Northern District of California Document Format Requirements

Required

Always

Chambers copies must be 3-hole punched, not stapled.

All chambers’ copies must be 3-hole punched in the left margin in a manner suitable for placement in a 3-ring binder. They shall not be stapled.

Required

Always

Chambers copies must include tabs between exhibits and fasten individual documents.

Chambers copies must include tabs between exhibits and must fasten or attach pages of individual documents together so as to distinguish between separate documents. Do not use bottom tabs as they do not work well in binders.

Required

Always

Incorporation by reference is prohibited as it creates administrative burdens and may circumvent pagination limits.

Incorporation by reference is a narrow exception applicable to certain pleadings. Parties shall never... creates substantial administrative burdens and may be construed as circumventing limits on pagination.

Required

Always

Counsel must familiarize themselves with NDCA e-filing guidance, even when using staff.

It is imperative that counsel know what their filings will look like on ECF once submitted to the Court. Accordingly, counsel shall familiarize themselves with this District's guidance on e-filing available online at https://www.cand.uscourts.gov/cases-e-filing/cm-ecf/. This applies even if counsel will be relying extensively on staff to finish filings.

Summary judgment motion and opposition materials must be submitted in 3-ring binders with tabs separating documents; exemption applies to habeas, ERISA, and Social Security summary judgment cases.

summary judgment motions and oppositions (including the brief, separate statement, declarations, exhibits, and other supporting documents) are required to be provided by the filing party in a 3-ring binder or binders with tabs separating documents. This requirement does not apply to habeas corpus petitions or summary judgment motions in ERISA or Social Security cases.

Parties filing or opposing summary judgment motions must submit a separate statement in the required format, except pro se plaintiffs are exempt.

Any party moving for summary judgment or opposing summary judgment is required to submit a separate statement as set forth herein. Pro se plaintiffs, however, are not required to submit a separate statement. 1. Supporting Separate Statement: Parties moving for summary judgment must include a separate, short and concise statement of the material facts as to which the moving party contends there is no genuine issue to be tried (“Supporting Separate Statement”). The Supporting Separate Statement must: (1) identify the issue or claim number(s) to which the fact relates; and (2) list each asserted material fact and the record evidence with specific pincites (e.g., deposition, declaration, discovery response). The Supporting Separate Statement must follow this format: Opposing Party’s Moving Party’s Undisputed Material Facts Issue No. Response and and Supporting Evidence Supporting Evidence Issue 1 Fact 1. Doe Co. and Acme Co. entered into a (Doe cannot written contract for sale of widgets. establish Roe Declaration at 2:17-21 and Exh. A [contract]. breach of contract) Issue 1 Fact 2. Widgets were received by Doe’s headquarters on December 1, 2010. Roe Declaration at 3:14-19 and Exh. B [signed invoice].

Parties must cite to the record and underline/highlight specific lines relied upon.

parties shall provide particular citations to the record. Moreover, parties shall underline, highlight, or otherwise specify lines of the documents and transcripts upon which they rely in support of or opposition to a motion.

Proposed orders on sealing requests must be formatted as a chart with columns for document identifier, requested action (seal/redact/unseal), and court ruling.

This shall be in chart form with a column identifying the document(s), a column describing the action to be taken (seal, portions to redact, unseal), and a column for the Court’s order.

Footnotes must be at least 12-point font and include a single paragraph space between footnotes.

Footnotes shall be used sparingly, should never be less than 12-point font, and must include a single paragraph space in between individual footnotes.

Required

Always

The Court may strike burdensome or illegible filings and require refiling per District guidance.

The Court may strike burdensome and/or illegible filings and direct them to be refiled consistent with the District"s guidance.

Required

Always

Telephonic appearances must use land line, not mobile phone.

parties must make telephonic appearances using a land line, rather than a mobile phone.

Format

PDF

Electronic filings must be text-searchable PDFs unless self-represented.

Electronically filed documents must be text-searchable PDFs whenever possible. This requirement is waived for self-represented litigants who are proceeding without a lawyer.

Exhibit numbers must be labeled in lower-right corner in bold

Each exhibit must be labeled in the lower-right-hand corner with the exhibit number in a prominent, bold typeface.

Format

DOCX

Proposed findings must be submitted in Word format via email

Parties must submit proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law in Word format via email to jstpo@cand.uscourts.gov.

Format

PDF

Electronic filings must be text-searchable PDFs; waived for pro se litigants.

Electronically filed documents must be text-searchable PDFs whenever possible. This requirement is waived for self-represented litigants who are proceeding without a lawyer.

Format

PDF

Electronic filings must be text-searchable PDFs when possible.

Electronically filed documents must be text-searchable PDFs whenever possible.

Required

Always

All written text must be at least 12-point type and double-spaced

All written text, including footnotes and quotations, shall be no less than 12-point type and shall be double-spaced.

Required

Always

Cited portions of depositions and lengthy documents must be highlighted in yellow; other colors will result in document being stricken

The cited portions of depositions and other lengthy documents shall be highlighted in yellow for ease of reference. Highlighting in colors other than yellow will result in the document being stricken.

Format

DOCX

Sealing motions and declarations must be submitted in Word format by email on the same day of filing.

Each administrative motion filed pursuant to Civil Local Rule 79-5(c) and declaration filed pursuant to Civil Local Rule 79-5(f)(3) shall be submitted in Word format by email to BLFpo@cand.uscourts.gov on the same day of filing.

Deposition transcripts must be in single-page format; 4-in-1 format will be disregarded.

Deposition transcripts submitted to the Court must be in single-page format. Transcripts in 4-in-1 format, in which 4 pages of the deposition transcript are reduced to fit on a single document page, will be disregarded.

Required

Always

All written text must be 12-point type and double-spaced.

All written text, including footnotes and quotations, shall be no less than 12-point type and shall be double-spaced.

Required

Always

Footnotes must be 12-point type and double-spaced.

Footnotes shall be no less than 12-point type and shall be double-spaced.

Required

Always

Citations to legal authorities or evidence must be in the body of the brief, not in footnotes.

Footnotes shall not be used to cite to legal authorities or evidence. All citations to legal authorities or evidence shall be in the body of the brief.

Required

Always

Exhibits must be pre-marked with numbers on tags affixed to back of last page.

All exhibits shall be pre-marked for identification with numbers (not letters) by means of exhibit tags affixed to the back of the last page of each exhibit. Sample tags are attached hereto.

Required

Always

All written text must be 12-point type and double-spaced.

All written text, including footnotes and quotations, shall be no less than 12-point type and shall be double-spaced.

Required

Always

Footnotes must be 12-point type and double-spaced.

Footnotes shall be no less than 12-point type and shall be double-spaced.

Required

Always

All written text must be at least 12-point type and double-spaced.

All written text, including footnotes and quotations, shall be no less than 12-point type and shall be double-spaced.

Footnotes must be at least 12-point type and double-spaced.

Footnotes shall be no less than 12-point type and shall be double-spaced.

Required

Always

Margins

0.5 in

Chambers copies must be double-sided with ECF stamp.

Chambers copies should be double-sided and should bear the ECF filing “stamp” (case number, docket number, date, and ECF page number) along the top of the page.

Required

Always

Exhibits must have labels along the right side.

All exhibits shall be clearly delineated with labels along the right side.

Exhibits over 2 inches thick require binder (max 3 inches).

If the filing includes exhibits over two-inches thick, the parties shall place the copies in a binder. Binders should not exceed three inches.

Social Security chambers copies require binders with tabbed documents.

The chambers copy should be placed in one or more binders. Each document should be tabbed with labels along the right side.

Moving separate statement must be organized in chart format as shown in Attachment A.

The moving separate statement must be organized in the form of a chart as shown in Attachment A.

Responsive separate statement must be organized in chart format as shown in Attachment A.

The responsive separate statement must be organized in the form of a chart as shown in Attachment A.

Courtesy copies must be double-sided, three-hole punched, and marked with ECF stamp on each page.

All courtesy copies must be double-sided, three-hole punched at the left margin, and marked with the ECF stamp (case number, document number, date, and page number) on the top of each page.

Required

Always

Trial hours are 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; counsel must arrive by 8:00 a.m.

Trial will be conducted from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Mondays through Fridays. Counsel must arrive by 8:00 a.m. each day, or earlier if directed by the Court, to discuss any matters that need to be heard outside the presence of the jury.

Parties must deliver two sets of trial exhibits, double-sided, three-hole-punched, in three-ring binders, with tagged and labeled dividers, on the morning of the first day of trial.

The parties must provide two sets of all trial exhibits -- double-sided and three-hole-punched in three-ring binders, with each exhibit tagged and separated by a label divider identifying the exhibit number. These sets must be delivered to the Court on the morning of the first day of trial.

Chambers copies must be double-sided, three-hole punched, ECF stamped, and marked 'Chambers Copy -- Do Not File'

All chambers copies must be double-sided, three-hole punched at the left margin and marked with the ECF stamp (case number, document number, date and page number). These printed copies should be marked “Chambers Copy -- Do Not File” and placed in an envelope clearly labeled with the judge’s name and case number.

Format

PDF

Electronic filings must be text-searchable PDFs unless filed by pro se litigants.

Electronically filed documents must be text-searchable PDFs whenever possible. This requirement is waived for self-represented litigants who are proceeding without a lawyer.

Exhibit numbers must be labeled in lower-right corner in bold typeface.

Each exhibit must be labeled in the lower-right-hand corner with the exhibit number in a prominent, bold typeface.

Parties must use non-overlapping exhibit number ranges with room for additional exhibits.

The parties must mark their exhibits using non-overlapping ranges of numbers, leaving enough unused numbers that additional exhibits can be marked during trial. For example, the parties might agree that the government will use numbers 001–199 and the defendant will use numbers 200–399.

Exhibits must be labeled with exhibit number in bold prominent typeface in lower-right corner, using non-overlapping number ranges with spare numbers for trial additions.

