Southern District of New York Page & Word Limits
333 rules from official source documents
Maximum page counts and word limits for motions, briefs, and other filings by judge. This page is scoped to Southern District of New York; use the court rules overview to switch categories without leaving this court.
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to the Court are limited to 3,500 words.
letters (together with any related exhibits) may not exceed 3,500 words.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Word/page limits for memoranda of law: 8,750 words (attorney) or 25 pages (pro se) for support/opposition; 3,500 words (attorney) or 10 pages (pro se) for reply.
Memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words; if filed by a party who is not represented by an attorney and handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, briefs in support of and in response to a motion may not exceed 25 pages, and reply briefs may not exceed 10 pages.
- Pro se limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to the Court are limited to 5 pages.
Letters to the Court shall not exceed 5 pages.
- Pro se limit
- 8750 words
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Pro se limit
- 3500 words
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
Computer-generated briefs limited to 8,750 words (support/response) and 3,500 words (reply); handwritten/typewriter briefs limited to 25 pages (support/response) and 10 pages (reply).
Briefs prepared with a computer in support of and in response to a motion may not exceed 8,750 words, and reply briefs may not exceed 3,500 words. Briefs that are handwritten or prepared on a typewriter by a party who is not represented by an attorney in support of and in opposition to a motion may not exceed 25 pages, and reply briefs may not exceed 10 pages.
- Pro se limit
- 7000 words
- Pro se limit
- 20 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
Objections to magistrate rulings: computer-generated limited to 7,000 words; handwritten/typewriter limited to 20 pages.
Briefs prepared with a computer concerning objections to magistrate judges’ rulings (including responses to such briefs) shall not exceed 7,000 words. Briefs that are handwritten or prepared on a typewriter by a party who is not represented by an attorney concerning objections to magistrate judges’ rulings (including responses to such briefs) shall not exceed 20 pages.
- Pro se limit
- 3500 words
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
- Pro se limit
- 1750 words
- Pro se limit
- 5 pages
Motions for reconsideration: computer-generated limited to 3,500 words (support/opposition) and 1,750 words (reply); handwritten/typewriter limited to 10 pages (support/opposition) and 5 pages (reply).
Briefs prepared with a computer in support of and in opposition to motions for reconsideration are limited to 3,500 words, and reply briefs are limited to 1,750 words. Briefs that are handwritten or prepared on a typewriter by a party who is not represented by an attorney in support of and in opposition to a motion for reconsideration may not exceed 10 pages, and reply briefs may not exceed 5 pages.
- Limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to the Court are limited to 5 pages.
Letters to the Court shall not exceed 5 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Applies to
- Brief
Computer-prepared opening briefs are limited to 8,750 words.
Briefs prepared with a computer in support of and in response to a motion may not exceed 8,750 words, and reply briefs may not exceed 3,500 words.
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
Handwritten or typewritten pro se opening briefs are limited to 25 pages.
Briefs that are handwritten or prepared on a typewriter by a party who is not represented by an attorney in support of and in opposition to a motion may not exceed 25 pages, and reply briefs may not exceed 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 7000 words
- Applies to
- Objections to magistrate judge rulings
Computer-prepared briefs on objections to magistrate judges' rulings are limited to 7,000 words.
Briefs prepared with a computer concerning objections to magistrate judges' rulings (including responses to such briefs) shall not exceed 7,000 words.
- Pro se limit
- 20 pages
- Applies to
- Objections to magistrate judge rulings
Handwritten or typewritten pro se briefs on objections to magistrate judges' rulings are limited to 20 pages.
Briefs that are handwritten or prepared on a typewriter by a party who is not represented by an attorney concerning objections to magistrate judges' rulings (including responses to such briefs) shall not exceed 20 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Motion for reconsideration
Computer-prepared briefs on motions for reconsideration are limited to 3,500 words.
Briefs prepared with a computer in support of and in opposition to motions for reconsideration are limited to 3,500 words, and reply briefs are limited to 1,750 words.
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Motion for reconsideration
Handwritten or typewritten pro se briefs on motions for reconsideration are limited to 10 pages.
Briefs that are handwritten or prepared on a typewriter by a party who is not represented by an attorney in support of and in opposition to a motion for reconsideration may not exceed 10 pages, and reply briefs may not exceed 5 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 4 pages
- Applies to
- Pre motion letter
Pre-motion letters limited to 4 pages; opposition letters due within 5 business days.
The movant shall file a letter with the Court, normally not exceeding four pages, setting forth the basis for the anticipated motion. Opposition letters, normally not exceeding four pages, shall be submitted within five business days after receipt of the movant’s letter.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Pre motion letter
First pre-motion letter for motions to dismiss limited to 3 single-spaced pages.
First: Before the time to file a responsive pleading has expired, the defendant shall send plaintiff a letter not exceeding three single-spaced pages, seeking a more definite statement or setting forth the specific pleading deficiencies in the complaint and other reasons or controlling authorities that defendant contends would warrant dismissal.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Motion memoranda limited to 8,750 words; reply memoranda limited to 3,500 words
The following limits apply unless otherwise stated by the Court. Memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words.
- Attorney limit
- 7000 words
- Applies to
- Objection to magistrate ruling
Objections to magistrate rulings limited to 7,000 words
Briefs concerning objections to magistrate judges’ rulings (including responses to such briefs) shall not exceed 7,000 words.
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Attorney limit
- 1750 words
- Applies to
- Motion for reconsideration
Reconsideration motions limited to 3,500 words; reply briefs limited to 1,750 words
Briefs in support of and in opposition to motions for reconsideration are limited to 3,500 words, and reply briefs are limited to 1,750 words.
- Limit
- 4 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
- Spacing
- Double
Pre-motion letters limited to 4 pages; opposition letters due within 5 business days.
The movant shall file a letter with the Court, normally not exceeding four pages, setting forth the basis for the anticipated motion. Opposition letters, normally not exceeding four pages, shall be submitted within five business days after receipt of the movant's letter.
- Limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
- Spacing
- Single
Motion to dismiss first exchange letters limited to 3 single-spaced pages.
Before the time to file a responsive pleading has expired, the defendant shall send plaintiff a letter not exceeding three single-spaced pages, seeking a more definite statement or setting forth the specific pleading deficiencies in the complaint and other reasons or controlling authorities that defendant contends would warrant dismissal.
- Limit
- 8750 words
Word limits for motion memoranda: support/opposition 8,750 words, reply 3,500 words; magistrate objections 7,000 words; reconsideration support/opposition 3,500 words, reply 1,750 words; with specific exclusions.
Memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words. Briefs concerning objections to magistrate judges' rulings (including responses to such briefs) shall not exceed 7,000 words. Briefs in support of and in opposition to motions for reconsideration are limited to 3,500 words, and reply briefs are limited to 1,750 words. These limits do not include the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any required certificates, but they do include material contained in footnotes or endnotes.
- Limit
- 25 pages
- Limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
Memoranda in support/opposition are limited to 25 pages, and reply briefs are limited to 10 pages.
A memorandum of law, in support of or in opposition to any motion, is limited to 25 pages and reply briefs should be no longer than 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Motion
- Font
- 12 pt
Motion memoranda limited to 25 pages, replies to 10 pages, 12pt font, 1" margins
A memorandum of law, in support of or in opposition to any motion, is limited to 25 pages and reply briefs should be no longer than 10 pages. All memoranda of law should be in 12-point font or larger, with 1" margins on all sides.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters seeking relief must be filed as letter-motions and are limited to 3 pages.
Letters seeking relief should be filed on ECF as letter-motions in accordance with Paragraph 8(A) below, not as ordinary letters. Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, letters may not exceed three pages in length.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter motion
After 10 business days of meet-and-confer, party may file 3-page letter-motion for discovery dispute.
If the meet-and-confer process does not resolve the dispute within 10 business days of the dispute first being raised (or sooner, if an impasse has been reached), the party seeking discovery may file on ECF a letter-motion, no longer than three pages, explaining the nature of the dispute and, if applicable, why the party is entitled to relief and requesting an informal conference.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Deadline
- 2 business days
- Applies to
- Opposition to letter motion
Opposition to letter-motions limited to 3 pages, due within 2 business days.
Any opposition to a letter-motion seeking relief shall be filed as a letter, not to exceed three pages, within two business days.
- Limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Discovery dispute letter-motions are limited to 3 pages, with responsive letters also limited to 3 pages.
If the parties are unable to resolve their dispute, either party may file a letter-motion, no longer than three pages and in accordance with Paragraph 1 above, explaining the nature of the dispute and requesting an informal conference. If the opposing party wishes to respond to the letter, it must promptly file a responsive letter, not to exceed three pages.
- Limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Discovery dispute letter-motions are limited to 3 pages.
the party seeking discovery may file on ECF a letter-motion, no longer than three pages, explaining the nature of the dispute
- Limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter opposition
Opposition to letter-motions must be filed as a letter not exceeding 3 pages within 2 business days.
Any opposition to a letter-motion seeking relief shall be filed as a letter, not to exceed three pages, within two business days.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Sentencing memorandum
Sentencing memoranda are limited to 25 pages unless prior permission granted.
Unless prior permission has been granted, sentencing memoranda are limited to 25 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
- Format
Memoranda of law limited to 8,750 words (support/opposition) and 3,500 words (reply)
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words. All memoranda of law shall be in twelve-point font or larger, double spaced, and text-searchable. Sur-reply memoranda will not be accepted without prior permission of the Court. All appendices to memoranda of law must be indexed.
- Limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters and related exhibits are limited to 10 pages.
Whether filed electronically or not, letters (together with any related exhibits) may not exceed 10 pages in length.
- Limit
- 8750 words
- Limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law are limited to 8,750 words for opening/opposition and 3,500 words for replies.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words.
- Limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Sentencing memorandum
Sentencing memoranda are limited to 25 pages unless prior permission is granted.
Unless prior permission has been granted, sentencing memoranda are limited to 25 pages.
- Limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters are limited to 3 pages unless the Court orders otherwise.
Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, letters may not exceed three pages in length.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter motion
Discovery dispute letter-motions filed on ECF may not exceed 3 pages.
the party seeking discovery may file on ECF a letter-motion, no longer than three pages, explaining the nature of the dispute and, if applicable, why the party is entitled to relief and requesting an informal conference.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Opposition
Oppositions to letter-motions seeking relief are limited to three pages.
Any opposition to a letter-motion seeking relief shall be filed as a letter, not to exceed three pages, within two business days.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law limited to 8750 words; reply memoranda limited to 3500 words.
Unless prior permission has been granted – and except for motions to reconsider, which are governed by Local Rule 6.3 – memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3500, in accordance with Local Rule 7.1.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Statement of material facts
- Spacing
- Double
Rule 56.1 statement limited to 25 double-spaced pages without prior permission.
The moving party’s Statement of Material Facts Pursuant to Local Civil Rule 56.1 may not exceed 25 double-spaced pages without prior permission of the Court.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law limited to 25 pages (support/opposition) and 10 pages (reply), except reconsideration motions.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions, other than a motion for reconsideration, are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- In limine motion
In limine motions limited to 5 pages with supporting affidavit.
Every application for a ruling must be filed with a separate notice of motion, together with a brief of no more than five pages and a supporting affidavit that attaches a copy of any relevant testimony or exhibits.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- In limine response
In limine motion responses limited to 5 pages.
Responses to in limine motions are also to be filed individually and must be no more than five pages.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Trial memorandum
- Spacing
- Double
Trial memoranda of law limited to 25 double-spaced pages.
