Limits & Logistics
Courtesy Copies
Case Law
- At Least 3 Days Before Hearing or Trial
- At Least 3 Days Prior to Any Hearing or Trial
Documents Filed in Court File
Exhibits
Notice of Hearing
- 1 copy • Email • Once Filed
- 1 copy • Email • Upon Filing
Adjournments
- Submit a continuance motion at least three business days before the scheduled court date, absent exigent circumstances, and have the requesting party sign it unless good cause is shown.
- A continuance motion must be submitted at least three business days before the scheduled court date, except in exigent circumstances, and must be signed by the requesting party unless good cause is shown.
- Continuance motions are disfavored and will be granted only for good cause; successive continuances are highly disfavored, and lack of due diligence is not a ground for granting one.
- A continuance motion must specifically state why it is needed and when the basis became known, whether it is opposed, the actions and dates needed to be ready (including required participants’ availability), and the proposed ready-to-proceed date and whether all parties agree; the requesting party must sign unless good cause is shown.
- The Court considers motions to continue pretrials before the established pretrial date on a case-by-case basis.
- +2 more
Request must include
Communication
Chambers
Phone
Chambers
Phone
Phone
Document Format Requirements17 rules
The proposed order must be submitted in .docx (Word) format.
- File type
- Word
- Proposed order
A cover letter in .pdf format must accompany proposed orders.
- File type
- Letter
Proposed orders must use DJMCA format, contain no fill-in blanks or section breaks, and may be rejected if they do not comply.
- Proposed order
Formatting
- •Proposed orders that do not comply with these requirements will be rejected
Court's wording
a. Order must be in DJMCA format. E-mail the judicial assistant if instructions are needed regarding DJMCA format and/or attaching exhibits. b. Orders must not contain fill-in blanks. c. Orders must not contain sections breaks. e. Proposed orders not complying with the above will be rejected.
All attorneys and self-represented litigants must bring sufficient copies of each exhibit for the clerk, the court, and each party to review during the hearing or trial.
Exhibits must be labeled in the following format: “Petitioner/Plaintiff 1” or “Respondent/Defendant A”).
- Exhibits
Formatting
- •Label exhibits using the format “Petitioner/Plaintiff 1” or “Respondent/Defendant A”
Exhibits must be clearly labeled.
c. Orders must not contain sections breaks.
- Proposed order
Formatting
- •Orders must not contain sections breaks
f. A cover letter in .pdf format must accompany proposed orders.
- File type
- Cover letter
g. The proposed order must be submitted in .docx (Word) format.
- File type
- Word
- Proposed order
a. Order must be in DJMCA format.
- Proposed order
Formatting
- •Order must be in DJMCA format
b. Orders must not contain fill-in blanks.
Exhibits must be labeled in the following format: “Petitioner/Plaintiff 1” or “Respondent/Defendant A”).
All attorneys and self-represented litigants must bring sufficient copies of each exhibit for the clerk, the court, and each party to review during the hearing or trial.
Exhibits must be clearly labeled.
The subject line of any e-mail to the judicial assistant must contain the case name and case number (e.g., Doe v. Doe, 25DR1234).
If you convert a .pdf file to a .docx file, read every character in the proposed order for accuracy before submitting to the Court.
h. If you convert a .pdf file to a .docx file, read every character in the proposed order for accuracy before submitting to the Court.
Document Filing Requirements29 rules
A hearing notice involving a remote appearance must include the judge’s Zoom information, including the applicable video or telephone instructions.
Court's wording
A notice of hearing involving any remote appearance must include the judge’s zoom information. a. To appear by video: https://zoom.us/j/5750510920, Meeting ID: 575 051 0920 b. To appear by telephone, dial 1-312-626-6799, and, when prompted, enter Meeting ID: 575 051 0920#
Once a final hearing date is confirmed, the party/counsel requesting the final hearing will prepare a proposed order setting final hearing, which will contain proposed disclosure and other deadlines. Obtain opposing counsel’s consent to the form of the order and deadlines included therein.
Address: Washington County Courthouse, 1293 Jackson Avenue, Chipley, FL 32428. There is no room number – just list as Circuit Courtroom.
Every notice of hearing must contain the required ADA notification, available on the 14th Circuit’s website.
Court's wording
All notices of hearing must contain the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) notification required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.540. The notification can be found on the 14th Circuit’s website at https://jud14.flcourts.org/ada-information.
If the hearing is being conducted via Zoom include the Zoom instructions in any notices.
Parties may not cancel a trial without first having filed a Notice of Voluntary Dismissal. An Order of Dismissal must be provided to the Court.
A cover letter in .pdf format must accompany proposed orders.
Every submitted proposed order must end with the specified service statement.