Each exhibit must be labeled in the lower-right-hand corner with the exhibit number in a prominent, bold typeface. The parties must mark their exhibits using non-overlapping ranges of numbers, leaving enough unused numbers that additional exhibits can be marked during trial. For example, the parties might agree that the plaintiff will use numbers 001–199 and the defendant will use numbers 200–399.

Parties must deliver one set of pre-marked exhibits in clearly labeled three-ring binders to Clerk’s office 7 calendar days before trial, with binder spine ≤3 inches where possible.

Unless otherwise ordered, at least seven calendar days prior to the commencement of the trial, the parties must deliver one set of all pre-marked exhibits in clearly labeled three-ring binders to the Clerk’s office, marked for the attention of the courtroom deputy. The quality, condition, and labeling of the binders should be such that the Court can easily transport and review the binders’ contents. Whenever possible, the spine of a binder should not be wider than three inches.

Format

DOCX

Proposed findings must be submitted in Word format via email to jstpo@cand.uscourts.gov.

Parties must submit proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law in Word format via email to jstpo@cand.uscourts.gov.

Format

PDF

Sealed PDFs must have bookmarked exhibits, highlighted sealed material, and ECF stamps on each page where possible.

Each exhibit must be bookmarked, and sealed material or material sought to be filed under seal must be highlighted. Where possible, the PDF must bear the ECF stamp (case number, document number, date, and page number) at the top of each page.

Required

Always

Exhibits must be pre-marked with numbers in lower-right corner in bold typeface, using non-overlapping ranges.

Each exhibit must be labeled in the lower-right-hand corner with the exhibit number in a prominent, bold typeface. The parties must mark their exhibits using non-overlapping ranges of numbers, leaving enough unused numbers that additional exhibits can be marked during trial. For example, the parties might agree that the plaintiff will use numbers 001–199 and the defendant will use numbers 200–399.

Required

Always

Format

PDF

Electronic filings must be text-searchable PDFs unless self-represented.

Electronically filed documents must be text-searchable PDFs whenever possible. This requirement is waived for self-represented litigants who are proceeding without a lawyer.

Format

PDF

Electronically filed documents must be text-searchable PDFs; waived for self-represented litigants.

Electronically filed documents must be text-searchable PDFs whenever possible. This requirement is waived for self-represented litigants who are proceeding without a lawyer.

Exhibits must be pre-marked with numbers in lower-right corner, using non-overlapping ranges.

Each exhibit must be clearly pre-marked in the lower-right-hand corner with the exhibit number in a prominent, bold typeface. The parties must mark their exhibits using non-overlapping ranges of numbers, not letters, leaving enough unused numbers that additional exhibits can be marked during trial. For example, the parties might agree that the plaintiff will use numbers 001–199 and the defendant will use numbers 300–499. A single exhibit should be marked only once. If plaintiff has marked an exhibit, then the defendant should not re-mark it. Different versions of the same document, e.g., a copy with additional handwriting, must be treated as different exhibits. All exhibits shall be marked and referred to as "Trial Exhibit No. ___," not as "Plaintiff's Exhibit" or "Defendant's Exhibit."

MILs and oppositions must be in tabbed three-ring binder with separate tabs for each document.

The courtesy copies must be in a clearly labeled, single, three-ring binder, with each MIL in a separate tab, immediately followed by the separately tabbed opposition.

Required

Always

Format

PDF

Electronic filings must be text-searchable PDFs (waived for pro se litigants).

Electronically filed documents must be text-searchable PDFs whenever possible. This requirement is waived for self-represented litigants who are proceeding without a lawyer.

Margins

0 in

Format

PDF

Exhibits must be labeled with exhibit number in lower-right corner in bold typeface.

Each exhibit must be labeled in the lower-right-hand corner with the exhibit number in a prominent, bold typeface.

Required

Always

Format

PDF

E-filed documents must be text-searchable PDFs; requirement waived for self-represented litigants.

Electronically filed documents must be text-searchable PDFs whenever possible. This requirement is waived for self-represented litigants who are proceeding without a lawyer.

Format

DOCX

Electronic copies of proposed orders must be sent in Word format to specified email.

Electronic copies of proposed orders must be sent in Word format to nwpo@cand.uscourts.gov.

Exhibits must be pre-marked with the exhibit number in prominent bold typeface in the lower-right corner, using non-overlapping number ranges with sufficient unused numbers for additional trial exhibits.

Each exhibit must be labeled in the lower-right-hand corner with the exhibit number in a prominent, bold typeface. The parties must mark their exhibits using non-overlapping ranges of numbers, leaving enough unused numbers that additional exhibits can be marked during trial. For example, the parties might agree that the government will use numbers 001–199 and the defendant will use numbers 200–399.

Required

Always

Proposed schedules must use absolute dates, not relative dates.

Use absolute dates (e.g., Jan. 1, 2024) rather than relative ones (e.g., 60 days after an order).

Required

Always

Format

PDF

File each motion, declaration, and exhibit as separate searchable PDF with clear name.

File each motion, supporting declaration, and exhibit on ECF as a separate searchable PDF with a clear name and description.

Must use Ninth Circuit Model Jury Instructions with redlines/highlights for deviations

The parties must use the Ninth Circuit Model Jury Instructions whenever possible. Proposed deviations from the model instructions, no matter how minor, must be clearly identified by redlined or highlighted copy and supported by authority.

Required

Always

Trial exhibits must be numbered sequentially, not lettered.

Exhibits shall be numbered (not lettered) sequentially, with each exhibit identified as "Trial Exhibit No. [number]."

Required

Always

All filing deadlines are at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time unless otherwise ordered.

All filing deadlines are at 5:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) unless otherwise ordered.

Required

Always

Format

DOCX

Proposed orders must be sent in Microsoft Word compatible format to specified email.

All proposed orders should be sent in Microsoft Word compatible format to rflpo@cand.uscourts.gov.

Required

Always

All briefs must use Times New Roman 12pt font and be double spaced.

All briefs must use Times New Roman font (size 12) and must be double spaced.

Required

Always

Final briefs must be filed at least 14 days before the motion hearing.

The final brief for any motion should be filed at least 14 days prior to the hearing on the motion.

Format

PDF

Upload all pretrial filings to Box.com with ECF headers and specific naming convention.

All pretrial filings shall be uploaded to that link. The uploaded documents should contain the ECF version of each attachment, with its ECF header. The name of each PDF file should include the type of document, a brief description of the document, and the docket number.

Format

DOCX

Pretrial documents must be submitted in Word format via email to specified address.

The proposed supplemental jury instructions, Joint Pretrial Conference Statement, jury instructions, involved individuals list, and verdict form(s) shall be submitted in Word format via e-mail to rflpo@cand.uscourts.gov when they are filed.

Required

Always

Exhibits must be sequentially numbered, not lettered, with blocks assigned to parties.

Exhibits shall be sequentially numbered (not lettered). If possible, parties shall use the same number to mark an exhibit for trial as that used in depositions. Blocks of numbers should be assigned to fit the needs of the case (e.g., Plaintiff has 1 to 100, Defendant A has 101 to 200, Defendant B has 201 to 300, etc.).

Required

Always

Single exhibit marked only once; different versions get different numbers.

A single exhibit should be marked only once. If the plaintiff has marked an exhibit, the defendant should not re-mark the same document with another number. Different versions of the same document (e.g., versions of a document with and without additional handwriting), however, must be treated as different exhibits and marked with different numbers.

Required

Always

Witnesses cannot write on admitted exhibits; use new copies with new numbers.

Do not have witnesses write or draw on an exhibit that has already been admitted in evidence. Bring extra copies and mark the exhibit with a new number, have the witness write...

Format

PDF

Electronic binder via Box.com required for pretrial filings; request link 21 days before pretrial conference.

Instead of requiring paper binders of courtesy copies from the parties, Judge Lin uses an electronic binder to organize pretrial filings. Counsel shall contact Judge Lin’s Courtroom Deputy 21 days prior to the final pretrial conference to request a secure Box.com link to upload documents for the electronic binder. Counsel’s email should identify the case number and the trial date. All pretrial filings shall be uploaded to that link. The uploaded documents should contain the ECF version of each attachment, with its ECF header. The name of each PDF file should include the type of document, a brief description of the document, and the docket number.

Format

BOX.COM_UPLOAD

Exhibits must be uploaded to Box.com 5 days before trial, each as separate sequentially-named files.

No later than 5 days before trial, each side shall upload the exhibits electronically to Judge Lin’s chambers’ Box.com storage. Each exhibit shall be a separate file, with each file named so that the exhibits appear sequentially when sorted by file name.

Exhibits must be sequentially numbered, not lettered, with blocks assigned per party.

Exhibits shall be sequentially numbered (not lettered). Blocks of numbers should be assigned to fit the needs of the case (e.g., the government has 1 to 100, Defendant A has 101 to 200, Defendant B has 201 to 300, etc.).

An exhibit should only be marked once; parties should not re-mark the same document.

A single exhibit should be marked only once. If the government has marked an exhibit, the defendant should not re-mark the same document with another number.

Different versions of the same document must be treated as separate exhibits with different numbers.

Different versions of the same document (e.g., versions of a document with and without additional handwriting), however, must be treated as different exhibits and marked with different numbers.

Witnesses cannot write on admitted exhibits; use new numbered exhibits for markings.

Do not have witnesses write or draw on an exhibit that has already been admitted in evidence. Mark the exhibit with a new number, have the witness write on the new exhibit, and then move to admit the new exhibit into evidence once all the markings have been made.

Required

Always

Exhibits to motions must be separately filed on ECF with sequential numbering.

All exhibits to motions should be separately filed on ECF. For example, if the motion is Docket No. 30, and the declaration with 10 exhibits is Docket No. 31, Exhibit A would be filed as Docket No. 31-1, Exhibit B would be Docket No. 31-2, and so on.

Only excerpts of the specific discovery request or response may be submitted as exhibits with joint discovery dispute letters.

