Judge Christy C. Collins
Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Courtesy Copies
Brief, Opposition
- At Least 5 Business Days Before Hearing
Case Law
Exhibits
Notice Of Trial
Adjournments
- Continuances are disfavored and require good cause; successive requests are highly disfavored, lack of due diligence is not a sufficient basis, and the requesting party ordinarily must sign the motion.
- A continuance motion must specifically state the basis and when it became known, whether it is opposed, the preparatory actions and dates, and the proposed ready date and party agreement; absent good cause, the requesting party must sign it.
- Any extension of a procedural deadline must be obtained before expiration, first by stipulation and, if that is unavailable, by motion and order.
Request must include
- A continuance motion must be submitted at least five days before the scheduled court date unless exigent circumstances apply, and ordinarily must be signed by the requesting party.
Communication
Clerk
Chambers
Phone
Duty Judge
Phone
Phone
Phone
Court-wideClerk
Phone
Court-wideClerk
Phone
Court-wideChambers
Document Format Requirements12 rules
Proposed orders must be submitted in Word format.
All proposed orders must be submitted in Word format.
DOCX
All evidentiary exhibits must be submitted to the clerk in paper format.
Exhibits must be submitted to the clerk of court in paper format.
Paper
Exhibits must identify the parties in the prescribed plaintiff-list and defendant-list labeling format.
Exhibits must be labeled in the following format: ‘Plaintiff A, B, C’ /Defendant A, B, C.’”
Orders must be formatted on plain white 8 1/2-by-11-inch paper with double spacing and comply with the cited formatting rules; the judge may require an electronic Word copy by email.
All orders must be formatted for 8 1/2 X 11 plain white paper, double spaced, and comply with the formatting requirements of Rule 2.520, Fla. R. Jud. Admin. The Judge may require orders to be provided electronically in Word by email.
All exhibits and demonstrative aids, including PowerPoint presentations, must be exchanged, initialed by counsel, tagged and marked for identification, and accompanied by separately noted objections.
Per the Uniform Order Setting Case for Trial, all exhibits and demonstrative aids (including Power Point Presentations) must be exchanged, initialed by counsel for all parties, and tagged and marked for identification. Any objections must be separately noted.
The court's copy of the jury instructions or verdict forms must be in Microsoft Word, use Times New Roman 14-point font, and be double-spaced.
provide a Copy in MS Word (in Times New Roman font – 14 pt. double spaced) - to the Court via email to 22osceola@ninthcircuit.org
DOCX
Division 22-B emails must have a clear subject line.
CLEAR SUBJECT LINE
Files attached to Division 22-B emails must be clearly labeled with relevant identifying information.
Attachments: If attaching files, clearly label them with relevant information (e.g., Cover Letter, Proposed Order)
An email must begin with a clear statement of the message’s purpose.
DIRECT INTRODUCTION: begin your email stating the purpose of this message clearly
The copy of jury instructions and verdict forms provided to the court must be in MS Word, use Times New Roman 14-point font, and be double-spaced.
provide a Copy in MS Word (in Times New Roman font – 14 pt. double spaced) - to the Court via email to 22osceola@ninthcircuit.org
DOCX
Every remote-hearing participant must be able to operate Webex and must have a working camera and microphone.
All participants in a remote hearing must have the capability to operate Webex https://ninthcircuit.webex.com/join/22osceola , along with a working camera and microphone.
Remote participants must use a device capable of both video and audio appearances.
A device which allows for VIDEO and AUDIO appearance must be used.
Document Filing Requirements61 rules
A petition for court approval of a proposed settlement must state specified facts, identities, settlement terms, distribution, best interests, fund protection, fees and costs, and proposed guardian ad litem information or the reason none is requested.
The party(ies) requesting the Court’s approval of a proposed settlement must provide the following: 1. A petition stating: the facts of the claim, question, or dispute giving rise to the proposed settlement; Page 1 of 4 ===== PAGE 2 ===== the identity and relationship to the minor or ward of the legal guardian or parent requesting that the Court approve the proposed settlement; the terms and gross amount of the proposed settlement; the proposed distribution of settlement proceeds among all persons, estates, and other entities entitled to recover a portion of the settlement proceeds; the justification for the proposed distribution of settlement proceeds; the reason(s) the proposed settlement serves the best interests of the minor or ward; how the funds will be invested or protected, including identification, rating, and stability of proposed financial institution(s), fund(s), or other financial products. See § 69.031(1), Fla. Stat. (authorizing the Court to designate a financial institution to hold the property in safekeeping, subject to actions “authorized by order of the court directed to the financial institution”); the attorney’s fees and costs proposed to be deducted from the settlement proceeds; and the identity and qualifications of any proposed guardian ad litem or, if no guardian ad litem is requested,
Document Type
Petition
A required guardian ad litem report must analyze the proposed settlement and distribution, state the positions of parents or guardians and potentially adverse claims, and state the guardian ad litem’s opinion and its bases.
a Guardian ad Litem report analyzing the proposed settlement and distribution, stating the position(s) of the natural parent(s) or guardian, analyzing the position(s) or claims of any Personal Representative or other survivors, particularly those that are potentially adverse to the minor or ward, and stating the Guardian ad Litem’s opinion and the bases for the Guardian ad Litem’s opinion;
Document Type
Guardian Ad Litem Report
Medical records are required attachments for a proposed settlement approval and must include the identified medical records and physician reports.
