: Civil jury instruction filings must be submitted in Word (DOCX) format.
DOCX
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
In civil cases, counsel for Plaintiff must also submit a Word version by email or USB drive.
Summary: Civil bench trial filings (proposed findings, conclusions, memorandum) must be submitted in Word (DOCX) format.
DOCX
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
In criminal cases, counsel for Prosecution and Defense must each also submit a Word version by email or USB drive.
Summary: Criminal jury instruction filings must be submitted in Word (DOCX) format by each party.
DOCX
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?
When providing copies of filings over fifty pages, print double-sided and submit in a binder. Organize exhibits and attachments by tab at the right margin. Use the smallest binders that comfortably hold the material. Do not use binders larger than four inches. Divide into multiple binders when necessary.
Summary: Courtesy copies of filings over 50 pages must be double-sided, submitted in a three-ring binder no larger than four inches, with exhibits tabbed at the right margin.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?
Provide courtesy copies marked with the file-stamped CM/ECF system docket number unless submitted on an urgent basis.
Summary: Courtesy copies must be marked with the file-stamped CM/ECF docket number unless submitted urgently.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Important?
The Court disfavors footnotes and discourages their use by setting word limits rather than page limits. The Court disregards evidence or argument raised only by footnote.
Summary: Footnotes are disfavored; the court disregards any evidence or argument raised only in footnotes.
Document Filing Requirements59 rules
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Each exhibit must display the party’s name, case number, and exhibit number.
Include the party’s name, case number, and exhibit number on each exhibit.
Document Type
Exhibit
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Each party must separately file and attach any intended deposition designations to the Joint Pretrial Order.
Each party must also file as a separate document and attach to this Joint Pretrial Order any intended deposition designations.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Each party must separately file and attach to the Joint Pretrial Order a list of all exhibits expected to be offered.
Each party must file as a separate document and attach to this Joint Pretrial Order a list of all exhibits expected to be offered.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
The Joint Pretrial Order must include the specified statement about reporting additional witnesses, with an exception for certain rebuttal or impeachment witnesses.
Include the following statement: “If any other witnesses will be called at the trial, their names, addresses, and the subject matter of their testimony will be reported to opposing counsel as soon as they are known. This restriction will not apply to rebuttal or impeachment witnesses, the necessity of whose testimony cannot reasonably be anticipated before trial.”
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Each party must separately file and attach a list of all witnesses to the Joint Pretrial Order.
Each party must file as a separate document and attach to this Joint Pretrial Order a list of all witnesses.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
Each party offering exhibits must mark its own exhibits before trial.
Each offering party must mark its own exhibits before trial.
Document Type
Exhibits
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
For a jury trial, each party must separately file and attach the specified documents to the Joint Pretrial Order.
For any jury trial, each party must file as a separate document and attach to this Joint Pretrial Order the following attachments.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory
For a bench trial, each party must separately file and attach the specified documents to the Joint Pretrial Order.
For any bench trial, each party must file as a separate document and attach to this Joint Pretrial Order the following attachments.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important
Exhibits must comply with Section 20 of the Court’s Procedures, including its rules on objections and admission.
Follow Section 20 of the Court’s Procedures in all respects, including as to objection and admission of exhibits.
Document Type
Exhibits
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important
Deposition designations must be prepared according to Section 22 of the Court’s Procedures.
Prepare the designations as per Section 22 of the Court’s procedures.
Document Type
Deposition Designations
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important
The witness list must be prepared according to Section 21 of the Court’s Procedures.
Prepare the list as per Section 21 of the Court’s procedures.
Document Type
Witness List
Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important
The exhibit list must use a form similar to the one made available with the Court’s Procedures.
Prepare the list in a form similar to that made available with the Court’s Procedures.
Document Type
Exhibit List
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Counsel and all unrepresented parties must also file with the Clerk, at least 15 days before the Scheduling Conference, a certificate listing all persons, associations, firms, partnerships, corporations, affiliates, parent corporations, or other entities, including any unincorporated entities such as LLCs or LLPs, that are financially interested in the outcome of this litigation. If new parties are added or if additional persons or entities financially interested in the outcome of the litigation are identified during this litigation, an amended certificate must be filed promptly with the Clerk. If an unincorporated entity is named as a party, the certificate must state the citizenship of every member of that entity.