No exhibits may be submitted with the letter other than an excerpt of the specific discovery request or response that is the subject of the letter.

Exhibits to motions must be separately filed on ECF with sequential docket numbering (parent docket number-exhibit number).

All exhibits to motions should be separately filed on ECF. For example, if the motion is Docket No. 30, and the declaration with 10 exhibits is Docket No. 31, Exhibit A would be filed as Docket No. 31-1, Exhibit B would be filed as Docket No. 31-2, and so on.

Required

Always

Format

PDF

Electronically filed documents must be text-searchable PDFs whenever possible.

Electronically filed documents must be text-searchable PDFs whenever possible.

Format

DOCX

Proposed orders must be sent in Microsoft Word format to rflpo@cand.uscourts.gov.

All proposed orders should be sent in Microsoft Word compatible format to rflpo@cand.uscourts.gov.

All briefs must use Times New Roman size 12 font, double spaced, including footnotes.

All briefs must use Times New Roman font (size 12), including in footnotes, and must be double spaced.

Footnotes cannot contain substantive arguments, be overly lengthy, or be used to exceed page limits; non-compliant filings may be struck.

Parties shall not include substantive arguments in footnotes, and footnotes shall not be overly lengthy or used to exceed page limits. The Court may strike any filing that includes footnotes that do not comply with these requirements.

Expert reports must number each paragraph, list and number all opinions, and provide executive summary if applicable.

All expert reports shall number each paragraph to facilitate any motion practice challenging the specifics of any opinions and shall include a table of contents. At the beginning of the report, the expert shall list and number each opinion to be proffered in the report and, if applicable, provide an executive opinion of each.

Format

DOCX

Preliminary approval documents must be in Microsoft Word format sent to the specified chambers email.

The proposed notices, claims forms, and other documents associated with preliminary approval should be sent in Microsoft Word compatible format to rflpo@cand.uscourts.gov.

Proposed notices must use plain language and avoid unnecessary acronyms.

Proposed notices must be written in plain language without unnecessary acronyms.

Proposed notices must cover all issues in the Federal Judicial Center’s Notice Checklist.

Parties should also ensure that the issues in the Federal Judicial Center’s Notice Checklist, are covered.

Format

DOCX

Proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law must be in Word-compatible format.

In addition to being filed, the proposed findings and conclusions must be emailed to the Court (rflpo@cand.uscourts.gov) in Word compatible format.

Securities allegations chart must follow the specified table format with required columns and row content.

The chart should be organized in the following format: Statement The Speaker(s), False and Reasons Facts Giving Rise No. Date(s), and Misleading Statements Were to a Strong Medium Statements False and Inference of Misleading When Scienter Made 1 When: [date] [Direct quotation [Summarize [Summarize of the alleged false arguments on arguments on release] statements.] specific references specific references Speakers: [e.g., to paragraphs in to paragraphs in CEO] the complaint.] the complaint.] (Compl. ¶ __ )

Format

DOCX

Proposed orders must be in Word (DOCX) format.

Proposed orders shall be submitted in Word format by email to the Courtroom Deputy at TLTPO@cand.uscourts.gov on the same day the proposed order is e-filed.

Format

DOCX

Preliminary approval documents must be sent in Word format to specified email.

The proposed notices, claims forms, and other documents associated with preliminary approval should be sent in Microsoft Word format to vcpo@cand.uscourts.gov.

Judge's copy of exhibits must be in three-ring binders with tagged, punched, and labeled dividers.

The judge’s copy of the exhibits shall be provided in three-ring binders, with each exhibit tagged, three-hole-punched, and separated with a label divider identifying the exhibit number.

Format

THUMB_DRIVE

Official copy must be on thumb drive with sequentially named exhibit files.

The official copy shall be submitted on a thumb drive and should contain each exhibit as a separate file, with each file named so that the exhibits appear sequentially when sorted by file name.

Exhibits must be sequentially numbered, not lettered, with blocks assigned per party.

Exhibits shall be sequentially numbered (not lettered). Blocks of numbers should be assigned to fit the needs of the case (e.g., the government has 1 to 100, Defendant A has 101 to 200, Defendant B has 201 to 300, etc.).

Each exhibit should be marked only once, not re-marked by opposing party.

A single exhibit should be marked only once. If the government has marked an exhibit, the defendant should not re-mark the same document with another number.

Required

Always

Exhibit tags: lower right corner of first page, or lower left corner of back of last page for photos.

Exhibit tags shall be placed on or near the lower right-hand corner of the first page of each exhibit. If the exhibit is a photograph, or the exhibit does not have enough room to accommodate the tag on the front page, the tag shall be placed on the back of the last page of the document in the lower left-hand corner.

Motions in limine must be clearly identified with party name and topic.

Each motion should be clearly identified as “___________'s Motion in Limine No. __ Re: ____________.”

Judge's exhibit copy requires three-ring binders with tagged, three-hole-punched exhibits and labeled dividers.

The judge’s copy of the exhibits shall be provided in three-ring binders, with each exhibit tagged, three-hole-punched, and separated with a label divider identifying the exhibit number. A spine label on each binder should indicate the numbers of the exhibits contained therein.

Format

THUMB_DRIVE

Official exhibit copy requires thumb drive with each exhibit as separate sequentially-named file.

The official copy shall be submitted on a thumb drive and should contain each exhibit as a separate file, with each file named so that the exhibits appear sequentially when sorted by file name.

Exhibit tags require counsel to fill exhibit and case numbers only, leaving date and by fields blank.

Counsel should fill in the exhibit and case numbers, but leave the other spaces (“Date Entered” and “By”) blank.

Required

Always

Format

PDF

Motions and declarations must be filed as separate PDFs on ECF.

When filing motions on ECF, each motion, supporting declaration, and attachment to a declaration (such as an exhibit) should be filed as a separate PDF. That is, a declaration must be filed separately from the motion, and each exhibit to a declaration must be filed separately from the declaration and from the other exhibits.

Briefs must use Times New Roman 12pt, double-spaced, with specific exclusions from page count.

These page limits include summaries of argument and exclude the title page, table of contents, table of authorities, and exhibits. All briefs must use Times New Roman font (size 12) and must be double spaced.

Format

DOCX

The Involved Individuals List must be sent in Word format.

The parties shall jointly file, and send in Word format to vcpo@cand.uscourts.gov, a list of people involved in the case.

Uploaded PDF attachments must follow the required naming convention, including the docket number and document description.

The name of each uploaded PDF file should adhere to the naming convention described above and should include the docket number of the docket number 60-2 should be uploaded with the file name “[60-2] Decl Doe Ex 1 - News Release.”

Flash drives delivered to chambers must be labeled with the case name and number; PDF attachments must be text-searchable, include the ECF header, and follow proper file naming, except for pro se litigants.

The flash drive should be labeled with the name and number of the case. The flash drive should contain the ECF version of each attachment, with its ECF header. The name of each PDF file on the flash drive should include the type of document, a brief description of the document, and the docket number. Each PDF document must be text-searchable. This requirement is waived for people proceeding pro se.

All briefs must use Times New Roman size 12 font and double spacing.

All briefs must use Times New Roman font (size 12) and must be double spaced.

Proposed notices must be carefully written and in plain English, or the motion for preliminary approval will be rejected.

If the proposed notices are not carefully written and in plain English, the Court will reject the motion for preliminary approval.

Format

DOCX

Pretrial filings must be submitted in Word (DOCX) format.

Word Versions of Pretrial Filings

Format

DOCX

Specified pretrial documents must be in Microsoft Word format.

The proposed supplemental jury questions, Joint Pretrial Conference Statement, jury instructions, involved individuals list, and verdict form(s) shall be submitted in Microsoft Word format via e-mail to vcpo@cand.uscourts.gov when they are filed.

All exhibits must be marked and referred to as 'Trial Exhibit No. _____' rather than party-specific names.

To avoid any party claiming “ownership” of an exhibit, all exhibits shall be marked and referred to as “Trial Exhibit No. _____,” not as “Plaintiff’s Exhibit” or “Defendant’s Exhibit.”

All trial exhibits must be uploaded as separate files named sequentially to sort in order.

No later than 5 days before trial, the parties shall upload official copies of all exhibits to an online location designated by the Clerk’s Office, with each exhibit as a separate file, and with each file named so that the exhibits appear sequentially when sorted by file name.

Exhibits must be sequentially numbered without letters, using deposition numbers if possible and party-specific blocks.

Exhibits shall be sequentially numbered (not lettered). If possible, parties shall use the same number to mark an exhibit for trial as that used in depositions. Blocks of numbers should be assigned to fit the needs of the case (e.g., Plaintiff has 1 to 100, Defendant A has 101 to 200, Defendant B has 201 to 300, etc.).

Defendants should not re-mark the same document with a new number; different document versions are separate exhibits.

exhibit, the defendant should not re-mark the same document with another number. Different versions of the same document (e.g., versions of a document with and without additional handwriting), however, must be treated as different exhibits and marked with different numbers.

Exhibit tags must be placed in specified locations based on exhibit type and page count.

Exhibit tags shall be placed on or near the lower right-hand corner of each exhibit, unless the exhibit is a photograph, in which case the tag shall be placed on the back. If an exhibit is a multipage document and there is no room on the front of the first page then the exhibit sticker must be placed on the back of the last page of the document in the lower left corner.

Exhibits must be published via poster blow-up, courtroom technology transmission, or other allowed method, and highlighting/circling/underscoring enlargements is permitted if clearly not on the original.

Publication must be by poster blow-up, transmission via courtroom technology, or such other method as is allowed in the circumstances. It is permissible to highlight, circle, or underscore in the enlargements as long as it is clear that it was not on the original.

Deposition/discovery designation materials must be submitted on a thumb drive and as one hard-copy set organized to match objections/responses without a separate spreadsheet.

The parties shall provide the materials on a thumb drive and shall also submit one hard-copy set. The hard-copy set shall be organized and formatted in a manner that allows the Court to review the transcripts and identify the corresponding objections and responses without the need to reference a separate spreadsheet.