3. Required attachments: A. Medical records: the History and Physical showing the presenting condition; the Admission and Discharge and Summary Resume, if hospitalized; final reports from each primary treating physician, including statement of the need for, or lack of need for, future care and
Document Type
Medical Records
When required by statute or court order, the settlement approval submission must include a motion to appoint a guardian ad litem and a proposed order appointing the guardian ad litem.
2. When required by statute or order: a Motion to Appoint Guardian ad Litem; a proposed Order Appointing Guardian ad Litem; and
Document Type
Guardian Ad Litem Appointment Documents
When the injury or treatment involves scarring or disfigurement, photographs of the child or ward must show the condition before the incident, after the incident, and at present.
B. Photographs of the child or ward, if the injury or treatment involves scarring or disfigurement: before the incident; after the incident; and present condition
Document Type
Photographs
The treatment plan and its estimated cost must be included if not contained in the primary treating physicians’ final reports, and all sources of payment for future treatment must be identified.
explanation of the treatment plan and the estimated cost of the treatment plan, if not contained in the final reports of the primary treating physicians; and identification of the source(s) of payment for future treatment, including, but not limited to, medical insurance, Medicaid, or Medicare; and
Requirement
Document requirement
Copies must be provided for every release or settlement agreement that the child’s legal guardian or parent must sign.
C. Settlement and Release Agreement(s): copies of all release and settlement agreements that the legal guardian or parent will be required to sign;
Document Type
Settlement Agreement
An agreement containing a duty to defend, indemnify, or hold harmless must identify whether the provision binds the minor or ward or only the parent or guardian; legal authority must be attached if the minor or ward is intended to be bound.
if any required agreement(s) contain(s) provision for a duty to defend, to indemnify, or to hold harmless: the agreement(s) must specify whether the parties intend for the provision to bind the minor or ward child or only to the parent or legal guardian, and if the parties intend to bind the minor or ward to a duty to defend, to indemnify, or to hold harmless, legal authority holding that a minor or ward can be bound to defend, indemnify, or hold harmless must also be attached;
Document Type
Settlement Agreement
A confidentiality provision must state whether it binds the minor or ward or only the parent or guardian; if the minor or ward is bound, the agreement must specify the consequence of violation and attach supporting legal authority.
if any required agreement(s) contain provision for confidentiality: the agreement(s) must specify whether the parties intend for the provision to bind the minor or ward or only the parent or legal guardian, and if the parties intend to bind the minor or ward: the agreement(s) must unequivocally state the consequence to the minor or ward for violation of the confidentiality provision, and Page 3 of 4 ===== PAGE 4 ===== legal authority holding that a minor or ward can be bound to a confidentiality provision must also be attached; and
Document Type
Settlement Agreement
Every agreement must identify the party responsible for obtaining an order sealing limited documentation under Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.420(d).
All agreements must specify which party is responsible for obtaining an order sealing limited documentation in the court file pursuant to Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.420(d); and
Document Type
Settlement Agreement
Plaintiff’s counsel must certify that all required release and settlement agreements were personally reviewed and approved by plaintiff’s counsel.
D. Certifications: by plaintiff’s counsel that all required release and settlement agreements have been personally reviewed and approved by plaintiff’s counsel; and
Document Type
Certification
The closing statement must itemize attorney’s fees and recipients, expended or expected costs, settlement-proceeds recipients and allocations, resolved and unresolved liens, and claims to be paid from the settlement proceeds.
F. Closing statement: itemizing all attorney’s fees and the identity of each lawyer and law firm receiving all or part of the fees; itemizing all costs expended or to be expended; identifying all recipients of the settlement proceeds and the proposed allocation among them; itemizing all resolved and unresolved liens, including outstanding balances owed; and itemizing all claims, including unresolved claims, that will be paid with proceeds from the proposed settlement.
Document Type
Closing Statement
If the proposed settlement contemplates an annuity, the submission must identify the issuing company, owner, and owner’s relationships to released parties and document the company’s rating, annuity cost, present value, and payment schedule.
E. Annuity(ies), if contemplated by the proposed settlement: identification of the company issuing the annuity; documentation of the issuing company’s rating; identification of the owner of the annuity; identification of the relationship(s) between annuity’s owner and the party(ies) or entity(ies) being released; documentation of the annuity’s cost; documentation of the annuity’s present value; and documentation of the annuity’s payment schedule; and
Document Type
Annuity Documentation
Counsel for every party must certify that the settlement releases only the settling party and its insurers and does not release any other defendant or nonparty.
by counsel for all parties that the settlement is intended to release only the settling party and their insurer(s) and that the settlement is not intended to release any other defendant or nonparty; and
Document Type
Certification
An email requiring immediate attention must expressly state “URGENT” in its subject line.
*URGENT* - if your email is requiring immediate attention, please explicitly state “URGENT” in the subject line.
Document Type
Exhibits and demonstrative aids must be exchanged, initialed, tagged, and marked for identification, with objections separately noted; demonstrative aids cannot be used during opening statement without agreement or prior court order.