Summary: Counsel and pro se parties must file an interested party certificate at least 15 days before the Scheduling Conference, listing all financially interested entities; amended certificates are required for newly identified entities, and unincorporated entity parties require citizenship disclosures for all members.
Document Type
Interested Party Certificate
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF TEXAS ___________________ DIVISION _____________________ § § Plaintiff, § § v. § Civil Action No. ______________ § _____________________ § § Defendant. § JOINT DISCOVERY/CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN UNDER RULE 26(F) OF THE FEDERAL RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE
Summary: Joint Discovery/Case Management Plan must include court division, party names, case number, and title as part of the document caption.
Document Type
Joint Discovery Case Management Plan
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Complete and attach a proposed scheduling and docket control order where necessary to suggest modifications to the Court’s standard order. Clearly indicate any disagreements with reasons in support of the requests made.
Summary: Joint Discovery/Case Management Plan must attach a proposed scheduling and docket control order when suggesting modifications to the standard order, with disagreements and supporting reasons indicated.
Document Type
Joint Discovery Case Management Plan
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The Joint Pretrial Order will contain the pretrial disclosures required by Rule 26(a)(3) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. Plaintiff is responsible for timely filing the complete Joint Pretrial Order. Failure to do so may lead to dismissal or other sanction in accordance with the applicable rules.
Summary: Joint Pretrial Order must include Rule 26(a)(3) pretrial disclosures; plaintiff responsible for filing; failure to file may result in dismissal or sanctions.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Complete and attach a proposed scheduling and docket control order where necessary to suggest modifications to the Court’s standard order. Clearly indicate any disagreements with reasons in support of the requests made.
Summary: Joint Discovery Plan must include a proposed scheduling and docket control order with modifications and supporting reasons clearly indicated.
Document Type
Joint Discovery Plan
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Certify that all parties have filed the Disclosure of Interested Persons as directed in the Order for Conference and Disclosure of Interested Persons, listing the date of filing for original and any amendments.
Summary: Joint Discovery Plan must include a certification of Disclosure of Interested Persons filings with original and amendment filing dates.
Document Type
Joint Discovery Plan
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The Joint Pretrial Order will contain the pretrial disclosures required by Rule 26(a)(3) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. Use the forms provided on the Court’s website. https://www.txs.uscourts.gov/Tipton. Plaintiff is responsible for timely filing the complete Joint Pretrial Order. Failure to do so may lead to dismissal or other sanction in accordance with the applicable rules. Exhibit lists, witness lists and proposed deposition excerpts may not be amended or supplemented after this date unless by agreement. Objections to any of these shall be filed no later than three business days after this date and responses to those objections shall be filed no later than six business days from this date. Boilerplate objections or responses will not be considered.
Summary: Joint Pretrial Orders must include exhibit lists, with objections to contents filed within 3 business days and responses within 6 business days.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
Include a brief statement of the subject matter and substance of the testimony of each.
Summary: The witness section must briefly state the subject matter and substance of each witness’s testimony.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
A memorandum of law with authorities addressing only these issues must accompany this Order.
Summary: A memorandum of law with authorities addressing only the contested legal issues must accompany the Joint Pretrial Order.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
List in separate paragraphs the names and addresses of witnesses that each party intends in good faith to call in its case-in-chief.
Summary: The witness section must separately list the names and addresses of each party’s good-faith intended case-in-chief witnesses.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
State whether the trial will be jury or nonjury; the probable length of trial; and any foreseeable logistical problems, including the availability of witnesses or unusual exhibits.
Summary: The trial section must state the trial type, probable length, and foreseeable logistical problems, including witness availability or unusual exhibits.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
Proposed topics and questions for examination of prospective jurors as per Section 24 of the Court’s Procedures;
Summary: For a jury trial, each party must attach proposed topics and questions for examining prospective jurors, prepared according to Section 24 of the Court’s Procedures.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
A proposed jury charge as per Section 25 of the Court’s Procedures; and
Summary: For a jury trial, each party must attach a proposed jury charge prepared according to Section 25 of the Court’s Procedures.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
A memorandum of law.
Summary: For a jury trial, each party must attach a memorandum of law to the Joint Pretrial Order.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
Any motion in limine as per Section 23 of the Court’s Procedures;
Summary: For a jury trial, each party must attach any motion in limine prepared according to Section 23 of the Court’s Procedures.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?