Trial memoranda of law that identify the issues, summarize the facts, and review the applicable law, not to exceed 25 double-spaced pages;
- Attorney limit
- 2 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Parties asserting diversity jurisdiction must submit a letter no longer than two pages explaining the basis for diversity prior to initial pretrial conference or dispositive motion.
In any action in which subject matter jurisdiction is founded on diversity of citizenship pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1332, the party asserting the existence of such jurisdiction shall, prior to the Initial Pretrial Conference or any dispositive motion, submit to the Court a letter no longer than two pages explaining the basis for that party’s belief that diversity citizenship exists.
- Limit
- 25 pages
- Limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
Memoranda in support/opposition to motions (except reconsideration) limited to 25 pages; reply memoranda limited to 10 pages; reconsideration memoranda subject to Local Rule 6.3.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions, other than a motion for reconsideration, are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages. The page length for motions for reconsideration is subject to the terms of Local Rule 6.3.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
In limine motion briefs and responses are limited to 5 pages each; omnibus motions are prohibited, each motion requires separate notice and brief.
Every application for a ruling must be filed with a separate notice of motion, together with a brief of no more than five pages and a supporting affidavit that attaches a copy of any relevant testimony or exhibits. Please do not file a single omnibus motion seeking multiple rulings. Responses to in limine motions are also to be filed individually and must be no more than five pages.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Trial memorandum
- Spacing
- Double
Trial memoranda in bench trials are limited to 25 double-spaced pages.
Trial memoranda of law that identify the issues, summarize the facts, and review the applicable law, not to exceed 25 double-spaced pages;
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters are limited to 3 pages without Court permission.
Letters may not exceed three pages in length (exclusive of exhibits or attachments) without prior permission from the Court.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Opening memoranda limited to 25 pages, reply memoranda to 10 pages.
Opening memoranda are limited to 25 pages and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter motion
Discovery letter-motions limited to 3 pages.
If the meet-and-confer process does not resolve the dispute, the party seeking discovery may file on ECF a letter-motion, no longer than three pages, explaining the nature of the dispute and, if applicable, why the party is entitled to relief and requesting a conference before the Court.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Opposition letter
Opposition to discovery letter-motions limited to 3 pages.
Any opposition to a letter-motion seeking relief shall be filed as a letter, not to exceed three pages, within three business days.
- Limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to Chambers are limited to 10 pages.
Whether filed electronically or not, letters (together with any related exhibits) may not exceed ten pages in length.
- Limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Responsive letter
Responsive letter to discovery dispute must not exceed 3 pages
If the opposing party wishes to respond to the letter, it must promptly file a responsive letter, not to exceed three pages.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law limited to 25 pages (support/opposition) and 10 pages (reply)
Memoranda of Law. Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to twenty-five pages, and reply memoranda are limited to ten pages.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Sentencing memorandum
Sentencing memoranda limited to 25 pages unless prior permission granted
Unless prior permission has been granted, sentencing memoranda are limited to twenty-five pages.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Font
- 12 pt
- Spacing
- Double
Motion memoranda limited to 25 pages (support/opposition) and 10 pages (reply); formatting requirements include 12-point font, double-spacing, 1-inch margins.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages. Memoranda of 10 pages or more shall contain a table of contents. All memoranda of law shall be in 12-point font or larger and be double-spaced, and shall have one inch margins on all sides.
- Limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
Motion memoranda limited to 25 pages; reply memoranda limited to 10 pages.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to the Court are limited to 3 pages (excluding exhibits).
Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, letters must not exceed 3 pages, excluding any exhibits.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Objection to magistrate
Objections to magistrate rulings: 25 pages, opposition 25 pages, reply 10 pages.
Unless prior permission has been granted, objections to reports and recommendations by, and appeals from orders of, magistrate judges are limited to 25 pages, any opposition is limited to 25 pages, and any reply is limited to 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law limited to 8,750 words; reply briefs to 3,500 words
Per Local Civil Rule 7.1, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions (other than motions for reconsideration) are limited to 8,750 words, and reply briefs are limited to 3,500 words.
- Attorney limit
- 4 pages
- Applies to
- Opposition
- Spacing
- Single
Opposition to discovery dispute letter motion limited to 4 single-spaced pages, due within 3 business days.
Any opposition to a letter motion seeking relief shall be filed as a letter, not to exceed four pages single-spaced, within three business days.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law limited to 25 pages, reply memoranda to 10 pages.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages.
- Defendant limit
- 14 days_before_sentencing
- Government limit
- 7 days_before_sentencing
Defendant's sentencing submission due 2 weeks before sentencing; Government's due 1 week before.
Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, a defendant’s sentencing submission shall be served two weeks in advance of the date set for sentencing. The Government’s sentencing submission shall be served one week in advance of the date set for sentencing.
- Attorney limit
- 5 months
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Case management plan
Case must be ready for trial within five months absent extraordinary circumstances.
In the absence of agreement, the Court, after hearing from counsel, will order a Case Management Plan and schedule at the conference. Absent extraordinary circumstances, the Plan shall provide that the case be ready for trial within five months of the date of the conference.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
- Font
- Times New Roman 12 pt
Memoranda of law limited to 25 pages (moving/answering) and 10 pages (reply).
Unless otherwise specified by the Court, any memorandum of law submitted with the moving papers or the answering papers on any motion is limited to 25 double-spaced pages, and any reply memorandum is limited to 10 double-spaced pages.
- Attorney limit
- 15 pages
- Applies to
- Motion in limine
- Spacing
- Double
Motions in limine limited to 15 pages each, 30 pages total per party.
Each motion in limine is limited to 15 double-spaced pages, but each party is strictly limited to 30 total double-spaced pages for all motions in limine combined, unless it seeks leave of the Court for a greater page limit no later than two weeks before trial.
- Attorney limit
- 6 pages
- Applies to
- Diversity jurisdiction letter
Diversity jurisdiction letters limited to 6 double-spaced pages.
In any action in which subject matter jurisdiction is founded on diversity of citizenship pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1332, the party asserting that such jurisdiction lies shall, prior to the Initial Pretrial Conference, file on ECF a letter not to exceed six double-spaced pages, explaining the basis for that party’s position.
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Pretrial memorandum
Pretrial memorandum limited to 3,500 words (excluding specified items).
A pretrial memorandum of law in cases in which a party believes it would be useful to the Court, not to exceed 3,500 words (excluding the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any required certificates but including material contained in footnotes or endnotes), absent leave of Court, addressing any issues of law that are expected to arise at or before trial.
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Pretrial memorandum
Pretrial memorandum limited to 3,500 words (excluding specified items).
A pretrial memorandum of law in cases in which a party believes it would be useful to the Court, not to exceed 3,500 words (excluding the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any required certificates, but including material contained in footnotes or endnotes), absent leave of Court, addressing any issues of law that are expected to arise at or before trial.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
Sentencing memoranda limited to 8,750 words.
Absent prior permission, sentencing memoranda may not exceed 8,750 words.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Brief
- Font
- 12 pt
Memoranda limited to 8,750 words (support/opposition) and 3,500 words (reply); 12-point font required.
The Court encourages and appreciates brevity. Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words. All memoranda of law must be in 12-point font or larger, including
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to the court are limited to 3 pages without prior permission.
Letters may not exceed three pages in length (exclusive of exhibits or attachments) without prior permission from the Court.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
- Font
- 12 pt
Memoranda of law limited to 8,750 words (support/opposition) and 3,500 words (reply); 12-point font or larger required.
The Court encourages and appreciates brevity. Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words. All memoranda of law must be in 12-point font or larger, including
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Applies to
- Motion in limine
Motions in limine limited to 8,750 words, opposition papers same limit, no replies allowed.
Motions in limine are limited to 8,750 words. Opposition papers, no longer than 8,750 words, may be filed within seven days. No replies are permitted.
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Pretrial memorandum
Pretrial memoranda limited to 3,500 words, opposition same limit, 7-day response time.
File and serve a pretrial memorandum of law no longer than 3,500 words in cases where a party believes it would be useful to the Court. Opposition to any pretrial memorandum, if any, may be no longer than 3,500 words and filed and served within seven days of any opening memoranda;
- Government limit
- 60 days_before_trial
- Defendant limit
- 30 days_before_trial
- Required
- Always
Government expert disclosures due 60 days before trial; defendant disclosures due 30 days before trial.
The Government shall make its expert disclosures 60 days before trial and the defendant shall make its expert disclosures 30 days before trial.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Sentencing memorandum
Defendant's sentencing submission due 2 weeks before sentencing, limited to 25 pages.
Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, a defendant’s sentencing submission shall be served on the Government and emailed to Chambers no later than two weeks before the date set for sentencing. Unless prior permission has been granted, sentencing memoranda are limited to 25 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters are limited to three pages, excluding exhibits and attachments, unless the Court grants prior permission.
Letters may not exceed three pages in length (exclusive of exhibits or attachments) without prior permission from the Court.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
The joint letter for the initial pretrial conference is limited to three pages.
At least ten days before the conference date, the parties must file on ECF: (1) a proposed Civil Case Management Plan and Scheduling Order, available on the Court’s website at (https://nysd.uscourts.gov/hon-jennifer-l-rochon); and (2) a joint letter, not to exceed three pages, describing the case, any contemplated motions, and the prospect for settlement.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Discovery motion
Discovery dispute letter motions are limited to three pages (excluding exhibits).
If this meet-and-confer process does not resolve the dispute, the party must submit a letter motion to the Court on ECF, no longer than three pages (excluding exhibits), explaining the nature of the dispute, the legal standards governing the issue, and case law, if any, supporting the party’s position.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Brief
Memoranda in support/opposition are limited to 8,750 words; reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Applies to
- Opposition
Opposition to motions in limine limited to 8,750 words, filed within 7 days; no replies permitted.
Opposition papers, no longer than 8,750 words, shall be filed within seven days. No replies are permitted.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Applies to
- Motion in limine
Motions in limine limited to 8,750 words; opposition limited to 8,750 words filed within 7 days; no replies permitted.
Motions in limine are limited to 8,750 words. Opposition papers, no longer than 8,750 words, may be filed within seven days. No replies are permitted.
- Government limit
- 60 days_before_trial
- Defendant limit
- 30 days_before_trial
Government expert disclosures due 60 days before trial; defendant disclosures due 30 days before trial.
Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, the Government shall make its expert disclosures 60 days before trial and the defendant shall make its expert disclosures 30 days before trial.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to the Court are limited to 5 pages unless otherwise ordered.
Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, letters may not exceed five pages in length.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law limited to 8,750 words (support/opposition) and 3,500 words (reply), with specific formatting requirements.
The typeface, margins, spacing, and length of motion papers must conform to Local Civil Rule 7.1 (or, in the case of a motion for reconsideration, Local Civil Rule 6.3). Per Local Civil Rule 7.1, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions (other than motions for reconsideration) are limited to 8,750 words, and reply briefs are limited to 3,500 words.
- Attorney limit
- 0 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
Bankruptcy appeals must comply with FRBP 8014-8018 briefing schedule and format
the parties must comply with the briefing schedule and the format and length specifications set forth in the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure 8014-8018 unless otherwise ordered by the Court.
- Attorney limit
- 120 days
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Fact discovery
Fact discovery must be completed within 120 days of initial pretrial conference.
All fact discovery shall be completed no later than ______________________. [A date not more than 120 days following the initial pretrial conference, unless the Court finds that the case presents unique complexities or other exceptional circumstances.]
- Attorney limit
- 30 days
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Document request
Initial document requests must be served within 30 days of initial pretrial conference.
Initial requests for production of documents shall be served by ____________________. [Absent exceptional circumstances, a date not more than thirty (30) days following the initial pretrial conference.]