Exhibits and Demonstrative Aids: Per the Uniform Order Setting Case for Trial, all exhibits and demonstrative aids (including Power Point Presentations) must be exchanged, initialed by counsel for all parties, and tagged and marked for identification. Any objections must be separately noted. Demonstrative aids may NOT be used during Opening Statement without (i) agreement or (ii) prior (before the first day of trial) court order.
Document Type
Exhibits And Demonstrative Aids
Jury instructions and verdict forms must be exchanged no later than ten days before the pretrial conference, submitted to the judge at the conference, and filed with originals and a specified Word-format copy provided to the court by email.
Jury Instructions and Verdict Forms – Exchanged no later than 10 days prior to the Pre-Trial Conference Submitted to the Judge at the Pre-Trial Conference. File originals with the Clerk and provide a Copy in MS Word (in Times New Roman font – 14 pt. double spaced) - to the Court via email to 22osceola@ninthcircuit.org
Document Type
Jury Instructions And Verdict Forms
Motions in limine must be scheduled and heard no later than one week before the trial period and must comply with Division 22’s Standing Order.
Motions in Limine: Filed prior to this pre-trial conference? Yes No - None Must be scheduled and heard no later than one week prior to the beginning of the trial period. You must comply with Division 22’s Standing Order on Motions in Limine, found at www.ninthcircuit.org
Document Type
Motions In Limine
A hearing request must state the proposed date and time, case number, case style, participant names, motion information, requested duration, evidentiary status, appearance format, and the date and manner of the required meet and confer.
The hearing request must include: 1) Date and time being requested for the hearing: 2) Case number: 3) Style of the case: 4) Names of the attorneys (or self-represented litigants when applicable): 5) Title of the motion(s) to be heard and the date the motion was filed: 6) Amount of time requested for the hearing: 7) Evidentiary or Non-Evidentiary: 8) Remote or In-person appearance: 9) Date and manner of the required meet and confer:
Document Type
Hearing Request
A notice of hearing for a remote appearance must list the judge’s Webex address.
A notice of hearing involving any remote appearance must list the judge’s Webex https://ninthcircuit.webex.com/join/22osceola
Document Type
Notice Of Hearing
Every notice of hearing must include the ADA notification required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.540.
All notices of hearing must contain the ADA notification required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.540.
Document Type
Notice Of Hearing
A request to appear remotely using communication technology must be made by motion.
Requests to use communication technology for an appearance must be made by motion.
Document Type
Remote Appearance Request
Each proposed order must be accompanied by an E-filed cover letter that either certifies unanimous agreement or identifies any party disagreement concerning the order.
All proposed orders must be accompanied by a copy of the E- filed cover letter (1) certifying that all parties agree to the order or (2) containing a statement identifying any disagreement of the parties as to the proposed order.
Document Type
Proposed Order
A party seeking an emergency hearing must file a detailed motion stating the issues, reasons an emergency hearing is necessary, and the time needed for each party’s presentation.
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.
Document Type
Emergency Motion
If the order is signed before the scheduled status hearing, counsel must promptly file a Notice of Cancellation.
If the order is signed before the scheduled hearing, counsel must promptly file a Notice of Cancellation (NOC).
Document Type
Notice Of Cancellation
Moving counsel must present a proposed order at the end of any hearing with space left blank for the court’s ruling.
Moving counsel must present a proposed order with space for ruling left blank at the conclusion of any hearing.
Document Type
Proposed Order
A notice of hearing must identify the specific motions to be heard, state the manner of appearance, and provide remote-appearance information when applicable.
Every notice must specify the motions to be heard. A notice calling up “all pending motions” is insufficient. Every notice must also specify the manner (e.g. telephone, video, in person) in which the motions are to be heard and provide appropriate information for remote appearances, if applicable.
Document Type
Notice Of Hearing
Every motion must identify the particular rule, statute, or leading case supporting it.
Every motion shall cite the particular rule or statute and/or leading case upon which the motion is based.
Document Type
Motion
Every summary-judgment motion must include a concise, non-argumentative statement of all uncontested material facts and a brief statement of the legal propositions relied upon.
To comply with this rule, every such motion must contain (a) a concise, non-argumentative statement of all uncontested material facts and (b) a brief statement of the legal proposition(s) relied upon.
Document Type
Summary Judgment Motion
Each proposed order must be accompanied by an e-filed, filing-stamped cover letter stating whether opposing counsel approved the order or will submit a competing order.
All proposed orders must be accompanied by an e-filed cover letter (the cover letter must have the filing stamp across the top) and must indicate that opposing counsel has reviewed and approved the form of the order or that opposing counsel will be submitting a competing order.
Document Type
Proposed Order
The adjudication portion must specify the relief granted; merely stating that the motion is granted is insufficient.
The adjudication portion of the order shall specify the relief ordered. Simply stating that “the motion is granted” without more is insufficient.
Document Type
Order
Unsigned orders and judgments may not be sent to the Clerk’s office for transmission to the Judge.
Unsigned orders or judgments must not be sent to the Clerk’s office for transmission to the Judge.
Document Type
Order Or Judgment
Every judgment must be labeled Final Judgment or Partial Final Judgment, and a partial judgment must separately identify the remaining counts or claims.
All judgments must be designated as either a “Final Judgment” (i.e., the judgment disposes of the entire case) or “Partial Final Judgment,” and if the latter, shall specify in a separate paragraph the remaining counts or claims.
Document Type
Judgment
A movant must provide specified discovery materials to the court at least five days before a discovery-dispute hearing.