Parties must provide their own evidence presentation equipment, share equipment where possible, maintain electronic equipment or have technician support, and tape extension cords to the carpet for safety.

During trial, counsel may wish to use laser-disk/computer graphics, poster blow-ups, or models. Such equipment must be provided by the parties. Equipment should be shared by all counsel to the maximum extent possible. For electronic equipment, parties should be prepared to maintain the equipment or have a technician handy at all times. The parties shall tape extension cords to the carpet for safety.

Proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law must include record citations, be brief, in plain English, free of pejorative language, and have hyperlinked citations where possible.

all factual findings must be supported by citations to all pertinent portions of the record. If the citation is to witness testimony and a rough or final transcript is not yet available, the citation can simply be to the date of the testimony. The parties should hyperlink the citations in the proposed findings of fact to the exhibits and trial transcripts. Proposed findings shall be brief, written in plain English, and free of pejorative language.

Each trial exhibit must be a separate file, named sequentially to sort correctly.

No later than 5 days before trial, each side shall upload to an online location designated by the Clerk’s Office a copy of all exhibits, with each exhibit as a separate file, and with each file named so that the exhibits appear sequentially when sorted by file name.

Exhibits must be sequentially numbered (not lettered), with blocks assigned per party.

Exhibits shall be sequentially numbered (not lettered). Blocks of numbers should be assigned to fit the needs of the case (e.g., the government has 1 to 100, Defendant A has 101 to 200, Defendant B has 201 to 300, etc.).

Exhibits must be marked only once; different versions of the same document are separate exhibits.

A single exhibit should be marked only once. If the government has marked an exhibit, the defendant should not re-mark the same document with another number. Different versions of the same document (e.g., versions of a document with and without additional handwriting), however, must be treated as different exhibits and marked with different numbers.

Exhibits must be marked as 'Trial Exhibit No. [number]', not party-specific names.

To avoid any party claiming “ownership” of an exhibit, all exhibits shall be marked and referred to as “Trial Exhibit No. ,” not as “Government’s Exhibit” or “Defendant’s Exhibit”.

Exhibit tags must be placed on the lower right corner of the first page, or the back of the last page if the exhibit is a photograph or has insufficient front-page space.

Exhibit tags shall be placed on or near the lower right-hand corner of the first page of each exhibit. If the exhibit is a photograph, or the exhibit does not have enough room to accommodate the tag on the front page, the tag shall be placed on the back of the last page of the document in the lower left-hand corner.

Exhibits must be filed separately on ECF with sequential numbering.

When exhibits are included with a motion, opposition brief, or reply brief, the exhibits should be filed separately on ECF. For example, if a motion is Docket No. 30, and a declaration with 10 exhibits is Docket No. 31, Exhibit A should be filed as Docket No. 31-1, Exhibit B should be filed as Docket No. 31-2, and so on.

Format

OCR

Exhibits must be filed separately on ECF in searchable OCR format.

Filing Exhibits on ECF. When exhibits are included with a motion, opposition brief, or reply brief, the exhibits should be filed separately on ECF. For example, if a motion is Docket No. 30, and a declaration with 10 exhibits is Docket No. 31, Exhibit A should be filed as Docket No. 31-1, Exhibit B should be filed as Docket No. 31-2, and so on. All exhibits should be filed in a searchable OCR format when possible.

Format

DOCX

E-filing parties must submit proposed orders in Microsoft Word format to askpo@cand.uscourts.gov.

Proposed orders submitted by an e-filing party shall be submitted in Microsoft Word to askpo@cand.uscourts.gov.

Format

DOCX

E-filing parties must submit proposed orders in Microsoft Word format to askpo@cand.uscourts.gov.

Proposed orders submitted by an e-filing party shall be submitted in Microsoft Word to askpo@cand.uscourts.gov.

Discovery joint statements must use at least 12-point font.

the parties shall prepare a joint statement of not more than five pages (12-point or greater font) stating the following:

Required

Always

ECF filings must include pincites for all legal authority and exhibits.

All ECF filings shall comply with the following requirements. (a) All citations to legal authority or exhibits must include pincites.

Required

Always

Chambers copies must include ECF filing stamp with case number, docket number, date, and page number.

(b) All chambers copies of e-filed documents shall bear the ECF filing “stamp” (case number, docket number, date, and ECF page number) along the top of each page.

Required

Always

All exhibits must be clearly marked and individually tabbed.

(d) All exhibits must be clearly marked and individually tabbed.

Required

Always

E-filed documents must be cited as “Dkt. No.__ at ___” in all other documents.

(e) E-filed documents must be cited in all other documents as follows: Dkt. No.__ at ___.

Format

PDF

Settlement Conference Statement and Confidential Letter must be separate PDF files with bookmarked exhibits.

The Settlement Conference Statement and Confidential Settlement Letter shall be in separate .pdf files, and each file shall include its respective exhibits, if any, which must be bookmarked.

Required

Always

Margins

1 in

Chambers copies must include ECF filing stamp with case number, docket number, date, and page number.

All chambers’ copies of e-filed documents shall bear the ECF filing “stamp” (case number, docket number, date, and ECF page number) along the top of the page.

Chambers copies: ≤100 pages stapled/brads; >100 pages three-hole punched in 3-ring binder.

For filings that are no more than 100 pages, chambers copies must be stapled or attached with brads; binder clips, paperclips, or similar fastenings are not adequate. If the filing is more than 100 pages, the chambers copies must be three-hole punched along the left side of the page and placed in a 3-ring binder.

Required

Always

All exhibits must be clearly marked and individually tabbed.

All exhibits must be clearly marked and individually tabbed.

Required

Always

E-filed documents must be cited as Dkt. No.__ at ___.

E-filed documents must be cited in all other documents as follows: Dkt. No.__ at ___.

Required

Always

Margins

1 in

Voluminous filings require double-sided, three-hole punched chambers copies with specific binding and tabbing requirements.

If filings are voluminous, then the parties must lodge chambers copies that are double-side printed and three-hole punched. They must be the electronically filed copies with the PACER/ECF-generated header (case number, docket number, date, and ECF page number). Exhibits must be tabbed and have a table of contents. If the copies are more than two inches thick, then the parties must submit them in a binder. If the case involves sealed filings, then the redacted and unredacted copies must be submitted in order (e.g., redacted motion/unredacted motion (behind a tab labeled “motion”) or redacted Ex. 1/unredacted Ex. 1 (behind a tab labeled “1” or “Ex. 1”)). The binder order must be (1) motions and proposed orders (redacted/unredacted), (2) sealing motions and proposed orders with supporting declarations only; and (3) exhibits (redacted/unredacted with numbered tabs that correspond to the exhibit number).

Required

Always

Format

PDF

Electronic copies with hyperlinks and bookmarks required for lengthy documents, emailed to specific chambers address.

In addition to paper copies, hyperlinked electronic copies should be submitted if feasible when the supporting documents are lengthy. Any pinpoint citations in the briefs must link to the specific page in the supporting exhibit. PDF briefs and bookmarked exhibits must be emailed to lbpo@cand.uscourts.gov. If the file is too large to email, please lodge a thumb drive or share access to a cloud-based hosting platform that allows court employees to download files.

Margins

1 in

Format

PAPER

Settlement statements must be lodged 7 days before conference (14 days for 4+ parties) in hard copy or emailed if under 20 pages.

Settlement statements must be lodged no later than seven days before the settlement conference (fourteen days for cases with four or more separately represented parties) in hard copy, three-hole punched and double-sided, at 450 Golden Gate Avenue, 16th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94102, in a sealed envelope addressed to Judge Beeler and marked “Settlement Documents (Not For Filing).” Submissions under twenty pages may be emailed to lbsettlement@cand.uscourts.gov.

Margins

1 in

Format

PDF

Joint letters must be filed in ECF under specific category, in text-searchable PDF, max 5 pages, 12pt font, 1-inch margins.

Joint letters must be filed in ECF under the Civil Events category of Motions and Related Filings > Motions: General > Discovery Letter Brief. Joint letters shall be in text-searchable PDF format and shall not exceed five pages (12-point font or greater; margins no less than one inch) without leave of the Court.

Format

PDF

Electronic filings must be text-searchable PDFs compatible with screen readers

Electronically filed documents must be text-searchable PDFs and compatible with text-to-speech readers, such as Adobe Acrobat, whenever possible.

Required

Always

Format

PDF

Electronic filings must be text-searchable PDFs compatible with text-to-speech readers.

Electronically filed documents must be text-searchable PDFs and compatible with text-to-speech readers, such as Adobe Acrobat, whenever possible.

Format

DOCX

Proposed orders must be emailed in MS Word format; email address is restricted to proposed orders only.

Proposed orders should be emailed in MS Word format to rmipo@cand.uscourts.gov. This address is to be used only for proposed orders unless otherwise directed.

Format

PDF

Settlement Conference Statement must be submitted in PDF format.

Each party shall prepare a Settlement Conference Statement which must be submitted in .pdf format to RMIsettlement@cand.uscourts.gov no later than fourteen (14) calendar days prior to the conference.

Exhibit cover pages must include exhibit number and title/description.

The cover page of any exhibit submitted in connection with briefing on a motion must include the exhibit number and the title or brief description of the exhibit (e.g., “Ex. 1 – 1/1/2023 email from Joe Smith to Nancy Jones”).

Format

PDF

Joint statements must be in text-searchable PDF format with double-spacing and 12-point font.

The joint statement must not exceed 10 pages, exclusive of the caption page, double-spaced with 12-point font and in text-searchable PDF format.

Required

Always

Margins

1 in

Provide bench binder with exhibits on first day of trial using 1-1/2-inch binders with locking rings.

A bench binder containing a copy of each side’s exhibits must be provided to the Court on the first day of trial. Each exhibit must be separated with a label divider. Please use 1-1/2-inch binders with locking rings. (Heavier binders are too hard to handle.)

