Court Rules
Judge

Judge Wesley L. Hsu

Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies

Rules last changed:
Central District of California

Limits & Logistics

Document Limits

Brief
7,000 wds
Claim Construction Brief
10 pgs
Claim Construction Brief
7,000 wds
Motion in Limine
2,500 wds
Joint Statement of the Case
1 pgs
Reply Brief
10 pgs

Courtesy Copies

Courtesy copies

  • 1 copy
  • 1 copy • Before Consideration
  • Chambers Drop Off
  • Email
  • Within 24 Hours

Discovery Document

  • Prohibited

Discovery Matter

  • Not required

Filings > 50 pages

Binding: Tabbed Three Ring

Adjournments

48Hoursnotice
  • Court will not rule on ex parte applications for at least 48 hours after service unless service is excused or interests of justice require.
  • Opposing papers must be filed within 48 hours or by 3pm on first court day after service, whichever is later.
  • Firm discovery deadlines set at scheduling conference.
  • Non-compliance with meet and confer may result in sanctions.
  • Continuance requests must be by motion/stipulation/application with a declaration showing good cause and due diligence.
  • +22 more

Request must include

Reason for RequestOriginal DateProposed New DatesProposed Rescheduled DatePrevious Requests Granted or DeniedNumber of Previous Requests
  • Motion for review of magistrate decision must be filed within 14 days of ruling.
  • Such a request must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the scheduled hearing via separate docket entry.
  • Oppositions to motions in limine must be filed 14 days before FTPC.
  • Dispositive motions must be filed within 28 days after discovery closes.
  • Motions in limine must be filed 28 days before FTPC; oppositions 14 days before.
  • Counsel must notify opposing counsel and CRD via email at least 3 days before a scheduled appearance if a calendar conflict arises, and propose a new date by stipulation and proposed order.
Proposed Rescheduled Date
24Hoursnotice
  • Opposition to ex parte applications must be filed within 24 hours of service.
  • Counsel shall avoid submitting requests for continuance of trial less than one (1) week prior to the FTPC. A request to continue dates that have already expired constitutes a presumptive lack of due diligence.
  • Unserved defendants (including Doe) dismissed after 90 days unless extension granted.
  • Settlement discussions require 2-week notice before hearing; immediate notice if settled.

Communication

Email

Chambers, Clerk

wlh_chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov
SchedulingTechnical IssuesStipulationsProposed OrdersEx Parte Applications
Hours: by 12:00 p.m. (noon) on the Friday before trial
No status inquiries
Email
reporterscacd@cacd.uscourts.gov
Cases:
Filters:

Page & Word Limits26 rules

Page LimitsMandatory

Support/opposition memoranda limited to 7,000 words; replies limited to 4,000 words.

Excluded from word count

  • Caption
  • Table of contents
  • Table of authorities
  • Signature block
  • Certificates

Court's wording

Memoranda of points and authorities in support of or in opposition to motions (besides motions in limine) shall not exceed 7,000 words. Replies shall not exceed 4,000 words. These page counts include headings, footnotes, and quotations but exclude the caption, the table of contents, the table of authorities, the signature block, the certification required by L.R. 11-6.2, and any indices and exhibits.

Page LimitsMandatoryCivil cases

Opening claim construction briefs limited to 7,000 words, excluding specified items.

Claim construction brief
Up to 7,000 words

Excluded from word count

  • Caption
  • Table of contents
  • Table of authorities
  • Signature block
  • Certificates
  • Exhibits

Court's wording

No later than seven (7) days after they file the Joint Claim Construction and Prehearing Statement, the parties shall file simultaneous opening claim construction briefs of not more than 7,000 words. These page counts include headings, footnotes, and quotations but exclude the caption, the table of contents, the table of authorities, the signature block, the certification required by Local Rule 11-6.2, and any indices and exhibits.

Page LimitsMandatoryCivil cases

Parties must exchange proposed claim constructions within 14 days after C.1 lists.

Court's wording

No later than fourteen (14) days after the exchange of the S.P.R. C.1 lists, the parties shall simultaneously exchange proposed constructions of each term identified by either party for claim construction.

Page LimitsMandatoryCivil cases

Not later than fourteen (14) days after the opening briefs, the parties shall file simultaneous responsive briefs of not more than ten (10) pages. With its responsive brief, each party shall submit any presentation material (such as demonstrative exhibits, including PowerPoint or other slide presentations) it wishes to use at the claim construction hearing, and may submit DVD, or USB thumb drive.

Responsive claim construction brief
Up to 10 pages
Applies to
  • Claim construction brief
Page LimitsMandatoryCivil cases

No later than seven (7) days after the completion of claim construction discovery, the parties shall complete and file a Joint Claim Construction and Prehearing Statement.

Page LimitsMandatoryCivil cases

Each side shall have forty-five (45) minutes for its presentation, subject to enlargement at the Court's discretion.

Page LimitsMandatoryCivil cases

Claim construction discovery must be completed within 28 days after C.2 material exchange.

Court's wording

No later than twenty eight (28) days after service of the material required by S.P.R. C.2, the parties shall complete all discovery desired for claim construction, including any depositions of fact and expert witnesses regarding claim construction.

Page LimitsMandatoryCivil cases

Parties must exchange claim terms for construction within 14 days after B.5/B.6 disclosures.

Court's wording

No later than fourteen (14) days after the S.P.R. B.5 and B.6 disclosures, each party shall serve on each other party a list of claim terms the party contends should be construed by the Court, and identify any claim term the party contends should be governed by 35 U.S.C. § 112(6)/(f).

Page LimitsMandatoryCivil cases

Motions in limine and oppositions are limited to 2,500 words.

Motion in limine
Up to 2,500 words
Opposition
Up to 2,500 words

Excluded from word count

  • Caption
  • Signature block
  • Table of contents
  • Table of authorities

Court's wording

Motions in limine and oppositions must not exceed 2,500 words in length, including headings, footnotes, and quotations but excluding the caption page, signature block, and any table of contents or table of authorities.

Page LimitsMandatoryCivil cases

The joint statement should be brief and neutral and should not be more than one page in length.

Page limit
Up to 1 page
Page LimitsMandatory

Motion memoranda limited to 7,000 words (support/opposition) and 4,000 words (reply), with specified exclusions.

Excluded from word count

  • Caption
  • Table of contents
  • Table of authorities
  • Signature block
  • Certificates

Court's wording

Memoranda of points and authorities in support of or in opposition to motions (besides motions in limine) shall not exceed 7,000 words. Replies shall not exceed 4,000 words. These page counts include headings, footnotes, and quotations but exclude the caption, the table of contents, the table of authorities, the signature block, the certification required by L.R. 11-6.2, and any indices and exhibits. Only rarely and for good cause shown will the Court grant an application to extend these word count limitations.

Page LimitsMandatory

Reply briefs in support of ex parte applications are not permitted.

Page LimitsMandatoryCivil cases

Each separately represented party shall be limited to twenty-five (25) pages, exclusive of tables of contents and authorities. Replies shall not exceed ten (10) pages.

Excluded from page count

  • Table of contents
  • Table of authorities
Page LimitsMandatoryCivil cases

the moving party may separately file a reply memorandum of points and authorities, not exceeding ten (10) pages in length.

Page limit
Up to 10 pages
Applies to
  • Rule 56 motions
Page LimitsMandatory

Word count limitations apply with rare extensions for good cause; supplemental briefs require prior leave.

Court's wording

indices and exhibits. Only in rare instances and for good cause shown will the court grant an application to extend these word count limitations. No supplemental brief shall be filed without prior leave of court.

Page LimitsMandatory

Each side is limited to five (5) motions in limine unless the Court grants leave to file additional motions.

Page LimitsMandatory

Motions in limine and oppositions must not exceed 2500 words in length.

Motion in limine
Up to 2,500 words
Applies to
  • In limine motions
Page LimitsMandatory

Motion memoranda limited to 7,000 words; replies to 4,000 words, with specific exclusions.

Motion
Up to 7,000 words
Reply
Up to 4,000 words
Applies to
  • Opposition

Excluded from word count

  • Caption
  • Table of contents
  • Table of authorities
  • Certificates

Court's wording

Memoranda of points and authorities in support of or in opposition to motions (besides motions in limine) shall not exceed 7,000 words. Replies shall not exceed 4,000 words. These page counts include headings, footnotes, and quotations but exclude the caption, the table of contents, the table of authorities, the signature block, the certification required by L.R. 11-6.2, and any indices and exhibits.

Page LimitsMandatory

Memoranda of points and authorities in support of or in opposition to motions (besides motions in limine) shall not exceed 7,000 words. Replies shall not exceed 4,000 words.

Page LimitsMandatory

Reply briefs in support of ex parte applications are not permitted.

Apps Cacd Uscourts Gov 2fb96094 A524 41d4 B0d1 08dee8e247f6 · p. 17
|SectionRESTRAINING ORDERS AND APPLICATIONS FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF
Page LimitsImportant

If oral argument is permitted, the parties will have a ten (10) minutes each for oral argument, unless the Court states otherwise.

Page LimitsImportant

These page counts include headings, footnotes, and quotations but exclude the caption, the table of contents, the table of authorities, the signature block, the certification required by L.R. 11-6.2, and any indices and exhibits.

Excluded from the limit

  • Caption
  • Table of contents
  • Table of authorities
  • Signature block
  • Certificates
Page LimitsNoteCivil cases

In patent invalidity declaratory judgment cases, plaintiff must serve B.5/B.6 disclosures within 14 days if no infringement claim is made.

Court's wording

If the defendant does not assert a claim for patent infringement in its answer to the complaint, the party seeking a declaratory judgment of invalidity shall serve upon each opposing party its S.P.R. B.5 and B.6 disclosures no later than fourteen (14) days after the order setting the scheduling conference.

Page LimitsNoteCivil cases

In all cases where a party files a complaint or other pleading seeking a declaratory judgment that a patent is invalid, S.P.R. B.1 and B.2 shall not apply unless and until a claim for patent infringement is made, and the party asserting patent infringement shall have twenty-eight (28) days (instead of fourteen (14) days) after the order setting the scheduling conference to make its disclosures pursuant to S.P.R. B.1 and B.2.

Document Format Requirements49 rules

FormattingMandatory

Proposed orders should NOT contain any of the following: (1) attorney names, addresses, etc. on the caption page; (2) a footer with the document name or other information; or (3) a watermark or designation of the firm name. Proposed orders should be formatted in the same fashion as motions.