Court's wording
Include the following statement in all submitted orders as the last paragraph: “The party who submitted this proposed order to the Court for approval is required to serve a copy of the signed order upon any person(s) not registered to receive service via the e-portal.”
Include the following in your e-mail request: i. Case Style ii. Case Number
- Document
- Email request for One Drive access
Include
- •Case number
Include the following in your e-mail request: iii. Date of Hearing iv. E-mail addresses for all counsel or parties.
If a party believes there is a factual basis for setting an emergency hearing, a detailed motion setting forth the following must be filed: (1) the issues to be resolved, (2) reasons why an emergency hearing is necessary, and (3) the amount of time needed for each party’s presentation.
Any request for a CMC or status conference must articulate the reasons for the necessity of the conference.
The subject line of any e-mail to the judicial assistant must contain the case name and case number (e.g., Doe v. Doe, 25CA1234).
All attorneys and self-represented litigants must provide an e-mail address to receive signed orders electronically, unless excused.
It is the responsibility of attorneys and self-represented litigants to update their contact information through the Clerk’s office using Form 2.603 any time there is a change in the e-mail account registered for electronic service.
If the hearing is being conducted via Zoom include the Zoom instructions in any notices.
A continuance motion must be signed by the party requesting it unless good cause is shown.
Court's wording
Except for good cause shown, the motion must be signed by the party requesting the continuance, as required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.545(e).
Every hearing notice must contain the ADA notification required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.540.
Court's wording
All notices of hearing must contain the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) notification required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.540. The notification can be found on the 14th Circuit’s website at https://jud14.flcourts.org/ada-information.
A hearing notice involving a remote appearance must include the judge’s Zoom information, including the applicable video or telephone access details.
Court's wording
A notice of hearing involving any remote appearance must include the judge’s zoom information. a. To appear by video: https://zoom.us/j/5750510920, Meeting ID: 575 051 0920 b. To appear by telephone, dial 1-312-626-6799, and, when prompted, enter Meeting ID: 575 051 0920#
An Order of Dismissal must be provided to the Court.
Parties may not cancel a trial without first having filed a Notice of Voluntary Dismissal.
f. A cover letter in .pdf format must accompany proposed orders.
All submitted orders must include the specified service statement as their last paragraph.
Court's wording
d. Include the following statement in all submitted orders as the last paragraph: “The party who submitted this proposed order to the Court for approval is required to serve a copy of the signed order upon any person(s) not registered to receive service via the e-portal.”
The OneDrive access request email must include the case style, case number, hearing date, and email addresses for all counsel or parties.
Court's wording
Include the following in your e-mail request: i. Case Style ii. Case Number iii. Date of Hearing iv. E-mail addresses for all counsel or parties.
A party seeking an emergency hearing based on a factual basis must file a detailed motion stating the issues, why an emergency hearing is necessary, and the time needed for each party’s presentation.
Court's wording
If a party believes there is a factual basis for setting an emergency hearing, a detailed motion setting forth the following must be filed: (1) the issues to be resolved, (2) reasons why an emergency hearing is necessary, and (3) the amount of time needed for each party’s presentation.
Any request for a CMC or status conference must articulate the reasons for the necessity of the conference.
A motion subject to the conferral requirement must include a certificate stating that counsel conferred and could not agree, with the conference date, participating attorneys, and specific results; stated exceptions apply.
- Document
- Motion
Must include
- •Certificate of conference
Court's wording
Before filing any motion, except as noted in Fla. R. Civ. P. 1.202, the moving party shall confer with counsel for the opposing party in a good faith effort to resolve the issues raised by the motion, and the motion shall contain a statement certifying that the moving party has conferred with opposing counsel and that counsel have been unable to agree on the resolution of the motion (the “Certificate”). The term “confer” as used herein, means a substantive conversation either in person or by telephone in a good faith effort to resolve the motion without court action and does not envision an exchange of ultimatums by e-mail, fax, or letter. Certification that counsel has attempted to confer with opposing counsel is not sufficient. The court may sua sponte deny motions that fail to include an appropriate and complete certificate under this section. The certificate shall set forth the date of the conference, the names of the participating attorneys, and the specific results achieved. It shall be the responsibility of counsel for the movant to arrange for the conference. Counsel are expected to respond promptly to inquiries and communication from opposing counsel. Repeated failure or refusal of a party or attorney to so confer should be set out with specificity in the certificate. No conference, therefore, no certificate, is required for appropriate ex parte motions, uncontested motions, judgment on the pleadings, summary judgment, or other dispositive motions.
It is the responsibility of attorneys and self-represented litigants to update their contact information through the Clerk’s office using Form 2.603 any time there is a change in the e-mail account registered for electronic service.