- Attorney limit
- 30 days
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Interrogatories
Interrogatories must be served within 30 days of initial pretrial conference.
Interrogatories pursuant to Local Civil Rule 33.3(a) shall be served by _____________________. [Absent exceptional circumstances, a date not more than thirty (30) days following the initial pretrial conference.]
- Attorney limit
- 30 days
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Contention interrogatories
Contention interrogatories must be served 30 days before close of discovery.
contention interrogatories pursuant to Local Civil Rule 33.3(c) must be served no later than thirty (30) days before the close of
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Opposition
Opposition to discovery letter-motions limited to 3 pages, due within 3 business days
Any opposition to a letter-motion seeking relief shall be filed as a letter, not to exceed three pages, within three business days.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Joint status letter
Joint status letter (max 3 pages) required by Thursday before each pretrial conference.
Absent leave of Court, by Thursday of the week prior to any future conference, the parties shall file on ECF a joint letter, not to exceed three (3) pages, regarding the status of the case.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law limited to 25 pages; reply memoranda to 10 pages.
Memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to twenty-five pages, and reply memoranda are limited to ten pages.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
Motion briefs: 8,750 words (attorney/computer) or 25 pages (pro se/handwritten); reply briefs: 3,500 words or 10 pages.
The formatting and length of motion papers must conform to Local Civil Rule 7.1 (or, in the case of a motion for reconsideration, Local Civil Rule 6.3). As set forth in Local Civil Rule 7.1(c): If filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer, briefs in support of and in response to a motion (except for motions for reconsideration) may not exceed 8,750 words, and reply briefs may not exceed 3,500 words; if filed by a party who is not represented by an attorney and handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, briefs in support of and in response to a motion may not exceed 25 pages, and reply briefs may not exceed 10 pages. These limits do not include the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any required certificates, but do include material contained in footnotes or endnotes. If a brief is filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer, it must include a certificate by the attorney, or party who is not represented by an attorney, that the document complies with the word-count limitations. The person preparing the certificate may rely on the word count of the word-processing program used to prepare the document. The certificate must state the number of words in the document.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Sentencing memorandum
Sentencing memoranda limited to 25 pages; defendant must file 2 weeks before sentencing, government 1 week before; parties must file letter if not submitting substantive memorandum.
Unless prior permission has been granted, sentencing memoranda are limited to twenty-five pages. Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, a defendant’s sentencing submission shall be filed and served two weeks in advance of the date set for sentencing. The Government’s sentencing submission shall be filed and served one week in advance of the date set for sentencing. If a party does not intend to file a substantive sentencing submission, the party shall file and serve a letter to that effect.
- Attorney limit
- 0 time
- Applies to
- Trial proceeding
Time limits imposed at final pretrial conference for civil cases; opening statements and witness exams count against time.
In most civil cases, the Court will impose time limits on both sides at the final prehearing or pretrial conference. The parties’ opening statements (in civil jury trials) and examinations of witnesses will count against their time; lengthy colloquies before the jury will be split down the middle. The time limits do not apply to jury selection or to summations; the Court may impose separate time limits for summations. The parties should be prepared to address the issue of time limits at the final prehearing or pretrial conference.
- Attorney limit
- 32 pages
- Applies to
- Jury selection
Criminal cases: 32 panelists voir dired (12 jurors + 2 alternates + 18 peremptories + 2 alternate peremptories).
In a single defendant criminal case in which the defendant has 10 and the Government 6 peremptory challenges, plus 1 each with respect to alternates, see Fed. R. Crim. P. 24, the Court will voir dire 32 panelists (12 jurors + 2 alternates + 10 peremptories for the defendant + 6 peremptories for the Government + 1 peremptory for the defendant for the alternates + 1 peremptory for the Government for the alternates).
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Motions in limine memoranda limited to 10 pages; no reply briefs allowed.
Memoranda of law in connection with a motion in limine are limited to 10 pages. No reply briefs shall be filed.
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Pretrial memorandum
Pretrial memorandum and response limited to 10 pages each.
The pretrial memorandum and response each shall not exceed 10 pages.
- Applies to
- Trial proceedings
Time limits will be imposed on both sides at final prehearing or pretrial conference in most civil cases.
In most civil cases, the Court will impose time limits on both sides at the final prehearing or pretrial conference.
- Attorney limit
- 1050 words
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to chambers limited to 1,050 words without permission.
Letters may not exceed 1,050 words in length (exclusive of exhibits or attachments) without prior permission from the Court.
- Attorney limit
- 700 words
- Applies to
- Diversity jurisdiction letter
Diversity jurisdiction cases require 700-word letter explaining citizenship basis before initial pretrial conference
In any action in which subject matter jurisdiction is founded on diversity of citizenship pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1332, the party asserting the existence of such jurisdiction shall, prior to the Initial Pretrial Conference, file a letter to the Court on ECF no longer than 700 words explaining the basis for that party's belief that diversity of citizenship exists.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law limited to 8,750 words
Memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750
- Attorney limit
- 0 words
- Applies to
- Motion
Documents over word limit must include TOC and TOA, excluded from word count.
words or more shall contain a table of contents and table of authorities, neither of which shall count against the word limit.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter motion
Adjournment, extension, and pre-motion conference requests must be filed as letter-motions (max 3 pages), no courtesy copies.
In particular, all requests for adjournments, extensions, and pre-motion conferences (including pre-motion conferences with respect to discovery disputes) should be filed as letter-motions. Courtesy copies are no longer accepted. Letter-motions, together with any related exhibits, should not exceed 3 pages in length.
- Attorney limit
- 7000 words
- Attorney limit
- 2800 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
- Margins
- 1 in
Civil memoranda limited to 7,000 words (2,800 for replies); require certificates, TOC, TOA; double-spaced with legible font.
D. Memoranda of Law in Civil Cases. Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 7,000 words or fewer, and reply memoranda are limited to 2,800 words or fewer. All memoranda shall contain a certificate signed by counsel stating the number of words in the brief and certifying that the brief complies with these formatting rules. All memoranda shall contain a table of contents and a table of authorities. The cover page, certification of compliance, table of contents, and table of authorities shall not be included in any word count. All memoranda should be double spaced, in legible font, and with reasonable margins. All footnotes must be double spaced and in legible font.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters may not exceed three pages (single-spaced, 12-point font).
Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, letters may not exceed three pages in length (single-spaced, 12-point font).
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Applies to
- Motion memorandum
Motion memoranda limited to 8,750 words; reply memoranda limited to 3,500 words.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words.
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Reply memorandum
Reply memoranda limited to 3,500 words.
Reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words.
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Pretrial memorandum of law
Pretrial memorandum of law limited to 3,500 words (excluding specified sections) in jury cases.
A pretrial memorandum of law, not to exceed 3,500 words (excluding the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any endnotes) absent leave of the Court, addressing any issues of law that are expected to arise at or before trial, with any responses or oppositions to those legal issues due one week later.
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Pretrial memorandum of law
Pretrial memorandum of law limited to 3,500 words (excluding specified sections) in non-jury cases.
A pretrial memorandum of law, not to exceed 3,500 words (excluding the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any required certificates, but including material contained in footnotes or endnotes) absent leave of the Court, addressing any issues of law that are expected to arise at or before trial, with any responses or oppositions to those legal issues due one week later.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Letter
- Font
- 12 pt
Letters to Court limited to 5 pages (single-spaced, 12-point font) without leave.
Letters should not exceed five pages in length (single-spaced, 12-point font) absent leave of the Court.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
Memoranda of law limited to 8,750 words; reply briefs to 3,500 words; pro se parties limited to 25/10 pages.
all memoranda of law are limited to 8,750 words, and reply briefs are limited to 3,500 words (if filed by a party who is not represented by an attorney and handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, briefs in support of and in response to a motion may not exceed 25 pages, and reply briefs may not exceed 10 pages).
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Attorney limit
- 1750 words
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
- Pro se limit
- 5 pages
Word/page limits for motions: 3,500/1,750 words (attorney/computer) or 10/5 pages (pro se/handwritten)
If filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer, briefs in support of and in response to a motion may not exceed 3,500 words, and reply briefs may not exceed 1,750 words; if filed by a party who is not represented by an attorney and handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, briefs in support of and in response to a motion may not exceed 10 pages, and reply briefs may not exceed five pages.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
Word/page limits for memoranda of law based on attorney representation and preparation method
If filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words. If filed by a Party who is not represented by an attorney and handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
Attorney memoranda limited to 8,750 words (support/opposition) and 3,500 words (reply); pro se limited to 25 pages (support/opposition) and 10 pages (reply).
If filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words. If filed by a Party who is not represented by an attorney and handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to chambers are limited to 5 pages.
Letters may not exceed five (5) pages in length.
- Limit
- 25 pages
- Limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law have no page limits, but if parties can't agree, motions are limited to 25 pages and replies to 10 pages.
The Court does not impose page limitations on memoranda of law. The parties should agree upon reasonable page limits for principal briefs and reply briefs, exercising their sound judgment so as not to unnecessarily burden the Court. If parties are unable to agree, memoranda in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages while reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages.
- Pro se limit
- 28 days
- Applies to
- Opposition
In pro se cases, opposition papers must be filed within 4 weeks of motion service, and reply papers within 2 weeks of opposition receipt.
The following special rules for the timing of motion filings in pro se cases apply: unless otherwise ordered by the Court, papers filed in opposition to a motion in a pro se case must be served and filed within four weeks of service of the motion papers, and reply papers, if any, must be served and filed within two weeks of receipt of opposition papers.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Discovery opposition
Opposition to discovery letter-motion must be filed as letter not exceeding 3 single-spaced pages.
If the opposing party wishes to respond to the letter-motion, the opposition (which should take the form of a letter, not to exceed three single-spaced pages) must be filed
- Attorney limit
- 4 pages
- Applies to
- Discovery motion
Discovery dispute motions are limited to 4 pages (excluding exhibits).
Discovery disputes shall be raised with the Court by motion filed electronically. The motion shall not exceed four (4) pages in length, including affidavits and declarations, but exclusive of exhibits.
- Attorney limit
- 35 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Motion memorandum
- Spacing
- Double
Motion memoranda limited to 35 pages; reply memoranda limited to 10 pages; tables required for motions over 10 pages.
Memoranda of law in support of or in opposition to motions may not exceed thirty-five (35) pages, double spaced, in length and, if in excess of ten (10) pages, should contain tables of contents and authorities. Reply memoranda may not exceed ten (10) pages, double spaced, in length.
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Reply memorandum
- Spacing
- Double
Reply memoranda limited to 10 pages, double spaced.
Reply memoranda may not exceed ten (10) pages, double spaced, in length.
- Attorney limit
- 20 pages
- Applies to
- Objection to report
Objections to magistrate reports limited to 20 pages.
Objections to reports and recommendations, and appeals from orders of, Magistrate Judges shall not exceed twenty pages in length.
- Attorney limit
- 0 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
Page limits for motions apply to bankruptcy appeal briefs.
The page limits applicable to memoranda of law on motions apply to briefs on bankruptcy appeals.
- Limit
- 4 pages
- Applies to
- Discovery motion
Discovery dispute motions are limited to 4 pages including affidavits/declarations, excluding exhibits.
The motion shall not exceed four (4) pages in length, including affidavits and declarations, but exclusive of exhibits.
- Limit
- 35 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
- Spacing
- Double
Opening and opposition memoranda limited to 35 pages double spaced; reply memoranda limited to 10 pages.
Memoranda of law in support of or in opposition to motions may not exceed thirty-five (35) pages, double spaced, in length and, if in excess of ten (10) pages, should contain tables of contents and authorities. Reply memoranda may not exceed ten (10) pages, double spaced, in length.