Applies to
  • Proposed order

Formatting

  • No attorney names, addresses on caption page
  • No footer with document name or other information
  • No watermark or firm name designation
  • Format same as motions
FormattingMandatory

Electronic Filing. Pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 5(d)(3), L.R. 5-4, and General Order 10-07, counsel shall electronically file (“e-file”) all filings. Items that do not require the Court’s signature shall be e-filed in pdf format. Proposed orders shall be e-filed in pdf format as an attachment to the main documents. Pro Se Litigants may submit documents for filing through the Court’s Electronic Document Submission System (“EDSS”) instead of mailing or bringing documents to the Clerk’s Office. Only internet access and an email address are required. Documents are submitted in PDF format through an online portal on the Court’s website. To access EDSS and for additional information, visit the Court’s website at https://apps.cacd.uscourts.gov/edss.

File type
PDF

Formatting

  • Proposed orders must be e-filed as attachments to main documents
FormattingMandatory

Counsel shall adhere to L.R. 5-4.3 with respect to the conversion of all documents to .pdf format so that when a document is electronically filed, it is in proper size and is .pdf searchable.

File type
PDF
FormattingMandatory

Times New Roman 14pt or Courier 12pt required; footnotes same size as body.

Font size
At least 12 points

Court's wording

Pursuant to L.R. 11-3.1.1, either a proportionally spaced or monospaced face may be used. Typeface shall comply with L.R. 11-3.1.1. Times New Roman font must be no less than 14 point; Courier font must be no less than 12 point. Footnotes shall be in the same font and the same size as the body of the memorandum.

FormattingMandatory

Chambers copy exhibits must be tabbed and hole-punched with specific requirements based on page count.

Binding
Tabbed three-ring binder

Court's wording

(c) Mandatory Chambers Copy Exhibits. All exhibits should be separated by a tab divider on the right or bottom of the document. If the evidence exceeds 50 pages, the Mandatory Chambers Copy must: (1) include a table of contents; and (2) be in a tabbed binder with each exhibit separated by a tab divider on the right or the bottom. All documents in the binder must be three-hole punched, preferably with a larger hole size (13/32”), rather than the standard hole size (9/32”) to facilitate ease of review. If the evidence exceeds 200 pages, the table of contents and evidence must be placed in a Slant D-Ring binder. Binders should be no larger than 4 inches. Binders have both a cover sheet and a spine label that includes the case name, case number, and a description of the contents.

FormattingMandatoryCivil cases

JAE must include table of contents, be filed as single PDF (or multiple with proper naming), and exhibits must be bookmarked.

File type
PDF

Formatting

  • Table of contents required
  • Single PDF unless file-size constraints

Court's wording

The JAE shall be filed as a single, combined PDF; more than one PDF may be filed if file-size constraints preclude filing the JAE as a single PDF. In the event multiple PDFs are necessary to file the JAE, each file shall be titled by part and exhibit series (e.g., JAE Part 1, Exhibits 1–50). Each exhibit within the JAE must be bookmarked; the bookmark should include the exhibit number and a brief description of the exhibit (e.g., Ex. 1 – Jones Depo. Excerpts).

FormattingMandatory

Counsel should not leave blanks or inapplicable bracketed text in any instruction. It is counsel’s duty to conform the instructions to the case (e.g., inserting names of defendant(s) or witness(es) to whom the instruction applies and selecting the appropriate bracketed text, but not changing the standard language of the instruction). Where language appears in brackets in the model instruction, counsel must select the appropriate text and eliminate the inapplicable bracketed text.

Formatting

  • No blanks or bracketed text
  • Insert names of defendants/witnesses
  • Select appropriate bracketed text
  • Eliminate inapplicable bracketed text
FormattingMandatory

Enlargements use original number + “A” and require agreement or court ruling.

Court's wording

An enlargement of an existing exhibit shall use the original exhibit number followed by an “A.” Counsel shall not attempt to display or use any charts or enlargements of exhibits unless all counsel have agreed to their use or objections have been heard and a ruling has been made by the Court.

FormattingMandatory

The transcripts shall use the original exhibit number of the audio recording followed by an “A” for identification purposes.

FormattingMandatory

All exhibits placed in three-ring binders must be indexed by exhibit number with tabs or dividers on the right side. Exhibits shall be numbered sequentially 1, 2, 3, etc., not 1.1, 1.2, etc.

Binding
Three-ring binder
FormattingMandatory

Original exhibits must have official yellow (government) or blue (defendant) tags.

Court's wording

The original exhibits shall bear the official exhibit tags (yellow tags for government’s exhibits and blue tags for defendant’s exhibits) affixed to the front upper right-hand corner of the exhibit, with the case number, case name, and exhibit number stated on each tag.

FormattingMandatory

The spine of each binder shall indicate the name of the case, case number, exhibit volume number, and the range of exhibit numbers included in the volume.

FormattingMandatory

Audio/video/digital evidence must be on flash drive with only admitted evidence.

Court's wording

Such evidence must be contained on a flash drive, unless otherwise directed by the Court. The party introducing the evidence is responsible for ensuring that the flash drive contains only admitted evidence.

FormattingMandatory

Trial exhibits must be submitted in three-ring binders with one original and two copies.

Margins
1 inch
Binding
Three-ring binder
Applies to
  • Exhibit

Court's wording

Trial exhibits that consist of documents and photographs must be submitted to the Court in three-ring binders. The parties must submit to the court three binders: (1) one binder containing the original set of trial exhibits; and (2) two binders containing copies of the trial exhibits. The original set of exhibits will be for use by the jury during its deliberations, and the copies are for the Court.

FormattingMandatory

Proposed orders shall be e-filed in pdf format as an attachment to the main documents.

File type
PDF
Applies to
  • Proposed order
FormattingMandatory

Use the Proposed Order Template located on the Court’s website under “Orders & Additional Documents” at the bottom of Judge Hsu’s webpage

FormattingMandatory

Proposed orders should be formatted in the same fashion as motions.

Applies to
  • Proposed order

Formatting

  • Follow same formatting as motions
FormattingMandatory

Chambers copy exhibits must be tabbed and three-hole punched with specific requirements for larger exhibits.

Binding
Tabbed three-ring binder

Formatting

  • Exhibits over 50 pages require table of contents and tabbed binder
  • All documents must be three-hole punched with 13/32" holes preferred
  • Exhibits over 200 pages require Slant D-Ring binder

Court's wording

(c) Mandatory Chambers Copy Exhibits. All exhibits should be separated by a tab divider on the right or bottom of the document. If the evidence exceeds 50 pages, the Mandatory Chambers Copy must: (1) include a table of contents; and (2) be in a tabbed binder with each exhibit separated by a tab divider on the right or the bottom. All documents in the binder must be three-hole punched, preferably with a larger hole size (13/32”), rather than the standard hole size (9/32”) to facilitate ease of review. If the evidence exceeds 200 pages, the table of contents and evidence must be placed in a Slant D-Ring binder. Binders should be no larger than 4 inches. Binders have both a cover sheet and a spine label that includes the case name, case number, and a description of the contents.

FormattingMandatory

Motion papers must use Times New Roman 14pt or Courier 12pt font.

Font
Times New Roman
Font size
At least 14 points

Court's wording

Pursuant to L.R. 11-3.1.1, either a proportionally spaced or monospaced face may be used. Typeface shall comply with L.R. 11-3.1.1. Times New Roman font must be no less than 14 point; Courier font must be no less than 12 point. Footnotes shall be in the same font and the same size as the body of the memorandum.

FormattingMandatory

Counsel shall adhere to L.R. 5-4.3 with respect to the conversion of all documents to .pdf format so that when a document is electronically filed, it is in proper size and is .pdf searchable.

File type
PDF
FormattingMandatory

Times New Roman font must be no less than 14 point; Courier font must be no less than 12 point. Footnotes shall be in the same font and the same size as the body of the memorandum.

Font
Times New Roman
Font size
At least 14 points
Applies to
  • Brief
FormattingImportantCivil cases

Pretrial documents (with exceptions) must be submitted in Microsoft Word format.

File type
Word

Court's wording

Except for motions in limine and oppositions, the Joint Status Report Regarding Settlement, and Declarations containing direct testimony, Counsel shall email all of the above, including any amended documents, in Microsoft Word format to WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov.

Document Filing Requirements214 rules

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Attachments must be separately docketed with descriptions; non-compliant documents may be struck.

Court's wording

If a filed or lodged document has declarations, exhibits, or other attachments, each attachment must be filed as a separately docketed attachment to the main docket entry with a description of the attachment (e.g., Dkt. 29-1 Smith Declaration, 29-2 Ex. 1 - License Agreement, 29-3 Request for Judicial Notice). The Court may strike or decline to consider motions, stipulations, or other documents with attachments that are not filed in accordance with this Order.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Use the Proposed Order Template located on the Court’s website under “Orders & Additional Documents” at the bottom of Judge Hsu’s webpage (https://www.cacd.uscourts.gov/honorable-wesley-l-hsu).

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Proposed orders must be lodged and served with relief sought and rationale.

Document
Proposed order

Must include

  • Citations
  • Rationale
  • Relief sought

Court's wording

Proposed Orders Must be Lodged and Served. Each party filing or opposing a motion or seeking the determination of any matter shall serve and lodge a proposed order setting forth the relief or action sought and a brief statement of the rationale for the decision with appropriate citations.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Attorneys’ fees motions require two Excel tables of hours/billings emailed to chambers.

Court's wording

Motions for attorneys’ fees shall be electronically filed and set for hearing according to L.R. 6-1 and this Order. Any motion or request for attorneys’ fees shall attach two summaries, in table form, of the hours worked by and billing rate of each attorney with title (e.g., partner, counsel, associate, etc.). The first table shall include a summary of the hours worked by each attorney, organized by task (e.g., discovery, motion to dismiss, motion for summary judgment). The second table shall include a summary of the hours worked by each attorney, organized by attorney. Both tables shall list all the tasks on which the attorney worked, the hours worked on each task, and the hourly rate of each attorney. If the hourly rate charged by any individual attorney changed while the action was ongoing, the party shall provide separate calculations for the total number of hours the attorney spent in connection with each task at each hourly rate. All tables shall be attached to the motion and electronically filed. The courtesy copies of the tables shall be prepared in Excel, have all restrictions removed so the spreadsheets can be edited, and be emailed to the Court’s chambers email address at WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Compliance statement required in motion notice.