Address: Washington County Courthouse, 1293 Jackson Avenue, Chipley, FL 32428. There is no room number – just list as Circuit Courtroom.
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
Proposed orders must be submitted electronically through the e-portal using the specified Judiciary submission option.
The proposed order must be submitted through the e-portal, using the “Submit Proposed Order(s) to Judiciary (Court)” option on the e-filing map page.
Page 8 | IV. Submission of Proposed Orders and Judgments
Proposed orders must be submitted electronically through the e-filing portal using the specified submission option.
Judge Patterson accepts proposed orders through the e-filing portal. 2. The proposed order must be submitted through the e-portal, using the “Submit Proposed Order(s) to Judiciary (Court)” option on the e-filing map page.
Page 8 | IV.A.1–2
Self-represented litigants excused from e-mail service may submit proposed orders by U.S. mail or hand delivery to the judicial office.
Self-represented litigants excused from e-mail service may submit proposed orders to the court by U.S. mail or hand-delivered to the judicial office.
Page 9 | IV. Submission of Proposed Orders and Judgments
Self-represented litigants excused from email service may submit proposed orders by U.S. mail or hand-delivery to the judicial office.
4. Self-represented litigants excused from e-mail service may submit proposed orders to the court by U.S. mail or hand-delivered to the judicial office.
Page 8 | IV.A.4
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
Do not file a notice of hearing until the judicial assistant has sent the confirmation email.
Do not file notices of hearing before receiving the confirmation e-mail from the judicial assistant.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures, A. Scheduling Hearing
Do not file a notice of an added motion before receiving the judicial assistant’s confirmation.
Do not file a notice of the added motion until receipt of the judicial assistant’s confirmation.
Page 5 | II. Scheduling Procedures
The court must receive all hearing materials at least three business days before the hearing.
The court must receive all materials for the hearing no later than three (3) business days before the hearing.
Page 5 | II. Scheduling Procedures
File and serve a notice of hearing immediately after receiving the judicial assistant’s confirmation email.
A notice of hearing must be filed and served immediately after receiving a confirmation email from the judicial assistant.
Page 5 | II. Scheduling Procedures
Immediately file and serve a notice of cancellation on opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant.
You must also immediately file and serve a notice of cancellation on opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant.
Page 6 | II. Scheduling Procedures
An objection to remote appearance must be filed at least 14 days before the hearing.
Any objection to the use of remote appearance must be filed no later than fourteen (14) days prior to the hearing.
Page 7 | III. Remote Appearance
A request for an in-person hearing must be made when coordinating the hearing.
Requests for an in-person hearing must be made at the time of coordinating the hearing.
Page 7 | III. Remote Appearance
Proposed orders must be submitted within fourteen days after any hearing.
Proposed orders must be submitted no later than fourteen (14) days after any hearing.
Page 9 | IV. Submission of Proposed Orders and Judgments
File and serve the notice of hearing immediately after receiving the judicial assistant's confirmation email.
A notice of hearing must be filed and served immediately after receiving a confirmation email from the judicial assistant.
Page 4 | C. Notice of Hearing
Do not file a notice for an added motion until the judicial assistant confirms its addition to the hearing.
Additional motions cannot be piggybacked on a previously scheduled hearing time without being cleared with the judicial assistant and opposing counsel, and provided sufficient time has been reserved. To add a motion to a previously scheduled hearing, obtain opposing counsel’s consent to the addition, then email the judicial assistant about adding the motion to the hearing. The judicial assistant will confirm the addition of the motion to the hearing time. Do not file a notice of the added motion until receipt of the judicial assistant’s confirmation.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures — B. Scheduling Hearing
Wait for the judicial assistant's email confirming the hearing date and time before filing a notice of hearing.
The judicial assistant will send an e-mail confirming the date and time of the hearing. Do not file notices of hearing before receiving the confirmation e-mail from the judicial assistant.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures — B. Scheduling Hearing
All hearing materials must be received by the court at least three business days before the hearing.
The court must receive all materials for the hearing no later than three (3) business days before the hearing.
Page 5 | Scheduling Procedures
An objection to remote appearance must be filed no later than 14 days before the hearing.
Any objection to the use of remote appearance must be filed no later than fourteen (14) days prior to the hearing.
Page 6 | Remote Appearance
Immediately file and serve a notice of cancellation on opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant.
You must also immediately file and serve a notice of cancellation on opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant.
Page 6 | Scheduling Procedures
Proposed orders must be submitted no later than 14 days after any hearing.
1. Proposed orders must be submitted no later than fourteen (14) days after any hearing.
Page 8 | IV.B.1
Service and Proof of Service Rules
Attorneys and self-represented litigants must make and receive service by e-mail, generally through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal, unless excused.