- Limit
- 20 pages
- Applies to
- Proposed findings conclusions
Objections to magistrate judge reports limited to 20 pages.
Objections to reports and recommendations, and appeals from orders of, Magistrate Judges shall not exceed twenty pages in length.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
Page limits for motion memoranda also apply to bankruptcy appeal briefs.
The page limits applicable to memoranda of law on motions apply to briefs on bankruptcy appeals.
- Pro se limit
- 3 pages
- Pro se limit
- 2 pages
- Applies to
- Pre motion letter
Pro se pre-motion letters limited to 3 pages (moving/non-moving) and 2 pages (reply) if handwritten/typewritten.
If filed by a party who is not represented by an attorney and handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, the moving and non-moving parties’ letters may not exceed 3 pages, and a reply letter may not exceed 2 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 7000 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Motion memoranda limited to 7,000 words (support/opposition) and 3,500 words (reply).
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 7,000 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words.
- Pro se limit
- 20 pages
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Motion brief
Pro se motion briefs limited to 20 pages (support/opposition) and 10 pages (reply) if handwritten/typewritten.
If filed by a party who is not represented by an attorney and handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, briefs in support of and in response to a motion may not exceed 20 pages, and reply briefs may not exceed 10 pages.
- Pro se limit
- 8750 words
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum
Memoranda in support of/opposition to motions limited to 8,750 words (25 pages handwritten); reply memoranda limited to 3,500 words (10 pages handwritten).
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words. If handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, memoranda in support of or in opposition to motions may not exceed 25 pages, and reply memoranda may not exceed 10 pages.
- Pro se limit
- 3500 words
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum
Memoranda for reargument/reconsideration limited to 3,500 words (10 pages handwritten); reply memoranda limited to 1,750 words (5 pages handwritten).
These limits do not apply to memoranda in support of or in opposition to a motion for reargument or reconsideration, which are limited to 3,500 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 1,750 words. If a memorandum is handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, it may not exceed 10 pages for memoranda in support of or opposition to reconsideration or reargument, and 5 pages for reply memoranda.
- Pro se limit
- 2500 words
- Pro se limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum
In limine motion memoranda limited to 2,500 words (5 pages handwritten/typewriter).
Those limits also do not apply to memoranda in support of or opposition to in limine motions, which shall not exceed 2,500 words if prepared on a computer, or five pages if prepared with a typewriter or handwritten.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Attorney limit
- 1750 words
- Attorney limit
- 1500 words
Word limits for memoranda of law with specific limits per motion type
All written motions and cross-motions shall be accompanied by a memorandum of law. Local Rule 7.1 specifies the requirements for motion papers, including typeface (12-point font or larger), margins (1 inch or more) and spacing (double spaced). Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of, and in opposition to, motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words. Memoranda of 2,500 words or more shall include a table of contents and a table of authorities, neither of which shall count toward the word limit. These limits do not apply to memoranda in support of or in opposition to a motion for reargument or reconsideration, which are limited to 3,500 words, and reply memoranda, which are limited to 1,750 words; memoranda in support of or in opposition to in limine motions, which shall not exceed 1,500 words; or objections or responses to objections to a Magistrate Judge’s Report and Recommendation, which shall not exceed 2,500 words. These limits do not include the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any required certifications, but do include material contained in footnotes or endnotes.
- Attorney limit
- 2500 words
- Attorney limit
- 15 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Motion
Each party limited to 5 affidavits (2,500 words each) and 15 exhibits (15 pages each) per motion.
Each party is limited to a total of five affidavits/declarations (each not to exceed 2,500 words) in support of or in opposition to a motion. Each party is limited to a total of 15 exhibits (each not to exceed 15 pages), including exhibits attached to an affidavit/declaration.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Applies to
- Rule 56 1 statement
- Spacing
- Double
Rule 56.1 statement limited to 8,750 words unless leave granted one week prior.
The Rule 56.1 statement shall not exceed 8,750 words, double-spaced unless leave of the Court to file a longer document has been obtained at least one week before the motion and statement are due to be filed.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Motion in limine
Motions in limine are limited to 5 pages with no reply briefs permitted.
Memoranda of law in connection with a motion in limine are limited to five pages. No reply briefs shall be filed.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Pretrial memorandum
Pretrial memoranda and responses are limited to 25 pages each.
The pretrial memoranda and response each shall not exceed 25 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 0 time
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Trial proceedings
Court will impose and enforce time limits in civil trials.
In civil trials, the Court will impose and enforce time limits on the trial to promote attorney efficiency, preserve scarce judicial resources and reduce repetition and redundancy.
- Attorney limit
- 0 time
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Trial proceedings
Time limits established at final pretrial conference based on case complexity.
The Court will establish time limits before or at the final pretrial conference based on, e.g., input from the parties, the number and complexity of issues and the nature of proof to be offered. The Court will hold the parties to the time limits.
- Attorney limit
- 5 minutes
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Redirect testimony
Redirect testimony limited to 5 minutes, no re-cross examination.
Redirect testimony generally will be limited to no more than five minutes. There shall be no re-cross.
- Limit
- 3 pages
- Spacing
- Single
Letters limited to 3 pages single-spaced without prior permission.
Letters may not exceed three pages in length (single-spaced, with standard font and margins) without prior permission from Chambers.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Word limits: 8,750 (opening/opposition), 3,500 (reply); certificate required for computer-generated briefs.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law must conform to Local Civil Rule 7.1. Specifically, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions may not exceed 8,750 words, and reply memoranda may not exceed 3,500 words. These limits do not include the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any required certificates, but do include material contained in footnotes or endnotes. If a brief is filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer, it must include a certificate by the attorney, or party who is not represented by an attorney, that the document complies with the word-count limitations. The person preparing the certificate may rely on the word count of the word-processing program used to prepare the document. The certificate must state the number of words in the document.
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Pro se/typewritten briefs: 25 pages (opening/opposition), 10 pages (reply).
Briefs filed by a party who is not represented by an attorney, or are handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, may not exceed 25 pages if filed in support of or in opposition to a motion and may not exceed 10 pages if filed on reply.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Supplemental motion to dismiss
Supplemental motion to dismiss must use ECF event and be limited to 5 double-spaced pages.
If the defendant chooses to file a supplemental motion to dismiss, it must be filed using the Motion to Dismiss ECF filing event and may incorporate by reference any portions of the briefing, declarations, or exhibits filed with its original motion to dismiss. Any such supplemental briefing may not exceed five double-spaced pages.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Pre motion letter
Pre-motion letter for summary judgment limited to 3 single-spaced pages.
To so request, the moving party shall submit a letter via ECF, not to exceed three single-spaced pages in length, setting forth the basis for the anticipated motion, including the legal standards governing the claims at issue.
- Pro se limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter motion
- Spacing
- Single
Discovery disputes unresolved by conference may be filed as 3-page letter-motion
If the parties are unable to resolve their dispute, either party may file a letter-motion, no longer than three pages (single-spaced, with standard font and margins) and in accordance with Rule III(B)(2) above, explaining the nature of the dispute and requesting an informal conference.
- Pro se limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Responsive letter
- Spacing
- Single
Responsive letters to discovery disputes limited to 3 pages, single-spaced
If the opposing party wishes to respond to the letter, it must promptly file a responsive letter, not to exceed three pages (single-spaced, with standard font and margins).
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law limited to 8,750 words (support/opposition) and 3,500 words (reply), excluding certain sections but including footnotes.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions may not exceed 8,750 words, and reply memoranda may not exceed 3,500 words. These limits do not include the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any required certificates, but do include material contained in footnotes or endnotes.
- Attorney limit
- 120 days
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Discovery
Fact discovery must be completed within 120 days unless exceptional circumstances.
All fact discovery shall be completed no later than ___________________. [A period not to exceed 120 days (use an exact date), unless the Court finds that the case presents unique complexities or other exceptional circumstances.]
- Attorney limit
- 0 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Claim construction brief
Page limitations apply to claim construction submissions.
These submissions shall be submitted in accordance with the page limitations provided in the Court’s Individual Rule 4.A.iii.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
- Font
- 12 pt
Memoranda of law limited to 25 pages; reply memoranda limited to 10 pages.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law limited to 25 pages, reply memoranda to 10 pages.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Rule 56 1 statement
Rule 56.1 statements limited to 25 pages unless leave obtained one week prior.
Any Rule 56.1 statement in support of a motion for summary judgment is limited to no more than 25 pages, unless leave of the Court to file a longer document is obtained at least one week prior to the due date of such motion for summary judgment.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Motion memorandum
Motion memoranda limited to 25 pages, reply memoranda to 10 pages
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages.
- Limit
- 3 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to court must not exceed 3 pages (excluding exhibits) and must comply with Local Rule 11.1(b) formatting.
Any letter to the Court must not exceed 3 pages in length. This does not include any exhibits that may be attached to a letter. All letters must comply with SDNY Local Rule 11.1(b):
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
Memoranda of law limited to 25 pages, reply memoranda to 10 pages.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to twenty-five (25) pages, and reply memoranda are limited to ten (10) pages.
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters (including exhibits) are limited to 10 pages.
Whether filed electronically or not, letters (together with any related exhibits) may not exceed 10 pages in length.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
- Font
- 12 pt
Memoranda of law limited to 8,750 words (support/opposition) or 3,500 words (reply); must be 12pt font, double-spaced, text-searchable; tables required for 10+ page memoranda.
Memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words. All memoranda of law shall be in twelve-point font or larger, double spaced, and text-searchable. Memoranda of 10 pages or more shall contain a table of contents and a table of authorities, neither of which shall count against the page limit.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Sentencing memorandum
Sentencing memoranda limited to 25 pages; defendant must file 2 weeks before sentencing, government 1 week before.
Unless prior permission has been granted, sentencing memoranda are limited to 25 pages. Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, a defendant's sentencing submission shall be filed and served two weeks in advance of the date set for sentencing. The Government's sentencing submission shall be filed and served one week in advance of the date set for sentencing.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters filed on ECF are limited to 3 pages without prior permission.
Letters must be filed electronically on ECF. Letters may not exceed three pages in length without prior permission from Chambers.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Motion memoranda limited to 25 pages; reply memoranda to 10 pages.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to the Court are limited to 3 pages unless prior permission from Chambers is obtained.
Letters may not exceed three pages in length without prior permission from Chambers.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Joint letter
- Spacing
- Single
Joint letter for initial case management conference must not exceed 3 single-spaced pages.
a joint letter, not to exceed three single-spaced pages in length, describing the case, any contemplated motions, and the prospect for settlement.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Discovery dispute letter
- Spacing
- Single
Discovery dispute letters must be ≤3 single-spaced pages and explain dispute details.
If this meet-and-confer process does not resolve the dispute, the party must submit a letter to the Court via ECF, no longer than three single-spaced pages, explaining the nature of the dispute, the legal standards governing the issue, and case law, if any, supporting the party’s position.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
- Font
- 12 pt
Memoranda in support/opposition limited to 25 pages; reply memoranda limited to 10 pages.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 1 pages
- Applies to
- Synopsis
Synopsis of deposition excerpts is limited to one page.
a one-page synopsis of those excerpts for each deposition.
- Limit
- 2 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Diversity jurisdiction cases require a letter explaining diversity basis, max 2 pages, due prior to the Initial Pretrial Conference.
In any action in which subject matter jurisdiction is founded on diversity of citizenship pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1332, the party asserting the existence of such jurisdiction shall, prior to the Initial Pretrial Conference, submit to the Court a letter no longer than two pages explaining the basis for that party’s belief that diversity of citizenship exists.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to chambers are limited to 5 pages.