Required

Always

Exhibit labels must be in lower right-hand corner in prominent, bold typeface.

Exhibits must be labeled in the lower right-hand corner with the exhibit number in a prominent, bold typeface.

Required

Always

Chambers copies must be 3-hole punched, stamped with ECF info, tabbed exhibits, and may require binding for thick exhibits.

All chambers copies should be three-hole punched along the left side of the page, and should bear the ECF filing “stamp” (case number, docket number, date, and ECF page number) along the top of the page. All exhibits shall be clearly delineated with tabs along the right side (e.g., “1”, “2”, “3”). If the filing includes exhibits over three inches thick, the parties shall place the chambers copy in a binder. The Court prefers double-sided printing for voluminous chambers copies of exhibits, if possible.

Margins

1 in

Format

WORD

Joint proposed final pretrial order and proposed findings must be submitted by email, thumb drive, and hard copies (three-hole punched).

The joint proposed final pretrial order and the proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law shall be submitted by email at crbpo@cand.uscourts.gov, on a thumb drive in Word format, as well as in hard copies. All hard-copy submissions should be three-hole punched on the left, so the chambers’ copy can be put in binders.

Deposition designation requires specific photocopying and formatting.

To designate deposition testimony, photocopy the cover page, the page on which the witness is sworn, and each page from which any testimony is proffered, crossing out any portions of such pages not proffered, as well as objections or colloquy (unless needed to understand the question). Please make sure any corrections are interlineated and that references to exhibit numbers conform to the trial numbers.

Substantive motions must comply with Local Rules 3-4, 7-2, 7-3; footnotes 12pt, double-spaced.

All substantive motions, oppositions and replies must comply with the General Requirements described in Civil Local Rule 3-4 and the page limitations described in Civil Local Rules 7-2 and 7-3 unless permission has been obtained from the Court in advance of filing. Footnotes shall be in no less than 12-point type and shall be double-spaced.

Exhibits must be premarked, tagged, three-hole punched, and submitted in binders to chambers (not filed).

Exhibits are not to be filed but rather shall be submitted to chambers. Exhibits must be premarked. In addition, one set of exhibits must be tagged. Exhibits shall be three-hole punched and shall be submitted in binders.

Format

DOCX

Proposed findings, joint pretrial order, and exhibit objections must be submitted via email (Word) to chambers and hard copy in binder to Clerk's office with marking.

The proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law, the joint proposed final pretrial order, and objections to exhibits required by paragraph 2(e) of this Order, shall be submitted to chambers in Microsoft Word via email to jswpo@cand.uscourts.gov, as well as in hard copies. All hard-copy submissions should be submitted in a binder to the Clerk’s office in an envelope clearly marked with the case number and “JSW chambers copies.”

Format

DOCX

Pretrial submissions must be in Microsoft Word format and emailed to chambers, with hard copies also required.

The joint proposed final pretrial order, the jury instructions, proposed voir dire, the statement of the case, objections to exhibits, and any proposed special verdict forms, shall be submitted to chambers in Microsoft Word format via email to jswpo@cand.uscourts.gov, as well as in hard copies.

Required

Always

Written text must conform to Civil Local Rule 3-4(c)(2) requirements.

All written text, including footnotes and quotations, must conform with the requirements of Civil Local Rule 3-4(c)(2).

Exhibits must be labeled in the lower right-hand corner with the exhibit number in a prominent, bold typeface.

Exhibits must be labeled in the lower right-hand corner with the exhibit number in a prominent, bold typeface.

Exhibits must be numbered with numbers only and referred to as 'Trial Exhibit No.' rather than party-specific names.

Use numbers only, not letters, for exhibits, preferably the same numbers as were used in depositions. ... all exhibits shall be marked and referred to as 'Trial Exhibit No. ,' not as 'Plaintiff's Exhibit' or 'Defendant's Exhibit.'

Required

Always

Courtesy copies must be single-sided with tabbed dividers for exhibits

Format: Courtesy copies shall be submitted in single‐sided format. Any attached exhibits shall be separated by tabbed dividers.

Footnotes must be 12-point font or larger and not used to circumvent page limits; sentences must be separated by 2 spaces.

Footnotes in briefs appearing in smaller than the 12-point font required for the text, will be stricken, see Civil L. R. 3-4(c)(2), as will footnotes that are so numerous as to be clearly designed to defeat the page limits found at Civil L. R. 7-2 - 7-4. Any brief must separate sentences by 2 spaces after each sentence.

Exhibits must be premarked, tabbed, and in binders with specific numbering.

Exchange exhibits which shall be premarked with an exhibit sticker tabbed and in binders. Plaintiff shall use numbers (1, 2, 3, etc.) and defendant shall use numbers preceded by a letter (A-1, A-2, A-3, etc.). Additional parties shall also use a letter preceding numbers (B-1, B-2, B-3, or C-1, C-2, C-3, etc.).

Voluminous exhibits must be reduced or summarized; each must be pre-marked with trial exhibit stickers in numbered sequence; numerous exhibits should be in three-ring binders with tabs.

Voluminous exhibits shall be reduced by elimination of irrelevant portions or through the use of summaries. Each item shall be pre-marked with a trial exhibit sticker (“Trial Exhibit No.__”) label; defendant’s exhibit numbers shall be sequenced to begin after plaintiff’s exhibit numbers. If there are numerous exhibits, they should be provided in three-ring binders with marked tab dividers.

Exhibit numbers must be assigned in blocks per party; duplicate exhibits must not be marked.

Blocks of numbers shall be assigned to fit the needs of the case (e.g., Plaintiff has 1-100, Defendant has 101-200). The parties shall not mark duplicate exhibits (e.g., plaintiff and defendant shall not mark the same exhibit; only one copy of the exhibit shall be marked).

Format

DOCX

Proposed findings must be delivered to Chambers on a thumb drive in Word format with a label.

Parties shall deliver to Chambers copies of Proposed Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law on a thumb drive in Word format, with a label including the name of the case, the case number and a description of the submission

Each motion in limine must be in a separate numbered memo; chambers copies must be three-hole punched.

Each motion should be presented in a separate memo and numbered, as in, for example, "Plaintiff's Motion in Limine No. 1 to Exclude... ". Please be sure to three-hole punch the chambers copies so they can go into a trial notebook.

All hard-copy submissions must be three-hole punched on the left.

All hard-copy submissions should be three-hole punched on the left, so the chambers' copy can be put in binders.

Format

DOCX

Proposed jury instructions must be filed in Microsoft Word format on CD, via email, and as hard copies three-hole punched on the left.

These should be filed in Microsoft Word format on a CD and via e-mail to crbpo@cand.uscourts.gov, and in hard copies (three-hole punched on the left).

Exhibits must be numbered using numbers only, assigned in blocks, marked once, and referred to as 'Trial Exhibit No.' not party-specific.

Use numbers only, not letters, for exhibits, preferably the same numbers as were used in depositions. Blocks of numbers should be assigned to fit the need of the case (e.g., Plaintiff has 1 to 100, Defendant A has 101 to 200, Defendant B has 201 to 300, etc.). A single exhibit should be marked only once. If the plaintiff has marked an exhibit, then the defendant should not re-mark it. Different versions of the same document, e.g., a copy with additional handwriting, must be treated as different exhibits. To avoid any party claiming “ownership” of an exhibit, all exhibits shall be marked and referred to as “Trial Exhibit No. ,” not as “Plaintiff’s Exhibit” or “Defendant’s Exhibit.” If an exhibit number differs from that used in a deposition transcript, however, then the latter must be conformed to the new trial number if and when the deposition testimony is read to the jury (so as to avoid confusion over exhibit numbers). The jury should always hear any given exhibit referred to by its unique number. You cannot have competing versions of the same exhibit numbers.

Exhibits must be labeled in lower right-hand corner with bold exhibit number.

Exhibits must be labeled in the lower right-hand corner with the exhibit number in a prominent, bold typeface.

Briefs must be typed on 28-line, double-spaced pleading paper.

Briefs or Memoranda of Points and Authorities in support of, or in opposition to, any motions filed in an action must be typed on 28-line, double-spaced pleading paper and, except for summary judgment motions, may not exceed 15 pages in length, exclusive of title pages, indexes of cases, table of contents, exhibits, affidavits and summaries of argument, if required.

Margins

0 in

Footnotes must be at least 12-point font with single paragraph spacing between them.

Footnotes shall be used sparingly, should never be less than 12-point font, and must include a single paragraph space in between individual footnotes.

Required

Always

Record citations must be as particular as possible.

Furthermore, pincites to the record shall be as particular as possible for citations to the record.

Required

Always

String citations without analysis or parentheticals will be disregarded.

String citations without any analysis or descriptive parentheticals will be disregarded.

Required

Always

Document names must be descriptive; burdensome/illegible filings may be struck.

These names shall be as descriptive as possible to help the Court identify pertinent documents on the docket. Parties are on notice that the Court may strike burdensome and/or illegible filings and direct them to be refiled consistent with the District's guidance.

Required

Always

Non-compliant chambers copies may be rejected and require re-submission.

Chambers copies submitted without meeting the above requirements may be rejected, and the party may be required to re-submit.

Required

Always

Chambers copies must be 3-hole punched in the left margin for a 3-ring binder.

All chambers copies must be 3-hole punched in the left margin in a manner suitable for placement in a 3-ring binder.

Required

Always

Chambers copies must have tabs between exhibits and pages of individual documents must be fastened together; bottom tabs are prohibited.

Chambers copies must include tabs between exhibits and must fasten or attach pages of individual documents together so as to distinguish between separate documents. Please do not use bottom tabs as they do not work well in binders.

Exhibits must use numbers only, be marked only once, referred to as 'Trial Exhibit No.' not party-specific, and conform deposition numbers to trial numbers.