All attorneys and self-represented litigants must make and receive service by e-mail, which is generally through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal, unless excused.
Page 2 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office, D. E-Filing Portal Contact Information
Serve a notice of hearing immediately after receiving the judicial assistant’s confirmation email.
A notice of hearing must be filed and served immediately after receiving a confirmation email from the judicial assistant.
Page 5 | II. Scheduling Procedures
Immediately serve a notice of cancellation on opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant.
You must also immediately file and serve a notice of cancellation on opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant.
Page 6 | II. Scheduling Procedures
If you do not have access to a computer, mail exhibits to the party or counsel at the address of record and to Judge Patterson’s office at least seven days before the hearing.
If you do not have access to a computer, mail any exhibits to the party/counsel at the address of record and to Judge Patterson’s office at 1293 Jackson Avenue, Chipley, FL 32428, at least seven (7) days prior to the hearing.
Page 10 | VI. Exhibits for Remote Evidentiary Proceedings, Courtesy Copies of Case Law, and Other Documents
Attorneys and self-represented litigants must serve and receive service by email, generally through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal, unless excused.
All attorneys and self-represented litigants must make and receive service by e-mail, which is generally through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal, unless excused.
Page 2 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office
Serve the notice of hearing immediately after receiving the judicial assistant's confirmation email.
A notice of hearing must be filed and served immediately after receiving a confirmation email from the judicial assistant.
Page 4 | C. Notice of Hearing
Immediately serve the notice of cancellation on opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant.
You must also immediately file and serve a notice of cancellation on opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant.
Page 6 | Scheduling Procedures
The party submitting the proposed order must serve the signed order on anyone not registered to receive e-portal service.
The party who submitted this proposed order to the Court for approval is required to serve a copy of the signed order upon any person(s) not registered to receive service via the e-portal.
Page 8 | IV.A.3.d
If you do not have access to a computer, mail any exhibits to the party/counsel at the address of record and to Judge Patterson’s office at 1293 Jackson Avenue, Chipley, FL 32428, at least seven (7) days prior to the hearing.
If you do not have access to a computer, mail any exhibits to the party/counsel at the address of record and to Judge Patterson’s office at 1293 Jackson Avenue, Chipley, FL 32428, at least seven (7) days prior to the hearing.
Page 9 | Exhibits for Remote Evidentiary Proceedings, Courtesy Copies of Case Law, and Other Documents
The motion filer is responsible for timely scheduling the hearing and providing adequate notice to opposing counsel and required witnesses; parties should anticipate at least a 20-day delay for hearings longer than 15 minutes and request hearing time in advance.
It is the responsibility of the attorney or pro se litigant who files any motion to ensure that it is timely scheduled on the Court's calendar and there is sufficient and adequate notice provided to opposing counsel and any other witnesses required for the hearing. Parties should anticipate a delay of at least twenty (20) days between the request for a hearing lasting longer than fifteen (15) minutes and the actual hearing date. Thus, counsel should request appropriate hearing time in advance of the aforementioned deadlines.
Page 3 | II. Scheduling Procedures — B. Scheduling Hearing
Self-represented litigants excused from e-mail service may serve by an alternative method and submit proposed orders by U.S. mail or hand delivery to the judicial office.
Self-represented litigants excused from e-mail service may submit proposed orders to the court by U.S. mail or hand-delivered to the judicial office.
Page 9 | IV. Submission of Proposed Orders and Judgments
Courtesy Copy Requirements
Email the judicial assistant a copy of each notice of hearing after it is filed.
Email the judicial assistant a copy of all notices for hearing once filed.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures, A. Scheduling Hearing
Courtesy copies of case law must be submitted to the court at least three days before any hearing or trial.
Courtesy copies of case law must be submitted to the court at least three (3) days prior to any hearing or trial.
Page 9 | VI. Exhibits for Remote Evidentiary Proceedings, Courtesy Copies of Case Law, and Other Documents
Email the judicial assistant a copy of each notice of hearing after it is filed.
Email the judicial assistant a copy of all notices for hearing once filed.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures — B. Scheduling Hearing
If you do not have access to a computer, mail exhibits to the party or counsel at the address of record and to Judge Patterson’s office at least seven days before the hearing.
If you do not have access to a computer, mail any exhibits to the party/counsel at the address of record and to Judge Patterson’s office at 1293 Jackson Avenue, Chipley, FL 32428, at least seven (7) days prior to the hearing.
Page 9 | Exhibits for Remote Evidentiary Proceedings, Courtesy Copies of Case Law, and Other Documents
Courtesy copies of case law must be submitted to the court at least three days before any hearing or trial.
Courtesy copies of case law must be submitted to the court at least three (3) days prior to any hearing or trial.