Proposed findings of facts and conclusions of law as per Section 26 of the Court’s Procedures; and
Summary: For a bench trial, each party must attach proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law prepared according to Section 26 of the Court’s Procedures.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Service. Plaintiff must formally serve these procedures with the summons and complaint and file proof of service.
Summary: Plaintiff must serve these procedures with the summons and complaint and file proof of service.
Document Type
Summons And Complaint
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The removing party must make certificate of service and provide the additional information within ten days of removal. The Court may summarily remand for failure of compliance.
Summary: Removing party must file a certificate of service and provide additional information per Form 1 within 10 days of removal, or face summary remand.
Document Type
Removal Papers
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
File any application for restraining orders or other immediate relief through the CM/ECF system. In addition to service required by rule, the initiating party must in good faith attempt immediate informal service on the opposing party by any available means, including forwarding the application to the last-known mail and email addresses.
Summary: TRO applications must be filed via CM/ECF and the initiating party must attempt immediate informal service on the opposing party.
Document Type
Application For Restraining Order
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Required form. Use Form 2 to give consent to proceed before a Magistrate Judge. Follow the instructions. Do not alter the form.
Summary: Consent to proceed before a Magistrate Judge must be submitted using unaltered Form 2.
Document Type
Consent To Proceed Magistrate Judge
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
All counsel who wish to receive CM/ECF notices must file a notice of appearance. Inclusion of names in the signature block of a pleading does not constitute notice of appearance.
Summary: Counsel must file a notice of appearance to receive CM/ECF notices; inclusion in a pleading's signature block does not suffice.
Document Type
Notice Of Appearance
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Include the applicant’s averment of familiarization with these procedures and the Local Rules with any application for pro hac vice admission. Do not seek pro hac vice admission for an attorney located within the Corpus Christi area.
Summary: Pro hac vice applications must include an averment of familiarization with these procedures and Local Rules; Corpus Christi area attorneys are ineligible.
Document Type
Pro Hac Vice Application
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
The parties must jointly confer in good faith regarding appropriate terms for a protective order and file either a joint or opposed motion for entry of a protective order with the proposed order as an exhibit.
Summary: Protective order motions must be joint or opposed, include a proposed order as an exhibit, and parties must confer in good faith beforehand.
Document Type
Protective Order Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Conference and certificate required. Make serious, timely, good faith efforts to seek agreement on all disputed matters and requests for relief except dispositive motions. The Court will strike motions in civil cases—and may strike motions in criminal cases—that do not include a certificate of conference.
Summary: Certificate of conference required for all motions except dispositive motions; court will strike civil motions and may strike criminal motions without it.
Document Type
Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Proposed orders. Use Form 5 to prepare draft proposed orders.
Summary: All proposed orders must be prepared using Form 5.
Document Type
Proposed Order
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Include a proposed order granting or denying the requested relief with all nondispositive motions and oppositions.
Summary: All nondispositive motions and oppositions must include a proposed order granting or denying relief.
Document Type
Nondispositive Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Separate memorandum not allowed. Do not file a separately designated Memorandum of Law. Include necessary factual support, legal argument, and requested relief in the motion itself. Put simply, file a single pleading.
Summary: Motions must be a single pleading with no separate Memorandum of Law; all required content must be included in the motion.
Document Type
Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Submissions with an argument section more than ten pages must also contain: • A table of contents setting forth page numbers of all sections and point headings; • A table of authorities organizing in categories and arranging alphabetically all cited cases, statutes, rules, textbooks, and other authorities; • A brief introduction of the dispute; • A concise summary of the argument immediately prior to the argument in full; and • Succinct point headings dividing the argument into separate components.
Summary: Motions with an argument section over 10 pages must include a table of contents, table of authorities, introduction, argument summary, and point headings.
Document Type
Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Provide a certificate of word count following the signature block. Reliance on word-processor register is sufficient in this regard.
Summary: Briefs must include a certificate of word count after the signature block, which may use the word processor's count.
Document Type
Brief
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
All motions or similar filings must contain: • A short summary of the argument; • A statement of the facts necessary to resolution of the motion; • An argument devoted to relevant, persuasive legal authority; • A short conclusion stating the precise relief sought; and • Succinct headings dividing the motion into the above parts.