Movants shall provide the Court with copies of the correct complaint/petition, answer(s) if served, and overdue requests for discovery and any applicable response at least five (5) days prior to the hearing.
Document Type
Discovery Dispute Hearing Copies
A Notice for Trial must identify whether trial will be by jury or non-jury and estimate its total duration.
The notice must indicate whether the case is to be tried by jury or non-jury and estimate the total number of days or hours needed for the trial.
Document Type
Notice Of Trial
A Notice for Trial filed with the clerk must include enough stamped, addressed envelopes for counsel and unrepresented parties not participating in e-filing.
Notices for Trial pursuant to Fla.R.Civ.P 1.440 and filed with the Clerk shall include a sufficient number of stamped addressed envelopes for all counsel and unrepresented parties who do not participate in e-filing.
Document Type
Notice Of Trial
Counsel must promptly file Final Disposition Form 1.998 after final judgment, dismissal with prejudice, or voluntary dismissal.
When a case had been finally disposed of by Final Judgment, Final Order of Dismissal or Notice of Voluntary Dismissal, counsel for prevailing party or counsel preparing settlement papers must promptly file with the Clerk Final Disposition Form 1.998 (found in the forms appended to the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure).
Document Type
Final Disposition Form
Demonstrative aids may not be used during opening statement unless the parties agree or the court enters an order before trial begins.
Demonstrative aids may NOT be used during Opening Statement without (i) agreement or (ii) prior (before the first day of trial) court order.
Document Type
Demonstrative Aids
Parties must comply with Division 22's Standing Order on motions in limine.
You must comply with Division 22’s Standing Order on Motions in Limine, found at www.ninthcircuit.org
Document Type
Motion In Limine
When the parties have filed deposition designations, counter-designations, and objections, they must provide a blank order containing the specified columns and a place for the court to rule.
If yes, provide a blank Order for the Court with columns for the designation (page and line), objection, and a place for the Court to rule.
Document Type
Order
Stipulations, admissions, and waivers of custodians must be in writing when court enforcement is sought.
Stipulations – Admissions – Waivers of Custodians: Must be in writing if seeking Court enforcement
Document Type
Stipulation
Originals of jury instructions and verdict forms must be filed with the clerk, and a Times New Roman 14-point double-spaced Microsoft Word copy must be emailed to the court.
File originals with the Clerk and provide a Copy in MS Word (in Times New Roman font – 14 pt. double spaced) - to the Court via email to 22osceola@ninthcircuit.org
Document Type
Jury Instructions
An email in the stated structured-content format must include the case number.
CASE NUMBER: 2024-CA-001234-AN
Document Type
Expert opinions are inadmissible unless expressed in a deposition or expert report, except when neither was created or taken.
Expert Opinions: Not admissible if not expressed in deposition or in an expert report (unless no report was created and no deposition was taken)
Document Type
Expert Opinions
Stipulations, admissions, and waivers of custodians must be in writing when court enforcement is sought.
Stipulations – Admissions – Waivers of Custodians: Must be in writing if seeking Court enforcement
Document Type
Stipulations Admissions Waivers Of Custodians
The next day’s witnesses must be disclosed at the end of each trial day.
Witness Disclosure during Trial: The next day’s witnesses shall be disclosed at the end of each trial day
Document Type
Witness Disclosure
Counsel and self-represented litigants may use communication technology for ex parte, short-matter, and non-evidentiary hearings without a motion or court order.
Counsel and any self-represented litigants may attend ex parte/short matter and non-evidentiary hearings via communication technology without the need for a motion or court order.
Document Type
Remote Appearance Request
An order identified as time-sensitive should be clearly marked as such when submitted.
If time-sensitive, the order should have been clearly identified as such at the time of submission.
Document Type
Proposed Order
A post-hearing order email must use the subject line “ORDER AFTER HEARING – (Date of Event),” with the actual event date substituted.
Subject line must read: ORDER AFTER HEARING – (Date of Event) Example: ORDER AFTER HEARING – April 18, 2025
Document Type
Post Hearing Order
Every request for a case management or status conference must explain why the conference is necessary.
Any request for a CMC or status conference must articulate the reasons for the necessity of the conference.
Document Type
Conference Request
An opposing or other motion may not be cross-noticed without opposing counsel's agreement and the Judicial Assistant's permission.
Opposing or other motions may not be cross-noticed without agreement with opposing counsel and permission from the Judicial Assistant.
Document Type
Notice Of Hearing
An order must state the deadline for any required act and identify when that deadline runs from.
The order shall specify the time period for the performance of any act ordered to be done and should state whether the time period runs from the date of the hearing or the date the order is signed or some other specified date.
Document Type
Order
The title of an agreed or unopposed order must identify the substance of the proposed order and state that it is agreed or unopposed.
If the order is agreed or unopposed, the title must indicate the substance of the proposed order in addition to the indication that it is an “agreed” or “unopposed” order.
Document Type
Order
A final dismissal order must be titled “Final,” while a nonfinal order must state that other counts or claims remain pending.
If an order of dismissal is final (i.e., it disposes of the entire case) the title must contain the word “Final.” When the order is not final but leaves other counts, or claims, pending, it shall so state.
Document Type
Order
An order must identify the matter to which it pertains.