Letters may not exceed 5 pages in length.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Motion memorandum
- Spacing
- Double
Motion memoranda limited to 25 pages, reply memoranda to 10 pages.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 double-spaced pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 double-spaced pages.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
- Spacing
- Double
Plaintiff must respond to defendant's letter within 5 business days with max 5 double-spaced pages.
The plaintiff shall respond by similar letter, not exceeding 5 double-spaced pages, within 5 business days indicating the extent, if any, to which plaintiff concurs with defendant's objections and the amendments, if any, to be made to the complaint to address them, or the reasons and controlling authority that support the pleadings as filed.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
- Spacing
- Double
Discovery pre-motion letter limited to 5 double-spaced pages.
The pre-motion letter shall be a joint letter from all counsel limited to five pages double-spaced outlining the discovery disputes sought to be addressed.
- Attorney limit
- 15 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
- Font
- Times New Roman 12 pt
- Margins
- 1 in
Memoranda of law must comply with Local Civil Rule 7.1 formatting and length requirements; sur-replies not accepted without permission; objections to Magistrate rulings limited to 15 pages without permission.
The Court encourages and appreciates brevity. Memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions shall comply with the formatting and length requirements set forth in Local Civil Rule 7.1. Unless prior permission has been granted, sur-reply memoranda will not be accepted. With respect to objections to Magistrate Judges' rulings, unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law (including responses) shall not exceed 15 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 15 pages
- Applies to
- Pretrial memorandum
- Spacing
- Double
Pretrial memorandum limited to 15 double-spaced pages.
A pretrial memorandum, no longer than 15 double-spaced pages, emphasizing the burden of proof associated with the claims for relief or defenses to be tried.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
- Spacing
- Double
Memoranda of law (support/opposition) limited to 25 pages, reply memoranda to 10 pages, all double-spaced.
Memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions may be up to 25 pages (double-spaced), and reply memoranda may be up to 10 pages (double-spaced).
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- In limine motion
In limine motions due 3 weeks before trial; responses due 2 weeks before trial.
In limine motions shall be filed no later than three (3) weeks prior to the scheduled commencement of trial, and responses shall be filed no later than two (2) weeks prior to the scheduled commencement of trial.
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Proposed voir dire
Voir dire, jury instructions, and verdict forms due 2 weeks before trial.
Proposed voir dire questions, jury instructions, and verdict forms shall be filed no later than two (2) weeks prior to the scheduled commencement of trial.
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Motion
Opposition papers due within 4 weeks; reply papers due within 2 weeks of opposition.
Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, papers filed in opposition to a motion must be served and filed within four (4) weeks of service of the motion papers, and reply papers, if any, must be served and filed within two (2) weeks of receipt of the opposition papers.
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Motion
Pro se briefs: 25 pages (support/response), 10 pages (reply). Attorney/computer briefs: 8,750 words (support/response), 3,500 words (reply).
As set forth in Local Civil Rule 7.1, if filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer, briefs in support of and in response to motions (except for motions for reconsideration) may not exceed 8,750 words, and reply briefs may not exceed 3,500 words. If filed by a party who is not represented by an attorney and handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, briefs in support of and in response to a motion may not exceed 25 pages, and reply briefs may not exceed 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Applies to
- Motion memorandum
Motion memoranda limited to 8,750 words; reply briefs limited to 3,500 words
Per Local Civil Rule 7.1, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions (except for motions for reconsideration) may not exceed 8,750 words, and reply briefs may not exceed 3,500 words.
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Reply brief
Reply briefs limited to 3,500 words
reply briefs may not exceed 3,500 words.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
Memoranda of law word/page limits: attorney/computer (8,750/3,500 words), pro se/handwritten (25/10 pages). Tables of contents/authorities excluded from limits.
Memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions, if filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer, may not exceed 8,750 words, and reply briefs may not exceed 3,500 words. If filed by a party who is not represented by an attorney and handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions may not exceed 25 pages, and reply memoranda may not exceed 10 pages. Memoranda that are 3,500 words or more or 10 pages or more shall contain a table of contents and a table of authorities, which are not included in these page or word limits. However, footnotes and endnotes are included in these limits.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
Word limits: 8,750 for attorney/computer briefs, 25 pages for pro se/handwritten; reply limits 3,500 words/10 pages
If filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer, unless otherwise provided by statute or rule, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words. If filed by a party who is not represented by an attorney and handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, in support of and in response to a motion must not exceed 25 pages, and reply briefs must not exceed 10 pages.
- Defendant limit
- 14 days_before_proceeding
- Government limit
- 7 days_before_proceeding
Defendant's sentencing submission due 2 weeks before sentencing; Government's due 1 week before.
The defendant's sentencing submission shall be filed on ECF two weeks in advance of the date set for sentencing. The Government's sentencing submission shall be filed on ECF one week in advance of the date set for sentencing.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Pre motion letter
- Margins
- 1 in
Pre-motion letters and responses are limited to 3 single-spaced pages with 1-inch margins.
Pre-motion letters and responses shall not exceed three pages single-spaced, with one-inch margins all around.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law limited to 8,750 words; reply memoranda to 3,500 words.
Memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to a motion shall be limited to 8,750 words and reply memoranda shall not exceed 3,500 words.
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Pretrial memorandum
Jury trials require 10-page pretrial memorandum, joint voir dire, joint requests to charge, and witness list.
For jury trials, each party is required to submit at the time the joint pretrial order is filed: (a) a pretrial memorandum no longer than 10 pages limited to a brief discussion of the issues to be tried and authorities relied upon; (b) joint proposed voir dire questions drafted with the other parties; (c) joint proposed requests to charge, drafted with the other parties, citing the authority for each proposed charge; and (d) a joint list of individuals, companies and other entities that may appear as witnesses, or otherwise be referred to during the trial, including a brief recitation of what matters each witness is expected to address.
- Attorney limit
- 15 pages
- Applies to
- Pretrial memorandum
Bench trials require 15-page pretrial memorandum, proposed findings/conclusions, and witness list.
For bench trials, unless otherwise instructed by the Court, each party is required to submit at the time the final joint pretrial order is filed: (a) a pretrial memorandum no longer than 15 pages limited to a discussion of the issues to be tried and authorities relied upon; (b) proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law; and (c) a joint list of individuals, companies and other entities that may appear as witnesses, or otherwise be referred to during the trial, including a brief recitation of what matters each witness is expected to address.
- Limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters (including attached exhibits) are limited to 5 pages unless prior permission is obtained.
Absent prior permission, letters—inclusive of attached exhibits—may not exceed 5 pages in length.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Pre motion letter
Pre-motion letters for summary judgment conferences are limited to 3 pages for both moving and opposing parties.
To request a pre-motion conference, the moving party shall file, on ECF, a letter-motion for a conference, not to exceed 3 pages, setting forth the basis for the anticipated motion. Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, within 7 business days, the opposing party shall file a letter response on ECF, also not to exceed 3 pages, setting forth its position.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Statement of material facts
- Spacing
- Double
Summary judgment Statements of Material Facts are limited to 25 double-spaced pages without court permission.
The moving party’s Statement of Material Facts pursuant to Local Civil Rule 56.1 may not exceed 25 double-spaced pages without prior permission of the Court.
- Attorney limit
- 120 days
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Discovery
Fact discovery must be completed within 120 days of scheduling order.
All fact discovery shall be completed by ____________________. (Absent exceptional circumstances, a period not to exceed 120 days from date of this Order.)
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Pro se limit
- 5 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters (including exhibits) are limited to 5 pages without prior permission.
Absent prior permission, letters—inclusive of attached exhibits—may not exceed 5 pages in length.
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
Memoranda of law must comply with LCR 7.1(c); 3,500+ words require TOC and TOA.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law shall comply with the formatting and length requirements set forth in Local Civil Rule 7.1(c). Memoranda of 3,500 words or more shall contain a table of contents and a table of authorities.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Statement of material facts
Statement of Material Facts under Local Civil Rule 56.1 limited to 25 double-spaced pages
The moving party’s Statement of Material Facts pursuant to Local Civil Rule 56.1 may not exceed 25 double-spaced pages without prior permission of the Court.
- Applies to
- Brief
Bankruptcy appeal briefs follow FRBP 8014-8018 with 2-day stipulation extension and Local Civil Rule 7.1(c) page limits.
Briefs must be submitted in accordance with Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure 8014 to 8018. Counsel may extend these dates by stipulation submitted to the Court no later than two business days before the brief is due. The page limits in Local Civil Rule 7.1(c) must be observed.
- Applies to
- Brief
Local Civil Rule 7.1(c) page limits apply to bankruptcy appeal briefs.
The page limits in Local Civil Rule 7.1(c) must be observed.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Pro se limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to chambers are limited to 5 pages (excluding exhibits).
Letters may not exceed five pages, exclusive of exhibits, which should be kept to a minimum.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
Word limits: 8,750 for attorney/computer briefs, 25 pages for pro se/handwritten briefs.
Unless prior permission has been granted, briefs, filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer, in support of and in response to a motion (except for motions for reconsideration), may not exceed 8,750 words, and reply briefs may not exceed 3,500 words. If filed by a party who is not represented by an attorney and handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, briefs in support of and in response to a motion may not exceed 25 pages, and reply briefs may not exceed
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Pretrial memorandum
Pretrial memoranda are limited to 25 pages.
pretrial memoranda are limited to 25 pages.
- Limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters filed on ECF are limited to 5 pages (exclusive of exhibits).
Letters. Except as otherwise provided below, communications with the Court must be by letter and filed on ECF, without e-mail or other copy to the Court. Letters may not exceed five pages, exclusive of exhibits, which should be kept to a minimum.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Applies to
- Brief
Attorney or computer-prepared briefs limited to 8,750 words; reply briefs to 3,500 words.
Unless prior permission has been granted, briefs, filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer, in support of and in response to a motion (except for motions for reconsideration), may not exceed 8,750 words, and reply briefs may not exceed 3,500 words.
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Reply
Reply briefs by attorneys limited to 3,500 words.
reply briefs may not exceed 3,500 words
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
Pro se handwritten/typewriter briefs limited to 25 pages; reply briefs also limited (page count continues on next page).
If filed by a party who is not represented by an attorney and handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, briefs in support of and in response to a motion may not exceed 25 pages, and reply briefs may not exceed
- Attorney limit
- 2000 words
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Letter motion
Letters and letter-motions limited to 2000 words (4 pages) without advance permission
Absent advance permission from the Court, letters and letter-motions may not exceed 2000 words (approximately four pages) in length, exclusive of attachments, which should be kept to a minimum.
- Applies to
- Brief
Briefs must comply with word limits unless advance permission granted.
Unless advance permission has been granted, briefs in support of and in response to a motion (except for motions for reconsideration) must comply with the word limits prescribed by Local Civ. R. 7.1(c).
- Limit
- 2000 words
Letters and letter-motions limited to 2000 words, excluding attachments.
Absent advance permission from the Court, letters and letter-motions may not exceed 2000 words (approximately four pages) in length, exclusive of attachments, which should be kept to a minimum.
- Limit
- 8750 words
- Applies to
- Pretrial memorandum
Pretrial memoranda are limited to 8,750 words (approximately 25 pages).
If the parties believe it would be useful, they may also file pretrial memoranda, limited to 8,750 words (approximately 25 pages).
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Letter
- Spacing
- Single
Letters may not exceed 3 single-spaced pages (exclusive of exhibits).