Court's wording

The moving party must include in the signed notice of motion a truthful representation of full compliance with L.R. 7-3, stating that the parties “thoroughly discussed the substance and potential resolution of the filed motion [by videoconference or in person].”

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Any pending motions must be re-noticed in accordance with L.R. 7.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Stipulations extending dates set by this Court are not effective unless approved by the Court.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Certificate of compliance with word count required for all briefs; failure may result in motion being stricken.

Document
Brief

Must include

  • Word count
  • Certificate of compliance

Court's wording

A certificate of compliance is required for every brief filed before this Court as set forth in Local Rule 11-6.2. The certificate of compliance must contain a word count, which complies with the above-mentioned word limitations discussed in Section G.4. Failure to include the certification of compliance and/or word count may result in the motion being stricken.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Counsel should attempt to agree on a new date to accommodate the calendar conflict. Counsel must propose a new date by Stipulation and Proposed Order.

Document
Stipulation

Must include

  • Proposed order
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Failure to comply with Court orders or rules may result in dismissal of the case.

Document
Pretrial documents

Must include

  • Joint Rule 26(f) report

Court's wording

If, without satisfactory explanation, counsel fail to file the required Joint Rule 26(f) Report or the required pretrial documents, fail to appear at any scheduled proceeding, or otherwise fail to comply with the Court’s Orders or rules, the Court shall take any action it deems appropriate, including: (i) dismissal of the case for

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Motions to amend must state effect, be serially numbered, and specify page/line changes.

Document
Motion to amend

Must include

  • Proposed changes
  • Effect of amendment

Court's wording

Motions to Amend. In addition to the requirements of L.R. 15-1, all motions to amend pleadings shall: (1) state the effect of the amendment; (2) be serially numbered to differentiate the amendment from previous amendments; and (3) state the page and line number(s) and wording of any proposed change or addition of material.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

All discovery matters referred to Magistrate Judge; must include "DISCOVERY MATTER" in caption.

Document
Discovery matter
Placement
Caption

Court's wording

E. DISCOVERY 1. Magistrate Judge Referral for All Discovery Matters. All discovery matters are referred to the assigned United States Magistrate Judge. The Magistrate Judge’s initials follow the Judge’s initials next to the case number. All documents relating to discovery matters must include the words “DISCOVERY MATTER” in the caption to ensure proper routing. Counsel should not deliver chambers copies of discovery matters. Counsel must follow the Magistrate Judge’s procedures for scheduling matters for hearing. These procedures are stated on each Magistrate Judge’s webpage.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Plaintiff must identify and serve any fictitiously named or “Doe” defendant(s) before the deadline set forth in the Court’s Order Setting Scheduling Conference.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Motions and stipulations must be accompanied by a detailed declaration setting forth the specific reasons for the requested continuance and the precise deadline(s) the parties propose.

Document
Motion for continuance

Must include

  • Specific reasons
  • Precise deadlines
  • Detailed declaration
Filing RequirementsMandatory

If this action is a putative class action, the parties are to act diligently and begin discovery immediately, so that the motion for class certification can be filed expeditiously.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Reply briefs in support of ex parte applications are not permitted.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

The motion must specify which portions of the ruling are clearly erroneous or contrary to law, and the claim must be supported by points and authorities.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

The declaration also should state whether there have been any previous requests for continuances; whether these requests were granted or denied by the Court; what efforts were made to meet the existing deadline; and what, if any, prejudice would result if the request is denied.

Document
Motion for continuance

Should include

  • Previous continuance requests
Filing RequirementsMandatory

A stipulation that fails to list the precise date(s) the parties wish to move, and the new date(s) they propose, will be denied for failure to comply with this Standing Order.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Unserved defendants dismissed after 90 days unless plaintiff requests extension in joint report.

Court's wording

Any defendant(s), including “DOE” or fictitiously-named defendant(s), not served within ninety (90) days after the case is filed shall be dismissed pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 4(m) and by operation of this Order without further notice, unless plaintiff requests and justifies the need for additional time in the joint report and the Court grants an extension.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Plaintiff must seek consent from all defendants' counsel before substituting Doe defendant.

Court's wording

Before moving to substitute a defendant for a Doe defendant, plaintiff must seek the consent of counsel for all defendants, including counsel for a represented Doe defendant. If denied consent, plaintiff must file a regularly noticed

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Form pleadings must be revised within 30 days of removal to comply with FRCP 7, 7.1, 8, 9, 10, 11.

Court's wording

If an action removed to this Court contains a form pleading, i.e., a pleading in which boxes are checked, the party or parties that filed the form pleading must file in this Court within thirty (30) days of receipt of the Notice of Removal a revised pleading that complies with Fed. R. Civ. P. 7, 7.1, 8, 9, 10 and 11.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

The plaintiff(s) shall promptly serve the Complaint in accordance with Fed. R. Civ. P. 4 and file the proofs of service pursuant to Fed R. Civ. P. 4(l).

Document
Complaint

Must include

  • Proof of service
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCriminal cases

During the electronic filing process, attach the proposed order to the application. (Standard procedure for filing any application with a proposed order).

Document
Application to seal

Include

  • Proposed order

Filing & Service rules

Electronic Filing Rules

Counsel must e-file all filings; items not requiring court signature in PDF; proposed orders as PDF attachments.

Pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 5(d)(3), L.R. 5-4, and General Order 10-07, counsel shall electronically file (“e-file”) all filings. Items that do not require the Court’s signature shall be e-filed in pdf format. Proposed orders shall be e-filed in pdf format as an attachment to the main documents.

Page 5 | FILING REQUIREMENTS

Motions for attorneys’ fees must be electronically filed and set for hearing per Local Rule 6-1.

Motions for attorneys’ fees shall be electronically filed and set for hearing according to L.R. 6-1 and this Order.

Page 15 | 8. Motions for Attorneys’ Fees

Answers filed in state court must be refiled in federal court as a supplement to the Notice of Removal.

Any Answers filed in state court must be refiled in this Court as a supplement to the Notice of Removal.

Page 4 | B. PLEADING REQUIREMENTS

Counsel must e-file all filings in PDF format; proposed orders must be e-filed as PDF attachments.

counsel shall electronically file (“e-file”) all filings. Items that do not require the Court’s signature shall be e-filed in pdf format. Proposed orders shall be e-filed in pdf format as an attachment to the main documents.

Page 5 | C. FILING REQUIREMENTS

Motions for attorneys' fees must be electronically filed.

Motions for attorneys’ fees shall be electronically filed and set for hearing according to L.R. 6-1 and this Order.

Page 15

Pro se litigants may file documents via EDSS instead of mail or in-person; requires internet and email; PDF format.

Pro Se Litigants may submit documents for filing through the Court’s Electronic Document Submission System (“EDSS”) instead of mailing or bringing documents to the Clerk’s Office. Only internet access and an email address are required. Documents are submitted in PDF format through an online portal on the Court’s website.

Page 5 | FILING REQUIREMENTS

Pro se litigants may use EDSS to file documents in PDF format instead of mailing or bringing to Clerk's Office.

Pro Se Litigants may submit documents for filing through the Court’s Electronic Document Submission System (“EDSS”) instead of mailing or bringing documents to the Clerk’s Office. Only internet access and an email address are required. Documents are submitted in PDF format through an online portal on the Court’s website.

Page 5 | C. FILING REQUIREMENTS

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

Motions for summary judgment must be filed at least 6 weeks before the cut-off date.

MSJ must be filed at least six (6) weeks before the cut-off date).

Civil cases

Page 3 | 2. Non-Discovery Motions Deadline

Non-discovery motions (except MSJ) must be filed at least 28 days before the deadline.

all non-discovery motions, except for MSJ, must be filed at least twenty-eight (28) days before the deadline in accordance with the requirements of L.R. 6-1;

Civil cases

Page 3 | 2. Non-Discovery Motions Deadline

Parties must notify the Court of any settlement no later than the Monday before the trial date.

In all cases set for jury trial, the parties must notify the Court no later than the Monday preceding the trial date, of any settlement, so that the necessary arrangements can be made to bring in a different case for trial or to notify the members of the public who would otherwise be reporting for jury duty that their services are not needed that date.

Civil cases

Page 4 | 3. Settlement Proceedings/Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Deadline

Proposed FPTCO must be filed at least 14 days before the Final Pretrial Conference.

A proposed Final Pretrial Conference Order (“Proposed FPTCO”) shall be filed and emailed to Chambers at least fourteen (14) days before the FPTC.

Civil cases

Page 6 | 3. Final Pretrial Conference/Proposed Final Pretrial Conference.

Pretrial documents must be filed on the due date set in the schedule.

All pretrial documents listed above, including any amended documents, shall be filed and emailed to Chambers the day set forth in the schedule that they are due.

Civil cases

Page 8 | B. TRIAL PREPARATION

Oppositions to motions in limine must be filed at least 14 days before the Final Pretrial Conference.

Oppositions must be filed at least fourteen (14) days before the FPTC.

Civil cases

Page 9 | (b) Motions in Limine

Witness lists must be filed at least 28 days before the Final Pretrial Conference.

Witness lists must be filed at least twenty-eight (28) days before the FPTC.

Civil cases

Page 9 | (c) Witness Lists

Amended Witness Lists must be filed by noon on the Friday before trial and emailed to chambers in Microsoft Word format.

Any Amended Witness List must be filed by 12:00 p.m. (noon) on the Friday before trial and emailed to WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov in Microsoft Word format.

Civil cases

Page 9 | (c) Witness Lists

Joint Exhibit List must be filed at least 28 days before the Final Pretrial Conference.

The Joint Exhibit List must be filed at least twenty-eight (28) days before the FPTC.

Civil cases

Page 9 | (d) Joint Exhibit List

Amended Joint Exhibit Lists must be filed by noon on the Friday before trial and emailed to chambers in Microsoft Word format.

Any Amended Joint Exhibit List must be filed by 12:00 p.m. (noon) on the Friday before trial and emailed to WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov in Microsoft Word format.

Civil cases

Page 9 | (d) Joint Exhibit List

Motions in limine must be filed at least 28 days before the Final Pretrial Conference.

All motions in limine must be filed at least twenty-eight (28) days before the FPTC.