Summary: All motions must include a short argument summary, statement of facts, legal argument, conclusion stating relief, and succinct headings.
Document Type
Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Supply affidavits, deposition testimony excerpts, and supporting documents as separate exhibits to any filing. Provide a cover sheet to identify and separate each exhibit and identify them clearly on the CM/ECF docket entry when filing, e.g., “Exhibit A Declaration of John Doe.”
Summary: Supporting evidence must be filed as separate exhibits with cover sheets; exhibits must be clearly identified on CM/ECF docket entries.
Document Type
Motion
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
State for each witness: • Full name, address, and identifying information; • A concise summary of the expected testimonial topics; • Whether the witness will testify live or by deposition; and • Whether testimony is fact, expert, or record custodian.
Summary: Witness lists must include full name, address, testimony summary, and witness type for each witness.
Document Type
Witness List
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Form. Use Form 8 to prepare a witness list.
Summary: Witness lists must be prepared using Form 8.
Document Type
Witness List
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
Form. Use Form 9 to prepare deposition designations.
Summary: Deposition designations must be prepared using Form 9.
Document Type
Deposition Designation
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
For bench trials, also offer the entire deposition marked as an exhibit.
Summary: Deposition designations in bench trials must include the entire deposition marked as an exhibit.
Document Type
Deposition Designation
Machine summary. Not checked yet.Mandatory?
As to each intended deposition designation, the designator must make a joint filing comprehending the parties’ exchanges twenty-four hours in advance of intended use.
Summary: Deposition designations require a joint filing of party exchanges 24 hours before intended use.
Document Type
Deposition Designation
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Important?
Identify any pending motions.
Summary: The joint pretrial order must identify any pending motions.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Important?
Identify in separate paragraphs each party and its respective counsel. List the addresses, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses of counsel.
Summary: The joint pretrial order must identify each party and its counsel in separate paragraphs and list counsel’s contact information.
Document Type
Joint Pretrial Order
Filing & Service rules
Courtesy Copy Requirements
Emergency motions require CM/ECF filing plus emailing a copy to the Case Manager; extension motions are not considered emergencies.
Emergency motions. File emergency motions on the CM/ECF system. Then send a copy by email directly to the Case Manager so that it quickly reaches the Court’s attention. Motions for extension of deadlines are not emergencies.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 4 | Emergencies
Courtesy copies must be promptly submitted for all documents filed under seal, regardless of length.
Documents filed under seal regardless of length;
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 5 | COURT COPIES
Courtesy copies must be promptly submitted for documents related to matters being heard within seven days of filing.
Documents pertaining to matters being heard by the Court within seven days of filing;
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 5 | COURT COPIES
Courtesy copies must be promptly submitted for documents of 50 or more pages, including exhibits.
Documents of fifty pages or more in length, including exhibits;
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 5 | COURT COPIES
Courtesy copies must be promptly submitted for Joint Pretrial Orders and other trial material.
Joint Pretrial Orders and other trial material.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 5 | COURT COPIES
Plaintiff or prosecution counsel must deliver three copies of the joint trial notebook at least four business days before the first day of trial.
Counsel to Plaintiff or Prosecution must deliver three copies at least four business days prior to the first day of trial in the manner directed in Section 6.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 14 | 19. REQUIRED PRETRIAL FILINGS
Each party must submit all exhibits on a well-organized USB drive along with three copies simultaneously with exhibit lists.
In addition to the lists, each party must simultaneously submit all exhibits on a well-organized USB drive together with three copies in the manner directed in Section 6.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 14 | 20. TRIAL EXHIBIT LISTS
A copy of the witness list must be furnished to the court reporter before trial.
Also furnish a copy to the court reporter before trial.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 15 | 21. WITNESS LISTS
Criminal jury instruction Word copies must be submitted to chambers via email upon filing by each party.
In criminal cases, counsel for Prosecution and Defense must each also submit a Word version by email or USB drive.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 18 | JURY INSTRUCTIONS
Civil jury instruction Word copies must be submitted to chambers via email upon filing.
In civil cases, counsel for Plaintiff must also jointly submit a Word version by email or USB drive.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 18 | JURY INSTRUCTIONS
Civil bench trial Word copies must be submitted to chambers via email upon filing.