Use numbers only, not letters, for exhibits, preferably the same numbers as were used in depositions. Blocks of numbers should be assigned to fit the need of the case (e.g., Plaintiff has 1 to 100, Defendant A has 101 to 200, Defendant B has 201 to 300, etc.). A single exhibit should be marked only once. If the plaintiff has marked an exhibit, then the defendant should not re-mark it. Different versions of the same document, e.g., a copy with additional handwriting, must be treated as different exhibits. To avoid any party claiming “ownership” of an exhibit, all exhibits shall be marked and referred to as “Trial Exhibit No. ____,” not as “Plaintiff’s Exhibit” or “Defendant’s Exhibit.” If an exhibit number differs from that used in a deposition transcript, however, then the latter must be conformed to the new trial number if and when the deposition testimony is read (so as to avoid confusion over exhibit numbers).

Exhibits must be premarked, one set tagged, three-hole punched, and submitted in binders.

Exhibits must be premarked. In addition, one set of exhibits must be tagged. Exhibits shall be three-hole punched and shall be submitted in binders.

Required

Always

Hard copies must be three-hole punched on the left and exhibits tabbed.

For hard copies, (1) all documents must be three-hole punched on the left-hand side; and (2) exhibits to declarations must be tabbed.

Format

PDF

Electronically filed declarations with exhibits must be bookmarked with hyperlinks and filed as a single PDF.

If electronically filed, declarations containing exhibits must be bookmarked (i.e., if the declaration makes reference to an exhibit, the declaration must contain a hyperlink to the corresponding exhibit; declarations and exhibits to be filed as a single PDF.).

Declarations must be filed as separate documents from motions.

All declarations shall be filed as separate documents. This includes motions and declarations e-filed with the Court. Supporting declarations must be filed as separate documents.

Exhibits attached to declarations must be tabbed, including chambers copies.

Tabs must be used for exhibits attached to declarations, including chambers copies.

Footnotes must be at least 12-point type and used sparingly.

Footnotes are often unnecessary and must be employed sparingly. When used, they must appear in no less than 12-point type. Excessive footnotes will be disregarded.

Binders must be high quality, clearly labeled, and easily transportable.

The quality, condition, and labeling of binders, when used, should be such that the Court can easily identify, review, and transport the binders’ contents. Whenever possible, the spine of a

Binders must be transportable and spine no wider than 3 inches

The quality, condition, and labeling of the binders should be such that the Court can easily transport and review the binders' contents. Whenever possible, the spine of a binder should not be wider than three inches.

Footnotes must be at least 12-point type and used sparingly.

Footnotes are often unnecessary and must be employed sparingly. When used, they must appear in no less than 12-point type. Excessive footnotes will be disregarded.

Required

Always

Exhibits must be labeled in lower-right corner with bold number and use non-overlapping number ranges.

Each exhibit must be labeled in the lower-right-hand corner with the exhibit number in a prominent, bold typeface. The parties must mark their exhibits using non-overlapping ranges of numbers, leaving enough unused numbers that additional exhibits can be marked during trial.

Required

Always

Exhibit binders must be clearly labeled and spine should not exceed three inches.

The quality, condition, and labeling of the binders should be such that the Court can easily transport and review the binders' contents. Whenever possible, the spine of a binder should not be wider than three inches.

Format

DOCX

Electronic copies of proposed orders must be in Word format.

Electronic copies of proposed orders must be sent in Word format to jstpo@cand.uscourts.gov.

Footnotes limited to clarification/cross-references; argument in footnotes disregarded.

Use of footnotes in court filings shall be limited to providing brief points of clarification or cross-references. Argument in footnotes will not be considered by the Court.

Court may strike filings with excessive or improper footnotes.

The Court may strike any filing that includes excessive or improper footnotes.

String citations without analysis or parentheticals will be disregarded.

String citations without any analysis or descriptive parentheticals contained in any court filing will be disregarded.

Incorporating prior arguments by reference is prohibited.

Parties may not incorporate by reference prior arguments submitted in the case. This practice creates substantial administrative burdens and may be construed as circumventing page limits.

Court may strike filings that improperly incorporate material by reference.

The Court may strike any filing that improperly incorporates material by reference.

Required

Always

Footnotes must be 12-point, double-spaced, not used for citations, and limited to 5 per brief

Footnotes shall be no less than 12-point type and shall be double-spaced. Footnotes shall not be used to cite to legal authorities or evidence. All citations to legal authorities or evidence shall be in the body of the brief. Excessive footnotes will be disregarded. In general, no more than 5 footnotes per brief should be necessary.

Required

Always

Excessive footnotes will be disregarded.

Excessive footnotes will be disregarded.

The Court's date and signature lines must appear immediately after the parties' signature lines in the Joint Pretrial Statement and Order.

Date and signature lines for the Court shall appear immediately following the signature lines of the parties.

All trial exhibits must be pre-marked with numbers using exhibit tags affixed to the back of the last page.

All exhibits shall be pre-marked for identification with numbers (not letters) by means of exhibit tags affixed to the back of the last page of each exhibit.

Class action notices must use plain language without unnecessary acronyms.

Proposed notices must be written in plain language without unnecessary acronyms.

Required

Always

Format

PDF

PDF documents must be text-searchable unless filing pro se.

Each PDF document should be text-searchable whenever practicable. This requirement is waived for litigants proceeding pro se.

Duplicative visual aids discouraged for claim construction.

Demonstrative exhibits and visual aids that are duplicative of the arguments made in the parties’ claim construction briefs are strongly discouraged.

Format

DOCX

Proposed jury instructions and verdict form must be in Microsoft Word format.

The parties must e-mail a Microsoft Word version of the proposed jury instructions and verdict form to jdpo@cand.uscourts.gov by noon the day after the pretrial filings due date.

Format

DOCX

Proposed voir dire questions must be in Microsoft Word format.

A Microsoft Word version of the proposed voir dire questions should be e-mailed to jdpo@cand.uscourts.gov by noon the day after the pretrial filings due date.

Each exhibit must be tagged with a specific form, placed on the lower right-hand corner or back of photograph, with case number filled in leaving last two spaces blank.

Each exhibit shall be tagged in the following form: UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT NORTHERN DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA TRIAL EXHIBIT 100 CASE NO. _____________________ DATE ENTERED_________________ BY __________________________ DEPUTY CLERK The tag should be placed on or near the lower right-hand corner or, if a photograph, on the back. Counsel should fill in the case number but leave the last two spaces blank.

Required

Always

Footnotes must be at least 12-point type and used sparingly.

Footnotes are often unnecessary and must be employed sparingly. When used, they must appear in no less than 12-point type. Excessive footnotes will be disregarded.

Required

Always

Binders must be easily identifiable and not exceed 3 inches in spine width.

The quality, condition, and labeling of binders, when used, should be such that the Court can easily identify, review, and transport the binders’ contents. Whenever possible, the spine of a binder should not exceed three inches in width, even if that limitation results in the use of more than one binder.

Binders must be easily transportable and spines should not exceed 3 inches.

The quality, condition, and labeling of the binders should be such that the Court can easily transport and review the binders’ contents. Whenever possible, the spine of a binder should not be wider than three inches.

Required

Always

Footnotes must be used sparingly and formatted in no less than 12-point type; excessive footnotes will be disregarded.

Footnotes are often unnecessary and must be employed sparingly. When used, they must appear in no less than 12-point type. Excessive footnotes will be disregarded.

Required

Always

Footnotes must be at least 12-point type and used sparingly.

Footnotes are often unnecessary and must be employed sparingly. When used, they must appear in no less than 12-point type. Excessive footnotes will be disregarded.

Required

Always

Footnotes must be in at least 12-point type and used sparingly.

Footnotes are often unnecessary and must be employed sparingly. When used, they must appear in no less than 12-point type.

Exhibits must be in three-ring binders with numbered tabs, spine not wider than 3 inches.

Exhibits shall be three-hole punched, and contained in clearly labeled three-ring binders, with exhibits separated by numbered tabs that correspond to the exhibit number. The quality, condition, and labeling of the binders should make it easy for the Court to transport and review the binders' contents. The spine of each binder should not be wider than three inches.

Required

Always

Footnotes must be at least 12-point type and used sparingly.

Footnotes are often unnecessary and must be employed sparingly. When used, they must appear in no less than 12-point type. Excessive footnotes will be disregarded.

Margins

0 in

Format

PDF

Binders must be easily transportable and spine should not exceed 3 inches.

The quality, condition, and labeling of the binders should be such that the Court can easily transport and review the binders’ contents. Whenever possible, the spine of a binder should not be wider than three inches.

Footnotes must be used sparingly and appear in no less than 12-point type; excessive footnotes will be disregarded.

Footnotes are often unnecessary and must be employed sparingly. When used, they must appear in no less than 12-point type. Excessive footnotes will be disregarded.

Required

Always

Footnotes must be in no less than 12-point type and used sparingly; excessive footnotes will be disregarded.

Footnotes are often unnecessary and must be employed sparingly. When used, they must appear in no less than 12-point type. Excessive footnotes will be disregarded.

Citations in final separate statement must reference docket number and ECF page number in specified format.

All citations in the final Statement must reference the docket and include the correct page number as shown in the blue ECF header at the top of the document. All citations should follow this format: [Exhibit Name and pin cite], Dkt. No. [X], at [ECF page number].

Required

Always

PowerPoint presentations generally not permitted during motion arguments.

Lengthy PowerPoint presentations will generally not be permitted during argument on motions, as they circumvent the page limits imposed on briefing. However, counsel may use

Margins

1 in

Modifications to form jury instructions must be highlighted or tracked.

Any modifications to a form instruction must be plainly identified by highlighting or tracked changes.

PowerPoint presentations generally prohibited during motion arguments; demonstratives allowed with 2-hour notice to opposing counsel.

Lengthy PowerPoint presentations will generally not be permitted during argument on motions, as they circumvent the page limits imposed on briefing. However, counsel may use demonstratives in responding to the Court’s questions, as long as they are provided to opposing counsel at least two hours before the hearing. Any such demonstratives will not be part of the record, so counsel should state verbally for the court reporter the relevant portion of the record being highlighted on the demonstrative (e.g., “page 5342 of the administrative record” or “page 12, line 5 of the Jones deposition”).