Civil cases

Page 9 | (b) Motions in Limine

Joint agreed proposed jury instructions must be filed no later than 14 days before the Final Pretrial Conference.

Joint agreed upon proposed jury instructions must be filed no later than fourteen (14) days prior to the FPTC.

Civil cases

Page 10 | (e) Jury Instructions

Joint verdict form must be filed 14 days before the Final Pretrial Conference.

The parties shall file a proposed joint general or special verdict form fourteen (14) days before the FPTC.

Civil cases

Page 12 | (f) Joint Verdict Forms

Joint Statement of the Case must be filed 14 days before the Final Pretrial Conference.

The parties must file a Joint Statement of the Case fourteen (14) days before the FPTC for the Court to read to the prospective jurors before commencement of voir dire.

Civil cases

Page 12 | (g) Joint Statement of the Case

Objections to declarations must be filed at least 14 days before FPTC.

If such declarations are filed, each party shall file any evidentiary objections to the declarations submitted by any other party at least fourteen (14) days before the FPTC.

Civil cases

Page 13 | (j) Declarations of Direct Testimony (Bench Trial Only)

Proposed Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law must be filed no later than 28 days before the Final Pretrial Conference.

For any trial requiring findings of fact and conclusions of law, each party shall file and serve on the opposing party, no later than twenty-eight (28) days before the FPTC, its Proposed Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law in the format specified in Local Rule 52-3.

Civil cases

Page 13 | (i) Proposed Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law (Bench Trial Only)

Declarations of direct testimony must be filed at least 28 days before FPTC.

When ordered by the Court in a particular case, each party shall, at least twenty-eight (28) days before the FPTC, file declarations containing the direct testimony of each witness whom that party intends to call at trial.

Civil cases

Page 13 | (j) Declarations of Direct Testimony (Bench Trial Only)

USB flash drive with exhibits must be delivered to judge's courtesy box by 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday before trial.

The USB flash drive must be delivered to the judge’s courtesy box located outside the Clerk’s Office on the 4th floor of the First Street Courthouse by 12:00 p.m. on the Wednesday before the start of trial.

Civil cases

Page 14 | 3. Trial Exhibits (b) Exhibit Copies

Parties who filed a form pleading in state court must file a revised pleading in federal court within 30 days of receiving the Notice of Removal, complying with FRCP 7, 7.1, 8, 9, 10, and 11.

If an action removed to this Court contains a form pleading, i.e., a pleading in which boxes are checked, the party or parties that filed the form pleading must file in this Court within thirty (30) days of receipt of the Notice of Removal a revised pleading that complies with Fed. R. Civ. P. 7, 7.1, 8, 9, 10 and 11. An amended complaint filed within thirty (30) days after removal to replace a form complaint pursuant to this instruction shall be deemed an amended complaint with “the court’s leave” pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 15(a)(2).

Page 4 | PLEADINGS REQUIREMENTS

Service and Proof of Service Rules

Plaintiff's counsel must immediately serve this Order on all parties; if the case was removed, the removing defendant must serve it.

Counsel for the plaintiff must immediately serve this Order on all parties, including any new parties to the action. If this case was removed from state court, the defendant that removed the case must serve this Order on all other parties.

Page 2 | A. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

The plaintiff(s) shall promptly serve the Complaint in accordance with Fed. R. Civ. P. 4 and file the proofs of service pursuant to Fed R. Civ. P. 4(l). Any defendant(s), including “DOE” or fictitiously-named defendant(s), not served within ninety (90) days after the case is filed shall be dismissed pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 4(m) and by operation of this Order without further notice, unless plaintiff requests and justifies the need for additional time in the joint report and the Court grants an extension.

The plaintiff(s) shall promptly serve the Complaint in accordance with Fed. R. Civ. P. 4 and file the proofs of service pursuant to Fed R. Civ. P. 4(l). Any defendant(s), including “DOE” or fictitiously-named defendant(s), not served within ninety (90) days after the case is filed shall be dismissed pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 4(m) and by operation of this Order without further notice, unless plaintiff requests and justifies the need for additional time in the joint report and the Court grants an extension.

Page 4 | PLEADINGS REQUIREMENTS

Ex parte moving party must serve opposing party by email, fax, or personal service.

The moving party must also serve the opposing party by email, fax, or personal service,

Page 17 | EX PARTE APPLICATIONS

Defendants not served within 90 days of filing will be dismissed unless plaintiff requests and justifies additional time in the joint report and the Court grants an extension.

Any defendant(s), including “DOE” or fictitiously-named defendant(s), not served within ninety (90) days after the case is filed shall be dismissed pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 4(m) and by operation of this Order without further notice, unless plaintiff requests and justifies the need for additional time in the joint report and the Court grants an extension.

Page 4 | B. PLEADING REQUIREMENTS

Plaintiff must promptly serve the complaint per FRCP 4 and file proof of service per FRCP 4(l).

The plaintiff(s) shall promptly serve the Complaint in accordance with Fed. R. Civ. P. 4 and file the proofs of service pursuant to Fed R. Civ. P. 4(l).

Page 4 | B. PLEADING REQUIREMENTS

Plaintiff must identify and serve Doe defendants before the deadline in the Order Setting Scheduling Conference.

Plaintiff must identify and serve any fictitiously named or “Doe” defendant(s) before the deadline set forth in the Court’s Order Setting Scheduling Conference.

Page 4 | B. PLEADING REQUIREMENTS

Moving party must serve opposing party by email, fax, or personal service and notify them of the opposition deadline (48 hours or 3:00 PM next court day).

The moving party must also serve the opposing party by email, fax, or personal service, and notify that party that opposing papers must be filed not later than forty-eight (48) hours following service or by 3:00 p.m. on the first court day after the service, whichever is later.

Page 17 | RESTRAINING ORDERS AND APPLICATIONS FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF

Plaintiff must identify and serve Doe defendants before the scheduling conference deadline.

Plaintiff must identify and serve any fictitiously named or “Doe” defendant(s) before the deadline set forth in the Court’s Order Setting Scheduling Conference.

Page 4 | PLEADINGS REQUIREMENTS

Opposing party must deliver integrated motion to moving party within 14 days after receiving moving party's papers.

No later than fourteen (14) days after receiving the moving party’s papers, the opposing party shall personally deliver or email to the moving party an electronic copy of the integrated motion,

Civil cases

Page 7 | (c) Opposing Party's Portion of the Joint Brief

Moving party must deliver its portion of joint brief to opposing party within 14 days after meet and confer.

No later than fourteen (14) days after the meet and confer, the moving party shall personally deliver or email to the opposing party an electronic copy of the moving party's portion of the Joint Brief

Civil cases

Page 7 | (b) Moving Party's Portion of the Joint Brief

Courtesy Copy Requirements

Chambers copies must be delivered to 4th floor box by noon next business day, printed from CM/ECF with header.

All Mandatory Chambers Copies must be delivered to Judge Hsu’s Chambers copy box, which is located outside of the Clerk’s Office on the fourth floor of the First Street Courthouse. Mandatory Chambers Copies must be delivered no later than 12:00 p.m. (noon) the following business day after the document is electronically filed. Mandatory chambers copies must be printed from CM/ECF, and must include: (1) the CM/ECF- generated header (consisting of the case number, document control number, date of

Page 6 | FILING REQUIREMENTS

One mandatory chambers copy required for summary judgment motions and 26(f) reports only.

The parties must provide one (1) Mandatory Chambers Copy only of Motions for Summary Judgment filings and the 26(f) Report. Please do not send paper copies of any other documents unless requested by the Court.

Page 6 | FILING REQUIREMENTS

Chambers copies of TRO-related documents must be provided on the same day filed.

The parties must provide chambers copies of TRO-related documents on the same day they are filed.

Counsel shall provide the Magistrate Judge chambers copies of the moving papers and responses.

Counsel shall provide the Magistrate Judge chambers copies of the moving papers and responses.

Mandatory chambers copy required for MSJ and 26(f) Reports, delivered by noon next business day; voluminous documents (>500 pages) allowed second business day.

The parties must deliver to Judge Hsu’s chambers copy box located outside of the Clerk’s Office on the fourth floor of the First Street Courthouse one (1) Mandatory Chambers Copy (a paper copy that is sent to Chambers upon electronic filing of the motion) only for Motions for Summary Judgment filings and 26(f) Reports. Mandatory Chambers Copies must be delivered no later than 12:00 p.m. (noon) the following business day after the document is electronically filed. If, however, the electronically filed document is particularly voluminous (more than 500 pages), Mandatory Chambers Copies may be delivered no later than 12:00 p.m. on the second business day after the document is filed.

Civil cases

Page 4 | 2. Non-Discovery Motions Deadline

Mandatory chambers copies of pretrial documents must be delivered to the chambers copy box, in binder-ready state (three-hole punched, no blue-backs, stapled top left).

Mandatory Chambers Copies of electronically filed pretrial documents shall be delivered to Judge Hsu’s Chambers copy box outside of the Clerk’s Office on the fourth floor of the First Street Courthouse. Chambers copies must be delivered in a “binder-ready” state, meaning they must be three-hole punched on the left side, without blue-backs, and stapled only in the top left corner.

Civil cases

Page 8 | B. TRIAL PREPARATION

One mandatory chambers copy required only for MSJ filings, 26(f) Report, and post-trial motions; do not send other paper copies unless requested.

The parties must provide one (1) Mandatory Chambers Copy only of Motions for Summary Judgment filings the 26(f) Report and any post-trial motion filings. Please do not send paper copies of any other documents unless requested by the Court.

Page 6 | FILING REQUIREMENTS

Mandatory chambers copies must be delivered to the designated copy box by noon the next business day after e-filing.

All Mandatory Chambers Copies must be delivered to Judge Hsu’s Chambers copy box, which is located outside of the Clerk’s Office on the fourth floor of the Felicitas and Gonzalo Mendez United States Courthouse. Mandatory Chambers Copies must be delivered no later than 12:00 p.m. (noon) the following business day after the document is electronically filed.

Page 7 | Delivery Location, Timeliness, and Form

Ex parte applications require a mandatory chambers copy before consideration.

The application will not be considered until a Mandatory Chambers Copy has been provided.

Page 18 | EX PARTE APPLICATIONS

Chambers copies of TRO-related documents must be provided on the same day as filing.

The parties must provide chambers copies of TRO-related documents on the same day they are filed.