Page 9 | Exhibits for Remote Evidentiary Proceedings, Courtesy Copies of Case Law, and Other Documents
Do not send courtesy copies of documents already filed in the court file.
Do not send courtesy copies of documents that have been filed in the court file.
Page 9 | Exhibits for Remote Evidentiary Proceedings, Courtesy Copies of Case Law, and Other Documents
Do not send courtesy copies of documents already filed in the court file.
Do not send courtesy copies of documents that have been filed in the court file.
Page 9 | VI. Exhibits for Remote Evidentiary Proceedings, Courtesy Copies of Case Law, and Other Documents
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
Before moving to dismiss for failure to state a cause of action, the party must confer and, if requested, stipulate to an order allowing a curative amended pleading instead of the motion.
A party alleging that a pleading fails to state a cause of action will confer with counsel for the opposing party before moving to dismiss, and, upon request of the other party will stipulate to an order permitting the filing of a curative amended pleading in lieu of filing a motion to dismiss.
Page 12 | Certificate of Good Faith Conferral
Before filing a motion, the movant generally must confer in good faith with opposing counsel by substantive in-person or telephone conversation, subject to stated exceptions, and meet the certificate requirements.
Before filing any motion, except as noted in Fla. R. Civ. P. 1.202, the moving party shall confer with counsel for the opposing party in a good faith effort to resolve the issues raised by the motion, and the motion shall contain a statement certifying that the moving party has conferred with opposing counsel and that counsel have been unable to agree on the resolution of the motion (the “Certificate”). The term “confer” as used herein, means a substantive conversation either in person or by telephone in a good faith effort to resolve the motion without court action and does not envision an exchange of ultimatums by e-mail, fax, or letter. Certification that counsel has attempted to confer with opposing counsel is not sufficient. The court may sua sponte deny motions that fail to include an appropriate and complete certificate under this section. The certificate shall set forth the date of the conference, the names of the participating attorneys, and the specific results achieved. It shall be the responsibility of counsel for the movant to arrange for the conference. Counsel are expected to respond promptly to inquiries and communication from opposing counsel. Repeated failure or refusal of a party or attorney to so confer should be set out with specificity in the certificate. No conference, therefore, no certificate, is required for appropriate ex parte motions, uncontested motions, judgment on the pleadings, summary judgment, or other dispositive motions.
Page 12 | Certificate of Good Faith Conferral
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
Submit a continuance motion at least three business days before the scheduled court date, absent exigent circumstances, and have the requesting party sign it unless good cause is shown.
Motions for continuance must be submitted at least three (3) business days prior to the scheduled court date for which the continuance is sought, barring exigent circumstances. Except for good cause shown, the motion must be signed by the party requesting the continuance, as required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.545(e).
Page 6 | II. Scheduling Procedures
Continuance motions are disfavored and will be granted only for good cause; successive continuances are highly disfavored, and lack of due diligence is not a ground for granting one.
Motions for continuance are disfavored and will be granted only upon good cause shown. Successive continuances are highly disfavored. Lack of due diligence is not grounds for granting a continuance.
Page 6 | II. Scheduling Procedures
A continuance motion must specifically state why it is needed and when the basis became known, whether it is opposed, the actions and dates needed to be ready (including required participants’ availability), and the proposed ready-to-proceed date and whether all parties agree; the requesting party must sign unless good cause is shown.
Motions for continuance must state with specificity: (1) the basis of the need for the continuance, including when the basis became known to the movant; (2) whether the motion is opposed; (3) the action and specific dates for the action that will enable the movant to be ready, including, but not limited to, confirming the specific date any required participants are available; and (4) the proposed date by which the case will be ready to proceed and whether that date is agreed by all parties. Except for good cause shown, the motion must be signed by the party requesting the continuance, as required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.545(e).
Page 6 | II. Scheduling Procedures
A continuance motion must be submitted at least three business days before the scheduled court date, except in exigent circumstances, and must be signed by the requesting party unless good cause is shown.
Motions for continuance must be submitted at least three (3) business days prior to the scheduled court date for which the continuance is sought, barring exigent circumstances. Except for good cause shown, the motion must be signed by the party requesting the continuance, as required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.545(e).
Page 5 | Scheduling Procedures
Continuance motions are disfavored and are granted only for good cause; successive continuances are highly disfavored, and lack of due diligence is not a basis for a continuance.
Motions for continuance are disfavored and will be granted only upon good cause shown. Successive continuances are highly disfavored. Lack of due diligence is not grounds for granting a continuance.
Page 6 | Scheduling Procedures
A continuance motion must specifically state the reason and when it became known, whether it is opposed, the actions and dates needed to be ready, and the proposed readiness date and whether all parties agree to it.