The order must specify the matter to which it pertains, e.g., “Order on Defendant Smith’s Motion to Dismiss.”
Document Type
Order
An order submitted with a stipulation must be filed as a separate document rather than attached to or placed at the end of the stipulation.
When submitting stipulations, orders shall be by separate order, not attached to or at the end of the stipulation.
Document Type
Order
A judgment must include the full name and address of each known judgment debtor.
All judgments shall contain the full name and full address of any judgment debtor, if known.
Document Type
Judgment
A judgment awarding accrued or prejudgment interest must be accompanied by a document detailing the interest calculation.
All judgments which award accrued interest or pre-judgment interest must be accompanied by a document reflecting in detail the manner of interest calculation.
Document Type
Judgment
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
A copy of the e-filed notice of cancellation must also be emailed to 22osceola@ninthcircuit.org.
A copy of the E-filed Notice of Cancellation must also be emailed to 22osceola@ninthcircuit.org to ensure proper notification of the cancellation.
Page 6 | B. Scheduling Hearings — Cancelling Hearings
Orders must be submitted to the court by email at 22osceola@ninthcircuit.org.
Orders must be submitted to the court by e-mail to 22osceola@ninthcircuit.org
Page 7 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments — Submission Method
Proposed probate, guardianship, and mental-health orders must be submitted through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal, after which the Clerk’s office reviews the file and submits the orders to the court for approval.
Orders proposed for filing in probate, guardianship, and mental health cases must be filed through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal. The Clerk’s office will submit proposed probate, guardianship, and mental health orders to the Court for approval after that office has reviewed the file for compliance purposes.
Page 9 | F. Probate / Guardianship / Mental Health
Orders may be submitted by division email only after the scheduled hearing has concluded.
Orders may be submitted to the division email only after the conclusion of a scheduled hearing.
Page 9 | F. Probate / Guardianship / Mental Health
All post-hearing orders must be submitted by email to the division only after the scheduled hearing concludes.
Orders may be submitted to the division email only after the conclusion of a scheduled hearing. • Send all post-hearing orders to: 22osceola@ninthcircuit.org
Page 12 | K. Other Division Procedures
All filings in the Civil Division must be filed electronically under the Florida Supreme Court electronic-access standards.
(B) All filings in Civil Division are to be done electronically in accordance with Florida Supreme Court Standards for Electronic Access to the Courts - Version 18.0 - Updated August 2017, (as noted in AOSC09-30).
Page 4 | SECTION 5. COURT FILES AND RECORDS.
Orders must be filed electronically through the statewide ePortal.
Orders will be electronically filed through the statewide ePortal.
Page 10 | SECTION 12. ORDERS AND JUDGMENTS.
If the Clerk rejects an affidavit of insolvency as insufficient, the party may electronically file a motion asking the assigned judge to determine its sufficiency.
If the Clerk deems the affidavit insufficient, the party may e-file a motion to have the assigned Judge determine its sufficiency.
Page 5 | SECTION 8. INDIGENT PARTIES
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
The notice of hearing must be filed and served immediately after hearing time is reserved.
A notice of hearing must be filed and served immediately after reserving hearing time.
Page 4 | B. Scheduling Hearings
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 business days before the hearing.
Page 5 | B. Scheduling Hearings
An objection to using communication technology must be filed no later than 5 days.
Any objection to the use of communication technology must be filed no later than 5 days
Page 6 | C. Remote Appearance
A proposed order must be submitted within 10 days after the hearing.
Proposed orders must be submitted within 10 days after any hearing.
Page 8 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments — Deadline for Submissions
The notice of hearing must be electronically filed at least five working days before the hearing.
Notice must be e-filed no less than five (5) working days before the hearing.
Page 6 | SECTION 10. HEARINGS
After filing a written objection, the objecting party must obtain hearing time within five to ten business days and file and serve the notice of hearing simultaneously with the objection.
If a written objection is filed, the objecting party must obtain hearing time in no less than five (5) days and no more than ten (10) business days and file and serve a notice of hearing simultaneously with the objection.
Page 6 | SECTION 8. INDIGENT PARTIES
Objecting counsel must provide an alternative proposed order or judgment and objection reasons within 3 days; objections are waived if not provided, and submissions may not be held pending an objection.
If objecting counsel does not furnish the Judge an alternative proposed judgment or order within 3 days with copies under cover letter stating the reasons for the objection, all objections are waived. Orders and judgments may not be submitted to the Judge to hold waiting for an objection.
Page 10 | SECTION 12. ORDERS AND JUDGMENTS.
Final Disposition Form 1.998 must be filed promptly following final disposition of the case.
When a case had been finally disposed of by Final Judgment, Final Order of Dismissal or Notice of Voluntary Dismissal, counsel for prevailing party or counsel preparing settlement papers must promptly file with the Clerk Final Disposition Form 1.998 (found in the forms appended to the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure).
Page 13 | SECTION 18. PROMPT CLOSURE OF CASES.
Motions in limine must be scheduled and heard no later than one week before the trial period begins.
Must be scheduled and heard no later than one week prior to the beginning of the trial period.