Unless otherwise permitted by the Court, letters may not exceed 3 single-spaced pages (exclusive of exhibits) and must otherwise adhere to Local Civil Rule 11.1.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Ex parte settlement letter
Ex parte settlement letters must not exceed 5 pages single-spaced.
The letter must not exceed 5 pages (single spaced), unless permission has been granted by the Court, and must otherwise adhere to Local Civil Rule 11.1.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
- Spacing
- Single
Discovery dispute letters limited to 3 single-spaced pages with 3-day response deadline.
If the meet-and-confer process does not resolve the dispute, the party may file an ECF letter motion to the Court or, if applicable, to the Pro Se Intake Clerk, no longer than 3 single-spaced pages, explaining the nature of the dispute and requesting a conference. Such letter must include a representation that the meet-and-confer process occurred, including when it occurred and whether it was in person or via telephone or video conference. Any responsive letter should be submitted within 3 business days following submission of the letter motion and shall also be limited to 3 single-spaced pages. No further letters may be submitted without permission of the Court.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter motion
Letter motions limited to 3 single-spaced pages with 3 business day response deadline
Letter motions should be filed via ECF and comply with the S.D.N.Y. Local Rules and the S.D.N.Y. Electronic Case Filing Rules and Instructions. Letter motions are limited to 3 single-spaced pages (not including exhibits). Any responsive letter should be submitted within 3 business days following submission of the letter motion and also be limited to 3 single-spaced pages (not including exhibits).
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Motion memoranda limited to 25 pages, reply memoranda to 10 pages
Unless prior permission has been granted by the Court, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages. Memoranda of 10 pages or more shall contain a table of contents and a table of authorities, neither of which shall count against the page limit.
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Reply memorandum
Reply memoranda limited to 10 pages
Reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 4 pages
- Pro se limit
- 4 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to the court are limited to 4 pages (excluding attachments)
Unless otherwise permitted by the Court, letters may not exceed four pages in length (excluding any attachments).
- Attorney limit
- 4 pages
- Applies to
- Letter motion
Discovery letter-motions and responses limited to 4 pages; no replies allowed.
The letters may not exceed four pages in length (excluding any attachments). No replies are permitted.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Motion memoranda limited to 8,750 words; reply memoranda to 3,500 words.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law (in support of and in opposition to a motion) are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words.
- Attorney limit
- 0 pages
- Pro se limit
- 0 pages
- Required
- Always
Federal Rules time periods supersede individual practices and must be strictly followed.
Nothing in the Court’s Individual Practices supersedes a specific time period for filing a motion specified by statute or Federal Rule—including but not limited to Rules 50, 52, 54, 59, and 60 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and Rule 4 of the Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure—where failure to comply with the specified time period could result in forfeiture of a substantive right.
- Attorney limit
- 4 pages
- Applies to
- Letter motion
Discovery letter-motions limited to 4 pages; no replies allowed.
The letters may not exceed four pages in length (excluding any attachments). No replies are permitted.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Brief
Memoranda limited to 8,750 words (support/opposition) and 3,500 words (reply).
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law (in support of and in opposition to a motion) are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words.
- Attorney limit
- 6 pages
- Applies to
- Ex parte settlement letter
Ex parte settlement letter limited to 6 pages unless Court grants permission.
This ex parte letter must not exceed 6 pages, unless permission to do so has been granted by the Court.
- Attorney limit
- 6 pages
- Applies to
- Letter motion
Discovery dispute letter-motion limited to 6 double-spaced pages.
If the dispute is not resolved, the party may file a letter-motion on ECF pursuant to Rule 5.I below, not to exceed six double-spaced pages, explaining the nature of the dispute and requesting an informal conference.
- Attorney limit
- 6 pages
- Deadline
- 3 business days
- Applies to
- Responsive filing
Responsive filing to discovery dispute letter-motion limited to 6 double-spaced pages, due within 3 business days.
If the opposing party wishes to respond to the letter-motion, it should promptly send an e-mail to Chambers, copying all counsel of record, to advise that a responsive letter will be forthcoming. Any such responsive filing shall not exceed six double-spaced pages and must be filed on ECF within three business days of the filing of the letter-motion.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Motion memoranda limited to 8,750 words; replies to 3,500 words.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words.
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Pretrial memorandum
Pretrial memorandum of law limited to 3,500 words in jury and non-jury cases.
A pretrial memorandum of law in cases in which a party believes it would be useful to the Court, not to exceed 3,500 words (excluding the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any required certificates but including material contained in footnotes or endnotes), absent leave of Court, addressing any issues of law that are expected to arise at or before trial.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Spacing
- Single
Letter motions (adjournment, extension, pre-motion conference, sealing, settlement) max 3 single-spaced pages, no courtesy copies unless exhibits >25 pages
Letter motions shall be filed on ECF in accordance with the S.D.N.Y. Local Rules. Requests that may be made by letter motion include requests for an adjournment, an extension, a pre-motion conference, sealing, and a settlement conference. Letter motions are limited to 3 single-spaced pages (not including exhibits). Courtesy copies of letter motions are not required unless exhibits, if any, exceed 25 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Joint settlement letter
Joint settlement letter limited to 3 pages with specific content requirements.
The joint letter must not exceed three pages and should include, at a minimum, the following: (a) the history of settlement negotiations, if any, including any prior offers or demands; (b) each party’s evaluation of the settlement value of the case and the rationale for it; (c) any case law authority in support of your settlement position; and (d) any other facts that would be helpful to the Court in preparation for the conference.
- Attorney limit
- 1 pages
- Applies to
- Ex parte settlement letter
Ex parte settlement letter limited to 1 page unless authorized.
The letter must be less than one page (unless otherwise authorized by the Court) and marked 'Confidential Material for Use Only at Settlement Conference.'
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Limit
- 3500 words
- Attorney limit
- 1750 words
- Limit
- 1750 words
For reconsideration motion briefs: attorney/computer-prepared support/response briefs limited to 3500 words, replies to 1750 words; pro se handwritten/typewriter briefs limited to 10 pages (support/response) and 5 pages (reply). Page limits convert to 350 words per page for attorney/computer briefs. Excludes caption, TOC, TOA, sig blocks, certificates; includes footnotes/endnotes.
Unless otherwise provided by the court, the length limitations for filings under this rule are as follows: if filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer, briefs in support of and in response to a motion may not exceed 3,500 words, and reply briefs may not exceed 1,750 words; if filed by a party who is not represented by an attorney and handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, briefs in support of and in response to a motion may not exceed 10 pages, and reply briefs may not exceed five pages. For any brief filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer, if the court expresses a limit on the length of the brief in pages, the filing party should treat it as a word limit of 350 words per page. These limits do not include the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any required certificates, but do include material contained in footnotes or endnotes. To the extent the court permits a party to submit briefs longer than these limits, and expresses those limits in pages, each additional page must not contain more than 350 additional words if the brief is filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Limit
- 3500 words
Attorney-filed or computer-prepared briefs (except reconsideration support/response) are limited to 8750 words (support/response) and 3500 words (reply); pro se handwritten/typewriter briefs are limited to 25 pages (support/response) and 10 pages (reply); court-set page limits equal 350 words per page.
If filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer, briefs in support of and in response to a motion (except for motions for reconsideration) may not exceed 8,750 words, and reply briefs may not exceed 3,500 words; if the court expresses a limit on the length of a brief in pages, the filing party should treat it as a word limit of 350 words per page. If filed by a party who is not represented by an attorney and handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, briefs in support of and in response to a motion may not exceed 25 pages, and reply briefs may not exceed 10 pages. These limits do not include the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any required certificates, but do include material contained in footnotes or endnotes. To the extent the court permits a party to submit briefs longer than these limits, and expresses those limits in pages, each additional page must not contain more than 350 additional words if the brief is filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to chambers limited to 5 pages (excluding exhibits) unless permission granted.
Letters may not exceed 5 pages, exclusive of exhibits, unless prior permission is received from the Court.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Pro se limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Pro se limit
- 3500 words
Attorney and computer-prepared briefs limited to 8,750 words (support/opposition) and 3,500 words (reply), with certificate required.
Memoranda filed by a party not represented by an attorney and prepared by a computer, or filed by an attorney: Briefs in support of and in response to a motion (except for a motion for reconsideration) may not exceed 8,750 words, and reply briefs may not exceed 3,500 words. Memoranda of 3,500 words or more shall contain a table of contents. Any such brief must include a certificate by the attorney, or party who is not represented by an attorney, that the document complies with the word‐count limitations. The person preparing the certificate may rely on the word count of the word‐processing program used to prepare the document. The certificate must state the number of words in the document. To the extent the court permits a party to submit briefs longer than these limits, and expresses those limits in pages, each additional page must not contain more than 350 additional words.
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
Handwritten/typewriter briefs limited to 25 pages (support/opposition) and 10 pages (reply).
Memoranda filed by a party not represented by an attorney and handwritten or prepared with a typewriter: Briefs in support of and in response to a motion (except for a motion for reconsideration) may not exceed 25 pages, and reply briefs may not exceed 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 350 words
- Pro se limit
- 350 words
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Brief
Additional pages beyond word limits must not exceed 350 words per page.
To the extent the court permits a party to submit briefs longer than these limits, and expresses those limits in pages, each additional page must not contain more than 350 additional words.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Pro se limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Pro se limit
- 3500 words
Word/page limits exclude caption, index, TOC, TOA, signature blocks, certificates; include footnotes/endnotes.
Note that these limits do not include the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any required certificates, but do include material contained in footnotes or endnotes.
- Attorney limit
- 1 pages
- Applies to
- Discovery plan
Fact discovery completion deadline
All fact discovery must be completed by .
- Attorney limit
- 1 pages
- Applies to
- Discovery plan
Deposition completion deadline and per-party limit
Depositions shall be completed by and limited to no more than depositions per party.
- Attorney limit
- 1 pages
- Applies to
- Discovery plan
Initial interrogatories deadline and subsequent interrogatories timing
Initial sets of interrogatories shall be served on or before . All subsequent interrogatories must be served no later than 30 days before the fact discovery deadline.
- Attorney limit
- 1 pages
- Applies to
- Discovery plan
Requests for admission deadline and timing
Requests for admission must be served on or before , and in any event no later than 30 days before the fact discovery deadline.
- Attorney limit
- 1 pages
- Applies to
- Discovery plan
Initial production requests exchange and response deadlines
Initial requests for production were/will be exchanged on and responses shall be due on . All subsequent requests for production must be served no later than 30 days before the fact discovery deadline.
- Attorney limit
- 1 pages
- Applies to
- Discovery plan
Supplementation deadline under Rule 26(e)
Supplementations under Rule 26(e) must be made within a reasonable period of time after discovery of such information, and in any event, no later than the fact discovery deadline.
- Attorney limit
- 1 pages
- Applies to
- Case management plan
Pleading amendment deadline with good cause exception
Last date to amend any pleading pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 15(a) is . Amendment of pleadings after this date will be permitted only on a showing of 'good cause' under Fed. R. Civ. P. 16(b)(4).
- Attorney limit
- 1 pages
- Applies to
- Discovery plan
Expert discovery completion deadline
Expert discovery shall be completed by .
- Attorney limit
- 6 pages
- Applies to
- Joint pre conference agenda letter
Joint pre-conference agenda letters limited to 6 pages, filed one week before conference.
In some cases, the Court may require a joint pre-conference agenda letter. Joint pre-conference agenda letters shall be limited to 6 pages and filed a week in advance of a conference unless otherwise specified or permitted by the Court.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Pro se limit
- 5 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to court are limited to 5 pages unless permission granted.
Whether filed on ECF or not, letters may not exceed 5 pages unless prior permission has been requested from, and granted by, the Court.