Page 18 | EX PARTE APPLICATIONS

Parties should submit one (1) paper copies of all MSJ filings to Judge Hsu’s mailbox on the Fourth Floor of the First Street Courthouse. Pro Se litigants are exempt from this requirement.

Parties should submit one (1) paper copies of all MSJ filings to Judge Hsu’s mailbox on the Fourth Floor of the First Street Courthouse. Pro Se litigants are exempt from this requirement.

Civil cases

Page 4 | 8. Mandatory Chambers Copies

Mandatory chambers copies must be binder-ready and delivered by 5:00 PM next court day.

The government must provide a Mandatory Chambers Copy of each document delivered to Judge Hsu’s mailbox outside the Clerk’s Office on the Fourth Floor of the First Street Courthouse no later than 5:00 p.m. on the first court day after the filing date. The Mandatory Chambers Copies must be “binder ready” (three-hole punched on the left side, without blue-backs or staples).

Mandatory chambers copies must be printed from CM/ECF with CM/ECF header.

Mandatory chambers copies must be printed from CM/ECF, and must include: (1) the CM/ECF-generated header (consisting of the case number, document control number, date of

Page 6 | FILING REQUIREMENTS

One mandatory chambers copy required for Summary Judgment motions and 26(f) Reports.

The parties must provide one (1) Mandatory Chambers Copy only of Motions for Summary Judgment filings and the 26(f) Report.

Page 6 | FILING REQUIREMENTS

Mandatory chambers copies must be delivered by noon next business day.

Mandatory Chambers Copies must be delivered no later than 12:00 p.m. (noon) the following business day after the document is electronically filed.

Page 6 | FILING REQUIREMENTS

Mandatory chambers copy required for ex parte applications.

The application will not be considered until a Mandatory Chambers Copy has been provided.

Chambers copies of TRO documents required same day as filing.

The parties must provide chambers copies of TRO-related documents on the same day they are filed.

Courtesy copies of the fee tables must be in editable Excel format and emailed to chambers.

The courtesy copies of the tables shall be prepared in Excel, have all restrictions removed so the spreadsheets can be edited, and be emailed to the Court’s chambers email address at WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov.

Page 15

Ex parte application will not be considered until a mandatory chambers copy is provided.

The application will not be considered until a Mandatory Chambers Copy has been provided.

Page 17 | RESTRAINING ORDERS AND APPLICATIONS FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF

Sealing & Redaction Procedures

Protective orders must be submitted to magistrate; cannot allow sealing without court order.

Proposed protective orders for discovery must be submitted to the assigned Magistrate Judge. Such orders should not purport to allow, without further order of the Court, the filing under seal of pleadings or documents filed in connection with a dispositive motion, a class certification motion, or trial before the Court.

(b) Redacted Version and Unredacted Version. Documents that are not confidential or privileged in their entirety should not be filed under seal if the confidential portions can be redacted and filed separately with a reasonable amount of effort. The parties should file an unredacted version of the document under seal, and a

(b) Redacted Version and Unredacted Version. Documents that are not confidential or privileged in their entirety should not be filed under seal if the confidential portions can be redacted and filed separately with a reasonable amount of effort. The parties should file an unredacted version of the document under seal, and a

Local Rule 79-5 governs sealing applications with strong presumption of access to court records.

(a) Local Rule 79-5. L.R. 79-5 governs applications to file under seal. Parties must comply with all sections of L.R. 79-5. There is a “strong presumption of access to court records” in civil cases. Foltz v. State Farm Mut. Auto. Ins. Co., 331 F.3d 1122, 1135 (9th Cir. 2003). For each document or other type of information a party seeks to file under seal, the party must identify and discuss the factual and/or legal justification that establishes “good cause” or “compelling reasons” for the document’s protection. Kamakana v. City and Cnty. of Honolulu, 447 F.3d 1172, 1179-80 (9th Cir. 2006).

Each item must be individually justified for sealing; blanket claims denied; meet and confer required.

(c) Justification. Sealing must be justified for each individual item; blanket claims of confidentiality will result in the application to seal being denied. Counsel is strongly encouraged to consider carefully whether sealing or redaction is required for a given piece of evidence or argument. An application to seal that includes clearly meritless requires to seal or redact documents may be denied in its entirety. The parties must also meet and confer before filing an application to seal.

Protective order alone does not justify sealing pleadings or documents.

The existence of a protective order does not alone justify the filing of pleadings or other documents under seal, in whole or in part.

Meet and confer required 7 days before sealing application; opposing party must respond within 2 days.

Because a party other than the designator will often be seeking to file designated material, cooperation between the parties in preparing, and in reducing the number and extent of, requests for under seal filing is essential. Accordingly, counsel are ordered to meet and confer in person or by telephone at least seven (7) calendar days prior to the filing of an application wherein the basis for the sealing is that it has been deemed confidential by the other party. Not later than two (2) calendar days after the meet and confer process, the opposing party shall confirm whether such information shall be designated as confidential or whether it can be made available to the public.

Civil cases

Filing under seal requires court order or designator permission; must comply with Local Rule 79-5; designation alone insufficient.

Without written permission from the designator or a Court order, a party may not file in the public record in this action any designated material. A party seeking to file under seal any designated material must comply with Local Rule 79-5. Filings may be made under seal only pursuant to a court order authorizing the sealing of the specific material at issue. The fact that a document has been designated under this Order is insufficient to justify filing under seal. Instead, parties must explain the basis for confidentiality of each document sought to be filed under seal.

Civil cases

Written request required to disclose HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL – ATTORNEY EYES ONLY to in-house counsel; SOURCE CODE not authorized.

A party seeking to disclose to in-house counsel any material designated HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL – ATTORNEY EYES ONLY must first make a written request to the designator providing the full name of the in-house counsel, the city and state of such counsel’s residence, and such counsel’s current and reasonably foreseeable future primary job duties and responsibilities in sufficient detail to determine present or potential involvement in any competitive decision-making. In-house counsel are not authorized to receive material designated HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL – SOURCE CODE.

Civil cases

Written request with detailed expert information required to disclose HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL material to experts.

A party seeking to disclose to an expert retained by outside counsel of record any information or item that has been designated HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL – ATTORNEY EYES ONLY or HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL – SOURCE CODE must first make a written request to the designator that (1) identifies the general categories of HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL – ATTORNEY EYES ONLY or HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL – SOURCE CODE information that the receiving party seeks permission to disclose to the expert, (2) sets forth the full name of the expert and the city and state of his or her primary residence, (3) attaches a copy of the expert’s current resume, (4) identifies the expert’s current employer(s), (5) identifies each person or entity from whom the expert has received compensation or funding for work in his or her areas of expertise (including in connection with litigation) in the past five years, and (6) identifies (by name and number of the case, filing date, and location of court) any litigation where the expert has offered expert testimony, including by declaration, report or testimony at deposition or trial, in the past five years.

Civil cases

Filing under seal requires compliance with Local Rule 79-5.1 and this Order.

This Order does not automatically authorize the filing under seal of material designated under this Order. Instead, the parties must comply with Local Rule 79-5.1 and this Order if they seek to file anything under seal.

Civil cases

Sealing application must include meet and confer dates/method or will be denied without prejudice.

Such an application shall contain the dates and method by which the parties met and conferred otherwise it will be denied without prejudice to an amended application being filed after counsel have completed this process.

Civil cases

Sealing applications must comply with Local Rule 79-5 and provide factual/legal justification for each item.

Local Rule 79-5 governs applications to file under seal. Parties must comply with all sections of L.R. 79-5. There is a "strong presumption of access to court records" in civil cases. For each document or other type of information a party seeks to file under seal, the party must identify and discuss the factual and/or legal justification that establishes "good cause" or "compelling reasons" for the document's protection.

Page 7 | Filings Under Seal

Sealing must be justified per item; blanket confidentiality claims will be denied; parties must meet and confer before filing a sealing application.

Sealing must be justified for each individual item; blanket claims of confidentiality will result in the application to seal being denied. Counsel is strongly encouraged to consider carefully whether sealing or redaction is required for a given piece of evidence or argument. An application to seal that includes clearly meritless requests to seal or redact documents may be denied in its entirety. The parties must also meet and confer before filing an application to seal.

Page 8 | Justification

Must justify sealing for each individual item; blanket claims not allowed.

Sealing must be justified for each individual item to be sealed or redacted; blanket claims of confidentiality are not allowed and will result in a denial of the application to seal.

Criminal cases

Bracket and highlight redacted portions on unredacted copies sent via email.

***On the un-redacted copies (sent via e-mail) the parties ARE ORDERED to place in brackets and highlight the portion[s] of the document text and/or exhibits that have been redacted.***

Criminal cases

Documents that are not confidential or privileged in their entirety should not be filed under seal if the confidential portions can be redacted and filed separately with a reasonable amount of effort. The parties should file an unredacted version of the document under seal, and a

Documents that are not confidential or privileged in their entirety should not be filed under seal if the confidential portions can be redacted and filed separately with a reasonable amount of effort. The parties should file an unredacted version of the document under seal, and a

Each item must be individually justified for sealing; blanket confidentiality claims are not permitted.

Sealing must be justified for each individual item; blanket claims of confidentiality will result in the application to seal being denied.

Parties must meet and confer before filing an application to seal.

The parties must also meet and confer before filing an application to seal.

Documents that are not confidential or privileged in their entirety should not be filed under seal if the confidential portions can be redacted and filed separately with a reasonable amount of effort. The parties should file an unredacted version of the document under seal, and a redacted version on the public docket.

Documents that are not confidential or privileged in their entirety should not be filed under seal if the confidential portions can be redacted and filed separately with a reasonable amount of effort. The parties should file an unredacted version of the document under seal, and a redacted version on the public docket.

Page 7 | A. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Filing Bundling Requirements

Only one joint summary judgment motion may be filed without leave of court; additional motions require court permission.

No more than one joint motion may be filed under Fed. R. Civ. P. 56 without leave of court, regardless of whether such motion is denominated a motion for summary judgment or summary adjudication.

Civil cases

Page 2 | A. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Parties must file a single joint brief containing both moving and opposition papers for any summary judgment motion.

The parties shall work cooperatively to submit a single joint brief, that is including moving and opposition papers, for any MSJ brought by any moving party(ies).

Civil cases

Page 2 | A. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Joint Appendix of Evidence must accompany the Joint Brief.

The Joint Brief shall be accompanied by a Joint Appendix of Evidence (JAE) (e.g., a separate, tabbed appendix of all evidence in support of or opposition to the MSJ, including declarations, deposition excerpts, documents, photographs, etc.).