Page 1 | PRE-TRIAL CHECKLIST and ORDER CONTROLLING TRIAL
Deposition designations must be disclosed in writing with page and line citations at least 30 days before the pretrial conference.
must be disclosed in writing (citing page and line numbers) (i) 30 days before the Pre-Trial Conference (designations), and (ii) 20 days before the Pre-Trial Conference (counter-designations)
Page 1 | PRE-TRIAL CHECKLIST and ORDER CONTROLLING TRIAL
The next trial day's witnesses must be disclosed at the end of each trial day.
Witness Disclosure during Trial: The next day’s witnesses shall be disclosed at the end of each trial day
Page 2 | BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Jury instructions and verdict forms must be submitted to the judge at the pretrial conference.
Submitted to the Judge at the Pre-Trial Conference.
Page 2 | BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Jury instructions and verdict forms must be exchanged no later than 10 days before the pretrial conference.
Exchanged no later than 10 days prior to the Pre-Trial Conference
Page 2 | BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Electronic submitters acknowledge that documents enter a busy signing queue and will not receive immediate or expedited review merely because filed electronically.
By submitting a document electronically, counsel acknowledges that the document will enter one of Judge Collins signing queues, which collectively receive hundreds of submissions weekly, and that review of the submission will not be immediate or fast.
Page 1 | EMAIL GUIDELINES
Documents submitted electronically enter Judge Collins’ signing queues, where review may not be immediate because the queues receive hundreds of submissions weekly.
By submitting a document electronically, counsel acknowledges that the document will enter one of Judge Collins’ signing queues, which collectively receive hundreds of submissions weekly. Review of submissions is therefore not immediate.
Page 9 | F. Probate / Guardianship / Mental Health
If an opposing party does not object within five days after electronic filing of the motion and affidavit, the movant must promptly present a proposed order to the presiding judge in ex parte proceedings or by mail.
If no written objection is filed by an opposing party within five (5) days of e-filing the motion and affidavit, the movant must then promptly present a proposed order to the presiding Judge either during ex parte or by mail.
Page 6 | SECTION 8. INDIGENT PARTIES
Electronic submissions are addressed in receipt order only when Judge Collins is not in court, preparing for hearings, or writing substantive orders.
Electronic submissions are addressed in the order in which they are received when Judge Collins is not in court, preparing for hearings, or writing substantive orders.
Page 1 | EMAIL GUIDELINES
Counsel may request a status hearing on an available Short Matters docket 30 days after submitting the proposed order.
Counsel may set a status hearing on an available Short Matters docket 30 days after the date of submission.
Page 9 | F. Probate / Guardianship / Mental Health
Service and Proof of Service Rules
Copy all parties on email sent to the judicial office unless ex parte communication is authorized 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 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office — Ex parte Communications
Copies of communications with chambers must be provided to all parties, making the communication an electronic service to all parties.
Please remember the Judge’s office cannot receive EX- PARTE communications from anyone. You MUST always copy ALL parties on ANY and ALL e-mails, correspondence and/or communications with this office.
Page 3 | Other Communication Procedures
Service of the notice of hearing must occur immediately after hearing time is reserved.
A notice of hearing must be filed and served immediately after reserving hearing time.
Page 4 | B. Scheduling Hearings
A notice of cancellation must be filed and served immediately 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 | B. Scheduling Hearings — Cancelling Hearings
All evidentiary exhibits must be hand-delivered to the division’s assigned Judicial Assistant.
Hand-deliver all exhibits to the Judicial Assistant assigned to the Division.
Page 9 | H. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings
Unless service occurs exclusively through the e-portal, an order must contain a full certificate of service listing the complete names and addresses of attorneys and unrepresented parties; “copies to” alone is insufficient.
The order should contain a full certificate of service with the complete names and addresses of the attorneys and unrepresented parties to be served, unless service is to occur through the e-portal only. Merely showing “copies to” is insufficient.
Page 9 | SECTION 12. ORDERS AND JUDGMENTS.
When a party is served by U.S. Mail rather than the ePortal, chambers must receive sufficient paper copies of the order and stamped, addressed envelopes for each party not receiving electronic service.
If any party receives service by U.S. Mail, rather than through the ePortal, sufficient paper copies of the order and stamped, addressed envelopes must be provided to chambers for each party not receiving electronic service.
Page 10 | SECTION 12. ORDERS AND JUDGMENTS.
Counsel must provide addressed, stamped envelopes to the Judicial Assistant for service of default judgments.
Counsel must provide addressed and stamped envelopes to the Judicial Assistant for service of default judgments.
Page 10 | SECTION 12. ORDERS AND JUDGMENTS.
Filing Fees and Waivers
The party designated in a transfer order must deliver the other court's filing fee to the Clerk within 30 days of the order when transferring a case for improper venue or forum non conveniens.
(1) To Another Circuit Court. When an order has been entered transferring a case from an Orange or Osceola Circuit Court to another Circuit Court on grounds of improper venue or forum non conveniens, the party designated in the order to pay the transfer costs within thirty (30) days of the date of the order, shall deliver to the Clerk the filing fee for the other Court to accompany the file upon its transfer.
Page 4 | SECTION 4. ASSIGNMENT, REASSIGNMENT AND TRANSFER OF CASES.
A party seeking waiver of Clerk’s and Sheriff’s fees and costs in an original civil proceeding must complete and file the Clerk’s affidavit of insolvency.
A party claiming indigency and seeking to have certain Clerk’s and Sheriff’s fees and costs waived must complete and file an affidavit of insolvency provided by the Clerk.