In civil cases, counsel for Plaintiff must also submit a Word version by email or USB drive.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 18 | BENCH TRIALS
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
Motions to seal pleadings, briefs, or supporting materials require good cause; public access is presumed and sealed filings are disfavored.
Motion required to seal. A presumption exists as to public access to judicial records. The Court disfavors the filing of any pleading, brief, or supporting material under seal. Seek permission by motion establishing good cause as follows.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 7 | PROTECTIVE ORDERS AND FILINGS UNDER SEAL
Sealed materials must be filed under seal, with a separate public motion to seal attaching a redacted version, or show cause why redaction is impossible.
Under seal, file the at-issue pleading, brief, or other material. On the public record, separately file a motion to seal. Prepare and attach to the motion a redacted version of the material suitable to and proposed for filing on the public docket. In the alternative, establish cause why redaction is not possible.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 7 | PROTECTIVE ORDERS AND FILINGS UNDER SEAL
Filing Bundling Requirements
Only one joint Plan and one joint Proposed Scheduling Order may be filed.
The parties are to file with the Court only one Plan and one Proposed Scheduling Order.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 3 | 4. The Joint Discovery/Case Management Plan and the Proposed Scheduling Order
Joint Pretrial Orders filed on CM/ECF must include attached pretrial filings specified in Section 19.
When filing the Joint Pretrial Order on the CM/ECF system, attach the pretrial filings set out in Section 19.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 13 | 18. JOINT PRETRIAL ORDERS IN CIVIL CASES
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
Pre-motion permission via letter required for discovery and scheduling dispute motions; lead counsel must confer personally before seeking court intervention.
5. Pre-motion Conferences Required for Discovery and Other Pretrial Disputes The Court encourages the parties to make a serious attempt to resolve all discovery and scheduling disputes without intervention by the Court. This includes motions to compel, quash any discovery, or for protection. Lead counsel must personally confer on all discovery and scheduling disputes as a final attempt at resolution prior to involving the Court. Do not bring a motion on discovery and scheduling disputes without permission. To obtain permission, the party seeking relief must submit a letter not exceeding two pages. Identify the nature of the dispute, outline the issues, and state the contested relief sought. Describe the conference between lead counsel and summarize the results. Send a copy to all counsel and unrepresented parties. The opposing party should promptly submit a responsive letter of similar length identifying any disagreement. Do not submit a reply letter. The foregoing letters should be sent by email to the Court’s case manager, Kellie Papaioannou at Kellie_Papaioannou@txs.uscourts.gov. The Court may dispose of the dispute on the letters. When determined advisable, the Court may schedule a telephonic or video conference as soon as practicable. The Court will dispose of disputes at the conference to the extent possible and establish the issues and briefing schedule of any written motion allowed.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 4 | 5. Pre-motion Conferences Required for Discovery and Other Pretrial Disputes
Pre-motion letter (max 2 pages) and lead counsel conference required for discovery/scheduling motions including compel, quash, protection, extension.
Any party wishing to make a discovery or scheduling motion must obtain permission before the submission of motion papers. This includes any motion to compel, to quash, for protection, or for extension. Lead counsel must personally confer on all discovery and scheduling disputes as a final attempt at resolution prior to involving the Court. To obtain permission, the party seeking relief must submit a letter not exceeding two pages. Identify the nature of the dispute, outline the issues, and state the contested relief sought. Describe the conference between lead counsel and summarize the results. Send a copy to all counsel and unrepresented parties. The opposing party should promptly submit a responsive letter of similar length identifying any disagreement. Do not submit a reply letter. The foregoing letters should be sent by email to the Court’s case manager, Kellie Papaioannou at Kellie_Papaioannou@txs.uscourts.gov.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 12 | 9. Additional orders relating to disclosures, discovery, or pretrial motions
Discovery and scheduling motions require prior court permission via a max 2-page pre-motion letter after lead counsel personally confers with opposing counsel.
Any party wishing to make a discovery or scheduling motion must obtain permission before the submission of motion papers. This includes any motion to compel, to quash, for protection, or for extension. Lead counsel must personally confer on all discovery and scheduling disputes as a final attempt at resolution prior to involving the Court. To obtain permission, the party seeking relief must submit a letter not exceeding two pages. Identify the nature of the dispute, outline the issues, and state the contested
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 6 | SCHEDULING ORDER
Opposing party must promptly submit a responsive letter of similar length to the initial pre-motion letter, identifying any disagreement.
