Court Rules

Communication

Email
rebecca.moneyhon@txcourts.gov
Phone
(325) 347-0755
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Document Format Requirements9 rules

FormattingMandatory

Mark exhibits with the county, cause number, unique exhibit number and short description.

notice of hearing with protocolscivil feb 23 · p. 2
|Section452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE
FormattingMandatory

Use PDF for documents, JPG and PNG for images, and MP4 for videos. No DOC formats, zipped or archived files, or executable files will be accepted. A Dropbox may be required for large files.

notice of hearing with protocolscivil feb 23 · p. 2
|Section452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE
FormattingMandatory

In-person participants must bring their exhibits to the courtroom.

452nd judicial district protocols for court appearance · Feb 2023 · p. 1
|Section452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE
FormattingMandatory

Represented parties will submit their exhibits in digital form, as described above or on a USB thumb drive.

452nd judicial district protocols for court appearance · Feb 2023 · p. 1
|Section452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE
FormattingMandatory

Mark exhibits with the county, cause number, unique exhibit number and short description.

452nd judicial district protocols for court appearance · Feb 2023 · p. 1
|Section452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE
FormattingMandatory

Use PDF for documents, JPG and PNG for images, and MP4 for videos. No DOC formats, zipped or archived files, or executable files will be accepted.

Formatting

  • Documents must be PDF
  • Images must be JPG or PNG
  • Videos must be MP4
452nd judicial district protocols for court appearance · Feb 2023 · p. 1
|Section452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE
FormattingMandatory

Use PDF for documents, JPG and PNG for images, and MP4 for videos. No DOC formats, zipped or archived files, or executable files will be accepted. A Dropbox may be required for large files.

order setting hearing with protocolscivil feb 23 · p. 2
|Section452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE
FormattingMandatory

In-person participants must bring their exhibits to the courtroom. Represented parties will submit their exhibits in digital form, as described above or on a USB thumb drive.

order setting hearing with protocolscivil feb 23 · p. 2
|Section452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE
FormattingImportant

A Dropbox may be required for large files.

452nd judicial district protocols for court appearance · Feb 2023 · p. 1
|Section452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE

Document Filing Requirements52 rules

Filing RequirementsMandatory

In-person participants must bring their exhibits to the courtroom. Represented parties will submit their exhibits in digital form, as described above or on a USB thumb drive.

notice of hearing with protocolscivil feb 23 · p. 2
|Section452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE
Filing RequirementsMandatory

If setting a case for jury trial, an Agreed Scheduling Order shall be submitted to the Court. All Parties shall agree on the Scheduling Order and only in the event said agreement cannot be reached shall the parties set a hearing before the Court to enter a Scheduling Order.

452nd Local Rules · p. 2
|SectionREQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES: Jury Trial
Filing RequirementsMandatory

If item g. (1) in the Request for Setting is applicable, please send an Order Setting with an agreed hearing date and the Court will set a pre-trial hearing.

452nd Local Rules · p. 2
|SectionREQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES: Jury Trial
Filing RequirementsMandatory

A setting for trial on the merits will be made in response to a written Request for Setting submitted directly to the Court Coordinator at the Mason County Office. The party requesting a setting should not file the Request for Setting with the Clerk.

452nd Local Rules · p. 2
|SectionREQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES: Jury Trial
Filing RequirementsMandatory

At the time the parties announce ready, each party shall submit to the Court proposed jury questions.

452nd Local Rules · p. 2
|SectionREQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES: Jury Trial
Filing RequirementsMandatory

A jury-trial Request for Setting must include the listed case, counsel, readiness, mediation, discovery, pretrial, settlement, trial-date, service-certificate, and signature information.

Court's wording

The Request for Setting shall contain the following: - a. The style and number of the case and the county where the case is pending; - b. The name, address and telephone number of the attorney making the request and the party represented; - c. The date on which the jury fee was paid; - d. A statement that the pleadings of the party requesting the setting are in order; - e. A statement that mediation has been completed or none is required. - (1) Pending mediation, all discovery is abated unless otherwise ordered by the Court. - f. A statement that all discovery has been completed or none is desired. - (1) If discovery is pending, the date on which discovery is expected to be completed; - g. A statement that all pre-trial matters have been disposed of or none is pending. - (1) If pre-trial matters are pending, the request for setting shall state the nature of same, the party asserting same, the estimated time for hearing same and possible dates for a pre-trial hearing which have been cleared with opposing counsel; - h. A statement that the party requesting the setting has made a good-faith effort to negotiate a settlement of the case and further efforts appear futile; - i. Possible dates for the trial of the case which have been cleared with opposing counsel. - (1) If opposing counsel will not agree to a date for trial, the dates proposed and the reason for opposing counsel's refusal to agree to same; - j. The estimated time of trial; - k. A certificate that a copy of the Request for Setting has been served on all counsel in the case, the name and address of each attorney and the date of service; - l. The signature of the attorney making the Request;

452nd Local Rules · p. 2
|SectionREQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES: Jury Trial
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Once you have an agreed date, fill that date in on your Order Setting and forward both your Motion and Order, along with a statement that the date is an agreed date, to the Court Coordinator for entry with the Court.

452nd Local Rules · p. 2
|SectionREQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES: Jury Trial
Filing RequirementsMandatory

- a. A setting will be made only in response to a proper written Request for Setting.

452nd Local Rules · p. 3
|SectionB. REQUEST FOR SETTINGS – NON-JURY CONTESTED CASES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

At the end of all MOTIONS, please include the opposing counsel's name, address, phone number and fax number under the Certificate of Service. Please do not put "...a copy has been sent to all opposing counsel." (This will let the Court know who the attorneys are since we do not have immediate access to all files in every county).

Document
Motion
Placement
Certificate section

Include

  • Certificate of service
452nd Local Rules · p. 3
|SectionB. REQUEST FOR SETTINGS – NON-JURY CONTESTED CASES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

At the bottom of all ORDER SETTINGS, please list all the parties who need to be notified. If the parties are represented by attorneys, please list the attorney's fax numbers. If they are pro se litigants, please give their addresses.

452nd Local Rules · p. 3
|SectionB. REQUEST FOR SETTINGS – NON-JURY CONTESTED CASES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

An application for a TRO or Protective Order without notice must be accompanied by a verified complaint or affidavit; testimony will not be heard except for an 83.06 Family Code Motion.

Court's wording

- 1. An application for a Temporary Restraining Order and/or Protective Order, to be granted without notice to the adverse party, will be considered only upon the application's verified complaint or affidavit accompanying the application, and, except for an 83.06 Family Code Motion, no testimony will be heard.

452nd Local Rules · p. 4
|SectionE. TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDERS AND PROTECTIVE ORDERS
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Counsel must attach the Appendix 1 standing order to the original citation in divorce and parent-child-relationship suits.

Court's wording

- 2. The "Standing Order Regarding Property and Conduct of Parties in Divorce and Suits Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship" attached hereto as Appendix 1, is to be attached by counsel to the original citation in all suits of divorce and suits affecting the parent-child relationship.

452nd Local Rules · p. 4
|SectionE. TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDERS AND PROTECTIVE ORDERS
Filing RequirementsMandatory

When presenting an ex parte application, counsel must certify in writing whether the opposing party is unrepresented or, if represented, that counsel was notified or diligent notice attempts were unsuccessful and further efforts are impracticable.

Court's wording

Counsel presenting any application for an ex parte Order shall, at the time the application is presented to the Court, certify in writing that: - 1. To the best of counsel's knowledge, the party against who the relief is sought is not represented by counsel; or - 2. If the party against whom the relief is sought is represented by counsel, that (a) such counsel has been notified of the application and does not wish to be heard by the Court thereon; or (b) counsel presenting the application has diligently attempted to notify opposing counsel, has been unable to do so, and the circumstances do not permit additional efforts to give such notice.

452nd Local Rules · p. 4
|SectionF. APPLICATION FOR EX PARTE ORDERS
Filing RequirementsMandatory

To obtain a TRO or Protective Order without notice, the accompanying verified complaint or affidavit must state specific facts and plainly and intelligibly state the grounds for relief.

Court's wording

No Temporary Restraining Order or Protective Order will be granted without notice to the adverse party unless the applicant's verified complaint or affidavit accompanying the application contains "specific facts," as required by Rule 680, T.R.C.P., and "a plain and intelligible statement of the grounds for such relief," as required by Rule 682, T.R.C.P.

452nd Local Rules · p. 4
|SectionE. TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDERS AND PROTECTIVE ORDERS
Filing RequirementsMandatory

No such Temporary Restraining Order shall be granted upon a complaint or affidavit containing mere conclusions, even if verified.

452nd Local Rules · p. 4
|SectionE. TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDERS AND PROTECTIVE ORDERS
Filing RequirementsMandatory

- b. Send an Order Resetting with a cover letter advising the Coordinator of the agreed upon date.

452nd Local Rules · p. 4
|SectionA. CONTINUANCES/RESETTING/POSTPONEMENT
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Ex Parte Orders in family law matters must meet the requirements of Sec. 11.11 & 71.15 of the Family Code.

452nd Local Rules · p. 4
|SectionE. TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDERS AND PROTECTIVE ORDERS
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Court-appointed attorneys must provide an itemized statement of hours spent representing the indigent defendant in and out of court.

Court's wording

All court-appointed attorneys shall provide the Court an itemized statement reflecting the number of hours spent in Court in representation of an indigent defendant and the number of hours spent out of the Court representing said defendant.

452nd Local Rules · p. 5
|SectionC. PAYMENT OF COURT-APPOINTED ATTORNEYS
Filing RequirementsMandatory

The attorneys in all contested hearings concerning support shall prepare complete written income and expense statements as to their respective clients and present same to the Court prior to the hearing.

452nd Local Rules · p. 6
|SectionFAMILY LAW CASES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

In all contested cases involving the division of property where value of assets in dispute exceeds $250,000, the attorneys shall prepare a complete written inventory of the assets and liabilities of the marital estate and of the separate estate of their respective client and submit same to the Court prior to trial.

452nd Local Rules · p. 6
|SectionFAMILY LAW CASES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Judgments, decrees, and orders must be reduced to writing, forwarded to opposing counsel for approval as to form, and delivered to the Court for signing.

Court's wording

Within sixty (60) days after rendition, announcement of the Court's ruling or announcements of settlement by counsel, counsel shall cause all judgments, decrees or orders of any kind to be reduced to writing, forwarded to opposing counsel for approval as to form, and delivered to the Court for signing.

452nd Local Rules · p. 6
|SectionORDERS AND DECREES — 1. Reduction to Writing within Sixty (60) Days
Filing RequirementsMandatory

If the parties cannot agree on an ADR referral, one party must give the Court written notice that coordination efforts failed; the Court then enters a referral order without a hearing.

Court's wording

If the parties are unable to cooperate or agree to a referral of such issues to an ADR procedure, then upon written notification to the Court by one of the parties that efforts to coordinate a referral have been unsuccessful, the Court, without a hearing, shall enter an Order of Referral to an ADR procedure under such terms and conditions selected by the Court.

452nd Local Rules · p. 6
|SectionALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION — 3. Manner of Referral
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Submit an Order Setting to the Court with a Request for Setting when obtaining a trial date or a letter when obtaining a pre-trial date, stating the date the parties have agreed to.

452nd Local Rules · p. 7
|SectionGENERAL RULES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

ALWAYS ADVISE THE COURT IN YOUR REQUEST OR COVER LETTER THAT YOU HAVE CONTACTED THE OPPOSING COUNSEL AND THAT THEY ARE AVAILABLE FOR HEARING ON THE DATE YOU HAVE REQUESTED.

452nd Local Rules · p. 7
|SectionGENERAL RULES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

At the time the parties announce ready, each party shall submit to the Court proposed jury questions.

452nd Local Rules · p. 2
|SectionA. REQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

The Request for Setting shall contain the following: - a. The style and number of the case and the county where the case is pending; - b. The name, address and telephone number of the attorney making the request and the party represented; - c. The date on which the jury fee was paid; - d. A statement that the pleadings of the party requesting the setting are in order; - e. A statement that mediation has been completed or none is required. - (1) Pending mediation, all discovery is abated unless otherwise ordered by the Court. - f. A statement that all discovery has been completed or none is desired. - (1) If discovery is pending, the date on which discovery is expected to be completed; - g. A statement that all pre-trial matters have been disposed of or none is pending. - (1) If pre-trial matters are pending, the request for setting shall state the nature of same, the party asserting same, the estimated time for hearing same and possible dates for a pre-trial hearing which have been cleared with opposing counsel; - h. A statement that the party requesting the setting has made a good-faith effort to negotiate a settlement of the case and further efforts appear futile; - i. Possible dates for the trial of the case which have been cleared with opposing counsel. - (1) If opposing counsel will not agree to a date for trial, the dates proposed and the reason for opposing counsel's refusal to agree to same; - j. The estimated time of trial; - k. A certificate that a copy of the Request for Setting has been served on all counsel in the case, the name and address of each attorney and the date of service; - l. The signature of the attorney making the Request; - m. An Order Setting with an agreed date should be attached to the Request.

Document
Request for setting

Must include

  • Case number
452nd Local Rules · p. 2
|SectionA. REQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Once you have an agreed date, fill that date in on your Order Setting and forward both your Motion and Order, along with a statement that the date is an agreed date, to the Court Coordinator for entry with the Court.

452nd Local Rules · p. 2
|SectionA. REQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

For a jury trial, submit an Agreed Scheduling Order that all parties have agreed to; if they cannot agree, set a hearing before the Court to enter the order.

Court's wording

If setting a case for jury trial, an Agreed Scheduling Order shall be submitted to the Court. All Parties shall agree on the Scheduling Order and only in the event said agreement cannot be reached shall the parties set a hearing before the Court to enter a Scheduling Order.

452nd Local Rules · p. 2
|SectionA. REQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

At the end of all MOTIONS, please include the opposing counsel's name, address, phone number and fax number under the Certificate of Service. Please do not put "...a copy has been sent to all opposing counsel."

Document
Motion

Include

  • Certificate of service
452nd Local Rules · p. 3
|SectionB. REQUEST FOR SETTINGS – NON-JURY CONTESTED CASES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

At the bottom of all ORDER SETTINGS, please list all the parties who need to be notified. If the parties are represented by attorneys, please list the attorney's fax numbers. If they are pro se litigants, please give their addresses.

452nd Local Rules · p. 3
|SectionB. REQUEST FOR SETTINGS – NON-JURY CONTESTED CASES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

The contents of the Request for Setting shall be the same as a Request for Setting for jury trial except for Item C.

452nd Local Rules · p. 3
|SectionB. REQUEST FOR SETTINGS – NON-JURY CONTESTED CASES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

- a. A setting will be made only in response to a proper written Request for Setting.

452nd Local Rules · p. 3
|SectionB. REQUEST FOR SETTINGS – NON-JURY CONTESTED CASES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Counsel must attach Appendix 1 to the original citation in divorce and parent-child relationship suits; the order remains in effect during the suit unless the Court modifies or sets it aside.

Court's wording

The "Standing Order Regarding Property and Conduct of Parties in Divorce and Suits Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship" attached hereto as Appendix 1, is to be attached by counsel to the original citation in all suits of divorce and suits affecting the parent-child relationship. The Order attached as Appendix 1 will remain in effect through the pendency of a suit unless specifically modified or set aside by the Court.

452nd Local Rules · p. 4
|SectionE. TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDERS AND PROTECTIVE ORDERS
Filing RequirementsMandatory

An application for a without-notice Temporary Restraining or Protective Order must include a verified complaint or accompanying affidavit with specific facts and a plain, intelligible statement of grounds; testimony is not heard except for an 83.06 Family Code Motion, and mere conclusions are insufficient.

Court's wording

An application for a Temporary Restraining Order and/or Protective Order, to be granted without notice to the adverse party, will be considered only upon the application's verified complaint or affidavit accompanying the application, and, except for an 83.06 Family Code Motion, no testimony will be heard. No Temporary Restraining Order or Protective Order will be granted without notice to the adverse party unless the applicant's verified complaint or affidavit accompanying the application contains "specific facts," as required by Rule 680, T.R.C.P., and "a plain and intelligible statement of the grounds for such relief," as required by Rule 682, T.R.C.P. No such Temporary Restraining Order shall be granted upon a complaint or affidavit containing mere conclusions, even if verified.

452nd Local Rules · p. 4
|SectionE. TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDERS AND PROTECTIVE ORDERS
Filing RequirementsMandatory

When presenting an ex parte application, counsel must certify in writing whether the opposing party is unrepresented or, if represented, the applicable notice or diligent-attempt circumstances.

Court's wording

Counsel presenting any application for an ex parte Order shall, at the time the application is presented to the Court, certify in writing that: - 1. To the best of counsel's knowledge, the party against who the relief is sought is not represented by counsel; or - 2. If the party against whom the relief is sought is represented by counsel, that (a) such counsel has been notified of the application and does not wish to be heard by the Court thereon; or (b) counsel presenting the application has diligently attempted to notify opposing counsel, has been unable to do so, and the circumstances do not permit additional efforts to give such notice.

452nd Local Rules · p. 4
|SectionF. APPLICATION FOR EX PARTE ORDERS
Filing RequirementsMandatory

- b. Send an Order Resetting with a cover letter advising the Coordinator of the agreed upon date.

452nd Local Rules · p. 4
|SectionCRIMINAL CASES — A. CONTINUANCES/RESETTING/POSTPONEMENT
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Court-appointed attorneys must provide the Court an itemized statement of hours spent representing the indigent defendant in and out of Court.

Court's wording

All court-appointed attorneys shall provide the Court an itemized statement reflecting the number of hours spent in Court in representation of an indigent defendant and the number of hours spent out of the Court representing said defendant.

452nd Local Rules · p. 5
|SectionC. PAYMENT OF COURT-APPOINTED ATTORNEYS
Filing RequirementsMandatory

In all contested cases involving the division of property where value of assets in dispute exceeds $250,000, the attorneys shall prepare a complete written inventory of the assets and liabilities of the marital estate and of the separate estate of their respective client and submit same to the Court prior to trial.

452nd Local Rules · p. 6
|SectionFAMILY LAW CASES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

The attorneys in all contested hearings concerning support shall prepare complete written income and expense statements as to their respective clients and present same to the Court prior to the hearing.

452nd Local Rules · p. 6
|SectionFAMILY LAW CASES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Within sixty (60) days after rendition, announcement of the Court's ruling or announcements of settlement by counsel, counsel shall cause all judgments, decrees or orders of any kind to be reduced to writing, forwarded to opposing counsel for approval as to form, and delivered to the Court for signing.

452nd Local Rules · p. 6
|SectionORDERS AND DECREES: 1. Reduction to Writing within Sixty (60) Days
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Submit an Order Setting to the Court with a Request for Setting when obtaining a trial date or a letter when obtaining a pre-trial date, stating the date the parties have agreed to.

452nd Local Rules · p. 7
|SectionGENERAL RULES
Filing RequirementsMandatory

ALWAYS ADVISE THE COURT IN YOUR REQUEST OR COVER LETTER THAT YOU HAVE CONTACTED THE OPPOSING COUNSEL AND THAT THEY ARE AVAILABLE FOR HEARING ON THE DATE YOU HAVE REQUESTED.

452nd Local Rules · p. 7
|SectionGENERAL RULES
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

The petitioner must attach a copy of the order to the original petition and each copy; if the petitioner does not, the clerk must ensure the copies include it when the petition is filed.

Court's wording

7.1 The Petitioner shall attach a copy of this order to the original petition and to each copy of the petition. At the time the petition is filed, if the Petitioner has failed to attach a copy of this Order to the petition and any copy of the petition, the Clerk shall ensure that a copy of this Order is attached to the petition and every copy of the petition presented.

452nd Standing Orders · Sep 2014 · p. 3
|SectionSERVICE AND APPLICATION OF THIS ORDER
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Mark exhibits with the county, cause number, unique exhibit number and short description.

order setting hearing with protocolscivil feb 23 · p. 2
|Section452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

The Petitioner must attach this order to the original petition and every copy; if the Petitioner fails, the Clerk must ensure it is attached when the petition is filed.

Court's wording

The Petitioner shall attach a copy of this order to the original petition and to each copy of the petition. At the time the petition is filed, if the Petitioner has failed to attach a copy of this Order to the petition and any copy of the petition, the Clerk shall ensure that a copy of this Order is attached to the petition and every copy of the petition presented.

452nd Standing Orders · Sep 2014 · p. 3
|Section7. SERVICE AND APPLICATION OF THIS ORDER.
Filing RequirementsImportant

An Order Setting with an agreed date should be attached to the Request.

452nd Local Rules · p. 2
|SectionREQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES: Jury Trial
Filing RequirementsImportant

Submit a written Request for Setting directly to the Court Coordinator, not the Clerk; its contents should match the jury-trial request except for Item C.

Court's wording

A setting for trial on the merits will be made in response to a written Request for Setting submitted directly to the Court Coordinator at the Mason County Office. The party requesting a setting should not file the Request for Setting with the Clerk. The contents of the Request for Setting shall be the same as a Request for Setting for jury trial except for Item C.

452nd Local Rules · p. 3
|SectionB. REQUEST FOR SETTINGS – NON-JURY CONTESTED CASES
Filing RequirementsImportant

An Order Paying Court-Appointed Attorney should be attached to the itemized statement.

452nd Local Rules · p. 5
|SectionC. PAYMENT OF COURT-APPOINTED ATTORNEYS
Filing RequirementsImportant

- m. An Order Setting with an agreed date should be attached to the Request.

452nd Local Rules · p. 2
|SectionA. REQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES
Filing RequirementsImportant

An Order Paying Court-Appointed Attorney should be attached to the itemized statement.

452nd Local Rules · p. 5
|SectionC. PAYMENT OF COURT-APPOINTED ATTORNEYS: 1
Filing RequirementsNote

An Order Setting need not be sent for the listed uncontested matters, which can be scheduled by phone with the Court Coordinator.

Court's wording

- 1. When requesting a setting for uncontested/agreed divorces, defaults, name changes or adoptions, you do not need to send an Order Setting. These matters can be set over the phone by contacting the Court Coordinator.

452nd Local Rules · p. 3
|SectionD. UNCONTESTED AND DEFAULT MATTERS
Filing RequirementsNote

When requesting a setting for uncontested/agreed divorces, defaults, name changes or adoptions, you do not need to send an Order Setting.

452nd Local Rules · p. 3
|SectionD. UNCONTESTED AND DEFAULT MATTERS

Filing & Service rules

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

In non-family civil matters, failure to take action directed toward trial on the merits within nine months may result in dismissal for want of prosecution.

If no action is taken by a party seeking affirmative relief in non-family civil matters within nine (9) months directed toward a trial on the merits, the Court will proceed to dismiss the case for want of prosecution in accordance with Rule 165a, R.C.P.

Page 3 | C. DISMISSAL DOCKET: INVOLUNTARY DISMISSAL

Uncontested family law matters are subject to dismissal for want of prosecution after 90 days if no affirmative action is taken.

Uncontested family law matters will be subject to DISWOP after 90 days if no affirmation action is taken.

Page 3 | C. DISMISSAL DOCKET: INVOLUNTARY DISMISSAL

Contested family law matters are subject to dismissal for want of prosecution after 180 days.

Contested family law matters will be subject to DISWOP after 180 days.

Page 3 | C. DISMISSAL DOCKET: INVOLUNTARY DISMISSAL

Within 60 days after rendition, announcement of the Court’s ruling, or counsel’s announcement of settlement, counsel must prepare judgments, decrees, or orders in writing, forward them to opposing counsel for approval as to form, and deliver them to the Court for signing.

Within sixty (60) days after rendition, announcement of the Court's ruling or announcements of settlement by counsel, counsel shall cause all judgments, decrees or orders of any kind to be reduced to writing, forwarded to opposing counsel for approval as to form, and delivered to the Court for signing.

Page 6 | ORDERS AND DECREES — 1. Reduction to Writing within Sixty (60) Days

A judgment, order, or decree disposing of the case must be furnished within 60 days; otherwise, the case goes on the next dismissal docket and may be dismissed, with costs assessed at the Court’s discretion.

Upon failing to furnish the Court with a judgment, order or decree disposing of the case within the sixty (60) day period, the Court shall place the case on the next regularly scheduled dismissal docket, whereupon the case may be dismissed and costs be taxed at the Court's discretion.

Page 7 | DISMISSAL DOCKET: INVOLUNTARY DISMISSAL

Counsel must complete the specified written-order, opposing-counsel approval, and Court-delivery steps within 60 days after the stated ruling or settlement announcement.

Within sixty (60) days after rendition, announcement of the Court's ruling or announcements of settlement by counsel, counsel shall cause all judgments, decrees or orders of any kind to be reduced to writing, forwarded to opposing counsel for approval as to form, and delivered to the Court for signing.

Page 6 | ORDERS AND DECREES: 1. Reduction to Writing within Sixty (60) Days

A judgment, order, or decree disposing of the case is to be furnished to the Court within 60 days; otherwise, the Court shall place the case on the next regularly scheduled dismissal docket, where it may dismiss the case and tax costs at its discretion.

Upon failing to furnish the Court with a judgment, order or decree disposing of the case within the sixty (60) day period, the Court shall place the case on the next regularly scheduled dismissal docket, whereupon the case may be dismissed and costs be taxed at the Court's discretion.

Page 7 | 2. Dismissal if Written Order Not Furnished

The order takes effect when the original petition is filed, remains a temporary restraining order for 14 days, continues as a temporary injunction if no party contests it at a hearing by then, and terminates when the court signs a final order.

7.2 This Order is effective upon the filing of the original petition and shall remain in full force and effect as a Temporary Restraining Order for fourteen (14) days after the date of the filing of the original petition. If no party contests this Order by presenting evidence at a hearing on or before fourteen (14) days after the date of the filing of the original petition, this Order shall continue in full force and effect as a Temporary Injunction until further Order of the Court. This entire Order will terminate and will no longer be effective once the Court signs a final Order.

Civil cases

Page 3 | SERVICE AND APPLICATION OF THIS ORDER

Contested family law matters are subject to dismissal for want of prosecution after 180 days.

Contested family law matters will be subject to DISWOP after 180 days.

Page 3 | C. DISMISSAL DOCKET: INVOLUNTARY DISMISSAL

Uncontested family law matters are subject to dismissal for want of prosecution after 90 days if no affirmative action is taken.

Uncontested family law matters will be subject to DISWOP after 90 days if no affirmation action is taken.

Page 3 | C. DISMISSAL DOCKET: INVOLUNTARY DISMISSAL

In non-family civil matters, failure to take action directed toward trial on the merits within nine months may result in dismissal for want of prosecution.

If no action is taken by a party seeking affirmative relief in non-family civil matters within nine (9) months directed toward a trial on the merits, the Court will proceed to dismiss the case for want of prosecution in accordance with Rule 165a, R.C.P.

Page 3 | C. DISMISSAL DOCKET: INVOLUNTARY DISMISSAL

Exhibits and required documents should be submitted before the hearing.

Exhibits and required documents should be emailed to the Court Coordinator prior to hearing at rebecca.moneyhon@txcourts.gov.

Page 2 | 452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE

Service and Proof of Service Rules

The Request for Setting must include a certificate stating that it was served on all counsel and identifying each attorney's name and address and the date of service.

- k. A certificate that a copy of the Request for Setting has been served on all counsel in the case, the name and address of each attorney and the date of service;

Page 2 | A. REQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES

A true and correct copy of the document must be served on the attorney for the State, with the service date certified.

This is to certify that on ____________________, a true and correct copy of the above and foregoing document was served on the attorney for the State, according to the rules.

Criminal cases

Page 1 | Certificate of Service

Pre-Motion Conference Requirements

For the listed civil settings, first call the Court Coordinator for available dates, then contact opposing counsel to agree on a date before submitting the Motion and Order Setting.

When setting a civil case for pre-trial, jury trial, non-jury or post trial hearing, please call the Court Coordinator, prior to sending your Motion and Order Setting, to obtain available hearing dates. After you have available dates, please contact opposing counsel to obtain a date that is agreeable to all parties. Once you have an agreed date, fill that date in on your Order Setting and forward both your Motion and Order, along with a statement that the date is an agreed date, to the Court Coordinator for entry with the Court.

Page 2 | REQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES: Jury Trial

After obtaining available dates, contact opposing counsel to obtain a date agreeable to all parties.

After you have available dates, please contact opposing counsel to obtain a date that is agreeable to all parties.

Page 2 | A. REQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

For an agreed continuance, contact the Court Coordinator; the Coordinator will consult the Judge before removing the matter from the docket, and agreement or filing a motion alone does not grant a continuance.

- 2. Agreed Continuances If you have a continuance that is agreed to by all parties, please contact the Court Coordinator and advise her of this and she will consult with the Judge prior to removing the matter from the docket. Continuances are not automatic upon agreement by the parties. Mere filing of a Motion for Continuance does not mean the continuance will be granted.

Page 4 | A. CONTINUANCES/RESETTING/POSTPONEMENT

Continuances must comply with the cited provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure and Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code.

All continuances shall be in accordance with Arts. 29.01 through 29.13, C.C.P. and Art. Tx. Civil Prac. & Rem. Code 30.003

Page 4 | A. CONTINUANCES/RESETTING/POSTPONEMENT

To obtain a resetting date, first contact the Court Coordinator for available dates, then contact opposing counsel to find a date available and agreeable to all counsel.

- a. To obtain a resetting date, please contact the Court Coordinator for available dates, and then contact opposing counsel to obtain a date that is available and agreeable to all counsel.

Page 4 | A. CONTINUANCES/RESETTING/POSTPONEMENT

There are no summary or automatic first continuances, and all continuances must comply with the cited statutes.

There will be no summary or automatic "first continuances." All continuances shall be in accordance with Arts. 29.01 through 29.13, C.C.P. and Art 30.003, Texas Civil Prac. & Remedies Code.

Page 5 | 2. Continuances

All continuances must comply with the cited provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure and Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code.

All continuances shall be in accordance with Arts. 29.01 through 29.13, C.C.P. and Art. Tx. Civil Prac. & Rem. Code 30.003

Page 4 | CRIMINAL CASES — A. CONTINUANCES/RESETTING/POSTPONEMENT

A non-agreed continuance filed less than seven days before a hearing is presumptively denied, and the filer should not rely on it without a signed order.

Non-agreed continuances filed less than seven (7) days prior to hearing are presumptively DENIED and the filing party should not rely on the Continuance Motion without a signed Order.

Page 4 | CRIMINAL CASES — A. CONTINUANCES/RESETTING/POSTPONEMENT

All continuances must comply with the cited statutes.

All continuances shall be in accordance with Arts. 29.01 through 29.13, C.C.P. and Art 30.003, Texas Civil Prac. & Remedies Code.

Page 5 | B. SETTINGS/SCHEDULING: 2. Continuances

There will be no summary or automatic first continuances.

There will be no summary or automatic "first continuances."

Page 5 | B. SETTINGS/SCHEDULING: 2. Continuances

A non-agreed continuance filed less than seven days before a hearing is presumptively denied, and the filing party should not rely on it without a signed order.

Non-agreed continuances filed less than seven (7) days prior to hearing are presumptively DENIED and the filing party should not rely on the Continuance Motion without a signed Order.

Page 4 | A. CONTINUANCES/RESETTING/POSTPONEMENT

A continuance is not automatic even if the parties agree, and filing a motion alone does not mean it will be granted.

Continuances are not automatic upon agreement by the parties. Mere filing of a Motion for Continuance does not mean the continuance will be granted.

Page 4 | CRIMINAL CASES — A. CONTINUANCES/RESETTING/POSTPONEMENT

Chambers Communication Rules

Any person who is unable to participate in this manner due to a technological issue or needing assistance joining the proceeding is ordered to contact the Court Coordinator at (325) 347-0755 or rebecca.moneyhon@txcourts.gov.

Any person who is unable to participate in this manner due to a technological issue or needing assistance joining the proceeding is ordered to contact the Court Coordinator at (325) 347-0755 or rebecca.moneyhon@txcourts.gov.

Page 1 | NOTICE OF HEARING

Exhibits and required documents should be emailed to the Court Coordinator before the hearing.

Exhibits and required documents should be emailed to the Court Coordinator prior to hearing at rebecca.moneyhon@txcourts.gov.

Page 2 | 452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE

Before sending a Motion and Order Setting for the listed civil hearings, call the Court Coordinator to obtain available hearing dates.

When setting a civil case for pre-trial, jury trial, non-jury or post trial hearing, please call the Court Coordinator, prior to sending your Motion and Order Setting, to obtain available hearing dates.

Page 2 | REQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES: Jury Trial

An attorney picking up a case file for a hearing in another county must notify the District Clerk in the county where the case was filed.

The attorney shall contact the District Clerk in the county for which the case is filed to let them know they will be picking the file up to transport it to another county hearing.

Page 3 | D. UNCONTESTED AND DEFAULT MATTERS

An attorney who learns of conflicting trial settings must immediately notify the courts concerned.

Whenever an attorney has two or more cases on trial dockets for trial at the same time, it shall be the duty of the attorney to bring the matter to the attention of the Courts concerned immediately upon learning of the conflicting settings.

Page 5 | 3. Conflict in Trial Settings — a. Duty of Counsel to notify Court

Attorneys practicing in the 452nd Judicial District Courts must maintain access to an operative fax machine and/or email account 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provide it to the Court, the Clerks of Court, and opposing counsel.

Any attorney practicing in the 452nd Judicial District Courts shall have access to a fax machine and/or e-mail account that will be operative 24 hours a day, seven days a week which shall be provided to the Court, the Clerks of Court, and all opposing counsel.

Page 7 | GENERAL RULES

Submit a written Request for Setting directly to the Court Coordinator at the Mason County Office; the requester should not file it with the Clerk.

A setting for trial on the merits will be made in response to a written Request for Setting submitted directly to the Court Coordinator at the Mason County Office. The party requesting a setting should not file the Request for Setting with the Clerk.

Page 2 | A. REQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES

Before sending a Motion and Order Setting for a civil pre-trial, jury, non-jury, or post-trial hearing, call the Court Coordinator to obtain available hearing dates.

When setting a civil case for pre-trial, jury trial, non-jury or post trial hearing, please call the Court Coordinator, prior to sending your Motion and Order Setting, to obtain available hearing dates.

Page 2 | A. REQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES

Before transporting a case file for an out-of-county hearing, the attorney must notify the District Clerk in the county where the case is filed.

The attorney shall contact the District Clerk in the county for which the case is filed to let them know they will be picking the file up to transport it to another county hearing.

Page 3 | D. UNCONTESTED AND DEFAULT MATTERS

For a continuance agreed to by all parties, contact the Court Coordinator; she will consult with the Judge before removing the matter from the docket.

If you have a continuance that is agreed to by all parties, please contact the Court Coordinator and advise her of this and she will consult with the Judge prior to removing the matter from the docket.

Page 4 | CRIMINAL CASES — A. CONTINUANCES/RESETTING/POSTPONEMENT

To obtain a resetting date, first contact the Court Coordinator for available dates, then contact opposing counsel to find a date available and agreeable to all counsel.

- a. To obtain a resetting date, please contact the Court Coordinator for available dates, and then contact opposing counsel to obtain a date that is available and agreeable to all counsel.

Page 4 | CRIMINAL CASES — A. CONTINUANCES/RESETTING/POSTPONEMENT

An attorney must immediately notify the affected courts upon learning that two or more of the attorney’s cases are set for trial at the same time.

Whenever an attorney has two or more cases on trial dockets for trial at the same time, it shall be the duty of the attorney to bring the matter to the attention of the Courts concerned immediately upon learning of the conflicting settings.

Page 5 | B. SETTINGS/SCHEDULING: 3.a. Duty of Counsel to notify Court

If the parties cannot agree on an ADR referral, one party may notify the Court in writing that coordination efforts failed; the Court must then enter a referral order without a hearing.

If the parties are unable to cooperate or agree to a referral of such issues to an ADR procedure, then upon written notification to the Court by one of the parties that efforts to coordinate a referral have been unsuccessful, the Court, without a hearing, shall enter an Order of Referral to an ADR procedure under such terms and conditions selected by the Court.

Page 6 | ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION: 3. Manner of Referral

Participants may contact the Court Coordinator by phone for assistance.

Contact the Court Coordinator at (325) 347-0755 for assistance.

Page 2 | 452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE

The Court Coordinator must be informed as soon as possible if a participant needs an interpreter.

Inform the Court Coordinator as soon as possible if any participant requires an interpreter. Failure to do so may cause delay and waive any right to object. Zoom interpretation feature may be used.

Page 2 | 452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE

When setting or resetting a case, contact the Court Coordinator for available dates and then coordinate with all other counsel to obtain a date everyone can attend.

When setting or resetting a case for trial, pre-trial, etc., please contact the Court Coordinator for available dates. Then contact all other counsel and obtain a date that everyone is available.

Page 7 | GENERAL RULES

If counsel cannot agree on a date, contact the Court Coordinator for guidance on proceeding with a hearing date.

If you cannot obtain a date that is agreeable to all counsel, please contact the Court Coordinator and she will advise you on how to proceed regarding a hearing date.

Page 7 | GENERAL RULES

If a hearing must be canceled, contact the Court Coordinator as soon as possible.

If for any reason you have to cancel a hearing, please contact the Court Coordinator as soon as possible.

Page 7 | GENERAL RULES

Communications between the Courts and attorneys by fax or email are deemed received, but this rule does not apply to filing documents with the District Clerks.

All communications between the Courts and attorneys via fax or e-mail shall be deemed received. This does not include filing documents with the District Clerks.

Page 7 | GENERAL RULES

When setting or resetting a case, the Court should be advised of the estimated hearing time and whether the case has been mediated.

When setting or resetting a case for trial, pre-trial, etc., please advise the Court the estimated time you will need for the hearing and whether or not the case has been mediated.

Page 7 | GENERAL RULES

Attorneys practicing in the 452nd Judicial District Courts must maintain access to an operative fax machine and/or email account 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provide it to the Court, the Clerks of Court, and opposing counsel.

Any attorney practicing in the 452nd Judicial District Courts shall have access to a fax machine and/or e-mail account that will be operative 24 hours a day, seven days a week which shall be provided to the Court, the Clerks of Court, and all opposing counsel.

Page 7 | GENERAL RULES

Communications between the Courts and attorneys by email are deemed received; this does not apply to filing documents with the District Clerks.

All communications between the Courts and attorneys via fax or e-mail shall be deemed received. This does not include filing documents with the District Clerks.

Page 7 | GENERAL RULES

After obtaining available dates from the Court Coordinator, contact all other counsel and obtain a date when everyone is available.

Then contact all other counsel and obtain a date that everyone is available.

Page 7 | GENERAL RULES

When setting or resetting a case, contact the Court Coordinator for available dates.

When setting or resetting a case for trial, pre-trial, etc., please contact the Court Coordinator for available dates.

Page 7 | GENERAL RULES

If a hearing must be canceled, contact the Court Coordinator as soon as possible.

If for any reason you have to cancel a hearing, please contact the Court Coordinator as soon as possible.

Page 7 | GENERAL RULES

When setting or resetting a case, advise the Court of the estimated hearing time and whether the case has been mediated.

When setting or resetting a case for trial, pre-trial, etc., please advise the Court the estimated time you will need for the hearing and whether or not the case has been mediated.

Page 7 | GENERAL RULES

If counsel cannot agree on a date, contact the Court Coordinator for advice on how to proceed regarding a hearing date.

If you cannot obtain a date that is agreeable to all counsel, please contact the Court Coordinator and she will advise you on how to proceed regarding a hearing date.

Page 7 | GENERAL RULES

Exhibits and required documents should be emailed to the court coordinator before the hearing at the stated address.

Exhibits and required documents should be emailed to the court coordinator prior to hearing at rebecca.moneyhon@txcourts.gov.

Page 1 | 452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE

Notify the Court Coordinator as soon as possible if an interpreter is needed; failing to do so may cause delay and waive the right to object.

Inform the Court Coordinator as soon as possible if any participant requires an interpreter. Failure to do so may cause delay and waive any right to object.

Page 1 | 452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE

Any person who is unable to participate in this manner due to a technological issue or needing assistance joining the proceeding is ordered to contact the Court Coordinator at (325) 347-0755 or rebecca.moneyhon@txcourts.gov.

Any person who is unable to participate in this manner due to a technological issue or needing assistance joining the proceeding is ordered to contact the Court Coordinator at (325) 347-0755 or rebecca.moneyhon@txcourts.gov.

Page 1 | ORDER SETTING HEARING

Participants may contact the Court Coordinator by phone for assistance.

Contact the Court Coordinator at (325) 347-0755 for assistance.

Page 2 | 452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE

The Court Coordinator must be informed as soon as possible if a participant requires an interpreter.

Inform the Court Coordinator as soon as possible if any participant requires an interpreter.

Page 2 | 452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE

Exhibits and required documents should be emailed to the Court Coordinator before the hearing.

Exhibits and required documents should be emailed to the Court Coordinator prior to hearing at rebecca.moneyhon@txcourts.gov.

Page 2 | 452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE

The listed uncontested matters may be scheduled by phone with the Court Coordinator.

- 1. When requesting a setting for uncontested/agreed divorces, defaults, name changes or adoptions, you do not need to send an Order Setting. These matters can be set over the phone by contacting the Court Coordinator.

Page 3 | D. UNCONTESTED AND DEFAULT MATTERS

Uncontested and default matters may be set by calling the Court Coordinator.

These matters can be set over the phone by contacting the Court Coordinator.

Page 3 | D. UNCONTESTED AND DEFAULT MATTERS

Contact the court coordinator by phone at (325) 347-0755 for assistance.

Contact the court coordinator at (325) 347-0755 for assistance.

Page 1 | 452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE

Rebuttal exhibits may be submitted to the court coordinator or through Zoom Chat.

Rebuttal exhibits may be submitted to the court coordinator or through Zoom Chat.

Page 1 | 452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE

Rebuttal exhibits may be submitted to the Court Coordinator or through Zoom Chat.

Rebuttal exhibits may be submitted to the Court Coordinator or through Zoom Chat.

Page 2 | 452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE

About Judge Rob Hofmann

P. O. Box 1580, Mason, TX 76856. Phone: 325-347-0755. Fax: 325-347-0756.

Common questions about Judge Rob Hofmann's rules

Does Judge Rob Hofmann require a pre-motion conference or letter before filing a motion?

For the listed civil settings, first call the Court Coordinator for available dates, then contact opposing counsel to agree on a date before submitting the Motion and Order Setting.

View ruleSource: page 2, section REQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES: Jury Trial

What formatting rules apply to filings before Judge Rob Hofmann?

Judge Rob Hofmann's formatting rule includes use pdf for documents, jpg or png for images, and mp4 for videos., doc formats, zipped or archived files, and executable files will not be accepted., and a dropbox may be required for large files.. Use PDF for documents, JPG and PNG for images, and MP4 for videos. No DOC formats, zipped or archived files, or executable files will be accepted. A Dropbox may be required for large files.

View ruleSource: page 2, section 452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE

What must be included with exhibits filings before Judge Rob Hofmann?

In-person participants must bring their exhibits to the courtroom. Represented parties will submit their exhibits in digital form, as described above or on a USB thumb drive.

View ruleSource: page 2, section 452nd JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROTOCOLS FOR COURT APPEARANCE

What must be included with judgment decree order filings before Judge Rob Hofmann?

Judgments, decrees, and orders must be reduced to writing, forwarded to opposing counsel for approval as to form, and delivered to the Court for signing.

View ruleSource: page 6, section ORDERS AND DECREES — 1. Reduction to Writing within Sixty (60) Days

How may parties contact Judge Rob Hofmann's chambers?

The rule lists phone (325) 347-0755. Any person who is unable to participate in this manner due to a technological issue or needing assistance joining the proceeding is ordered to contact the Court Coordinator at (325) 347-0755 or rebecca.moneyhon@txcourts.gov.

View ruleSource: page 1, section NOTICE OF HEARING

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge Rob Hofmann?

For an agreed continuance, contact the Court Coordinator; the Coordinator will consult the Judge before removing the matter from the docket, and agreement or filing a motion alone does not grant a continuance.

View ruleSource: page 4, section A. CONTINUANCES/RESETTING/POSTPONEMENT

What filing deadlines does Judge Rob Hofmann set?

In non-family civil matters, failure to take action directed toward trial on the merits within nine months may result in dismissal for want of prosecution.

View ruleSource: page 3, section C. DISMISSAL DOCKET: INVOLUNTARY DISMISSAL

What rule applies to serving all parties before Judge Rob Hofmann?

Proof of service is required for the covered service rule. Details: recipient: all parties. The Request for Setting must include a certificate stating that it was served on all counsel and identifying each attorney's name and address and the date of service.

View ruleSource: page 2, section A. REQUEST FOR SETTING-JURY CASES
Complete rules summary for Judge Rob Hofmann

Any person who is unable to participate in this manner due to a technological issue or needing assistance joining the proceeding is ordered to contact the Court Coordinator at (325) 347-0755 or rebecca.moneyhon@txcourts.gov.

The Court Coordinator must be informed as soon as possible if a participant needs an interpreter.

Participants may contact the Court Coordinator by phone for assistance.

Exhibits and required documents should be emailed to the Court Coordinator before the hearing.

Use PDF for documents, JPG and PNG for images, and MP4 for videos. No DOC formats, zipped or archived files, or executable files will be accepted. A Dropbox may be required for large files.

In-person participants must bring their exhibits to the courtroom. Represented parties will submit their exhibits in digital form, as described above or on a USB thumb drive.

Exhibits must be marked with the county, cause number, a unique exhibit number, and a short description.

Judgments, decrees, and orders must be reduced to writing, forwarded to opposing counsel for approval as to form, and delivered to the Court for signing.

Before sending a Motion and Order Setting for the listed civil hearings, call the Court Coordinator to obtain available hearing dates.

A non-agreed continuance filed less than seven days before a hearing is presumptively denied, and the filing party should not rely on it without a signed order.

A trial setting request must be written and submitted directly to the Court Coordinator at the Mason County Office; the requestor should not file it with the Clerk.

A jury-trial Request for Setting must include the listed case, counsel, readiness, mediation, discovery, pretrial, settlement, trial-date, service-certificate, and signature information.

An Order Setting with an agreed date should be attached to the Request.

If item g. (1) in the Request for Setting is applicable, please send an Order Setting with an agreed hearing date and the Court will set a pre-trial hearing.

When the parties announce ready, each party must submit proposed jury questions to the Court.

For the listed civil settings, first call the Court Coordinator for available dates, then contact opposing counsel to agree on a date before submitting the Motion and Order Setting.

For an agreed continuance, contact the Court Coordinator; the Coordinator will consult the Judge before removing the matter from the docket, and agreement or filing a motion alone does not grant a continuance.

After agreeing on a date, put it on the Order Setting and forward both the Motion and Order to the Court Coordinator with a statement that the date is agreed.

For a jury-trial setting, submit an Agreed Scheduling Order; all parties must agree, and if they cannot, they must set a hearing before the Court to enter the order.

Submit a written Request for Setting directly to the Court Coordinator, not the Clerk; its contents should match the jury-trial request except for Item C.

A trial setting will be made only in response to a proper written Request for Setting.

At the bottom of all ORDER SETTINGS, please list all the parties who need to be notified. If the parties are represented by attorneys, please list the attorney's fax numbers. If they are pro se litigants, please give their addresses.

At the end of all MOTIONS, please include the opposing counsel's name, address, phone number and fax number under the Certificate of Service. Please do not put "...a copy has been sent to all opposing counsel." (This will let the Court know who the attorneys are since we do not have immediate access to all files in every county).

In non-family civil matters, failure to take action directed toward trial on the merits within nine months may result in dismissal for want of prosecution.

Contested family law matters are subject to dismissal for want of prosecution after 180 days.

Uncontested family law matters are subject to dismissal for want of prosecution after 90 days if no affirmative action is taken.

An Order Setting need not be sent for the listed uncontested matters, which can be scheduled by phone with the Court Coordinator.

The listed uncontested matters may be scheduled by phone with the Court Coordinator.

An attorney picking up a case file for a hearing in another county must notify the District Clerk in the county where the case was filed.

An application for a TRO or Protective Order without notice must be accompanied by a verified complaint or affidavit; testimony will not be heard except for an 83.06 Family Code Motion.