Motions for continuance must state with specificity: (1) the basis of the need for the continuance, including when the basis became known to the movant; (2) whether the motion is opposed; (3) the action and specific dates for the action that will enable the movant to be ready, including, but not limited to, confirming the specific date any required participants are available; and (4) the proposed date by which the case will be ready to proceed and whether that date is agreed by all parties.
Page 6 | Scheduling Procedures
The Court considers motions to continue pretrials before the established pretrial date on a case-by-case basis.
The Court will consider motions to continue pretrials prior to the established pretrial date on a case-by-case basis.
Criminal cases
Page 1 | Pretrial Conferences
Chambers Communication Rules
E-mails to the judicial office must copy all parties unless the communication is authorized ex parte by law.
All parties must be copied on any e-mail directed to the judicial office, unless an ex parte communication is authorized by law.
Page 2 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office, B. Ex Parte Communication
Communications with the judicial office must comply with Canon 3, which bars ex parte communications and other communications about a pending or impending proceeding outside the parties’ presence unless authorized by law.
All communications with the judicial office must comply with Canon 3 of the Code of Judicial Conduct, which prohibits a judge from initiating, permitting, or considering ex parte communications and from considering other communications outside the presence of the parties concerning a pending or impending proceeding, unless authorized by law.
Page 2 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office, B. Ex Parte Communication
Request hearings by email to the judicial assistant, copy opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant, and include the case style and number, motion titles, requested time, first available date, and counsel or party names.
Hearings must be requested by e-mail to the judicial assistant at williamsa@jud14.flcourts.org and copying opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant. Include the following in your request: a. Case style; b. Case number; c. Title of motion(s) to be heard; d. Amount of time requested; e. First date movant is available for hearing; and f. Names of counsel/parties.
Page 3 | II. Scheduling Procedures, A. Scheduling Hearing
Request an in-person hearing when coordinating the hearing.
Requests for an in-person hearing must be made at the time of coordinating the hearing.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures, A. Scheduling Hearing
A motion will not be heard unless it is specifically scheduled with or confirmed by the judicial assistant.
Any motions noticed, but not specifically scheduled with, or confirmed by, the judicial assistant, will not be heard.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures, A. Scheduling Hearing
Do not add motions to a previously scheduled hearing unless they are cleared with the judicial assistant and opposing counsel and sufficient time has been reserved.
Additional motions cannot be piggybacked on a previously scheduled hearing time without being cleared with the judicial assistant and opposing counsel, and provided sufficient time has been reserved.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures, A. Scheduling Hearing
A motion must be filed in the case before hearing dates will be provided for it.
Hearing dates will not be provided for motions that have not been filed in the case.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures, A. Scheduling Hearing
Obtain opposing counsel’s consent before emailing the judicial assistant to add a motion to a hearing, and wait for the assistant’s confirmation.
hearing, obtain opposing counsel’s consent to the addition, then email the judicial assistant about adding the motion to the hearing. The judicial assistant will confirm the addition of the motion to the hearing time.
Page 5 | II. Scheduling Procedures
Email a copy of every notice of hearing to the judicial assistant at the stated address.
E-mail a copy of all notices of hearing to the judicial assistant at williamsa@jud14.flcourts.org.
Page 5 | II. Scheduling Procedures
Email the judicial assistant as promptly as possible about every hearing cancellation and trial settlement.
Notify the judicial assistant by e-mail of all hearing cancellations and trial settlements as promptly as possible.
Page 6 | II. Scheduling Procedures
At least three days before the hearing, email the judicial assistant to request access to the case OneDrive folder and copy any attorneys and/or self-represented litigants.
E-mail the judicial assistant at least three (3) days prior to the hearing to request access to a OneDrive folder for your case and copy any attorneys and/or pro se litigants.
Page 9 | VI. Exhibits for Remote Evidentiary Proceedings, Courtesy Copies of Case Law, and Other Documents
Communications with the judicial office must comply with Canon 3's restrictions on ex parte communications and other communications outside the parties' presence, unless authorized by law.
All communications with the judicial office must comply with Canon 3 of the Code of Judicial Conduct, which prohibits a judge from initiating, permitting, or considering ex parte communications and from considering other communications outside the presence of the parties concerning a pending or impending proceeding, unless authorized by law.
Page 2 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office
Emails to the judicial office must copy all parties unless the communication is authorized ex parte by law.
All parties must be copied on any e-mail directed to the judicial office, unless an ex parte communication is authorized by law.
Page 2 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office
Communications to the judicial office must be sent by email to the judicial assistant.
All communications to the judicial office must be submitted by e-mail to judicial assistant at williamsa@jud14.flcourts.org.
Page 2 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office
Request hearings by email to the judicial assistant, copying opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant, and include the case style, case number, and motion type.