The opposing party should promptly submit a responsive letter of similar length identifying any disagreement.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 7 | INDIVIDUAL PRACTICES / STANDING ORDER
Pre-motion letters must be served on all counsel and unrepresented parties.
Send a copy to all counsel and unrepresented parties.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 7 | INDIVIDUAL PRACTICES / STANDING ORDER
Reply letters to responsive pre-motion letters are prohibited.
Do not submit a reply letter.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 7 | INDIVIDUAL PRACTICES / STANDING ORDER
Ex parte TRO applications are only entertained if the initiating party satisfies Rule 65(b) requirements.
Ex parte applications in civil cases. The Court does not entertain ex parte applications for restraining orders unless the initiating party satisfies the requirements of Rule 65(b).
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 4 | Emergencies
Parties must have a person with detailed knowledge of relevant electronic systems available at conferences for electronic data discovery disputes.
Disputes as to electronic data. When the dispute includes discovery of electronic data, each party must have available at any conference a person with detailed knowledge of the computers and electronic databases in issue.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 9 | DISCOVERY AND SCHEDULING DISPUTES
Opposing party must submit responsive letter (similar length to initiating letter) to discovery/scheduling dispute initiating letter; reply letters prohibited.
The opposing party should promptly submit a responsive letter of similar length identifying any disagreement. Do not submit a reply letter.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 9 | DISCOVERY AND SCHEDULING DISPUTES
Parties must make good faith attempt to resolve all discovery and scheduling disputes without court intervention; sanctions for bad faith.
Good faith required. Make a serious attempt to resolve all discovery and scheduling disputes without intervention by the Court. This includes disputes to compel or quash any discovery or for protection. Be pragmatic. Seek reasonable compromise. The Court will not hesitate to shift costs or order other relief against a party or counsel acting unreasonably or in bad faith.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 9 | DISCOVERY AND SCHEDULING DISPUTES
Lead counsel must personally confer on all discovery and scheduling disputes before involving the Court.
Conference between lead counsel required. Lead counsel must personally confer on all discovery and scheduling disputes as a final attempt at resolution prior to involving the Court.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 9 | DISCOVERY AND SCHEDULING DISPUTES
Initiating letter (max ~2 single-spaced pages) required to obtain permission to bring motion on discovery/scheduling disputes, must include specific content.
Initiating letter required. Do not bring a motion on discovery and scheduling disputes without permission. To obtain permission, the party seeking relief must submit a letter not exceeding approximately two single-spaced pages. Identify the nature of the dispute, outline the issues, and state the contested relief sought. Specify the conference between lead counsel and summarize the results.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 9 | DISCOVERY AND SCHEDULING DISPUTES
Good faith efforts to seek agreement required for all disputed matters except dispositive motions.
Make serious, timely, good faith efforts to seek agreement on all disputed matters and requests for relief except dispositive motions.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 10 | MOTION PRACTICE AND HEARINGS
Requests for in camera inspection of privilege log documents require a letter (max ~3 single-spaced pages) with specific content, after lead counsel conference.
Bring any request by letter not to exceed approximately three single-spaced pages. Lead counsel must confer in good faith to resolve the dispute prior to any letter. In the letter, identify the documents for review, state the grounds for challenge, specify the conference between lead counsel, and summarize the results. This letter establishes consent to ex parte contact between the Court and the party’s opponent regarding the nature and verity of the asserted privilege.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 10 | PRIVILEGE LOGS
Only one in camera inspection request letter allowed per party, due 60 days before discovery ends or promptly on receipt of later privilege log.
Each party may freely submit only a single letter requesting in camera inspection. Submit any letter at least sixty days before the end of discovery or promptly upon receipt of any later privilege log.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 10 | PRIVILEGE LOGS
Pre-filing conference and issue identification required for Rule 12(b)(6) and 12(c) motions in civil cases; certificate of conference must include this.
Before filing a motion to dismiss for failure to state a claim or counterclaim under Rule 12(b)(6), or a motion for judgment on the pleadings on a claim or counterclaim under Rule 12(c), identify such issues to the opposing party and confer in good faith to resolve them. The Court will strike motions that do not include this in the certificate of conference.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 10 | MOTION PRACTICE AND HEARINGS
Motions on discovery or scheduling disputes prohibited without permission obtained under Section 13.c.