- Attorney limit
- 1500 words
- Pro se limit
- 5 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters limited to 1,500 words (single-spaced) or 5 pages (handwritten, pro se)
Word/Page Limit. Whether filed electronically or not, letters may not exceed 1,500 words, with single‐spaced text (exclusive of exhibits, headings, captions, and signatures). If filed by a party not represented by an attorney and handwritten, letters may not exceed 5 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 1500 words
- Pro se limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Letter motion
- Spacing
- Single
Letter motions limited to 1,500 words (single-spaced) or 5 pages (handwritten, pro se)
Letter motions are limited to 1,500 words, with single‐spaced text (not including exhibits, headings, captions, or signatures). If filed by a party not represented by an attorney and handwritten, letter motions may not exceed 5 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 1500 words
- Pro se limit
- 1500 words
- Applies to
- Pre motion letter
- Spacing
- Single
Pre-motion conference letters limited to 1,500 words, single-spaced, excluding exhibits/headings/captions/signatures
Letters requesting a pre‐motion conference should summarize the basis of the motion and follow the procedures for communicating with the Court set forth in Section II. Letters may not exceed 1,500 words, with single‐spaced text (not including exhibits, headings, captions, or signatures). If filed by a party not represented by an attorney and
- Attorney limit
- 6500 words
- Attorney limit
- 2500 words
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
Word limits for memoranda of law (6,500/2,500 words) and page limits for pro se parties (25/10 pages)
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 6,500 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 2,500 words, not including the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any required certificates, but do include material contained in footnotes or endnotes. If filed by a party not represented by an attorney, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 2500 words
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Sur reply memorandum
Sur-replies require court permission and are limited to 2,500 words or 10 pages (pro se)
Sur‐reply memoranda will not be accepted without prior permission of the Court, and, if permitted, are not to exceed 2,500 words, or 10 pages if filed by a party not represented by an attorney.
- Limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
- Spacing
- Single
All letters to the Court are limited to 3 single-spaced pages, excluding exhibits.
Letters may not exceed 3 single-space pages in length (exclusive of exhibits).
- Limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter motion
- Spacing
- Single
Letter motions are limited to 3 single-spaced pages (excluding exhibits); responses are due within 3 business days.
Letter motions are limited to 3 single-space pages (not including exhibits). Any responsive letter should be submitted within 3 business days following submission of the letter motion.
- Limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Settlement conference letter
- Spacing
- Single
The pre-settlement conference letter is limited to 5 single-spaced pages, excluding exhibits, unless the Court grants permission for more.
The letter must not exceed 5 pages (single spaced), unless permission has been granted by the Court, but may attach exhibits.
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Deposition
Depositions limited to specified number per party, must be completed by deadline
Depositions shall be completed by and limited to no more than depositions per party. Absent an agreement between the parties or an order from the Court, non-party depositions shall follow initial party depositions.
- Attorney limit
- 1050 words
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to chambers are limited to 1,050 words (excluding attachments).
Letters may not exceed 1,050 words in length, exclusive of attachments, which should be kept to a minimum.
- Attorney limit
- 1050 words
- Applies to
- Letter motion
Letters in opposition and replies are limited to 1,050 words.
Letters in opposition and replies may not exceed 1,050 words in length exclusive of attachments, which should be kept to a minimum.
- Attorney limit
- 4 pages
- Applies to
- Settlement conference letter
Settlement conference letter must be 4 pages or less and include specific content
No later than four business days before the conference, each party must send to the Court and opposing counsel a letter of no longer than four (4) pages marked “Confidential Materials For Use Only At Settlement Conference,” setting forth concisely the following: (1) a discussion of the relevant facts and applicable law, with an emphasis on the issues more pertinent to settlement, including a discussion of liability and damages in the event liability were established; (2) if non‐monetary relief—including a general or specific release of claims—is sought in addition to or instead of money damages, each party must set forth its position as to the provision of such relief; (3) the existence and amount of any lien(s) that may attach to the settlement proceeds; and (4) the history of settlement discussions, including any prior offers or demands.
- Attorney limit
- 15 minutes
- Applies to
- Settlement conference presentation
Settlement conference presentations limited to 10-15 minutes
At the settlement conference, counsel for each side should expect to make a succinct presentation (10–15 minutes) in the presence of all parties and the Court summarizing the to consider for purposes of formulating a settlement position.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Ex parte settlement letter
Ex parte settlement letter limited to 5 pages (with permission for more).
This ex parte letter must not exceed five (5) pages, unless permission to do so has been sought and granted by the Court.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to chambers limited to 5 pages (excluding exhibits) without prior permission.
Letters may not exceed 5 pages, exclusive of exhibits, unless prior permission is received from the Court.
- Applies to
- Letter
Discovery dispute letters limited by the discovery order in the case.
Letters on discovery disputes are limited in length by the discovery order issued in the case.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to chambers are limited to 5 pages (excluding exhibits).
Letters may not exceed 5 pages in length (exclusive of exhibits).
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
Motion memoranda limited to 8,750 words; reply briefs limited to 3,500 words; tables required for briefs 3,500+ words.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply briefs are limited to 3,500 words. Memoranda of 3,500 words or more shall contain a table of contents and a table of authorities.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to chambers are limited to 3 pages (excluding attachments).
Letters may not exceed 3 pages in length, exclusive of attachments, which should be kept to a minimum.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Pro se limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter motion
Discovery Letter-Motions limited to 3 pages (excluding attachments).
Letter-Motions may not exceed 3 pages in length, exclusive of attachments, which should be kept to a minimum, and must clearly set forth the issues in dispute and the relief sought.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Pro se limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Opposition and reply letters limited to 3 pages (excluding attachments).
Letters in opposition and replies may not exceed three pages in length exclusive of attachments, which should be kept to a minimum.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Pre settlement conference letter
Pre-settlement conference letter limited to 5 single-spaced pages
The letter must not exceed 5 pages (single-spaced), unless permission has been granted by the Court.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
Memoranda limited to 25 pages (support/opposition) and 10 pages (reply).
A memorandum of law, in support of or in opposition to any motion, is limited to 25 pages and reply briefs should be no longer than 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to chambers limited to 3 single-spaced pages (excluding exhibits).
Letters may not exceed 3 single-space pages in length (exclusive of exhibits).
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter motion
Letter-Motions limited to 3 pages (excluding attachments).
Letter-Motions may not exceed three (3) pages in length, exclusive of attachments, which should be kept to a minimum.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Motion memoranda limited to 25 pages, reply memoranda to 10 pages without prior permission.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to ten (10) pages.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Pro se limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to chambers are limited to 3 pages (excluding exhibits).
Letters may not exceed three (3) pages, exclusive of exhibits, which should be kept to a minimum.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law limited to 25 pages (support/opposition) and 10 pages (reply); tables required for 10+ pages; formatting per Local Civil Rule 11.1.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages. Memoranda of 10 pages or more must contain a table of contents and a table of authorities. The typeface, margins, and spacing of motion papers must conform to Local Civil Rule 11.1.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Pretrial memorandum of law or trial brief
Pretrial memoranda limited to 25 pages if filed.
If a party believes it would be useful, that party may file a pretrial memorandum of law or trial brief that does not duplicate the issues addressed in any of the other pretrial submissions; pretrial memoranda are limited to 25 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Required
- Always
Letters limited to 3 pages (excluding exhibits/attachments)
Unless prior approval has been granted, no letter (however it is filed) may exceed three pages in length (exclusive of exhibits or attachments).
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Pro se limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
- Font
- 12 pt
Memoranda of law limited to 25 pages; reply memoranda to 10 pages; 12-point font, double-spaced.
Memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages. All memoranda of law shall be in 12-point font or larger and be double-spaced.
- Pro se limit
- 25 pages
- Pro se limit
- 50 pages
- Applies to
- Rule 56.1 statement
Rule 56.1 statements limited to 25 pages (support) or 50 pages (opposition), with leave option.
Any Rule 56.1 statement in support of a motion for summary judgment is limited to no more than 25 pages unless leave of the Court to file a longer document is obtained at least one week prior to the due date of such motion for summary judgment. An opposing party’s response to the moving party’s Rule 56.1 statement shall be no longer than 50 pages, unless leave of the Court to file a longer document is obtained at least one week prior to the due date of such submission.
- Limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
- Font
- 12 pt
- Spacing
- Double
Memoranda of law limited to 25 pages (10 for replies), 12-point font minimum, double-spaced.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages. All memoranda of law shall be in 12-point font or larger and be double-spaced.
- Limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Motion
Rule 56.1 statements limited to 25 pages (moving), 50 pages (opposition), 25 pages (additional facts).
Any Rule 56.1 statement in support of a motion for summary judgment is limited to no more than 25 pages unless leave of the Court to file a longer document is obtained at least one week prior to the due date of such motion for summary judgment. An opposing party's response to the moving party's Rule 56.1 statement shall be no longer than 50 pages, unless leave of the Court to file a longer document is obtained at least one week prior to the due date of such submission. If necessary, the opposing party may provide an additional Local Rule 56.1 statement containing a separate, short and concise statement of additional facts as to which it is contended that there exists a genuine issue to be tried. This submission shall be no longer than 25 pages.
- Limit
- 3 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters may not exceed three pages without prior approval.
Unless prior approval has been granted, no letter (however it is filed) may exceed three pages in length (exclusive of exhibits or attachments).
- Attorney limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
- Spacing
- Double
Letters may not exceed 3 pages (exclusive of exhibits); double-spaced if >1 page.
Letters may not exceed three pages in length (exclusive of exhibits or attachments). Any letter longer than one page must be double spaced.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law limited to 25 pages (support/opposition) and 10 pages (reply) unless permission granted.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Rule 56 1 statement
Rule 56.1 statements limited to 25 pages unless leave obtained at least one week before due date.
Any Rule 56.1 statement in support of a motion for summary judgment is limited to no more than 25 pages unless leave of the Court to file a longer document is obtained at least one week prior to the due date of such motion for summary judgment.
- Attorney limit
- 50 pages
- Applies to
- Rule 56 1 response
Opposing party's Rule 56.1 response limited to 50 pages unless leave granted one week prior.
An opposing party’s response to the moving party’s Rule 56.1 statement shall be no longer than 50 pages, unless leave of the Court to file a longer document is obtained at least one week prior to the due date of such submission.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Additional rule 56 1 statement
Additional Rule 56.1 statement limited to 25 pages.
If necessary, the opposing party may provide an additional Local Rule 56.1 statement containing a separate, short and concise statement of additional facts as to which it is contended that there exists a genuine issue to be tried. This submission shall be no longer than 25 pages.
- Defendant limit
- 50 pages
- Applies to
- Summary judgment memorandum
Defendant's summary judgment memorandum limited to 50 pages.
Defendant shall then submit a motion for summary judgment and a memorandum of law of no more than 50 pages supporting their motion and opposing Plaintiff’s motion. Defendant shall also file any Rule 56.1 statement in support of their motion, and any response to Plaintiff’s Rule 56.1 statement.
- Plaintiff limit
- 35 pages
- Applies to
- Reply memorandum
Plaintiff's reply memorandum limited to 35 pages.
Plaintiff shall then file a memorandum of law of no more than 35 pages opposing Defendant’s motion and replying to Defendant’s opposition to Plaintiff’s motion.
- Defendant limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Reply
Defendant's reply limited to 10 pages.
Defendant shall then file a reply to Plaintiff’s opposition of no more than 10 pages.
- Limit
- 25 pages
- Limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Motion
Motion memoranda limited to 25 pages (support/opposition) and 10 pages (reply) unless leave granted.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages.
- Limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Motion
Rule 56.1 statements supporting summary judgment are limited to 25 pages unless leave obtained one week before due date.
Any Rule 56.1 statement in support of a motion for summary judgment is limited to no more than 25 pages unless leave of the Court to file a longer document is obtained at least one week prior to the due date of such motion for summary judgment.
- Limit
- 50 pages
- Applies to
- Opposition
Opposing party's response to Rule 56.1 statement limited to 50 pages unless leave obtained one week before due date.
An opposing party's response to the moving party's Rule 56.1 statement shall be no longer than 50 pages, unless leave of the Court to file a longer document is obtained at least one week prior to the due date of such submission.
- Limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
Additional Rule 56.1 statement of separate facts limited to 25 pages.
If necessary, the opposing party may provide an additional Local Rule 56.1 statement containing a separate, short and concise statement of additional facts as to which it is contended that there exists a genuine issue to be tried. This submission shall be no longer than 25 pages.
- Limit
- 2 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Pre-motion letter for early summary judgment motion limited to 2 pages.
To arrange a pre-motion conference, the moving party shall submit a letter of not more than two pages setting forth the basis for the anticipated motion and explaining why exceptional circumstances justify submitting it before discovery closes.
- Limit
- 50 pages
- Applies to
- Motion
Defendant's combined summary judgment motion and opposition memorandum limited to 50 pages.
Defendant shall then submit a motion for summary judgment and a memorandum of law of no more than 50 pages supporting their motion and opposing Plaintiff's motion.
- Limit
- 35 pages
- Applies to
- Brief
Plaintiff's opposition and reply memorandum limited to 35 pages.
Plaintiff shall then file a memorandum of law of no more than 35 pages opposing Defendant's motion and replying to Defendant's opposition to Plaintiff's motion.
- Limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Reply
Defendant's reply to plaintiff's opposition limited to 10 pages.
Defendant shall then file a reply to Plaintiff's opposition of no more than 10 pages.
- Limit
- 2 pages
- Applies to
- Diversity jurisdiction letter
Diversity jurisdiction cases require letter no longer than 2 pages explaining basis for diversity jurisdiction, filed before Initial Pretrial Conference.
In any action in which subject matter jurisdiction is founded on diversity of citizenship pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1332, the party asserting the existence of such jurisdiction shall, prior to the Initial Pretrial Conference, submit to the Court a letter no longer than two pages explaining the basis for that party's belief that diversity of citizenship exists.
- Attorney limit
- 15 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Exhibit
Exhibits limited to 15 pages (except complaint).
Each exhibit – other than the complaint – is limited to fifteen pages.
- Attorney limit
- 25 pages
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law limited to 25 pages, reply memoranda to 10 pages.
Unless prior permission has been granted, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 25 pages, and reply memoranda are limited to 10 pages.
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Affidavit
- Spacing
- Double
Affidavits limited to 10 double-spaced pages.
Affidavits may not exceed ten double-spaced pages.
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Pretrial memorandum
Pretrial memorandum limited to 10 pages.
a pretrial memorandum, not to exceed 10 pages.
- Applies to
- Trial proceeding
Time limits imposed in civil cases at final pretrial conference, covering opening statements and witness examinations but not jury selection or summations.
In most civil cases, the Court will impose time limits on both sides at the final prehearing or pretrial conference. The parties’ opening statements (in civil jury trials) and examinations of witnesses will count against their time; lengthy colloquies before the jury will be split down the middle. The time limits do not apply to jury selection or to summations; the Court may impose separate time limits for summations. The parties should be prepared to address the issue of time limits at the final prehearing or pretrial conference.
- Limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters are limited to 3 pages unless otherwise ordered.
Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, letters may not exceed three pages in length.
- Limit
- 10 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters (including exhibits) are limited to 10 pages.
Whether filed electronically or not, letters (together with any related exhibits) may not exceed 10 pages in length.
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law subject to S.D.N.Y. Local Civil Rules limits; 10+ page memos need TOC.
Unless prior permission has been granted, the word and page limits set forth in the S.D.N.Y. Local Civil Rules apply to all memoranda of law. Memoranda of ten pages or more shall contain a table of contents.
- Attorney limit
- 6 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
- Spacing
- Double
Responsive letter to discovery dispute limited to 6 double-spaced pages
The opposing party must promptly file any responsive letter, which shall not exceed six double-spaced pages.
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Pretrial memorandum
Pretrial memoranda limited to 3,500 words (optional); opposition limited to 3,500 words filed within 7 days.
File and serve a pretrial memorandum of law no longer than 3,500 words in cases where a party believes it would be useful to the Court. Opposition to any pretrial memorandum, if any, may be no longer than 3,500 words and filed and served within seven days of any opening memoranda;
- Attorney limit
- 10 minutes
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Opening statement
Opening statements limited to 10 minutes unless case is unusually complex.
Unless the case is unusually complex, each party will be limited to 10 minutes.
- Attorney limit
- 0 time
- Applies to
- Trial
Time limits will be imposed at final prehearing/pretrial conference in most civil cases.
In most civil cases, the Court will impose time limits on both sides at the final prehearing or pretrial conference. The parties should be prepared to address the issue of time limits at the final prehearing or pretrial conference.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to chambers limited to 5 pages unless otherwise ordered
Unless the Court orders otherwise, letters may not exceed five (5) pages in length.
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters should generally not exceed 5 pages in length.
Unless otherwise ordered by the Court or in exceptional circumstances, letters should generally not exceed five pages in length.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Court may grant exceptions to page limits only in rare, complex cases.
The Court will entertain written requests for exceptions to these page limitations only in rare cases where the facts and issues are particularly complex.
- Limit
- 25 pages
- Applies to
- Pretrial order
Pretrial memoranda are limited to 25 pages.
pretrial memoranda are limited to 25 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Deposition
Deposition limit per party (number unspecified).
Neither party may take more than depositions. Absent an agreement between the parties or an order from the Court, non-party depositions shall follow initial party depositions.
- Attorney limit
- 0 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Discovery dispute letters limited by case-specific discovery order.
Letters on discovery disputes are limited in length by the discovery order issued in the case.
- Attorney limit
- 0 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Memoranda of law exceeding length limits require prior permission.
Memoranda of law may only exceed the length limitations set forth under Local Civil Rule 7.1 if prior permission has been granted.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Applies to
- Pretrial memorandum
Non-jury cases may file pretrial memoranda up to 8,750 words.
In non‐jury cases, where ordered by the Court, parties must file proposed findings of fact and statements of law. If the parties believe it would be useful, they may file pretrial memoranda limited to 8,750 words.
- Limit
- 3 pages
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters filed on ECF are limited to 3 pages, excluding exhibits and attachments.
Letters may not exceed three pages in length (exclusive of exhibits or attachments).
- Limit
- 0 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Brief
No page limits for briefs.
The Court does not impose a page limit for briefs.
- Limit
- 99999 pages
No page limit imposed for briefs.
The Court does not impose a page limit for briefs.
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Word limits exclude caption, index, TOC, TOA, signature blocks, certificates but include footnotes
These limits do not include the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any required certificates, but they do include material contained in footnotes or endnotes.
- Pro se limit
- 45 pages
- Applies to
- Pretrial order
Pro se cases require separate pre-trial orders from pro se and represented parties; due 45 days after discovery deadline.
In cases involving pro se parties, the pro se party and parties represented by counsel file separate Pre-Trial Orders and related papers. All such papers are due forty-five days after the expiration of the discovery deadline.
- Attorney limit
- 10 pages
- Required
- Always
- Applies to
- Letter
Letters to Court (with exhibits) limited to 10 pages.
Whether filed electronically or not, letters (together with any related exhibits) may not exceed ten pages in length.
- Attorney limit
- 0 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
No page or word limits for memoranda of law in criminal cases.
E. Memoranda of Law in Criminal Cases. There is no limitation with regard to pages or words for memoranda of law in criminal cases.
- Attorney limit
- 14 panelists
- Applies to
- Civil jury selection
Civil cases: 14 panelists for 8-person jury with 3 peremptory challenges per side.
Thus, in a civil case with an 8-person jury and 3 peremptory challenges per side, the Court will voir dire 14 panelists. See Fed. R. Civ. P. 47, 48; 28 U.S.C. § 1870.
- Attorney limit
- 32 panelists
- Applies to
- Criminal jury selection
Criminal cases: 32 panelists for 12-person jury with 2 alternates and standard peremptory challenges.
In a single-defendant criminal case in which the defendant has 10 and the Government 6 peremptory challenges, plus 1 each with respect to alternates, see Fed. R. Crim. P. 24, we will voir dire 32 panelists (12 jurors + 2 alternates + 10 peremptories for defendant + 6 peremptories for the Government + 1 peremptory for defendant for the alternates + 1 peremptory for the Government for the alternates).
- Attorney limit
- 5 pages
- Applies to
- Letter brief
Expedited procedure allows 5-page letter-briefs for discrete dispositive issues.
In the event that a discrete issue of law arises in a case that may be dispositive of a particular claim or defense, or of the entire action, upon agreement on motion by the parties, or as ordered by the Court, the issue presented may be resolved by the Court on the basis of submissions of letter-briefs not to exceed five pages for each party without necessity for any further documentation, unless the Court so requests or grants leave therefor.
- Attorney limit
- 8750 words
- Attorney limit
- 3500 words
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
Word limits exclude caption, index, TOC, TOA, signature blocks, certificates; include footnotes.
These limits do not include the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any required certificates, but do include material contained in footnotes or endnotes.
- Limit
- 0 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
No page/word limits on memoranda of law, but those over 10 pages must include a table of contents.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Local Rule 7.1 (c) to the contrary, the Court does not impose page or word count limitations on memoranda of law. Nonetheless, a party should make every effort to eliminate repetitive or unnecessary mater from memoranda so as not to unnecessarily burden the Court. Memoranda of more than 10 pages shall contain a table of contents.
- Attorney limit
- 0 pages
- Pro se limit
- 0 pages
- Applies to
- Memorandum of law
No page/word limits on memoranda of law, but >10 pages requires table of contents.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Local Rule 7.1 (c) to the contrary, the Court does not impose page or word count limitations on memoranda of law. Nonetheless, a party should make every effort to eliminate repetitive or unnecessary mater from memoranda so as not to unnecessarily burden the Court. Memoranda of more than 10 pages shall contain a table of contents.
What page or word limits apply to memorandum of law in Southern District of New York?
Southern District of New York's rule states these limits: 25 pages; 10 pages. Memoranda of law (support/opposition) limited to 25 pages, reply memoranda to 10 pages, all double-spaced.
What page or word limits apply to letter in Southern District of New York?
Southern District of New York's rule states these limits: 3 pages. Excludes exhibits. Letters to court must not exceed 3 pages (excluding exhibits) and must comply with Local Rule 11.1(b) formatting.
What page or word limits apply to reply memorandum in Southern District of New York?
Southern District of New York's rule states these limits: 25 pages; 10 pages. Memoranda of law limited to 25 pages, reply memoranda to 10 pages.
What page or word limits apply to memorandum of law in Southern District of New York?
Southern District of New York's rule states these limits: 25 pages; 10 pages. Memoranda of law limited to 25 pages (support/opposition) and 10 pages (reply), except reconsideration motions.
What page or word limits apply to in limine motion in Southern District of New York?
Southern District of New York's rule states these limits: 5 pages. In limine motions limited to 5 pages with supporting affidavit.
What page or word limits apply to in limine response in Southern District of New York?
Southern District of New York's rule states these limits: 5 pages. In limine motion responses limited to 5 pages.
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