Hearings must be requested by e-mail to the judicial assistant at williamsa@jud14.flcourts.org and copying opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant. Include the following in your request: a. Case style; b. Case number; c. Type of motion to be heard;
Page 3 | II. Scheduling Procedures — B. Scheduling Hearing
A hearing request must also state the time needed, the movant's first available hearing date, and counsel's names.
d. Amount of time needed; e. First date movant is available for hearing; and f. Names of counsel.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures — B. Scheduling Hearing
An additional motion may be added to a scheduled hearing only after opposing counsel consents, the judicial assistant is contacted by email, sufficient time is reserved, and the judicial assistant confirms the addition; do not file its notice before confirmation.
Additional motions cannot be piggybacked on a previously scheduled hearing time without being cleared with the judicial assistant and opposing counsel, and provided sufficient time has been reserved. To add a motion to a previously scheduled hearing, obtain opposing counsel’s consent to the addition, then email the judicial assistant about adding the motion to the hearing. The judicial assistant will confirm the addition of the motion to the hearing time. Do not file a notice of the added motion until receipt of the judicial assistant’s confirmation.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures — B. Scheduling Hearing
A noticed motion will not be heard unless it has been specifically scheduled with or confirmed by the judicial assistant.
Any motions noticed, but not specifically scheduled with, or confirmed by, the judicial assistant, will not be heard.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures — B. Scheduling Hearing
Hearing dates will not be provided for motions that have not been filed in the case.
Hearing dates will not be provided for motions that have not been filed in the case.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures — B. Scheduling Hearing
Make any request for an in-person hearing while coordinating the hearing.
Requests for an in-person hearing must be made at the time of coordinating the hearing.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures — B. Scheduling Hearing
Send a copy of every hearing notice to the judicial assistant by email.
a copy of all notices of hearing to the judicial assistant at williamsa@jud14.flcourts.org.
Page 5 | Scheduling Procedures
Notify the judicial assistant by email of every hearing cancellation and trial settlement as promptly as possible.
Notify the judicial assistant by e-mail of all hearing cancellations and trial settlements as promptly as possible.
Page 6 | Scheduling Procedures
At least three days before the hearing, email the judicial assistant to request access to the case’s OneDrive folder and copy any attorneys and/or pro se litigants.
E-mail the judicial assistant at least three (3) days prior to the hearing to request access to a OneDrive folder for your case and copy any attorneys and/or pro se litigants.
Page 9 | Exhibits for Remote Evidentiary Proceedings, Courtesy Copies of Case Law, and Other Documents
Parties may contact the judicial office only in accordance with these practices and procedures.
Parties may only contact the judicial office in accordance with these practices and procedures.
Page 2 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office, C. Unsolicited Communication
The judicial office does not accept text messages.
The judicial office does not accept text messages.
Page 2 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office, A. Method of Communication
Attorneys and self-represented litigants must provide an e-mail address to receive signed orders electronically unless excused.
All attorneys and self-represented litigants must provide an e-mail address to receive signed orders electronically, unless excused.
Page 2 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office, D. E-Filing Portal Contact Information
Communications to the judicial office must be sent by e-mail to the judicial assistant.
All communications to the judicial office must be submitted by e-mail to judicial assistant at williamsa@jud14.flcourts.org.
Page 2 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office, A. Method of Communication
The judicial assistant cannot provide legal advice.
The judicial assistant is not authorized to provide legal advice.
Page 3 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office, E. Response to Inquiries
Emails sent to or from the judicial office may be public records subject to disclosure.
Any e-mail sent to or from the judicial office may be a public record subject to disclosure.
Page 3 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office, F. Other Communication Procedures
Do not include the judicial assistant in counsel or staff email chains about availability dates.
Do not include the judicial assistant in e-mail chains between counsel/staff relative to dates when each, or the other, are available.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures, A. Scheduling Hearing
Contact the judicial assistant to obtain Zoom information.
Contact the judicial assistant for Zoom information.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures, A. Scheduling Hearing
The court will not consider unsolicited communications from non-parties.
Unsolicited communications from non-parties will not be considered by the court.
Page 2 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office
The judicial office does not accept text-message communications.
The judicial office does not accept text messages.
Page 2 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office
Parties may contact the judicial office only as permitted by these practices and procedures.
Parties may only contact the judicial office in accordance with these practices and procedures.
Page 2 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office
Emails sent to or from the judicial office may be public records subject to disclosure.
Any e-mail sent to or from the judicial office may be a public record subject to disclosure.
Page 3 | F. Other Communication Procedures
Hearings requiring more than one hour are generally scheduled in person; other hearings may be scheduled by Zoom if all parties agree, and in-person requests must be made while coordinating the hearing.