Motions on discovery and scheduling. Do not bring a motion on discovery or scheduling disputes absent permission obtained under Section 13.c.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 10 | MOTION PRACTICE AND HEARINGS
Opposed motions are considered 28 days after filing; responses due 21 days post-motion, replies 7 days post-response; no sur-replies without permission.
set forth in LR7.3 and considers opposed motions twenty-eight calendar days after their filing date. File any response within twenty-one calendar days of the motion. File any reply within seven calendar days of the response. Do not file a surreply absent advance permission.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 11 | Motion practice and hearings
Initiating letter not required for discovery relief against nonparties.
Disputes with nonparties. An initiating letter is not required to seek discovery relief against a nonparty.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 9 | DISCOVERY AND SCHEDULING DISPUTES
Criminal case motion briefing follows CrLR12 and Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 12.
Submission date and briefing deadline in criminal cases. The Court proceeds according to CrLR12 and Rule 12 of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 11 | Motion practice and hearings
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
Discovery extension motions must be filed sufficiently early to allow opposing counsel to respond before the discovery deadline.
Motions for extension of discovery must be filed far enough in advance of the deadline to enable opposing counsel to respond before the deadline.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 4 | 5. Pre-motion Conferences Required for Discovery and Other Pretrial Disputes
Discovery deadline extensions do not require approval if they do not affect the Docket Control Order or other court-set deadlines.
Parties may agree to extension of discovery deadlines without seeking approval when the extension does not affect the Docket Control Order or other deadlines set by the Court.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 7 | CONTINUANCES
Modification of Scheduling Order requires a motion establishing good cause.
The Court will modify the Scheduling Order only upon a motion establishing good cause.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 7 | CONTINUANCES
Continuance requests must include recommended dates for all adjusted deadlines after the first modification.
Requested changes must include recommended dates to adjust all deadlines following the first modification.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 7 | CONTINUANCES
Agreed extensions of submission dates require notice via letter/email and a proposed order maintaining other court-set deadlines.
Advise by letter or email of any agreed extension of the submission date. Provide a proposed order for any agreed extension that maintains other deadlines set by the Court.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 11 | Motion practice and hearings
Plaintiff may request a reasonable continuance of the scheduling conference if service has not been perfected.
Plaintiff may request a reasonable continuance if it has not perfected service.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 6 | INITIAL SETTINGS AND FILINGS IN CIVIL CASES
Vacation and family-related continuance requests are accommodated if made well in advance of the hearing or trial.
The Court respects and seeks to accommodate vacation and family requests if made well in advance of a hearing or trial setting.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 7 | CONTINUANCES
Party agreements on continuance of deadlines are not binding on the Court but are considered.
Agreements on continuance of deadlines do not bind the Court but are given due consideration.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 7 | CONTINUANCES
Chambers Communication Rules
Pre-motion letters for discovery/scheduling disputes must be emailed to the Court's case manager.
The foregoing letters should be sent by email to the Court’s case manager, Kellie Papaioannou at Kellie_Papaioannou@txs.uscourts.gov.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 4 | 5. Pre-motion Conferences Required for Discovery and Other Pretrial Disputes
Pre-motion letters must be submitted via email to the Court’s case manager at the provided email address.
The foregoing letters should be sent by email to the Court’s case manager, Kellie Papaioannou at Kellie_Papaioannou@txs.uscourts.gov.
Machine summary. Not checked yet. · Civil cases
Page 7 | INDIVIDUAL PRACTICES / STANDING ORDER
Inquiries regarding cases assigned to Judge Hampton must be directed to Case Manager Melissa Arguello via telephone.
Direct inquiries regarding any case assigned to Judge Hampton to: Melissa Arguello Case Manager to Hon. Julie K. Hampton 1133 North Shoreline Blvd. Corpus Christi, Texas 78401 Telephone: (361) 888-3432 Email: Melissa_Arguello@txs.uscourts.gov
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 1 | Applicability and compliance
All communications related to ex parte applications must be directed to the Case Manager via phone or email.