Uploaded documents must include the ECF version with ECF header.

The uploaded documents should contain the ECF version of each attachment, with its ECF header.

PDF file names must include document type, description, and docket number.

The name of each PDF file should include the type of document, a brief description of the document, and the docket number.

Required

Always

Format

PDF

Electronic filings must be text-searchable PDFs, except for pro se litigants

Electronically filed documents must be text-searchable PDFs whenever possible. This requirement is waived for self-represented litigants who are proceeding without a lawyer.

Required

Always

All PDF documents must be text-searchable when practicable; pro se litigants are exempt.

Each PDF document should be text-searchable whenever practicable. This requirement is waived for litigants proceeding pro se.

Exhibit tags must be in the lower right-hand corner with a prominent, bold typeface.

Exhibits must be labeled in the lower right-hand corner with the exhibit number in a prominent, bold typeface.

Settlement Conference Statement must be on pleading paper and three-hole punched on the left side.

The Settlement Conference Statement shall be submitted on pleading paper and may not exceed 20 pages (excluding supporting exhibits). Please three-hole punch the document at the left side.

Format

PDF

Settlement Conference Statement must be submitted in PDF format and emailed to asksettlement@cand.uscourts.gov.

Each party shall also submit their Settlement Conference Statement in .pdf format and email their statement to asksettlement@cand.uscourts.gov.

Format

DOCX

Proposed orders must be submitted in Microsoft Word format.

Proposed orders submitted by an e-filing party shall be submitted in Microsoft Word to askpo@cand.uscourts.gov.

Propounding parties must provide courtesy copies of written discovery requests to the responding party in an electronic, copyable format such as Microsoft Word.

The party propounding discovery shall provide courtesy copies of all requests for written discovery (i.e., interrogatories, document requests, requests for admission) to the responding party in an electronic format (e.g., Microsoft Word or other word processing application) that easily permits the responding party to copy the requests for purposes of responding to them.

Format

DOCX

The emailed stipulation or proposed order must be in Word format.

Any stipulation or proposed order in a case subject to e-filing should, in addition to being e-filed, be submitted by email to agtpo@cand.uscourts.gov as a Word document on the same day the document is e-filed.

Exhibits should be filed in searchable OCR format when possible.

All exhibits should be filed in a searchable OCR format when possible.

Exhibits limited to relevant pages and streaming video with timestamps.

The parties are encouraged to provide the Court with deposition testimony, video footage, and other evidence referred to in the statements that are subject to dispute or believed to be dispositive. In the interest of judicial economy, the parties shall provide citations to the deposition testimony in their statements, and attach only the relevant pages of the transcript. Video must be available for streaming on the cloud without registration or download, and the submitting party shall provide time stamps for the portions they wish the Court to view, along with a short explanation of what the video (or video clip) shows.

Settlement Conference documents must be 2-hole punched at top

Please 2-hole punch the documents at the top.

Chambers copies of pretrial submissions must be in a binder labeled with case name and 'Pretrial Submissions,' with labeled tabs by topic.

The chambers copies of these materials must be submitted in a binder, labeled on the front and spine with the case name and 'Pretrial Submissions,' with labeled tabs separating the filings by topic to reflect the organization in this section.

Trial exhibits must be lodged as a joint set marked 'Original Exhibits' on thumb drive or three-ring binders with labeled dividers and spine identification.

First, the parties must lodge a joint, single set of all trial exhibits marked 'Original Exhibits,' either as a thumb drive or in three-ring binders. If binders, then each exhibit must be tagged and separated by a label divider identifying the exhibit number. The binder spines must identify the exhibits in a particular binder. A thumb drive must reflect a comparable organization.

Chambers copies of exhibits and designations must be in binders labeled with case name and contents description, with labeled tabs.

The chambers copies of these materials must be submitted in binders, labeled on the front and spine with the case name and a description of the contents, and have labeled tabs separating the filings to reflect the organization in this section.

Video depositions must omit dead time, objections, and unnecessary colloquy.

The videos must omit dead time, objections, and colloquy not necessary to understand the answers.

Required

Always

Chambers copies must include PACER/ECF header and judge's initials.

Chambers copies must bear the PACER/ECF header (with case number, docket number, date, and page number) and be clearly marked with the judge’s initials (LJC) and the designation “Chambers Copy.”

Required

Always

Filings must be bound; exhibits must be tabbed; thick filings need binders.

Filings must be bound at the top or side; voluminous filings (those over two inches in thickness) should be placed in binders. Exhibits must be tabbed.

Required

Always

Margins

1 in

Chambers copies must include ECF filing stamp with case number, docket number, date, and ECF page number.

All chambers copies should bear the ECF filing “stamp” (case number, docket number, date, and ECF page number) along the top of the page.

All pleadings must be three-hole punched.

All pleadings should be punched with three holes on the side.

Exhibits must be separated by tabs.

All exhibits shall be clearly separated by tabs.

Required

Always

Chambers copies must be marked “Chambers Copy” and submitted in envelope marked “Magistrate Judge Sallie Kim” with case number.

Chambers copies must be marked “Chambers Copy” and submitted to the Clerk’s Office in an envelope clearly marked “Magistrate Judge Sallie Kim,” and include the case number on the envelope.

Deposition excerpts must be highlighted for ease of reference.

If parties submit excerpts of deposition transcripts in support of or opposition to a motion for summary judgment, they shall highlight the relevant portions for ease of reference.

Required

Always

Footnotes limited to clarification/cross-references; argument in footnotes not considered; must comply with Local Rule 3-4(c)(2); excessive/ improper footnotes may be stricken.

Use of footnotes in Court filings is to be limited to providing brief points of clarification or cross-references. Argument in footnotes will not be considered by the Court. The form of footnotes must comply with Civil Local Rule 3-4(c)(2). The Court may strike any filing that includes excessive or improper footnotes.

Required

Always

Footnotes are limited to clarification or cross-references; argument in footnotes will not be considered.

Use of footnotes in Court filings is to be limited to providing brief points of clarification or cross-references. Argument in footnotes will not be considered by the Court.

Format

DOCX

Stipulations and proposed orders must be in Word format.

All stipulations and proposed orders are to be emailed in Word format to svkcerd@cand.uscourts.gov on the same day as the documents are e-filed.

Motions in limine must be double-spaced in 12-point font.

For all other motions in limine, each side may file not more than 5 motions in limine set forth in a single document that does not exceed 15 pages double-spaced in 12-point font.

Format

PDF

All items in the Joint Pretrial Statement must be in text-searchable PDF format.

All items must be in text-searchable PDF format.

Responses to motions in limine must be double-spaced in 12-point font.

Each party's responses to motions in limine must be contained in a single document that does not exceed 15 pages double-spaced in 12-point font.

Exhibit list must be in landscape orientation, numerically ordered, with specific columns.

The chart must be in landscape orientation, must be organized in numerical order by exhibit number, and must include columns containing the following information for each exhibit: 1. An exhibit number. 2. A brief description of each exhibit's contents and purpose. 3. The identity of each sponsoring witness.

Chambers copies must be double-sided and 3-hole punched.

Chambers copies must be double-sided and 3-hole punched along the left margin of the paper.

Paper trial exhibits must be numbered, tabbed, and in 3-ring binders.

The paper exhibits should be exhibit-numbered, tabbed and placed in 3-ring binders.

Required

Always

Chambers copy binders should not exceed 3 inches; print double-sided.

Whenever possible, the spine of a binder containing chambers copies should not exceed three inches in width, even if this limitation results in the use of multiple binders. Documents should be printed on both sides of each sheet of paper.

Required

Always

Exhibits must be numbered (not lettered), assigned in blocks per party, marked only once, and referred to as 'Trial Exhibit No. ____'. Deposition exhibit numbers must be conformed to trial numbers.

Use numbers only, not letters, for exhibits, preferably the same numbers as were used in depositions. Blocks of numbers should be assigned to fit the need of the case (e.g., Plaintiff has 1 to 100, Defendant A has 101 to 200, Defendant B has 201 to 300, etc.). A single exhibit should be marked only once. If the plaintiff has marked an exhibit, then the defendant should not re-mark it. Different versions of the same document, e.g., a copy with additional handwriting, must be treated as different exhibits. To avoid any party claiming 'ownership' of an exhibit, all exhibits shall be marked and referred to as 'Trial Exhibit No. ____,' not as 'Plaintiff's Exhibit' or 'Defendant's Exhibit.' If an exhibit number differs from that used in a deposition transcript, however, then the latter must be conformed to the new trial number if and when the deposition testimony is read (so as to avoid confusion over exhibit numbers).

Exhibits attached to declarations must be tabbed, including chambers copies.

Tabs must be used for exhibits attached to declarations, including chambers copies.

Format

PDF

Electronically filed declarations with exhibits must be bookmarked with hyperlinks and filed as a single PDF.

If electronically filed, declarations containing exhibits must be bookmarked (i.e., if the declaration makes reference to an exhibit, the declaration must contain a hyperlink to the corresponding exhibit; declarations and exhibits to be filed as a single PDF.).

Hard copies must be three-hole punched on the left and exhibits tabbed.

For hard copies, (1) all documents must be three-hole punched on the left-hand side; and (2) exhibits to declarations must be tabbed.

Format

DOCX

Pretrial documents must be in Microsoft Word format.

shall be submitted to chambers in Microsoft Word format via email to jswpo@cand.uscourts.gov

Exhibit notebooks for the jury are prohibited.

Exhibit notebooks for the jury will not be permitted.

Chambers copies must be securely bound (staples, ACCO fasteners, velo-binding, or binders); volumes over two inches must be split; exhibits must be tabbed.