The Court will generally schedule all hearings requiring more than one hour to be held in person. All other hearings may be scheduled via Zoom upon agreement of all parties. Contact the judicial assistant for Zoom information. Requests for an in- person hearing must be made at the time of coordinating the hearing.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures — B. Scheduling Hearing
Do not include the judicial assistant in counsel or staff email chains about the parties' availability.
Do not include the judicial assistant in e-mail chains between counsel/staff relative to dates when each, or the other, are available.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures — B. Scheduling Hearing
The court will not consider unsolicited communications from non-parties.
Unsolicited communications from non-parties will not be considered by the court.
Page 2 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office, C. Unsolicited Communication
Self-represented litigants and attorneys excused from e-mail service may contact the judicial office by telephone.
Self-represented litigants and attorneys excused from e-mail service may communicate with the judicial office by telephone call to 850-638-6255.
Page 2 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office, A. Method of Communication
When the judicial assistant is out of the office, messages will be acknowledged with an expected response time and an alternate contact for immediate assistance.
When the judicial assistant is out of the office, your message will be acknowledged as received with an indication of when to expect a substantive response and an alternate contact for immediate assistance.
Page 3 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office, E. Response to Inquiries
The judicial assistant strives to respond substantively within one business day; if unable, the assistant will acknowledge the inquiry and indicate when to expect a response.
The judicial assistant strives to substantively respond to all inquiries within one business day. If the judicial assistant is unable to substantively respond within one business day, your message will be acknowledged as received with an indication of when to expect a response.
Page 3 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office, E. Response to Inquiries
Contact Judge Patterson’s judicial assistant to request a form of the proposed order if needed.
If you need a form of the proposed order, contact Judge Patterson’s judicial assistant to request.
Page 5 | II. Scheduling Procedures
Email the judicial assistant for instructions about DJMCA format or attaching exhibits.
E-mail the judicial assistant if instructions are needed regarding DJMCA format and/or attaching exhibits.
Page 8 | IV. Submission of Proposed Orders and Judgments
For an ADA accommodation, contact the ADA Coordinator at ADARequest@jud14.flcourts.org.
If you need an ADA accommodation, please contact the ADA Coordinator at ADARequest@jud14.flcourts.org, 850-767-3550, or by mail to P.O. Box 1089, Panama City, FL 32402.
Page 11 | X. Other Division Procedures — A. ADA Accommodations
If an interpreter is needed for a hearing or trial, contact Court Administration at 850-747-5327.
If an interpreter is needed for a hearing or trial, please contact Court Administration at 850-747-5327.
Page 12 | X. Other Division Procedures — B. Interpreter Requests
Self-represented litigants and attorneys excused from email service may contact the judicial office by telephone.
Self-represented litigants and attorneys excused from e-mail service may communicate with the judicial office by telephone call to 850-638-6255.
Page 2 | I. Communications with the Judicial Office
The judicial assistant cannot provide legal advice.
The judicial assistant is not authorized to provide legal advice.
Page 3 | E. Response to Inquiries
When the judicial assistant is out, the message will be acknowledged with an expected response time and an alternate contact for immediate assistance.
When the judicial assistant is out of the office, your message will be acknowledged as received with an indication of when to expect a substantive response and an alternate contact for immediate assistance.
Page 3 | E. Response to Inquiries
The judicial assistant strives to respond substantively within one business day and, if unable, will acknowledge the inquiry and indicate when to expect a response.
The judicial assistant strives to substantively respond to all inquiries within one business day. If the judicial assistant is unable to substantively respond within one business day, your message will be acknowledged as received with an indication of when to expect a response.
Page 3 | E. Response to Inquiries
The judicial assistant will reply to all recipients with available dates, times, and instructions; Washington County is in the central time zone.
The judicial assistant will “reply all” to the email with available dates, times, and instructions. Be aware that Washington County is in the central time zone.
Page 4 | II. Scheduling Procedures — B. Scheduling Hearing
If instructions are needed about DJMCA format or attaching exhibits, contact the judicial assistant by email.
E-mail the judicial assistant if instructions are needed regarding DJMCA format and/or attaching exhibits.
Page 8 | IV.A.3.a
For an ADA accommodation, contact the ADA Coordinator by email, phone, or mail using the listed contact details.
If you need an ADA accommodation, please contact the ADA Coordinator at ADARequest@jud14.flcourts.org, 850-767-3550, or by mail to P.O. Box 1089, Panama City, FL 32402.
Page 11 | Other Division Procedures — ADA Accommodations
If an interpreter is needed for a hearing or trial, contact Court Administration at the listed phone number.
If an interpreter is needed for a hearing or trial, please contact Court Administration at 850-747-5327.
Page 11 | Other Division Procedures — Interpreter Requests