Communication. Make all related communications through the Case Manager via telephone or email.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 4 | Emergencies
Counsel must provide a copy of any letter or email to the Court to all parties via the same delivery method, and may not file such correspondence on CM/ECF unless directed by the Court.
Prior to or with delivery of any letter or email to the Court, use the same means to provide a copy to all other parties. Do not file copies of letters or email on the CM/ECF system. The Court dockets or directs filing as determined advisable.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 5 | Informal communication with the Court
Courtesy copies must be mailed or hand-delivered to the Case Manager with a transmittal letter specifying content; transmittal letters must not be filed and copies must be sent to all parties without attachments.
Delivery to chambers. Mail or hand-deliver courtesy copies to the attention of the Case Manager with a transmittal letter specifying the content. Do not file transmittal letters. Mail or email a copy of such letters without attachments to all other parties.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 5 | COURT COPIES
Counsel may not initiate contact with Law Clerks except to return a message, and may only discuss matters within the indicated subject.
A Law Clerk may contact counsel with a specific inquiry at the Court’s direction. Do not initiate contact with the Law Clerks unless returning a message. Do not discuss matters beyond the indicated subject.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 5 | Informal communication with the Court
Agreed extensions of submission dates must be communicated to the court via letter (ECF) or email.
Advise by letter or email of any agreed extension of the submission date.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 11 | Motion practice and hearings
Parties must immediately email chambers to report pending motion resolution before ruling; court will deny as moot or terminate.
Resolution by agreement. Immediately advise by email of resolution of a pending motion prior to the Court’s ruling. The Court will then deny the motion as moot or have the clerk terminate the motion.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 11 | Motion practice and hearings
Parties must immediately notify the Court by email upon settlement; the Court will enter a dismissal order without prejudice to reinstatement if conditions fail.
Notice of settlement and conditional orders of dismissal. Immediately notify the Court by email of settlement. The Court will enter an order of dismissal. The dismissal will be without prejudice to move within a reasonable time for reinstatement if approval of documentation or condition precedent fails.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 21 | Mediation and settlements in civil cases
Parties must notify the Court by letter or email when serious settlement discussions are underway; the Court will postpone pending motions until advised of settlement outcome.
Notice of settlement discussions. Notify the Court by letter or email whenever serious settlement discussions are underway. The Court will postpone consideration of pending motions until advised of success or impasse.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 21 | Mediation and settlements in civil cases
Informal communication is disfavored, must be directed to the Case Manager via letters or email, and may not address substantive issues.
Informal communication disfavored. The Court disfavors informal communication about cases except as stated in these procedures. Do not address substantive issues in informal communication. Address such issues only through written filings and in-person conferences and hearings. Neither the Case Manager, the Law Clerks, nor other personnel provide legal advice or predict what the Court will do on a given matter. Direct all informal communications to the Court through the Case Manager. Unless stated otherwise below, use the following: • Letters to initiate discovery and scheduling disputes under Section 13; • Letters or email for other minor procedural questions;
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 4 | Informal communication with the Court
Counsel must check the District Court website and CM/ECF system for status updates before contacting the Court, and direct filing questions to the Office of the Clerk.
Status inquiries. Seek answers when possible from the District Court’s website. Review information on thestatus of documents, entry of orders, and docket entries on the CM/ECF system prior to contacting the Court. Direct filing questions to the Office of the Clerk.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 5 | Informal communication with the Court
Parties must promptly email chambers to request expedited decision or date certain, providing justification.
Promptly advise by email of need for decision on an expedited basis or date certain. Provide reasons justifying prompt attention.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 11 | Motion practice and hearings
Questions about participating in remote proceedings may be directed to the Clerk of Court via phone at 361-888-3142.
Any questions as to how one may participate may be directed to the Clerk of Court for the SDTX, Corpus Christi Division, at 361-888-3142.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 1 | Important
Members of the public may request remote proceeding access via email to ccmagduty@txs.uscourts.gov.
Any member of the public wishing access to the proceeding may obtain that access by emailing a request to ccmagduty@txs.uscourts.gov. Instructions for how to participate will be forwarded by return email.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 1 | Important
Counsel may request oral argument via email, must include circumstances justifying the request.
Counsel may jointly or individually advise by email of any request for oral argument together with circumstances to justify it.
Machine summary. Not checked yet.
Page 11 | Motion practice and hearings