All chambers copies must be securely bound at the top or on the side, either with staples, “ACCO” fasteners, or velo-binding, or shall be submitted in binders. Binder clips, paper clips, and rubber bands will not satisfy this requirement. If a particular motion, declaration or other submission is more than two inches thick, the parties should submit the chambers copies of the document in multiple volumes that do not exceed two inches. When a declaration or other document includes exhibits, parties shall submit chambers copies of the documents which include tabs that separate each exhibit.

Claim construction statement must use a format that allows side-by-side comparison of proposed constructions and supporting evidence.

Or any other substantively similar format that permits the court to compare terms side by side

Submitting chambers copies of reply documents in a binder is optional.

Submitting chambers copies of the reply documents in a binder is optional.

For motions with voluminous evidence citations, parties are encouraged to submit electronic chambers copies with hyperlinks on removable media, and may request to submit electronically instead of paper.

In motions involving voluminous citations to evidence or records, parties are encouraged to submit chambers copies of their briefing in an electronic format with hyperlinks to the evidence, on flash drives or other removable media. Parties may request to submit such electronic copies in lieu of paper chambers copies.

Required

Always

Counsel allowed 15 minutes for follow-up voir dire after court's questioning.

Counsel will be allowed a brief (15 minutes) follow-up voir dire after the Court's questioning.

Westlaw citations preferred for unpublished opinions not in Federal Supplement/FRD/Federal Appendix.

The Court prefers Westlaw citations for unpublished opinions that are not included in the Federal Supplement, Federal Rules Decisions, or the Federal Appendix.

Pinpoint citations must be as specific as possible.

Pincites to any materials in the record shall be as particular as possible.

Pronouns and honorifics may be optionally included in name blocks/signature lines.

If they so choose, litigants and lawyers may indicate their pronouns (e.g., she/her, he/him, they/their) and honorifics (e.g., Mr., Ms., Mx., Dr.) by adding the information in the name block or signature line of the pleadings.

Required

Always

Litigants may optionally indicate pronouns and honorifics in pleadings, letters, or at hearings.

If they so choose, litigants and lawyers may indicate their pronouns (e.g., she/her, he/him, they/their) and honorifics (e.g., Mr., Ms., Mx., Dr.) by adding the information in the name block or signature line of the pleadings, by filing a letter on the public docket, or by informing the Court at the start of a hearing.

Required

Always

Westlaw citations preferred for unpublished cases; otherwise include case number, court name, and date.

If either party cites to an unpublished case, the Court generally prefers Westlaw citations. If the Westlaw citation cannot be provided, the party should include the case number, court name, and exact date of publication in the citation.

Exhibits must be premarked with specific numbering ranges for Government and Defendant.

Each item shall be premarked; generally, the Government shall use numbers 1–100 and the Defendant shall use 101–200 – modified to meet the needs of the case.

Modifications to model jury instructions must use strikethrough for deletions and underline for additions.

Any language a party proposes to be removed from a model instruction must be designated with a strikethrough and language proposed to be added to a model instruction must be underlined.

Format

DOCX

Proposed jury instructions must be e-mailed in Word format.

Counsel shall e-mail a copy of their proposed jury instructions in Word format to HSGpo@cand.uscourts.gov.

Required

Always

Jury notebooks must be 1-inch three-ring black binder with plastic slip pocket, title page with case name and number, 50 pages of lined notepaper, and consider including a glossary.

Each notebook will be a 1-inch three-ring black binder with a plastic slip pocket on the cover. Each binder should have a title page inserted in the slip pocket with the name and case number of the action in large print. Inside the binder, the parties will provide 50 pages of lined notepaper clipped into the rings. The parties should consider including a glossary.

For voluminous filings, use binder clips or three-ring binders; use side tabs for multiple attachments

For voluminous filings, chambers would appreciate the use of binder clips rather than staples, or submission in three-ring binders. For documents with multiple attachments (e.g., declarations with exhibits, requests for judicial notice and so on), please use side tabs that clearly separate each attached document.

The Court prefers Westlaw citations for unpublished opinions not in Federal Supplement, Federal Rules Decisions, or Federal Appendix.

The Court prefers Westlaw citations for unpublished opinions that are not included in the Federal Supplement, Federal Rules Decisions, or the Federal Appendix.

Format

DOCX

Proposed orders should be submitted in Microsoft Word format to specified email.

Proposed orders should be sent in Microsoft Word format to nwpo@cand.uscourts.gov.

Required

Always

Westlaw citations preferred for unpublished opinions not in Federal Supplement, Federal Rules Decisions, or Federal Appendix.

The Court prefers Westlaw citations for unpublished opinions that are not included in the Federal Supplement, Federal Rules Decisions, or the Federal Appendix.

Binders for courtesy copies should allow easy identification and transport; spine should not exceed three inches in width.

The quality, condition, and labeling of binders, when used, should be such that the Court can easily identify, review, and transport the binders' contents. Whenever possible, the spine of a binder should not exceed three inches in width, even if that limitation results in the use of more than one binder.

Required

Always

Footnotes must be at least 12-point type and used sparingly.

Footnotes must be in at least 12-point type and should be used sparingly.

Each exhibit must be premarked for identification.

Each exhibit shall be premarked for identification.

Required

Always

All filing deadlines are at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time unless otherwise specified.

All filing deadlines are at 5:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) unless otherwise ordered.

Westlaw citations preferred for unpublished cases; if unavailable, include case number, court name, and exact date.

If either party cites to an unpublished case, the Court generally prefers Westlaw citations. If the Westlaw citation cannot be provided, the party should include the case number, court name, and exact date of publication in the citation.

Format

PDF

Electronic PDF filings should be text-searchable when practicable; waived for pro se litigants.

Each electronic PDF filing should be text-searchable whenever practicable. This requirement is waived for litigants proceeding pro se.

Required

Always

Unpublished cases should use Westlaw citations; if unavailable, include case number, court name, and publication date.

If either party cites to an unpublished case, the Court generally prefers Westlaw citations. If the Westlaw citation cannot be provided, the party should include the case number, court name, and exact date of publication in the citation.

Pleading paper with line numbers not required; blank paper preferred.

Motions and other filings need not be on pleading paper with line numbers. The Court prefers blank paper (although pleading paper will be accepted).

Required

Always

Exhibit tags should be in a color that stands out but allows photocopying.

Judge Chhabria prefers but does not require that the exhibit tags be in a color that will stand out (yet still allow for photocopying).

Required

Always

Exhibits must be published via poster blow-up, courtroom tech, or approved method; highlighting enlargements allowed if original is clear.

Publication must be by poster blow-up, transmission via courtroom technology, or such other method as is allowed in the circumstances. It is permissible to highlight, circle, or underscore in the enlargements as long as it is clear that it was not on the original.

Filings are not required to be on pleading paper with line numbers; blank paper is preferred but pleading paper is accepted.

Briefs, declarations, and other filings need not be on pleading paper with line numbers. The Court prefers blank paper (although pleading paper will be accepted).

Filings are not required to be on pleading paper; blank paper is preferred but pleading paper is acceptable.

Motions and other filings need not be on pleading paper with line numbers. The Court prefers blank paper (although pleading paper will be accepted).

Exhibits may be published via poster blow-up, electronic evidence system, or other allowed method; highlighting, circling, or underscoring enlargements is permitted if alterations are not made to the original.

Publication may be by poster blow-up, use of the courtroom electronic evidence presentation system, or such other method as is allowed in the circumstances. It is permissible to highlight, circle, or underscore in the enlargements as long as it is clear that the alterations are not on the original.

Exhibits should be filed in searchable OCR format when possible.

All exhibits should be filed in a searchable OCR format when possible.

Required

Always

All hard-copy submissions should be three-hole-punched.

The Court requests that all hard-copy submissions be three-hole-punched.

Exhibit publication to the jury must be by poster blow-up, overhead projection, or another allowed method.

Publication must be by poster blow-up, overhead projection, or such other method as is allowed in the circumstances.

Highlighting, circling, or underscoring on exhibit enlargements is permitted if it is clear the markings were not on the original.

It is permissible to highlight, circle or underscore in the enlargements as long as it is clear that such markings were not on the original.

Format

PDF

Exhibits should be filed in searchable OCR format when possible.

All exhibits should be filed in a searchable OCR format when possible.

Format

OTHER

Exhibits should be filed in searchable OCR format when possible.

All exhibits should be filed in a searchable OCR format when possible.

Format

PDF

Exhibits should be filed in searchable OCR format when possible

All exhibits should be filed in a searchable OCR format when possible.

Required

Always

Settlement conferences typically last 3+ hours, may extend to 4:00 PM.

Settlement conferences routinely last 3 or more hours, and the parties and their representatives should be prepared to work until 4:00 p.m. if necessary.

Required

Always

Assign exhibit numbers by block per party; label as "Trial Exhibit No. __" not party-specific.

Exhibit numbers should be assigned by block to each party to fit the needs of the case. (E.g., Plaintiff has Exhibits 1 through 100, and Defendant has Exhibits 101 through 200.) Exhibits should be labeled as “Trial Exhibit No. __,” not “Plaintiff’s Exhibit” or “Defendant’s Exhibit,” to avoid any implication of “ownership” to the jury.

Margins

1 in

Format

PAPER

Pro se litigants may file manually with original plus three copies unless ECF permission granted.

Pro se litigants who are representing themselves may file documents manually, unless they have applied for and been given permission to become an ECF user pursuant to Civil L.R. 5-1(b). To manually file documents, litigants should bring an original and three copies to the Clerk’s Office on the second floor of the San Jose Federal Courthouse.

Required

Always

Patentee argues first on odd-numbered claim construction terms.

The hearing will proceed term-by-term with the patentee arguing first on odd-numbered terms.

Exhibits must be published to the jury via electronic monitors, poster blow-ups, or other court-approved methods.

Publication must be by sharing electronic exhibits to the Courtroom monitors, poster blow-up, or such other method as the Court allows.

Required

Always

Pretrial conferences are held in person in San Francisco, Courtroom 1, 17th Floor.

Pretrial conferences will be held in person in San Francisco, Courtroom 1, 17th Floor.