Civil cases

Page 11 | D. JOINT APPENDIX OF EVIDENCE (JAE)

Evidence must not be attached to the Joint Brief; it must be in the JAE.

No evidence should be attached to a memorandum of points and authorities or included anywhere other than in the JAE.

Civil cases

Page 11 | D. JOINT APPENDIX OF EVIDENCE (JAE)

Joint Appendix of Objections must accompany the Joint Brief.

The Joint Brief shall be accompanied by a Joint Appendix of Objections (JAO)—i.e., evidentiary objections, if any, shall be made in a single, separate document presented in a four-column table as follows:

Civil cases

Page 11 | E. JOINT APPENDIX OF OBJECTIONS (JAO)

Parties must submit three sets of exhibit binders: one original and two copies.

The parties shall submit to the Court three (3) sets of binders: one (1) original set of trial exhibits, and two (2) copies of trial exhibits.

Civil cases

Page 13 | 3. Trial Exhibits

Physical evidence must be lodged separately from the JAE.

Physical evidence (e.g., video recordings) shall be lodged separately.

Civil cases

Page 11 | D. JOINT APPENDIX OF EVIDENCE (JAE)

Pre-Motion Conference Requirements

Motions in limine must be scheduled for the Final Pretrial Conference.

Motions in limine shall be noticed for hearing on the Final Pretrial Conference Date.

Meet and confer required for disputed matters before court presentation.

This Court requires parties through Counsel to meet and confer about any potentially disputed matter (except those identified in L.R. 7-3 and 16-12) before presenting it to the Court, including requests to continue any matter, applications to file under seal, and other filings seeking a court order.

Extended briefing schedule required for class certification motions.

This Court requires an extended briefing schedule for motions for class certification.

Daubert motions must be noticed for hearing at least 8 weeks before Final Pretrial Conference.

Daubert motions shall be noticed for hearing not later than eight (8) weeks before the Final Pretrial Conference date.

Pre-filing meet and confer required for all motions, including pro se cases.

The Court strictly enforces L.R. 7-3, which requires counsel to engage in a prefiling conference “to discuss thoroughly . . . the substance of the contemplated motion and any potential resolution.” This requirement applies in all cases, including those with Pro Se Litigants.

Before moving to substitute a Doe defendant, plaintiff must seek consent; if denied, file a noticed motion; in diversity cases, motion must address diversity jurisdiction.

Before moving to substitute a defendant for a Doe defendant, plaintiff must seek the consent of counsel for all defendants, including counsel for a represented Doe defendant. If denied consent, plaintiff must file a regularly noticed motion. In diversity cases, plaintiff's motion must address whether the addition of the newly named party destroys diversity jurisdiction. See 28 U.S.C. § 1447(c), (e).

Page 5 | Doe Defendant Substitution

Pre-filing meet and confer required for all motions and disputed matters, including pro se cases; must be by videoconference or in person.

The Court strictly enforces L.R 7-3, which requires counsel to engage in a prefiling conference “to discuss thoroughly . . . the substance of the contemplated motion and any potential resolution.” This requirement applies in all cases, including those with Pro Se Litigants. This Court requires parties through Counsel to meet and confer about any potentially disputed matter (except those identified in L.R. 7-3 and 16-12) before presenting it to the Court, including requests to continue any matter, applications to file under seal, and other filings seeking a court order.

Page 10 | G. MOTIONS

Moving party must arrange a meet-and-confer meeting or videoconference at least 60 days before the MSJ hearing cutoff.

For an MSJ to be timely filed, the moving party must arrange for an in-person meeting or videoconference to take place no later than sixty (60) days before the motion hearing cutoff set forth in the case management order. The parties shall thoroughly discuss each issue to be raised and the law and evidence relevant to that issue.

Civil cases

Page 2 | A. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Moving party must arrange a meet and confer (in-person or videoconference) no later than 60 calendar days before the MSJ hearing cutoff.

For an MSJ to be timely filed, the moving party must arrange for an in-person meeting or videoconference to take place no later than sixty (60) days before the motion hearing cutoff set forth in the case management order.

Civil cases

Page 6 | Briefing Schedule

Discovery motions must state meet and confer compliance and detail request specifics.

All discovery motions shall state whether the meet and confer requirement has been satisfied and state with particularity what is requested, the basis for the request, whether the discovery at issue has been requested, and opposing counsel’s response to such request.

Page 5 | GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Court may decline discovery motions without prior consultation.

Both parties are required to meet and confer in good faith in an effort to reach a resolution without the need for a motion. The Court may decline to hear discovery motions made without prior consultation with opposing counsel.

Page 5 | GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Meet and confer required for pre-trial motions (except motions in limine).

Counsel must meet and confer with opposing counsel “to discuss thoroughly… the substance of the contemplated pre-trial motion and any potential resolution” thereof. Local Criminal Rule 57-1; Local Civil Rule 7-3.

Page 6 | Pre-trial Motions (except motions in limine)

Good faith meet and confer required to resolve issues without motion.

Both parties are required to meet and confer in good faith in an effort to reach a resolution without the need for a motion.

Page 6 | Pre-trial Motions (except motions in limine)

Failure to meet deadlines may result in court declining to consider untimely documents.

Failure to comply with these deadlines may result in the court declining to consider the untimely memorandum or other document.

Page 7 | GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Briefing schedule: motions 3 weeks, oppositions 2 weeks, replies 1 week before hearing.

For all motions, other than motions in limine, the briefing schedule is as follows: motions shall be filed three (3) weeks prior to the hearing; oppositions or notices of non-opposition shall be filed two (2) weeks prior to the hearing; and replies, if any, shall be filed one (1) week prior to the hearing.

Page 7 | GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Extended briefing schedule required for class certification motions.

This Court requires an extended briefing schedule for motions for class certification.

Page 14 | H. MOTIONS – SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

The issue of exhaustion under the Prison Litigation Reform Act (“PLRA”) must be raised at the beginning of the litigation. Albino v. Baca, 747 F.3d 1162, 1170 (9th Cir. 2014). A party seeking to obtain a judicial determination of any material fact dispute precluding summary judgment on the exhaustion issue must file before this Court a request for a hearing within fourteen

The issue of exhaustion under the Prison Litigation Reform Act (“PLRA”) must be raised at the beginning of the litigation. Albino v. Baca, 747 F.3d 1162, 1170 (9th Cir. 2014). A party seeking to obtain a judicial determination of any material fact dispute precluding summary judgment on the exhaustion issue must file before this Court a request for a hearing within fourteen

Page 15 | PLRA Exhaustion Motions

Reply briefs not permitted for ex parte applications.

Reply briefs in support of ex parte applications are not permitted.

L.R. 7-3 requires prefiling conference to discuss motion substance and potential resolution.

The Court strictly enforces L.R. 7-3, which requires counsel to engage in a prefiling conference “to discuss thoroughly . . . the substance of the contemplated motion and any potential resolution.”

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

Non-compliance with meet and confer may result in sanctions.

Failure by any party to comply in good faith with the “meet and confer” requirement may result in an order to show cause re: sanctions—including, as appropriate, striking or denying the motion, deeming the motion unopposed, and/or awarding monetary sanctions.

Motion for review of magistrate decision must be filed within 14 days of ruling.

Any motion for review of a Magistrate Judge’s decision must be noticed before the District Court Judge within fourteen (14) days of service of the Magistrate Judge’s written ruling, or within fourteen (14) days of an oral ruling that the Magistrate Judge states will not be followed by a written ruling.

Opposing papers must be filed within 48 hours or by 3pm on first court day after service, whichever is later.

The moving party must also serve the opposing party by email, fax, or personal service, and notify that party that opposing papers must be filed not later than forty-eight (48) hours following service or by 3:00 p.m. on the first court day after the service, whichever is later.

Court will not rule on ex parte applications for at least 48 hours after service unless service is excused or interests of justice require.

The Court generally will not rule on any application for such relief for at least forty-eight (48) hours (or two (2) court days) after the party subject to the requested order has been served unless service is excused or unless the interests of justice so require.

Dispositive motions must be filed within 28 days after discovery closes.

All dispositive motions shall be filed no later than twenty-eight (28) days after the close of discovery.

Civil cases

Page 13 | Standing Order for Patent Cases

Continuance requests must be by motion/stipulation/application with a declaration showing good cause and due diligence.

Any request for continuance of case management dates must be by motion, stipulation, or application, and must be supported by a declaration setting forth the reasons for the requested relief. The declaration must contain a detailed factual showing of good cause and due diligence demonstrating the necessity for the continuance and a description of the parties’ efforts taken to advance the litigation.

Civil cases

Page 20 | 11. Continuances of Pretrial and Trial Dates

Continuances require good cause, a motion/stipulation with proposed order, detailed declaration with reasons and precise new dates; stipulations with vague date changes will be denied.

Continuances are granted only on a showing of good cause. Requests for continuances must be made before the date to be continued and by motion or stipulation, along with a proposed order. Motions and stipulations must be accompanied by a detailed declaration setting forth the specific reasons for the requested continuance and the precise deadline(s) the parties propose. A stipulation that fails to list the precise date(s) the parties wish to move, and the new date(s) they propose, will be denied for failure to comply with this Standing Order. For example, if the stipulation improperly proposes that all deadlines be moved by “60 days” without specifying the proposed new dates that would result from that requested continuance, the Court will deny the request.

Page 14 | H.3

Stipulations extending court-set dates require Court approval; continuances are not routinely granted.

Stipulations extending dates set by this Court are not effective unless approved by the Court. Continuances will not be granted routinely.

Page 15 | 3. Continuances

Expert Discovery Cut-Off 14

Expert Discovery Cut-Off 14

Civil cases

Fact Discovery Cut-Off (No later than deadline for filing dispositive motion)

Fact Discovery Cut-Off (No later than deadline for filing dispositive motion)

Civil cases

Last Date to Hear Daubert Motions 8

Last Date to Hear Daubert Motions 8

Civil cases

Rule 56 motions must be filed at least 6 weeks before hearing, with opposition due 2 weeks after and reply due 1 week after opposition

Last Date to Hear Motions • Rule 56 Motion due at least 6 weeks before hearing; • Opposition due 2 weeks after motion is filed before hearing; • Reply due 1 week after Opposition is filed 12

Civil cases

Continuance requests must show good cause, due diligence, and prior request history.