Page 5 | SECTION 8. INDIGENT PARTIES
An appellant seeking waiver of fees and costs must electronically file a motion accompanied by an affidavit of insolvency.
A party claiming indigency who desires to have Clerk’s fees and costs waived in connection with an appeal from County Court to the Civil Division of this Court or from the Civil Division of this Court to an appellate court must e-file a motion accompanied by an affidavit of insolvency.
Page 6 | SECTION 8. INDIGENT PARTIES
Courtesy Copy Requirements
A courtesy copy of case law must be submitted to the court for every evidentiary proceeding.
Courtesy copies of case law must be submitted to the court for any evidentiary proceeding.
Page 8 | E. Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents — When Required; Submission Method
Attorneys and self-represented litigants must provide sufficient copies of each exhibit for the clerk, court, and every party to review during the hearing or trial.
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.
Page 10 | H. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings
A motion for rehearing, reconsideration, or new trial is not set for hearing unless directed by the Judge, and counsel must simultaneously provide the Judge a chambers copy and a cover letter requesting a hearing if desired.
Motions for rehearing, reconsideration or new trial will not be set for hearing unless the Judge so directs. Counsel filing such a motions shall simultaneously provide a chambers copy directly to the Judge with a cover letter requesting a hearing, if one is desired.
Page 7 | SECTION 10.
Although supporting and opposing legal memoranda are optional, counsel filing one must provide chambers copies of the memorandum and cited legal authorities.
Legal memoranda in support of, or in opposition to, motions are optional. If filed, counsel must furnish the Judge with chambers copies of the memorandum and copies of any legal authorities cited therein.
Page 8 | SECTION 11. MOTION PRACTICE GENERALLY.
Trial briefs are optional, but any submitted trial briefs must be provided as hard copies to Chambers at least five working days before trial.
Trial Briefs: Not required, but if you choose to submit them, please provide hard copies to Chambers (6215) at least five (5) working days prior to trial to allow adequate time for review
Page 2 | BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
A copy of the Notice for Trial should be sent directly to the judge’s chambers.
A copy of the Notice for Trial should be sent directly to the Judge’s Chambers.
Page 12 | SECTION 16. SETTING CASES FOR TRIAL.
If trial briefs are submitted, counsel should provide hard copies to Chambers at least five working days before trial.
Trial Briefs: Not required, but if you choose to submit them, please provide hard copies to Chambers (6215) at least five (5) working days prior to trial to allow adequate time for review
Page 1 | BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
Although the closing statement should not be entered in the public court record, it should be submitted directly to Chambers under seal.
The closing statement should not be filed in the record but should be submitted directly to Chambers under seal.
Page 4 | ITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing Bundling Requirements
All materials for competing documents must be included in a single email.
When submitting competing documents, please include all materials in a single email so they may be properly presented to Judge Collins together.
Page 7 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments — Submission Method
Counsel must promptly file a Notice of Cancellation when the order is signed before the scheduled hearing.
If the order is signed before the scheduled hearing, counsel must promptly file a Notice of Cancellation (NOC).
Page 12 | K. Other Division Procedures
The form may accompany the proposed Final Order or Final Judgment, and the Judge will send it to the Clerk for filing with the signed order or judgment.
The form may accompany the proposed Final Order or Final Judgment and the Judge will send it to the Clerk for filing along with the signed Final Order or Final Judgment.
Page 13 | SECTION 18. PROMPT CLOSURE OF CASES.
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
A request for a hearing longer than one hour requires the Judge's permission, obtained through the Judicial Assistant or by counsel's personal appearance at an ex parte hearing.
Requests for hearing time in excess of one (1) hour require permission of the Judge, obtained through request directed to the Judicial Assistant or by personal appearance of counsel at ex parte.
Page 7 | SECTION 10.
Parties must confer in person or by telephone about the issue before requesting hearing time.
Parties shall meet in person or by telephone and confer on the subject at issue before requesting hearing time.
Page 8 | SECTION 11. MOTION PRACTICE GENERALLY.
If hearing time cannot be coordinated with opposing counsel, attorneys must appear ex parte to resolve the issue.
If hearing time cannot be coordinated with opposing counsel, attorneys shall appear at ex parte to resolve the issue.
Page 8 | SECTION 11. MOTION PRACTICE GENERALLY.
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
A continuance motion must be submitted at least five days before the scheduled court date unless exigent circumstances apply, and ordinarily must be signed by the requesting party.
Motions for continuance must be submitted at least 5 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 | B. Scheduling Hearings — Continuance Procedure
Continuances are disfavored and require good cause; successive requests are highly disfavored, lack of due diligence is not a sufficient basis, and the requesting party ordinarily must sign the motion.
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 continuance. 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 | B. Scheduling Hearings — Continuance Procedure
A continuance motion must specifically state the basis and when it became known, whether it is opposed, the preparatory actions and dates, and the proposed ready date and party agreement; absent good cause, the requesting party must sign 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. 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 | B. Scheduling Hearings — Continuance Procedure
Any extension of a procedural deadline must be obtained before expiration, first by stipulation and, if that is unavailable, by motion and order.
Time limits specified in the rules and applicable orders and division procedures must be observed. If additional time is needed, an extension must be obtained before the time limit expires by stipulation or, failing that, by motion and order.
