Courtesy copies are required for motions. Details: delivery upon filing, by hand delivery. Courtesy copies required for motions over 50 pages not fully filed on ECF.
The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. Objections and transcripts for videotaped testimony must be submitted in advance; equipment must be set up early and not obstruct views.
The rule requires exhibit list. Exhibits must be pre-marked, pre-exchanged, and accompanied by exhibit list; bench copy required on first day of trial.
Parties may contact Judge R. Barclay Surrick's chambers by phone only as allowed by the rule. Telephone conferences for discovery/scheduling disputes require letter and opposing counsel discussion
Judge R. Barclay Surrick's rules specify what an adjournment or extension request must include. Strict adherence to scheduled dates unless compelling reason for change
Correspondence with court requires discussion with opposing counsel first
Law clerk communication limited to administrative matters only
Telephone conferences for discovery/scheduling disputes require letter and opposing counsel discussion
Oral argument/evidentiary hearing requests must be made by letter
Pretrial conferences held in chambers, initiated by civil deputy
Strict adherence to scheduled dates unless compelling reason for change
Extension/continuance requests must be made before deadline by letter or phone with all counsel
Oral argument scheduled when requested and helpful for decision-making
Reply/surreply briefs only for new controlling authority
Courtesy copies required for motions over 50 pages not fully filed on ECF.
Side-bar conferences permitted but limited if disruptive.
In limine motions must be filed early enough for advance consideration.
Witness testimony out of sequence permitted with opposing counsel's objection opportunity.
No time limits on opening statements/summations, but 30-45 minutes recommended.
Parties must privately discuss offers of proof before seeking court ruling.
Multiple attorneys may examine different witnesses or argue different points, but not the same witness or point.
Objections and transcripts for videotaped testimony must be submitted in advance; equipment must be set up early and not obstruct views.
Exhibits must be pre-marked, pre-exchanged, and accompanied by exhibit list; bench copy required on first day of trial.
Exhibits must be offered and admitted before showing to jury; all intended exhibits must be offered by end of case-in-chief.
Motions for judgment as a matter of law and partial findings may be oral or written with oral argument upon request.
Proposed jury instructions and verdict forms must be filed with Clerk and courtesy copy to Chambers by scheduling order deadline; supplemental instructions allowed until jury charge.
Proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law must be filed with Clerk and courtesy copy to Chambers by scheduling order deadline.
Counsel must be available within 10 minutes during jury deliberations.
Polling allowed in all criminal cases when requested.
Oral argument on motions allowed in criminal cases upon request.
Pretrial conferences held only in complex criminal cases.
Judge Surrick conducts voir dire in criminal cases.