Each request must include a detailed factual showing of good cause and due diligence demonstrating the necessity for the continuance, stating whether any previous requests for continuances have been made and whether these requests were granted or denied by the Court.

Page 5 | Continuances

Continuance requests must be by motion/stipulation/application and signed by defendant and counsel.

Requests for continuances of pretrial and trial dates must be by motion, stipulation, or application. All requests must be signed by both the defendant(s) and counsel.

Page 5 | Continuances

General statements insufficient; detailed showing required for continuances.

The Court will not grant requests to continue pretrial and trial dates absent the detailed showing. General statements are insufficient to establish good cause.

Page 5 | Continuances

Requests to extend Court-set dates are not effective without Court approval.

Requests extending dates set by the Court are not effective unless approved by the Court.

Page 6 | Continuances

Counsel shall avoid submitting requests for continuance of trial less than one (1) week prior to the FTPC. A request to continue dates that have already expired constitutes a presumptive lack of due diligence.

Counsel shall avoid submitting requests for continuance of trial less than one (1) week prior to the FTPC. A request to continue dates that have already expired constitutes a presumptive lack of due diligence.

Page 6 | Continuances

Opposition to ex parte applications must be filed within 24 hours of service.

Following service of the ex parte application by electronic, facsimile, or personal service, the moving party shall notify the opposing party that any opposition must be filed no later than twenty-four (24) hours following service.

Page 8 | Ex Parte Applications

Motions in limine must be filed 28 days before FTPC; oppositions 14 days before.

All motions in limine must be filed at least twenty-eight (28) days before the FTPC. Oppositions must be filed at least fourteen (14) days before the FTPC.

Chambers Communication Rules

Email Word and PDF copies of proposed orders to WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov; stipulations/ex parte applications must also be emailed.

Email Proposed Orders to Chambers. The Court enforces strict compliance with L.R. 5-4.4.2, which instructs: “After a document requiring a judge’s signature has been lodged in accordance with L.R. 5-4.4.1 . . . , a Microsoft Word copy of the proposed document, along with a PDF copy of the electronically filed main document, shall be e-mailed to the assigned judge’s generic chambers e-mail address using the CM/ECF System,” namely, WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov. The Court will not consider a stipulation, ex parte application, or other request for relief until a compliant proposed order is received by email. If the proposed order is based on a stipulation or an ex parte application, counsel must email both the order and the stipulation or ex parte application. Otherwise, accompany documents (such as motions) should not be emailed to Chambers.

Page 6 | FILING REQUIREMENTS

Settlement discussions require 2-week notice; immediate notice if settled.

Counsel must notify the Court at least two (2) weeks before the scheduled hearing if the parties are conducting settlement discussions that may render the motion moot and must notify the Court immediately if a settlement is reached. A belated notice of settlement wastes scarce judicial resources.

Page 16 | 5. Settlement

No ex parte contact with Court or Chambers staff by phone or improper means.

Neither counsel nor a party shall initiate contact with the Court or its Chambers staff by telephone, or by any other improper ex parte means. Counsel may contact the CRD with appropriate inquiries.

Counsel must notify opposing counsel and CRD via email at least 3 days before appearance if there's a conflict.

conflict with a scheduled appearance, counsel must inform opposing counsel and the Court’s Courtroom Deputy (CRD) via Chambers email at WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov as soon as possible and not later than three (3) days before the scheduled appearance.

Meet and confer must be by videoconference or in person, not email.

Parties must meet and confer either by videoconference or in person. Email correspondence is insufficient.

Email text-fillable Schedule of Pretrial and Trial Dates Worksheet to Chambers at WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov.

In addition to filing the Schedule of Pretrial and Trial Dates Worksheet along with the Joint Rule 26(f) Report, Counsel must email the text-fillable Worksheet to Chambers at WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov along with the Joint Rule 26(f) Report.

Page 7 | C. PARTIES MUST PREPARE AND FILE SCHEDULE OF PRETRIAL AND TRIAL DATES WORKSHEET

Paper copies of source code cannot be converted to electronic format except for court documents.

The inspecting party shall not convert any of the information contained in the paper copies into any electronic format other than for the preparation of a pleading, exhibit, expert report, discovery document, deposition transcript, or other Court document.

Civil cases

Source code inspection requires secured computer in secured room; no copying or transferring allowed.

The source code shall be made available for inspection on a secured computer in a secured room, and the inspecting party shall not copy, remove or otherwise transfer any portion of the source code onto any recordable media or recordable device.

Civil cases

Source code must be available for inspection during normal business hours or mutually agreeable times.

Any HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL – SOURCE CODE produced in discovery shall be made available for inspection, in a format allowing it to be reasonably reviewed and searched, during normal business hours or at other mutually agreeable times, at an office of the designating party’s counsel or another mutually agreeable location.

Civil cases

Party served with subpoena must follow specific procedures for confidential materials.

If a party is served with a subpoena or a court order issued in other litigation that compels disclosure of any information or items received by that party in this action and designated in this action as CONFIDENTIAL, HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL – ATTORNEY EYES ONLY, or HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL – SOURCE CODE, that party must do the following:

Civil cases

Inspecting party must maintain records of source code inspectors and secure paper copies in locked area.

The inspecting party shall maintain a record of any individual who has inspected any portion of the source code in electronic or paper form, and shall maintain all paper copies of any printed portions of the source code in a secured, locked area.

Civil cases

Paper copies used during depositions must be retrieved daily and not left with unauthorized individuals.

Any paper copies used during a deposition shall be retrieved at the end of each day and must not be left with a court reporter or any other unauthorized individual.

Civil cases

Neither counsel nor a party shall initiate contact with the Court or its Chambers staff by telephone, or by any other improper ex parte means. Counsel may contact the CRD with appropriate inquiries. Contacting the CRD to inquire about the status of a ruling or to continue a proceeding is not appropriate. The preferred method of communication with the CRD is by email at WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov. Counsel must copy all parties on any such email. To facilitate communication with the CRD, counsel should list their email addresses along with their telephone numbers on all papers.

Neither counsel nor a party shall initiate contact with the Court or its Chambers staff by telephone, or by any other improper ex parte means. Counsel may contact the CRD with appropriate inquiries. Contacting the CRD to inquire about the status of a ruling or to continue a proceeding is not appropriate. The preferred method of communication with the CRD is by email at WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov. Counsel must copy all parties on any such email. To facilitate communication with the CRD, counsel should list their email addresses along with their telephone numbers on all papers.

Page 3 | General Requirements

After lodging, email Word copy of proposed order and PDF of main document to WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov; court will not consider until received; do not email other documents.

The Court enforces strict compliance with L.R. 5-4.4.2, which instructs: “After a document requiring a judge’s signature has been lodged in accordance with L.R. 5-4.4.1 . . . , a Microsoft Word copy of the proposed document, along with a PDF copy of the electronically filed main document, shall be e-mailed to the assigned judge’s generic chambers e-mail address using the CM/ECF System,” namely, WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov. The Court will not consider a stipulation, ex parte application, or other request for relief until a compliant proposed order is received by email. If the proposed order is based on a stipulation or an ex parte application, counsel must email both the order and the stipulation or ex parte application. Otherwise, accompany documents (such as motions) should not be emailed to Chambers.

Page 6 | FILING REQUIREMENTS

Email chambers with application, declaration, proposed order, and sealed document.

After electronically filing the application and proof of service, send an e-mail to the chambers e- mail at WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov, containing: 1. An Adobe PDF version of the application to seal; 2. Declaration giving notice or a proof of service; 3. Word version of the proposed order (with the proposed denied instructions); and 4. An Adobe PDF of the document(s) to be filed under seal with a caption page clearly marked “UNDER SEAL.”

Criminal cases

The subject line of the e-mail should have the case name and the words “UNDER SEAL REQUEST.”

The subject line of the e-mail should have the case name and the words “UNDER SEAL REQUEST.”

Criminal cases

Motions must be noticed for hearing by FTPC date.

All motions must be properly noticed for hearing no later than the date of the FTPC.

Page 7 | GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Pretrial motions must be noticed for mutually agreed Friday not closed on calendar.

Pretrial motions, including motions to suppress evidence, motions to bifurcate or sever, and motions concerning character evidence under Fed. R. Evid. 404(b), shall be noticed for a Friday that is mutually agreed to by counsel and that is not closed on the Court’s calendar.

Page 7 | GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

The moving party shall serve the opposing party electronically, if possible. A party is considered served once the ex parte application has been e-filed.

The moving party shall serve the opposing party electronically, if possible. A party is considered served once the ex parte application has been e-filed.

Page 8 | Ex Parte Applications

Junior Lawyer Participation Incentives

If, however, a written request for oral argument is filed by any side before a ruling, stating that a lawyer of five or fewer years out of law school will conduct the oral argument or at least the lion’s share, then the Court will hear oral argument, believing that young lawyers need more opportunities for appearances than they usually receive.

If, however, a written request for oral argument is filed by any side before a ruling, stating that a lawyer of five or fewer years out of law school will conduct the oral argument or at least the lion’s share, then the Court will hear oral argument, believing that young lawyers need more opportunities for appearances than they usually receive.

Page 16 | 2. Submission Without Oral Argument

Court encourages lead counsel to allow junior lawyers (5 or fewer years out of law school) to participate in proceedings.

Believing that young lawyers need more opportunities for appearances than they usually receive, the Court encourages lead trial counsel to permit junior counsel, of five or fewer years out of law school, to fully participate in Court proceedings, including arguing motions and examining witnesses.

Court encourages junior counsel (5 or fewer years out of law school) to participate in proceedings

Believing that young lawyers need more opportunities for appearances than they usually receive, the Court encourages lead trial counsel to permit junior counsel, of five or fewer years out of law school, to fully participate in Court proceedings, including arguing motions and examining witnesses.

Court may allow multiple attorneys to argue if junior lawyers (5 or fewer years) participate.

multiple attorneys if it provides an opportunity for lawyers of five or fewer years out of law school to participate in the hearing.

Civil cases

Junior counsel with 5 or fewer years of experience are encouraged to fully participate in court proceedings, including arguing motions and pretrial conferences.

Believing that young lawyers need more opportunities for appearances than they usually receive, the Court encourages lead trial counsel to permit junior counsel, of five or fewer years out of law school, to fully participate in Court proceedings, including arguing motions and participating in the pretrial conference.

Civil cases

Page 5 | 3. Final Pretrial Conference/Proposed Final Pretrial Conference.

trial counsel to permit junior counsel, of five or fewer years out of law school, to fully participate in Court proceedings, including arguing motions and examining witnesses.

trial counsel to permit junior counsel, of five or fewer years out of law school, to fully participate in Court proceedings, including arguing motions and examining witnesses.

Page 3 | General Requirements

A written request for oral argument stating that a lawyer with five or fewer years out of law school will argue will result in the Court granting oral argument.

If, however, a written request for oral argument is filed by any side before a ruling, stating that a lawyer of five or fewer years out of law school will conduct the oral argument or at least the lion’s share, then the Court will hear oral argument, believing that young lawyers need more opportunities for appearances

Page 16 | I. HEARINGS

If a written request for oral argument states that a lawyer with 5 or fewer years out of law school will argue, the Court will grant oral argument.

If, however, a written request for oral argument is filed by any side before a ruling, stating that a lawyer of five or fewer years out of law school will conduct the oral argument or at least the lion’s share, then the Court will hear oral argument, believing that young lawyers need more opportunities for appearances than they usually receive.

Civil cases

Page 12 | F. HEARING / 2. Submission Without Oral Argument

Junior lawyers (5 years or less) may increase likelihood of oral argument.

If, however, a written request for oral argument is filed by any side before a ruling, stating that a lawyer of five or fewer years out of law school will conduct the oral argument or at least the lion’s share, then the Court will hear oral argument, believing that young lawyers need more opportunities for appearances than they usually receive.

Page 16 | Submission Without Oral Argument

Court encourages junior counsel (5 years or less experience) to participate in proceedings

Believing that young lawyers need more opportunities for appearances than they usually receive, the Court encourages lead trial counsel to permit junior counsel, of five or fewer years out of law school, to fully participate in Court proceedings, including arguing motions and examining witnesses.

The Court encourages lead trial counsel to allow young lawyers more opportunities for appearances.

Believing that young lawyers need more opportunities for appearances than they usually receive, the Court encourages lead trial counsel to

Page 2 | A. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

If a written request states that a lawyer with 5 or fewer years of experience will conduct oral argument, the Court will hear oral argument.

If, however, a written request for oral argument is filed by any side before a ruling, stating that a lawyer of five or fewer years out of law school will conduct the oral argument or at least the lion’s share, then the Court will hear oral argument, believing that young lawyers need more opportunities for appearances than they usually receive.

Page 16

About United States District Judge Wesley L. Hsu

Judge Wesley L. Hsu was appointed to the Central District of California by President Joe Biden in 2023.

Hsu earned both his undergraduate and law degrees from Yale University. After law school he clerked for Judge Mariana Pfaelzer of the Central District, then worked at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher on intellectual property matters before joining the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District. He served in various leadership roles there, including Executive Assistant U.S. Attorney and First Assistant U.S. Attorney, before Governor Jerry Brown appointed him to the Los Angeles County Superior Court in 2017, where he presided over more than 200 trials.

Education

  • Yale Law School, J.D., 1996
  • Yale University, B.A., 1993

Career

  • Law clerk, Judge Mariana R. Pfaelzer, U.S. District Court, Central District of California
  • Associate and contract attorney, Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP
  • Assistant U.S. Attorney, Central District of California (including Executive Assistant U.S. Attorney, 2015–2017; First Assistant U.S. Attorney, 2017)
  • Judge, Superior Court of California, Los Angeles County, 2017–2023 (appointed by Governor Jerry Brown)
  • U.S. District Judge, Central District of California, 2023–present

Courthouse: First Street U.S. Courthouse, 350 W. 1st Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Division: Western Division (Los Angeles)

Chambers Staff

  • Chambers Email: WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov
Common questions about Judge Wesley L. Hsu's rules

Are courtesy copies required for Judge Wesley L. Hsu?

Courtesy-copy rule applies for motion for summary judgments and 26(f) reports. Details: 1 copy. One mandatory chambers copy required for summary judgment motions and 26(f) reports only.

View ruleSource: page 6, section FILING REQUIREMENTS

Does Judge Wesley L. Hsu require a pre-motion conference or letter before filing a motion?

Pre-filing meet and confer required for all motions, including pro se cases.

What page or word limits apply to brief before Judge Wesley L. Hsu?

Judge Wesley L. Hsu's rule states these limits: attorney: 7000 words; attorney: 4000 words. Excludes caption, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, certificates, and exhibits. Support/opposition memoranda limited to 7,000 words; replies limited to 4,000 words.

What page or word limits apply to claim construction brief before Judge Wesley L. Hsu?

Judge Wesley L. Hsu's rule states these limits: attorney: 10 pages. Not later than fourteen (14) days after the opening briefs, the parties shall file simultaneous responsive briefs of not more than ten (10) pages. With its responsive brief, each party shall submit any presentation material (such as demonstrative exhibits, including PowerPoint or other slide presentations) it wishes to use at the claim construction hearing, and may submit DVD, or USB thumb drive.

What formatting rules apply to filings before Judge Wesley L. Hsu?

Judge Wesley L. Hsu's formatting rule includes binding tabbed 3-ring, exhibits must be separated by tab dividers on right or bottom, if evidence exceeds 50 pages: must include table of contents and be in tabbed binder, all documents in binder must be three-hole punched with 13/32" holes (not standard 9/32"), if evidence exceeds 200 pages: must use slant d-ring binder, binders must be no larger than 4 inches, and binders must have cover sheet and spine label with case name, case number, and description of contents.

What must be included with reply brief filings before Judge Wesley L. Hsu?

Reply briefs are not permitted for ex parte applications.

What must be included with motion for continuance filings before Judge Wesley L. Hsu?

The rule requires potential prejudice, efforts to meet deadline, previous requests outcome, and previous continuance requests. The declaration also should state whether there have been any previous requests for continuances; whether these requests were granted or denied by the Court; what efforts were made to meet the existing deadline; and what, if any, prejudice would result if the request is denied.

How may parties contact Judge Wesley L. Hsu's chambers?

The rule lists email WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov. Counsel must notify opposing counsel and CRD via email at least 3 days before appearance if there's a conflict.

How does Judge Wesley L. Hsu handle sealed or redacted filings?

Each item must be individually justified for sealing; blanket claims denied; meet and confer required.

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge Wesley L. Hsu?

Requests should be made at least 48 hours in advance when this rule applies before Judge Wesley L. Hsu. Court will not rule on ex parte applications for at least 48 hours after service unless service is excused or interests of justice require.

Does Judge Wesley L. Hsu require motion papers to be bundled?

Evidence must not be attached to the Joint Brief; it must be in the JAE.

View ruleSource: page 11, section D. JOINT APPENDIX OF EVIDENCE (JAE)

Is electronic filing required before Judge Wesley L. Hsu?

Yes. Electronic filing is required for the covered filings. Motions for attorneys’ fees must be electronically filed and set for hearing per Local Rule 6-1.

View ruleSource: page 15, section 8. Motions for Attorneys’ Fees

What filing deadlines does Judge Wesley L. Hsu set?

Joint Statement of the Case must be filed 14 days before the Final Pretrial Conference.

View ruleSource: page 12, section (g) Joint Statement of the Case

What rule applies to serving all parties before Judge Wesley L. Hsu?

Details: recipient: all parties. Plaintiff's counsel must immediately serve this Order on all parties; if the case was removed, the removing defendant must serve it.

View ruleSource: page 2, section A. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Does Judge Wesley L. Hsu encourage junior lawyer participation?

Yes. Judge Wesley L. Hsu's rules include a junior lawyer participation incentive. Court encourages lead counsel to allow junior lawyers (5 or fewer years out of law school) to participate in proceedings.

Complete rules summary for Judge Wesley L. Hsu

Reply briefs are not permitted for ex parte applications.

Court will not rule on ex parte applications for at least 48 hours after service unless service is excused or interests of justice require.

Each item must be individually justified for sealing; blanket claims denied; meet and confer required.

The declaration also should state whether there have been any previous requests for continuances; whether these requests were granted or denied by the Court; what efforts were made to meet the existing deadline; and what, if any, prejudice would result if the request is denied.

Attorneys’ fees motions require two Excel tables of hours/billings emailed to chambers.

Court encourages lead counsel to allow junior lawyers (5 or fewer years out of law school) to participate in proceedings.

Civil motions heard by Judge Hsu on Fridays at 1:30 p.m.

Counsel must notify opposing counsel and CRD via email at least 3 days before appearance if there's a conflict.

Proposed orders should NOT contain any of the following: (1) attorney names, addresses, etc. on the caption page; (2) a footer with the document name or other information; or (3) a watermark or designation of the firm name. Proposed orders should be formatted in the same fashion as motions.

Chambers copies should not be bluebacked or left in envelopes/folders.

Counsel must propose new date by Stipulation and Proposed Order after calendar conflict.

Notices of Unavailability should not be filed as they have no legal effect.

All counsel must review and comply with Civility and Professionalism Guidelines on court website.

Pending motions must be re-noticed per Local Rule 7.

Email is preferred method to contact CRD; must copy all parties on emails.

Form pleadings must be revised within 30 days of removal to comply with FRCP 7, 7.1, 8, 9, 10, 11.

Plaintiff must promptly serve Complaint per FRCP 4 and file proofs of service per FRCP 4(l).

Answers filed in state court must be refiled in federal court as supplement to Notice of Removal.

Protective order alone does not justify sealing pleadings or documents.

Amended complaint filed within 30 days of removal is deemed with court's leave per FRCP 15(a)(2).

Plaintiff must seek consent from all defendants' counsel before substituting Doe defendant.

Plaintiff must identify and serve Doe defendants before scheduling conference deadline.

Proposed orders must be lodged and served with relief sought and rationale.

One mandatory chambers copy required for summary judgment motions and 26(f) reports only.

Use Judge Hsu's proposed order template from court website.

Email Word and PDF copies of proposed orders to WLH_Chambers@cacd.uscourts.gov; stipulations/ex parte applications must also be emailed.

Local Rule 79-5 governs sealing applications with strong presumption of access to court records.

Parties may consent to have Magistrate Judge preside over entire civil case including trial.

Chambers copy exhibits must be tabbed and hole-punched with specific requirements based on page count.

Discovery should begin before scheduling conference and comply with FRCP 26(a).

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