Page 11 | SECTION 13. DISCOVERY.
Chambers Communication Rules
Submit all communications to the judicial office by email using the stated address and include the matter, case number, and case name in the subject line.
All communications to the judicial office must be submitted by e-mail to 22osceola@ninthcircuit.org. The subject line must contain the relevant matter, case number, and case name (e.g., 2-Hour Hearing Requested -2024 DR 001234 SC – Doe v. Doe.)
Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office — Method of Communication
Attorneys and self-represented litigants must provide an email address for electronic delivery of signed orders unless excused.
All attorneys and self-represented litigants must provide an e-mail address to receive signed orders electronically, unless excused.
Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office — E-Filing Portal Contact Information
Attorneys and self-represented litigants must use Form 2.603 to update their contact information whenever the email account registered for electronic service changes.
It is the responsibility of attorneys and self-represented litigants to update their contact information using Form 2.603 any time there is a change in the e-mail account registered for electronic service.
Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office — E-Filing Portal Contact Information
All parties must be copied on every email, correspondence, or other communication with the Judge’s office, and ex parte communications are prohibited.
Please remember the Judge’s office cannot receive EX- PARTE communications from anyone. You MUST always copy ALL parties on ANY and ALL e-mails, correspondence and/or communications with this office.
Page 3 | Other Communication Procedures
Hearing requests must be submitted by email to the judicial assistant at the stated court address.
Submit your hearing request by e-mail to 22osceola@ninthcircuit.org.;
Page 4 | B. Scheduling Hearings
Emails to the judicial assistant must include opposing counsel and any self-represented litigants.
When emailing the Judicial Assistant, always copy opposing counsel and any self-represented litigants.
Page 4 | B. Scheduling Hearings
A hearing must be cancelled by immediately notifying the judicial assistant.
You must cancel hearings by notifying the judicial assistant immediately.
Page 6 | B. Scheduling Hearings — Cancelling Hearings
All post-hearing orders must be sent by email to 22osceola@ninthcircuit.org.
Send all post-hearing orders to: 22osceola@ninthcircuit.org
Page 9 | F. Probate / Guardianship / Mental Health
Counsel must immediately notify the judge’s judicial assistant by telephone and email when a case scheduled for trial settles.
Counsel will immediately notify the Judge’s Judicial Assistant by telephone and email of the settlement of any case scheduled for trial.
Page 12 | SECTION 17. SETTLEMENTS.
The court will not consider unsolicited communications from non-parties.
Unsolicited communications from non-parties will not be considered by the court.
Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office — Unsolicited Communications
The Judicial Assistant may not provide legal advice or interpret legal documents.
The Judicial Assistant is not authorized to provide legal advice or to interpret documentations.
Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office — Response to Inquiries
Follow-up with the Judicial Assistant about a submitted order is prohibited before 30 days have passed unless the order is time-sensitive.
Please do not contact the Judicial Assistant to follow up on submitted orders unless 30 days have passed or the order is time-sensitive.
Page 8 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments — Other Procedures Relating to Submission of Orders and Judgments
After-hours, weekend, and holiday true emergencies should be referred to the Duty Judge through the Orange County Sheriff’s Communications Section at 407/836-3980.
(C) Duty Judge. There is a Judge on duty after hours and on weekends and holidays on a continuous basis. True emergency matters arising on weekends, holidays or after business hours should be referred to the Duty Judge. The Duty Judge may be contacted through the Orange County Sheriff’s Communications Section at 407/836-3980.
Page 3 | SECTION 3. ADMINISTRATIVE JUDGE; ALTERNATE JUDGES; DUTY JUDGE.
Attorneys must use the court’s website and calendaring system to obtain hearing time before contacting the judge’s Judicial Assistant.
Each attorney shall utilize the Court’s web page, www.ninthcircuit.org, and the calendaring system to obtain hearing time before contacting the Judicial Assistant.
Page 6 | SECTION 10. HEARINGS
All hearings must be scheduled through the judge’s Judicial Assistant.
Hearings must be scheduled with the Judge’s Judicial Assistant.
Page 6 | SECTION 10. HEARINGS
Counsel must contact IT Support before the first day of trial to address audio and video equipment and technical issues.
Contact the IT Support department at http://www.ninthcircuit.org/services/technology-support or call 407-742-2488 before the first day of trial.
Page 2 | BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Counsel may contact the Trial Clerk by email for evidence tags and instructions.
Contact Betsy (Trial Clerk) at Betsy.Corbell@osceolaclerk.org for evidence tags and instructions.
Page 1 | BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Counsel or unrepresented parties may arrange a remote appearance at any hearing through the Judicial Assistant.
Counsel or unrepresented parties may arrange, through the Judicial Assistant, to appear remotely at any hearing.
Page 7 | SECTION 10.
When multiple attorneys or unrepresented parties appear by telephone, one participant should arrange a conference call connecting the participants.
If two or more attorneys or unrepresented parties are to appear by telephone, one of them (typically the moving party) should arrange to connect the other parties/attorneys on a conference call.
Page 7 | SECTION 10.
Counsel may contact Trial Clerk Betsy Corbell by email to obtain evidence tags and instructions.
Contact Betsy (Trial Clerk) at Betsy.Corbell@osceolaclerk.org for evidence tags and instructions.
Page 1 | BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS