Okanogan County Superior Court
Court-Level Rules, Filing Procedures & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Document Limits
Courtesy Copies
Commissioner Order Revision Motions
- 1 copy
Courtesy copies
- 1 copy
- During Trials
- Email • If Hearing Is Less Than Seven Days From Date of Delivery
- Prior to Hearing
- Upon Filing
Ex Parte Order Request, Summary Judgment Materials, Specially Set Matter Briefs and Supporting Materials, Trial Brief, Motion in Limine, Witness List, Similar Material
- No Later Than Five Days Before Hearing
Interim Report, Periodic Report, Final Report, Accounting
- 1 copy • Upon Filing
Adjournments
- For cancellation or continuance of a matter requiring Interpreter Services, the party who set the hearing must notify the Interpreter Coordinator and Judicial Assistant at least 48 hours before the hearing.
- For cancellation or continuance of a special-set or law-and-motion matter, the party who set the hearing must notify the Superior Court Clerk and Judicial Assistant at least 24 hours before the hearing.
Communication
Chambers
Phone
Chambers
Phone
Phone
Page & Word Limits1 rule
Without prior court authorization, supporting declarations and affidavits, including reply materials, are limited to 15 pages total, and responsive declarations and affidavits are separately limited to 15 pages total, subject to the stated counting rules and exceptions.
- Supporting declarations and affidavits including reply
- Up to 15 pages in total
- Responsive declarations and affidavits
- Up to 15 pages in total
Court's wording
(3) Page limitations. Absent prior authorization from the court, the entirety of all declarations and affidavits from the parties and any non-expert witnesses in support of motions, including any reply, shall be limited to a total of 15 pages. The entirety of all declarations and affidavits submitted in response to motions shall be limited to a sum total of 15 pages. This rule shall be qualified as follows: (a) Exhibits. Exhibits that consist of declarations, statements, affidavits or any narrative document of parties or witnesses shall count toward the above page limit. All other exhibits attached to a declaration or affidavit shall not be counted toward the page limit. (b) Expert Reports and Evaluations. Declarations, affidavits, and reports from Guardians ad Litem and similar expert witnesses shall not count toward the above page limit. (c) Previously considered declarations. Copies of declarations or affidavits previously filed for a motion already ruled upon and supplied only as a convenience to the court in lieu of the court file shall not count toward the above page limit. Such declarations or affidavits shall be counted, however, if the court is expected or is being requested to read such prior declarations and affidavits as a part of a present motion. (d) Basic pleadings and financial declarations. The above page limits shall not apply to basic pleadings and financial declarations.
Document Format Requirements26 rules
Parties using court-prepared mandatory forms must follow the published format and style rules, including use of Odyssey codes.
Court's wording
Where the Administrative Office of the Court has prepared mandatory forms, the parties shall comply with the format and style rules for mandatory forms as published by the Administrative Office of Courts, including use of Odyssey codes. See: http://www.courts.wa.gov/forms/?fa=forms.static&staticID=4
The parties shall provide a copy of their instructions electronically in Word .docx file format to the court’s Judicial Assistant at the beginning of the trial.
- File type
- Word
- Jury instructions
Any modification of the court’s form shall not be allowed unless a motion to modify is presented to the court.
All motions and pleadings in support thereof, shall use mandatory forms where applicable, follow the format required by GR 14, and meet the requirements of GR 31.
All filed documents shall be legible. If typed or computer printed, documents shall be in 11 point or larger type and double-spaced.
- Font size
- At least 11 points
- Line spacing
- Double
Mandatory forms available from the Washington Courts’ website shall be used unless Okanogan County has adopted an alternate form. If no mandatory form or Okanogan County form exists for a necessary purpose, the parties may develop their own form.
Proposed jury instructions must be filed as an unnumbered original without citations and a hard copy bearing a proposed number and supporting citations.
Court's wording
Consistent with CrR 6.15, all parties shall file with the trial judge an original and one hard copy of their proposed instructions. The original shall not be numbered nor include any citations of authority. The hard copy shall contain a proposed number only and any citation of authority in support of the instruction. Authorities may include any number from any published book of instructions or case name and citation.
to the trial judge not later than the day prior to commencement of trial in the following format: (a) Microsoft Word Format (.docx) (b) 1” Page Margins (b) 12pt. Font (c) Calibri Style Font Theme
- File type
- Word
- Font size
- 12 points
- Margins
- 1 inch
Formatting
- •Calibri Style Font Theme
- (b) Mark each document and exhibit using consecutive numerals for the plaintiff and the defendant.
3. Hearing etiquette. Remote proceedings are still Court hearings, and the same decorum and respect required for a physical appearance is required for a remote appearance.
ALL WORKING COPIES MUST HAVE THE HEARING DATE AND TIME ON THEM.
Each party shall also provide one cited and numbered copy and one un-cited, un-numbered and un-stapled copy of instructions to the court’s Judicial Assistant for the judge’s use.
- Jury instructions
Formatting
- •Provide one cited and numbered copy
The guardian name(s) must be typed or printed on the acceptance of appointment exactly as it appears in the order.
Remote participants must not lie down or recline unless they require a reasonable accommodation due to physical disability, and should avoid walking around.
Court's wording
b. Unless you require a reasonable accommodation due to physical disability, do not lay down or recline while appearing remotely for court proceedings. Also avoid walking around, as that can be very distracting for the judicial officer and other participants.
Download the Zoom application prior to the hearing and test your video and audio settings.
a. Dress and act in a way that is appropriate for court proceedings. Do not wear hats, sunglasses, or clothing with slogans or phrases that might be considered offensive or inappropriate.
1. Equipment. Ensure that you have a stable internet connection, or phone line.
Formatting
- •Ensure a stable internet connection or phone line for the remote appearance
Do not interrupt or speak over others.
2. Location. Choose a location that is private, quiet, free of distractions and looks relatively professional. Avoid places where people are talking in the background or may interrupt you.
Remote participants must use an appropriate background and should avoid distracting backgrounds and backlighting.
Court's wording
a. Either use an appropriate virtual background or blurred background or be situated in a location with an appropriate background. Please avoid backgrounds/virtual backgrounds that are distracting. Also avoid backlighting, such as being in front of a window.
b. Do not eat, smoke, chew gum or drink anything other than water.
Ensure that you know how to mute and unmute yourself and turn your camera off or on.
c. Speak clearly, and at a slightly slower pace than you would normally speak.
c. If more than one device (computer, phone or tablet) is used in the same room, feedback can be a problem. Frequently this can be fixed by having the microphone and speaker of only one device active at a time. Headsets/earbuds can also solve this problem.
Consider the use of a headset or earbuds if noise or hearing is a concern or ask the host to turn on closed captioning.
If you would like to indicate your desire to speak, you may use the ‘reactions’ button to raise your hand, or you may raise your physical hand.
Document Filing Requirements114 rules
A new form must be filed in the event of a change in address or phone number.
Email addresses to be used will be specified on the initial filings in a case.
The form must include that party’s full name, signature, mailing address, email addresses (if available) and telephone number.
All parties without a lawyer shall be required to file a Notice of Appearance. (Form FL 118)
IF PLEADINGS ARE FILED WITHIN FORTY-EIGHT (48) HOURS OF THE HEARING DATE, COUNSEL MUST NOTIFY THE CLERK’S OFFICE AND ENSURE THE DOCUMENTS ARE SCANNED INTO THE ELECTRONIC FILE FOR THAT CASE.
A written notice shall be filed that gives the other party at least five (5) judicial days’ notice of the time, date and place of the hearing on the motion for revision.
All motions for revision of a commissioner’s order shall be based on the written materials and evidence submitted to the commissioner, including documents and pleadings in the court file.
Civil Jury Demand. Any demand for a jury in a civil proceeding shall be filed as set forth in Appendix A Form A-9, with the Superior Court Clerk, and a copy shall be provided to the Judicial Assistant Program Scheduler.
Order Sealing Records. Any party requesting copies must enter the number of copies on the order.
Any party may request a trial setting by use of the Request for Trial Setting Form A-8(Dissolution and Family Law) or Form A-9 (Civil, Non-domestic, and Arbitrability). A copy of a request for trial setting must be provided as follows: 1. Mailed to the Judicial Assistant at: Okanogan County Superior Court, P.O. Box 112, Okanogan, Washington 98840; OR 2. Emailed to superiorcourt@co.okanogan.wa.us; AND delivered to the Judicial Assistant at the Okanogan County Courthouse at 149 3rd Ave N., Okanogan, WA 98840
Scheduling of and procedures for the pre-trial conferences shall be set out in the scheduling order as set forth in Appendix A Form A-6.
Parties requesting funds to be disbursed from the court registry must use forms set forth in Appendix A: Form A-10, A-11
A pre-trial order as set forth in Appendix A Form A-7 shall be prepared by counsel within fourteen (14) calendar days after the conclusion of the pre-trial conference.
Once the scheduling order has been issued, it can only be amended by further court order. Parties seeking to strike, modify or amend a scheduling order shall file a Note for Hearing and Motion to Amend a scheduling order.
All counsel and unrepresented parties must provide unavailable dates on the form or by separate attachment.
A settlement-conference order must set a specific date and time, provide for and identify an interpreter when a party has limited English ability, and be copied to the Judicial Assistant when presented for entry.
Court's wording
Upon the entry of an order for a settlement conference, either on the courts motion or by scheduling order, the judge shall fix a specific date and hour for the conference. If either party has a limited ability to speak or understand the English Language then the order shall provide for an interpreter and identify the language needing interpreting. The party presenting such order for entry shall at the time of entry provide a copy to the Judicial Assistant.
In family-law cases, the completed Asset & Debt Matrix and financial declaration must be served before the settlement conference.
Court's wording
In family law cases, counsel or unrepresented parties shall also serve, not less than five (5) days prior to the date set for the settlement conference, on the settlement judge and attorney for the opposing party the completed Asset & Debt Matrix (Appendix A Form A-1) and financial declaration (WPF DRPSCU 01.1550)
Any party seeking to amend an order for settlement conference shall file a Motion and schedule a hearing on the Civil Law and Motion calendar pursuant to section (b) above.
The settlement-conference letter must succinctly address the factual summary, liability, damages, settlement history, and current settlement position.
Court's wording
The attorney in charge of each party's case shall personally attend all settlement conferences and shall, not less than five (5) days prior to the date set for the settlement conference, serve on the settlement judge and the attorney for the opposing party a letter succinctly addressing the following: a. A brief factual summary; b. Issues regarding liability; c. Issues regarding damages, both special and general d. History of any settlement negotiations; and e. Current position on settlement.
In all civil jury trials, the parties shall jointly prepare a neutral and agreed summary description of the case. The court will read that statement during the orientation phase of selection.
After receiving a date and time for a special setting, the requesting party must file the motion and notice of hearing with the Superior Court Clerk.
Court's wording
Summary Judgments as per CR 56 or hearings requiring more than ten minutes per side to argue must be specially set and arranged by contacting the Judicial Assistant at superiorcourt@co.okanogan.wa.us or (509)422-7093. Upon receiving a date and time from the Judicial Assistant the party requesting the special setting shall file the motion and notice of hearing with the Superior Court Clerk.
Each party shall file one cited and numbered copy of proposed instructions with the clerk in order to preserve the record.
The Note for Motion for a new-trial or reconsideration motion must include the scheduled date and time and be marked “Without Oral Argument,” subject to LR 59(a) and (b).
Court's wording
To ensure that matters are properly scheduled, prior to a party filing a Motion for New Trial or Motion for Reconsideration, they shall obtain a date and time from the Judicial Assistant Program Scheduler to include in their Note for Motion. The Note for Motion shall be notated “Without Oral Argument” subject to LR 59(a) and (b).
The moving party and any party given leave to file a memorandum in opposition shall attach an original proposed order to the working copies submitted to the hearing judge.
- Document
- Motion
Must include
- •Proposed order
Upon filing the specified Summons and Petition, the court must issue an Automatic Temporary Restraining Order using Appendix A Form A-3.
Court's wording
Upon the filing of a Summons and Petition in any of the actions specified above, the court shall issue an Automatic Temporary Restraining Order, for which no fees will be imposed, using the form set forth in Appendix A Form A-3.
Each declaration must begin with a summary of foundational information about the declarant, including the listed examples.
Court's wording
All declarations shall contain information that provides the court with foundational information such as the name of the declarant, relationship to one or both of the parties, age, education, city and state of residence, and occupation. This information shall be provided in summary fashion at the beginning of each declaration.
All submissions, including written materials in affidavits and declarations by the parties and witnesses, must comply with the rules of evidence.
All declarations shall be based upon personal knowledge.
Each party shall then file with the court a Declaration of Mailing, attesting that the Financial Declaration and Verified Statement of Assets & Debt Matrix has been provided to the other party within the thirty (30) calendar day time limit.
Self-represented parties must have their pleadings reviewed by the Court Facilitator, except for the specified protection-order petitions; review does not prevent filing or scheduling a hearing.
Court's wording
Any party representing themselves (unrepresented litigants) shall have their pleadings (except petitions for domestic violence protection orders, antiharassment protection orders or sexual assault protection orders) reviewed by the Court’s Facilitator. This does not prevent anyone from filing or scheduling a hearing; however, to avoid delays and in consideration of court efficiency their pleadings must be reviewed as follows:
For trials, parties shall see the facilitator at least forty-five (45) calendar days prior to scheduled trial.
For temporary orders or motions, at least two (2) judicial days prior to scheduled hearing
The Verified Financial Declarations must be filed with the court in cases involving a request for child support, maintenance or attorney's fees.
(d) Certificate of Completion. Upon completion of the seminar, each party completing the same shall file with the Clerk of the Court a completion certificate provided by the sponsoring agency or provider.
The mediator shall also advise counsel and the parties of the results of mediation in writing.
Any individual, deemed indigent as defined under GR 34(a)(3), shall make an application (WPF GR 34.0100) to the Court’s Judicial Assistant prior to submission of any pleadings or filings to the Okanogan County Clerk.
The mediator must file a completion declaration, and the mediator’s advice to the court is limited to whether mediation occurred or terminated, settlement, attendance, and efforts to schedule court-ordered mediation.
Court's wording
Within fourteen (14) days of conclusion of mediation, a declaration that mediation has been completed shall be filed with the court by the mediator. The mediator shall advise the court only whether the mediation occurred or has terminated, whether a settlement was reached, attendance, and efforts to schedule a mediation ordered by the court.
Notice of hearing must comply with RCW 11.130.345.
All interim, periodic and final reports and accountings must be filed with the clerk, along with a proposed order and a judge’s copy of the filed documents.
- Document
- Report and accounting
Must include
- •Proposed order
All accountings must list the opening balance, receipts, disbursements, and ending balance.
Time sheets of guardians, guardians ad litem (whether county paid or privately paid) and attorneys are required to assist the Court in fixing fees.
a caption indicating that this is the first periodic report since January 1, 2022;
- Document
- First periodic report
- Placement
- Caption
A minor guardianship action must be commenced with the listed documents, except for matters converted from RCW 26.10 matters.
Court's wording
All minor guardianship actions shall be commenced by the filing of a summons, petition, confidential information form, case type cover sheet, supplemental declaration, and coversheet for a JIS background check. This requirement does not apply to matters converted from RCW 26.10 matters.
Filing & Service rules
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
Documents must be filed during the Clerk’s Office business hours, not through court administration.
All documents to be filed shall be filed within the Clerk’s Office business hours, NOT court administration.
Page 2 | LR 5. SERVICE AND FILING OF PLEADINGS AND OTHER PAPERS
Opposition papers must be filed and served, and working copies delivered to the hearing judge, at least 48 hours or two judicial days before the scheduled hearing.
Any party opposing a motion shall file and serve the original responsive papers in opposition to a motion with the clerk, serve copies on parties, and deliver working copies to the hearing judge no less than forty-eight hours [or two (2) judicial days] before the date and time prior to the scheduled hearing.
Page 3 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (b)(2)
Reply documents must be filed and served, and working copies delivered to the hearing judge, no later than 24 hours or one judicial day before the hearing.
Any party replying to opposing documents shall file and serve the Reply Documents, and deliver working copies to the hearing judge, no later than twenty-four hours or one (1) judicial day before the date and time the motion is to be heard by the court.
Page 3 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (b)(3)
Written evidence-related motions to strike and responses to them must be filed no later than 24 hours or one judicial day before the hearing.
All written Motions to Strike or responses to Motions to Strike relating to evidence shall be filed no later than twenty-four hours or one (1) judicial day before the date and time the motion is to be heard by the court.
Page 3 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (b)(4)
The moving party must serve and file the motion and supporting documents at least eight days before the hearing, unless a motion to shorten time has been filed and approved.
The moving party shall serve and file the motion and supporting documents no less than eight days before the date and time specified for the hearing [unless a motion to shorten time has been filed and order granting motion to shorten time has been approved].
Page 3 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (b)(1)
A motion to revise a commissioner’s order or judgment must be served and filed within ten calendar days after the written order is entered.
A motion for revision of a commissioner’s order or judgment shall be served and filed within ten (10) calendar days of entry of the written order, as provided in RCW 2.24.050.
Page 4 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (c)(1)
Opposing counsel and unrepresented litigants must prepare, serve, and file a response to a trial-setting request within 14 calendar days.
Opposing counsel and any unrepresented litigant shall prepare, serve and file any response to the request within fourteen (14) calendar days.
Page 7 | LR 16. PRETRIAL PROCEDURE AND FORMULATING ISSUES
In civil cases, written instructions must be provided by the pretrial conference or five judicial days before trial begins.
Written instructions in civil cases shall be provided by the time of the pre-trial conference or five (5) judicial days prior to commencement of trial.
Page 11 | LR 51. INSTRUCTIONS TO JURY
Confirmation must be made 48 hours before a summary judgment or specially set hearing; failure to confirm may result in cancellation.
Summary judgment and special set hearings must be confirmed by calling/emailing superiorcourt@co.okanogan.wa.us to the Judicial Assistant forty-eight (48) hours before the scheduled hearing (509)422-7093. Failure to comply may result in cancellation.
Page 11 | LR 56. SUMMARY JUDGMENT AND OTHER SPECIAL SETTINGS
The electronic Word .docx copy of the instructions must be provided at the beginning of trial.
The parties shall provide a copy of their instructions electronically in Word .docx file format to the court’s Judicial Assistant at the beginning of the trial.
Page 11 | LR 51. INSTRUCTIONS TO JURY
The parties must file their final Verified Statement of Assets & Debt Matrix within 14 calendar days of a scheduled trial.
The parties final Verified Statement of Assets & Debt Matrix shall be filed with the court within fourteen (14) calendar days of any scheduled trial.
Page 16 | Final Statement
The mediator must file a declaration of completion within fourteen days after mediation concludes.
Within fourteen (14) days of conclusion of mediation, a declaration that mediation has been completed shall be filed with the court by the mediator.
Page 19
Nonprofessional Guardians and Conservators must complete lay guardian training within 90 days after appointment, including those appointed before January 1, 2022.
All nonprofessional Guardians and Conservators, even those appointed prior to January 1, 2022, must complete lay guardian training no later than ninety (90) days after appointment.
Page 21 | Lay Guardian and Conservator training
Proof of training completion must be filed within 30 days after training is completed.
A proof of completion shall be filed no later than thirty (30) days upon completion of training.
Page 22 | Lay Guardian and Conservator training
Petitioners must file the Washington State Patrol criminal-history report results when they file the action.
At the time of filing the action, the petitioner(s) shall file the results of a Washington State Patrol criminal history report as required by RCW 11.130.210
Page 23 | 6. Proceedings (c)(ii) WATCH report
Registry applications must be renewed annually by the date specified by the court.
shall be renewed annually by date specified by the court.
Page 26 | LGALR 2. GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF GUARDIAN AD LITEM — (b) Application and Annual Renewal
An order providing for the appointment must be submitted to the Registry Administrator within three days.
Any order providing for the appointment will then be submitted to the Registry Administrator within three days.
Page 28 | LGALR 5. APPOINTMENTS OF GUARDIAN AD LITEM
Reapplications and background-information updates are due annually on a date specified by the court.
Persons shall reapply and update background information annually on a date specified by the court.
Page 29
The Grievance Review Committee must be convened within ten business days after receipt of a written grievance.
(3) Upon receipt of a written grievance, the Presiding Judge or Administrator shall convene the Grievance Review Committee within ten (10) business days to review the grievance.
Page 30 | LGALR 7. GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
When a response is requested after a finding that a grievance appears meritorious, the GAL must respond within ten business days; failure to do so results in immediate suspension from all registries.
(b) Make a finding that the grievance does appear to have merit and request a written response from the GAL within ten (10) business days, detailing the specific issues in the grievance to which the committee desires a response. The committee shall provide the GAL with a copy of the original grievance. A GAL's failure to respond within the required ten (10) business days will result in the immediate suspension of the GAL from all registries.
Page 30 | LGALR 7. GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
The Grievance Review Committee must make findings within 10 business days of receiving the GAL’s response, but may extend the time for additional investigation by no more than 20 business days and must notify the GAL.
(4) Upon receipt of a written response to a complaint from the GAL, the Grievance Review Committee shall, within ten (10) business days, make a finding as to each of the issues delineated in the Committee's letter to the GAL that either there is no merit to the issues based upon the GAL's response or that there is merit to the issue. The Review Committee may, at their discretion, extend the time for entering findings to conduct additional investigation if necessary; however, in no case shall that extension be for more than twenty (20) business days and the GAL shall be notified.
Page 31
The complainant and the GAL must receive written notice of the Committee’s decision within 10 business days after receipt of the GAL’s response.
(6) The complainant and the GAL shall be notified in writing of the Committee's decision within 10 business days of receipt of the GAL response.
Page 31
The opposing party may move for entry of judgment on the arbitrator’s award within five judicial days after the trial is stricken.
The opposing party may move for entry of judgment on the arbitrator’s award within (5) five judicial days after the trial was stricken.
Page 34 | LMAR 7.2. Procedure after Request for Trial De Novo
An assigned attorney must file a Notice of Appearance within five judicial days after notification of assignment or at the arraignment hearing, whichever is earlier.
(5) Upon notification of assignment, the assigned attorney shall within five (5) judicial days file their Notice of Appearance or at the arraignment hearing whichever is earlier.
Page 34 | LCrR 3.1 RIGHT TO AND ASSIGNMENT OF LAWYER
A substituting attorney must file a notice within five judicial days of assignment or substitution, whichever is sooner.
Further any attorney substituting shall file their notice within five (5) judicial days of assignment and/or substitution whichever is sooner.
Page 34 | LCrR 3.1 RIGHT TO AND ASSIGNMENT OF LAWYER
Appointed and assigned counsel must file the certificate quarterly.
(6) Appointed and assigned counsel shall file quarterly, with the Okanogan County Clerk, on the form recommended by the Supreme Court, a certificate declaring that counsel is in compliance with the applicable Standards for Indigent Defense promulgated by the Supreme Court of Washington.
Page 34 | LCrR 3.1 RIGHT TO AND ASSIGNMENT OF LAWYER
The document must be provided to the trial judge no later than the day before trial.
to the trial judge not later than the day prior to commencement of trial
Page 35
Attorneys must submit the Pretrial Statement at least five working days before the conference.
at least five working days prior to this conference, the attorneys shall submit to the trial judge and to opposing counsel a Pretrial Statement containing the following:
Page 46 | Order for Pretrial Conference
- d. The following exhibits will be sent to opposing counsel within _____ days and within five days of receipt forwarded to the court with any objections thereto; in the event no objections are raised the exhibits will be admitted in accordance with the provisions of (a) above.
- d. The following exhibits will be sent to opposing counsel within _____ days and within five days of receipt forwarded to the court with any objections thereto; in the event no objections are raised the exhibits will be admitted in accordance with the provisions of (a) above.
Page 49 | 2.8(d)
Papers must be filed and served by the deadline set in the county’s Local Court Rules, or by the State Court Rules if no local rule applies.
Deadline! Your papers must be filed and served by the deadline in your county’s Local Court Rules, or by the State Court Rules if there is no local rule.
Page 57 | To both parties
A party directed by the Court to draft an order must ensure it is signed and submitted within 48 hours of the hearing.
If directed to draft an order by the Court, the responsible party is responsible for ensuring the order is signed and submitted to the Court within 48 hours of the hearing.
Page 63 | 4. Working copies and orders.
Service and Proof of Service Rules
Attorneys and parties without a lawyer must accept email service of pleadings and other papers, except when they lack email or personal service is required.
All attorneys and parties without a lawyer having matters in the Okanogan County Superior Court shall accept service via email of pleadings and other papers; except where parties or their attorney does not have email, or filings requiring personal service.
Page 2 | LR 5. SERVICE AND FILING OF PLEADINGS AND OTHER PAPERS
Email service before 5:00 p.m. on a judicial day is complete on transmission; service on weekends, holidays, or after 5:00 p.m. is complete at 9:00 a.m. on the next judicial day.
Service via email is complete on transmission when made prior to 5:00 p.m. on a judicial day. Service made on a Saturday, Sunday, holiday, or after 5:00 p.m. on any other day shall be deemed complete at 9:00 a.m. on the first judicial day thereafter.
Page 2 | LR 5. SERVICE AND FILING OF PLEADINGS AND OTHER PAPERS
Email-address changes must be filed as a change of address, and all parties and the court must be notified.
Any changes of email addresses will be filed in the case as a change of address with all parties and the court being notified.
Page 2 | LR 5. SERVICE AND FILING OF PLEADINGS AND OTHER PAPERS
Reply documents must be served no later than 24 hours or one judicial day before the hearing.
Any party replying to opposing documents shall file and serve the Reply Documents, and deliver working copies to the hearing judge, no later than twenty-four hours or one (1) judicial day before the date and time the motion is to be heard by the court.
Page 3 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (b)(3)
Opposition papers must be served on the parties at least 48 hours or two judicial days before the scheduled hearing.
Any party opposing a motion shall file and serve the original responsive papers in opposition to a motion with the clerk, serve copies on parties, and deliver working copies to the hearing judge no less than forty-eight hours [or two (2) judicial days] before the date and time prior to the scheduled hearing.
Page 3 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (b)(2)
The moving party must serve the motion and supporting documents at least eight days before the hearing, unless a motion to shorten time has been filed and approved.
The moving party shall serve and file the motion and supporting documents no less than eight days before the date and time specified for the hearing [unless a motion to shorten time has been filed and order granting motion to shorten time has been approved].
Page 3 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (b)(1)
A motion to revise a commissioner’s order or judgment must be served within ten calendar days after the written order is entered.
A motion for revision of a commissioner’s order or judgment shall be served and filed within ten (10) calendar days of entry of the written order, as provided in RCW 2.24.050.
Page 4 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (c)(1)
The other party must receive at least five judicial days’ notice of the revision hearing.
A written notice shall be filed that gives the other party at least five (5) judicial days’ notice of the time, date and place of the hearing on the motion for revision.
Page 4 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (c)(1)
The response to a trial-setting request must be served on the applicable parties as well as filed within 14 calendar days.
Opposing counsel and any unrepresented litigant shall prepare, serve and file any response to the request within fourteen (14) calendar days.
Page 7 | LR 16. PRETRIAL PROCEDURE AND FORMULATING ISSUES
The attorney in charge must serve the settlement judge and opposing counsel with the required settlement letter at least five days before the conference.
The attorney in charge of each party's case shall personally attend all settlement conferences and shall, not less than five (5) days prior to the date set for the settlement conference, serve on the settlement judge and the attorney for the opposing party a letter succinctly addressing the following: a. A brief factual summary; b. Issues regarding liability; c. Issues regarding damages, both special and general d. History of any settlement negotiations; and e. Current position on settlement.
Page 8 | LR 16. PRETRIAL PROCEDURE AND FORMULATING ISSUES
In family-law cases, counsel or unrepresented parties must serve the completed Asset & Debt Matrix and financial declaration on the settlement judge and opposing counsel at least five days before the settlement conference.
In family law cases, counsel or unrepresented parties shall also serve, not less than five (5) days prior to the date set for the settlement conference, on the settlement judge and attorney for the opposing party the completed Asset & Debt Matrix (Appendix A Form A-1) and financial declaration (WPF DRPSCU 01.1550)
Page 8 | LR 16. PRETRIAL PROCEDURE AND FORMULATING ISSUES
If a party anticipates offering at least 25 exhibits at trial, it must notify the opposing party by letter at least 14 calendar days before trial.
Parties shall notify the trial judge and the opposing party by letter if that party anticipates offering twenty-five (25) exhibits or more at the time of trial. Said notice shall be given no less than fourteen (14) calendar days prior to the trial date.
Page 10 | (f) Trial Exhibits
Copies of the motion must be provided to the opposing parties.
The motion shall be filed with the Superior Court Clerk and copies shall be provided to the Judicial Assistant and opposing parties.
Page 12 | LR 59. NEW TRIAL, RECONSIDERATION, AND AMENDMENT OF JUDGMENTS
The Petitioner must serve the order on the Respondent and file a declaration of service in the court file.
The Petitioner shall serve a copy of this order on the Respondent and file a declaration of service in the court file.
Page 13 | Court's Automatic Temporary Restraining Order
The Respondent must serve the Petitioner the verified financial declaration and assets-and-debt statement within 15 calendar days after receiving the Petitioner’s declaration and financial statements.
Upon receipt of declaration and financial statements as per (c) (1) above from Petitioner, the Respondent shall, within fifteen (15) calendar days, serve Petitioner a Verified Financial Declaration and Verified Statement of Assets & Debt Matrix.
Page 15 | Respondent’s Obligation
Each party must serve the specified documents on the opposing party within 30 calendar days after an answer or other responsive pleading is filed.
Within thirty (30) calendar days after the filing of an answer or other responsive pleading in any of the actions specified above, each party shall be required to serve the following documents on the opposing party:
Page 15 | Service of Financial Declarations and Assets & Debt Matrix
The Petitioner must serve the Respondent the verified financial declaration and assets-and-debt statement within 15 calendar days after receiving the answer or response.
Upon receipt of the answer or response, the Petitioner shall, within fifteen (15) calendar days serve their Verified Financial Declaration and Verified Statement of Assets & Debt Matrix upon the Respondent.
Page 15 | Petitioner’s Obligation
A party seeking to modify or terminate a finalized non-parental custody matter must notify all parties to that matter and everyone entitled to notice under RCW 11.130.
Any party seeking a modification or termination of a finalized non-parental custody matter shall provide notice of the action to all parties to the finalized non-parental custody matter as well as all persons entitled to notice under RCW 11.130.
Page 22 | Modifications and Terminations of Finalized RCW 26.10 matters
Petitioners must promptly serve the criminal-history report results on everyone entitled to notice after filing the results.
At the time of filing the action, the petitioner(s) shall file the results of a Washington State Patrol criminal history report as required by RCW 11.130.210 and then promptly serve the results on all persons entitled to notice under RCW 11.130.
Page 23 | 6. Proceedings (c)(ii) WATCH report
The completed objection must be promptly served on all other persons entitled to notice.
Any person entitled to notice under RCW 11.130 who objects to the appointment of a guardian shall promptly file and serve on all other persons entitled to notice a completed “Objection to Minor Guardianship”, GDN M 301.
Page 24 | 7. Objections
The moving party must serve the listed child-support motion papers and supporting documents.
The moving party shall file and serve a note for hearing, motion, proposed child support order, proposed child support worksheets, financial declaration, and proof of income (tax returns, W-2s, et cetera).
Page 24 | 9. Child Support (b)
Once a GAL appointment has been made, all parties must serve the GAL with copies of everything they file.
All parties shall serve on the GAL copies of everything they file once an appointment has been made.
Page 28 | LGALR 5. APPOINTMENTS OF GUARDIAN AD LITEM
The person appointed by the Registry Administrator must serve the parties with a notice of appointment.
The person appointed by the Registry Administrator shall serve upon the parties a notice of appointment.
Page 28 | LGALR 5. APPOINTMENTS OF GUARDIAN AD LITEM
A GAL’s fee request submitted to the court must also be served upon the parties.
(4) All fee requests by the GAL submitted to the court shall contain time records, which distinguish investigative/legal, administrative/clerical, and travel time and shall also be served upon the parties.
Page 32 | LGALR 8. COMPENSATION
The petitioner must serve the Respondent with a copy of the order and file a Return of Service with the Okanogan County Superior Clerk’s office.
The petitioner shall serve a copy of this on the Respondent and file a Return of Service with the Okanogan County Superior Clerk’s office.
Page 43 | 2.3 EFFECTIVE DATE OF ORDER
Each party must provide the other party a completed Financial Declaration within 30 days after filing a general appearance, answer, or other responsive pleading.
Within 30 days after the filing of any general appearance, answer or other responsive pleading, each party shall provide the other party with a completed Financial Declaration (WPF DR 01.1550).
Page 43
Attorneys must submit the Pretrial Statement to the trial judge and opposing counsel.
the attorneys shall submit to the trial judge and to opposing counsel a Pretrial Statement
Page 46 | Order for Pretrial Conference
A party intending to use a qualifying newly discovered witness must immediately report the witness’s name, address, and expected testimony to opposing counsel and the court.
Additional Witnesses: If additional witnesses are discovered, who by the use of reasonable diligence could not have been discovered before the Pretrial Conference, the party intending to use such witness shall immediately report the names, addresses and summary of the testimony of such witness to opposing counsel and the court.
Page 49 | Additional Witnesses
- d. The following exhibits will be sent to opposing counsel within _____ days and within five days of receipt forwarded to the court with any objections thereto; in the event no objections are raised the exhibits will be admitted in accordance with the provisions of (a) above.
- d. The following exhibits will be sent to opposing counsel within _____ days and within five days of receipt forwarded to the court with any objections thereto; in the event no objections are raised the exhibits will be admitted in accordance with the provisions of (a) above.
Page 49 | 2.8(d)
A party intending to use qualifying newly discovered exhibits or documents must immediately show them to opposing counsel and submit them to the court for identification marking.
Additional Exhibits: If additional exhibits or documents are discovered which could not have been discovered by reasonable diligence before the Pretrial Conference, the party intending to use them shall immediately exhibit them to opposing counsel and submit them to the court to be marked for identification.
Page 49 | Additional Exhibits
The request must be served on the opposing attorney or unrepresented party, and the service date and manner must be stated.
1. I have served the opposite attorney or Party without a Lawyer with this request on the following date: _____________ and in the following manner:______________________
Page 51 | CERTIFICATION
Whenever the designated address changes while the action is pending, the party must notify opposing parties in writing and file an updated Confidential Information Form with the Court Clerk.
Any time this address changes while this action is pending, you [ ] Parties engaged must notify the opposing parties in writing and file an updated Confidential Information Form (WPF DRPSCU 09.0200 with the Court Clerk).
Page 52 | Notice to Party
A party must notify the opposing parties in writing whenever the listed address changes while the action is pending.
Any time this address changes while this action is pending, you must notify the opposing parties in writing.
Page 55 | CERTIFICATION
The request must be served on the opposing attorney or unrepresented litigant, and the certification records the service date and manner.
1. I have/will serve(d) the opposing attorney or unrepresented litigant with this request on or by the following date: ______________ and in the following manner: _______________________________
Page 55 | CERTIFICATION
If you want the court to consider your side, serve a copy of the papers on all other parties or their lawyers.
Have a copy of your papers served on all other parties or their lawyers;
Page 57 | To both parties
Papers must be timely served on opposing counsel; failure to comply with filing, service, or bench-copy requirements may result in striking, sanctions, or terms.
Parties who fail to timely file papers, serve papers on opposing counsel or submit bench copies as required by these rules may cause matters to be stricken, sanctions imposed, or terms assessed.
Page 22 | Bench Copies
If a trial de novo is not confirmed under LR 40(g), the court may strike the trial after giving proper notice to each party.
If the trial de novo is not confirmed pursuant to LR 40(g), the trial may be stricken by the court by given proper notice to each party.
Page 34 | LMAR 7.2. Procedure after Request for Trial De Novo
If the address changes before the case ends, the person must notify all parties and the court clerk in writing; use of the Notice of Address Change form is optional.
(If this address changes before the case ends, you must notify all parties and the court clerk in writing. You may use the Notice of Address Change form (FL All Family 120).
Page 59
A party may designate a nonresidential address where they agree to accept legal documents.
Notice to Party: (you may list an address that is not your residential address where you agree to accept legal documents.
Page 52 | Notice to Party
A party may provide a nonresidential address where the party agrees to accept legal documents.
you may list an address that is not your residential address where you agree to accept legal documents.
Page 55 | CERTIFICATION
Filing Fees and Waivers
A jury trial will not be set until the jury demand fee is paid.
*No Jury Trial will be set until Jury Demand Fee is paid.
Page 54 | I. TRIAL SETTING
The court may impose an application-processing fee.
The court may impose an application processing fee and/or charge a fee for the training programs.
Page 29
No fee is imposed for the Automatic Temporary Restraining Order issued upon filing the specified Summons and Petition.
Upon the filing of a Summons and Petition in any of the actions specified above, the court shall issue an Automatic Temporary Restraining Order, for which no fees will be imposed, using the form set forth in Appendix A Form A-3.
Page 13 | Court's Automatic Temporary Restraining Order
Courtesy Copy Requirements
Only judges’ working copies are to be provided to court administration under LR 7(f).
Only judge’s working copies shall be provided to court administration pursuant to LR 7(f).
Page 2 | LR 5. SERVICE AND FILING OF PLEADINGS AND OTHER PAPERS
Working copies of opposition papers must be delivered to the hearing judge at least 48 hours or two judicial days before the scheduled hearing.
Any party opposing a motion shall file and serve the original responsive papers in opposition to a motion with the clerk, serve copies on parties, and deliver working copies to the hearing judge no less than forty-eight hours [or two (2) judicial days] before the date and time prior to the scheduled hearing.
Page 3 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (b)(2)
Working copies of reply documents must be delivered to the hearing judge no later than 24 hours or one judicial day before the hearing.
Any party replying to opposing documents shall file and serve the Reply Documents, and deliver working copies to the hearing judge, no later than twenty-four hours or one (1) judicial day before the date and time the motion is to be heard by the court.
Page 3 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (b)(3)
Any Working copies of the motion and all documents in support or opposition, as herein required, shall be delivered to the Judicial Assistant Program Scheduler as set forth in section (f).
Any Working copies of the motion and all documents in support or opposition, as herein required, shall be delivered to the Judicial Assistant Program Scheduler as set forth in section (f).
Page 4 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (b)(8)
The moving party shall provide the assigned judge a working copy of all materials submitted to the commissioner in support of and in opposition to the motion, as well as a copy of the electronic recording, if the party wishes the electronic recording to be considered.
The moving party shall provide the assigned judge a working copy of all materials submitted to the commissioner in support of and in opposition to the motion, as well as a copy of the electronic recording, if the party wishes the electronic recording to be considered.
Page 4 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (c)(4)
Working copies of the listed ex parte, summary judgment, specially set, and trial materials must be delivered to the Judicial Assistant or mailed to the court no later than five days before the hearing.
For ANY Ex Parte Order request; all summary judgment materials including briefs and supporting materials; all briefs and supporting materials for any specially set matter; trial briefs, motions in limine, witness lists and similar material. WORKING COPIES SHALL BE DELIVERED TO THE JUDICIAL ASSISTANT AT OKANOGAN SUPERIOR COURT OR MAILED TO OKANOGAN SUPERIOR COURT AT P.O. BOX 112 OKANOGAN, WA 98840 NO LATER THAN FIVE DAYS PRIOR TO THE COURT HEARING DATE.
Page 4 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (d)
Working copies must be emailed to the Judicial Assistant if the hearing is less than seven days from the date of delivery.
WORKING COPIES SHALL BE EMAILED TO THE JUDICIAL ASSISTANT IF THE HEARING IS LESS THAN SEVEN DAYS FROM THE DATE OF DELIVERY.
Page 4 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (d)
Each party must provide the Judicial Assistant two copies of its instructions for the judge: one cited and numbered, and one uncited, unnumbered, and unstapled.
Each party shall also provide one cited and numbered copy and one un-cited, un-numbered and un-stapled copy of instructions to the court’s Judicial Assistant for the judge’s use.
Page 11 | LR 51. INSTRUCTIONS TO JURY
The motion must be filed with the Superior Court Clerk, with copies provided to the Judicial Assistant and opposing parties.
The motion shall be filed with the Superior Court Clerk and copies shall be provided to the Judicial Assistant and opposing parties.
Page 12 | LR 59. NEW TRIAL, RECONSIDERATION, AND AMENDMENT OF JUDGMENTS
Working copies must be submitted according to LR 7(b).
Working copies shall be submitted pursuant to the requirements of LR 7(b).
Page 12 | LR 59. NEW TRIAL, RECONSIDERATION, AND AMENDMENT OF JUDGMENTS
Working copies, including the original proposed order, must be submitted to the hearing judge.
The moving party and any party given leave to file a memorandum in opposition shall attach an original proposed order to the working copies submitted to the hearing judge.
Page 12 | LR 59. NEW TRIAL, RECONSIDERATION, AND AMENDMENT OF JUDGMENTS
Working copies must be provided to the judge as set forth in LR 7(f).
Working copies shall be provided to the judge as set forth in section LR 7(f).
Page 12 | LR 59. NEW TRIAL, RECONSIDERATION, AND AMENDMENT OF JUDGMENTS
A judge’s copy of the filed interim, periodic, and final reports and accountings must be provided with the filings.
All interim, periodic and final reports and accountings must be filed with the clerk, along with a proposed order and a judge’s copy of the filed documents.
Page 20 | LSPR 94.04.05 PROBATE AND GUARDIANSHIPS
A judge’s copy of the timesheets must be supplied when they are filed with the Clerk.
Judges’ copies must be supplied when these documents are filed with the Clerk.
Page 20 | LSPR 94.04.05 PROBATE AND GUARDIANSHIPS
Bench copies of all documents, including proposed orders, are due when the pleading is filed and must be supplemented if subsequent filings are made.
Bench copies of all documents, including proposed orders, are due at the time the pleading is filed with the Court, and shall be supplemented if there are subsequent filings.
Page 22 | Bench Copies
Attorneys and self-represented litigants must ensure the Court receives working copies before the hearing.
Attorneys and self-represented litigants are responsible for ensuring that the Court receives working copies and proposed orders prior to date and time of the hearing.
Page 63 | 4. Working copies and orders.
A physical trial binder containing working copies of exhibits should be provided to the court during all trials.
Physical trial binder with working copies of exhibits should be provided to the court during all trials.
Page 10 | (f) Trial Exhibits
Give the Judge or Commissioner a copy of the papers if the county’s Local Court Rules require it.
Give the Judge/Commissioner a copy of your papers (if required by your county’s Local Court Rules);
Page 57 | To both parties
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
A filed death certificate must have its Social Security number redacted unless the Court orders otherwise.
Any copy of a death certificate shall be filed with the Social Security number redacted unless otherwise ordered by the Court.
Page 20 | LSPR 94.04.05 PROBATE AND GUARDIANSHIPS
The JIS request form must be filed under seal before petitioners request any temporary order, including an emergency order.
Prior to any request for a temporary order, including emergency order(s) under RCW 11.130.215, the petitioner(s) shall file a JIS request form with the Clerk under seal
Page 23 | 6. Proceedings (c)(iii) JIS background check
Tax documents submitted in connection with a child-support request must be filed under seal.
All tax documents shall be filed under seal.
Page 24 | 9. Child Support (b)
If a trial de novo is requested, the clerk must automatically seal any award and any memorandum decision or award.
The clerk shall automatically seal any award and any memorandum decision/award if a trial de novo is requested.
Page 33 | LMAR 7.2. Procedure after Request for Trial De Novo
Financial, medical, and General Rule 22 confidential reports must be sealed, filed separately, and submitted with the specified Sealed cover sheet; otherwise, filed documents are publicly viewable.
Warning! Documents filed with the court are available for anyone to see unless they are sealed. Financial, medical, and confidential reports, as described in General Rule 22, must be sealed so they can only be seen by the court, the other party, and the lawyers in your case. Seal those documents by filing them separately, using a Sealed cover sheet (form FL All Family 011, 012, or 013).
Page 59 | Warning!
A party may ask the court for an order sealing other documents.
You may ask for an order to seal other documents.
Page 59 | Warning!
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
After a trial date is set, the court may order a settlement conference on its own motion, and the conference must be held unless all parties file objections.
The court to which a case is assigned for trial may, upon its own motion after a trial date has been set, order a settlement conference in any pending case, and a settlement conference shall be held unless all parties file objections thereto.
Page 7 | LR 16. PRETRIAL PROCEDURE AND FORMULATING ISSUES
The parties shall in all cases attend the settlement conference. Only parties and attorneys shall be present during the settlement conference
The parties shall in all cases attend the settlement conference. Only parties and attorneys shall be present during the settlement conference
Page 8 | LR 16. PRETRIAL PROCEDURE AND FORMULATING ISSUES
After an objection defeats a motion for a settlement conference, any later motion for one requires a showing of a significant change in circumstances.
Where a motion for a settlement conference has been defeated by the filing of an objection, any future motion must be made upon a showing of a significant change in circumstances.
Page 8 | LR 16. PRETRIAL PROCEDURE AND FORMULATING ISSUES
The attorney in charge must personally attend each settlement conference and serve the settlement judge and opposing counsel, at least five days beforehand, a letter addressing the listed topics.
The attorney in charge of each party's case shall personally attend all settlement conferences and shall, not less than five (5) days prior to the date set for the settlement conference, serve on the settlement judge and the attorney for the opposing party a letter succinctly addressing the following: a. A brief factual summary; b. Issues regarding liability; c. Issues regarding damages, both special and general d. History of any settlement negotiations; and e. Current position on settlement.
Page 8 | LR 16. PRETRIAL PROCEDURE AND FORMULATING ISSUES
A response to a reconsideration motion may be filed only if the court requests one, the motion cannot be granted without such a request, and a reply may be filed within two days after service of a requested response.
No response to a motion for reconsideration shall be filed unless requested by the court. No motion for reconsideration will be granted without such a request. If a response is called for, a reply may be filed within two days of service of the response.
Page 12 | LR 59. NEW TRIAL, RECONSIDERATION, AND AMENDMENT OF JUDGMENTS
Before seeking to exceed or excuse the rule’s limitations, counsel or the parties must confer, then arrange a court conference or appearance, first with the assigned Commissioner if reasonably available.
The court will not entertain any motion or objection with respect to a request to exceed or excuse the limitations of this rule unless counsel or the parties have first conferred with respect to the motion or objection. Counsel or the parties shall arrange for a mutually convenient conference in person or by telephone. If, after conferring, one or both of the parties believe that the limitations of this rule should be excused, then they shall arrange a telephone conference or appearance before the assigned Commissioner if they are reasonably available, or if the assigned Commissioner is not available then they shall arrange a telephone conference or appearance before the assigned Judge or Commissioner to have the court determine if the rule should be excused.
Page 15 | Procedure for Court Authorization to Exceed or Excuse Limitations
Each attorney must be prepared to discuss the settlement-conference letter topics in detail at the conference.
Each attorney shall be prepared to discuss the foregoing in detail at the settlement conference.
Page 8 | LR 16. PRETRIAL PROCEDURE AND FORMULATING ISSUES
The motion will be considered without oral argument unless the court calls for argument.
The motion will be considered without oral argument unless called for by the court.
Page 12 | LR 59. NEW TRIAL, RECONSIDERATION, AND AMENDMENT OF JUDGMENTS
Any party in a pending case may serve and file a motion for a settlement conference.
Any party in any pending case may serve and file a motion for a settlement conference.
Page 7 | LR 16. PRETRIAL PROCEDURE AND FORMULATING ISSUES
Matters requiring less than ten minutes per side may generally be placed on the appropriate Law and Motion calendar.
Matters requiring less than ten minutes per side may generally be placed on the appropriate Law and Motion calendar.
Page 11 | LR 56. SUMMARY JUDGMENT AND OTHER SPECIAL SETTINGS
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
For cancellation or continuance of a special-set or law-and-motion matter, the party who set the hearing must notify the Superior Court Clerk and Judicial Assistant at least 24 hours before the hearing.
When the parties wish to cancel or continue special set matters or law and motion matters, the party who originally set the hearing must notify the Superior Court Clerk at clerk@co.okanogan.wa.us or(509)422-7275 at least twenty-four (24) hours before the scheduled hearing. Notice must also be provided to the Judicial Assistant at (509)422-7093 and/or an email addressed to the superiorcourt@co.okanogan.wa.us
Page 5 | Cancellation or Continuance
For cancellation or continuance of a matter requiring Interpreter Services, the party who set the hearing must notify the Interpreter Coordinator and Judicial Assistant at least 48 hours before the hearing.
When the parties wish to cancel or continue matters that require Interpreter Services, the party who originally set the hearing must notify the Interpreter Coordinator at (509)422-7198 or by email at superiorcourt@co.okanogan.wa.us at least forty-eight (48) hours before the scheduled hearing. Notice must also be provided to the Judicial Assistant at (509)422-7093.
Page 5 | Cancellation or Continuance
Chambers Communication Rules
Disqualify a Judge. This notice shall be provided to the Judicial Assistant in both criminal and civil cases.
Disqualify a Judge. This notice shall be provided to the Judicial Assistant in both criminal and civil cases.
Page 3 | LR 1A. JUDICIAL POSITIONS
Before filing a motion for revision, the party or counsel must obtain a hearing date and time from the Judicial Assistant Program Scheduler.
Prior to filing a motion for revision, a party or counsel shall obtain a date and time from the Judicial Assistant Program Scheduler.
Page 4 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (c)(2)
The attorney or unrepresented individual must arrange an interpreter at least three days before the hearing by contacting the Interpreter Coordinator by phone or email.
When there is an individual before the court who is limited English proficient (LEP) involved in litigation, it is the attorney’s or unrepresented individual’s responsibility to make arrangements at least three (3) days prior to the hearing for an Interpreter thru the Office of the Interpreter Coordinator at (509)422-7198 or by email at superiorcourt@co.okanogan.wa.us
Page 5 | Interpreter Services
Notice about canceling or continuing a matter requiring Interpreter Services must be sent to the Interpreter Coordinator and Judicial Assistant using the stated contact information.
When the parties wish to cancel or continue matters that require Interpreter Services, the party who originally set the hearing must notify the Interpreter Coordinator at (509)422-7198 or by email at superiorcourt@co.okanogan.wa.us at least forty-eight (48) hours before the scheduled hearing. Notice must also be provided to the Judicial Assistant at (509)422-7093.
Page 5 | Cancellation or Continuance
Notice about canceling or continuing a special-set or law-and-motion hearing must be sent to the Superior Court Clerk and Judicial Assistant using the stated contact information.
When the parties wish to cancel or continue special set matters or law and motion matters, the party who originally set the hearing must notify the Superior Court Clerk at clerk@co.okanogan.wa.us or(509)422-7275 at least twenty-four (24) hours before the scheduled hearing. Notice must also be provided to the Judicial Assistant at (509)422-7093 and/or an email addressed to the superiorcourt@co.okanogan.wa.us
Page 5 | Cancellation or Continuance
Any party may request a trial setting by use of the Request for Trial Setting Form A-8(Dissolution and Family Law) or Form A-9 (Civil, Non-domestic, and Arbitrability). A copy of a request for trial setting must be provided as follows: 1. Mailed to the Judicial Assistant at: Okanogan County Superior Court, P.O. Box 112, Okanogan, Washington 98840; OR 2. Emailed to superiorcourt@co.okanogan.wa.us; AND delivered to the Judicial Assistant at the Okanogan County Courthouse at 149 3rd Ave N., Okanogan, WA 98840
Any party may request a trial setting by use of the Request for Trial Setting Form A-8(Dissolution and Family Law) or Form A-9 (Civil, Non-domestic, and Arbitrability). A copy of a request for trial setting must be provided as follows: 1. Mailed to the Judicial Assistant at: Okanogan County Superior Court, P.O. Box 112, Okanogan, Washington 98840; OR 2. Emailed to superiorcourt@co.okanogan.wa.us; AND delivered to the Judicial Assistant at the Okanogan County Courthouse at 149 3rd Ave N., Okanogan, WA 98840
Page 6 | LR 40. TRIAL SETTING AND PRE-TRIAL PROCEDURES
A trial request must be received by the Judicial Assistant to ensure scheduling; filing only with the Clerk’s Office may not result in scheduling.
THE TRIAL REQUEST WILL NOT BE SCHEDULED UNLESS RECEIVED BY THE JUDICIAL ASSISTANT. IF YOU FILE ONLY WITH THE CLERK’S OFFICE THE REQUEST MAY NOT BE SCHEDULED.
Page 7 | LR 16. PRETRIAL PROCEDURE AND FORMULATING ISSUES
Counsel or an unrepresented party must notify the Judicial Assistant and provide a copy of the settlement document immediately, and no later than two judicial days after execution; failure may result in sanctions.
then the counsel and/or unrepresented party shall immediately, but not more than two (2) judicial days after executing a settlement document (i.e., decree, order or stipulation) notify and provide a copy to the Judicial Assistant by either email or in hand. Failure to provide this notification to the Judicial Assistants may result in sanctions, as provided hereinafter, against the parties and/or counsel.
Page 9 | (e) Settlement Confirmation
If a party anticipates offering at least 25 exhibits at trial, it must notify the trial judge by letter at least 14 calendar days before trial.
Parties shall notify the trial judge and the opposing party by letter if that party anticipates offering twenty-five (25) exhibits or more at the time of trial. Said notice shall be given no less than fourteen (14) calendar days prior to the trial date.
Page 10 | (f) Trial Exhibits
Counsel and unrepresented parties must confer and contact the Judicial Assistant by email or phone to confirm trial readiness no later than noon five judicial days before trial.
All counsel and unrepresented parties shall confer and confirm by contacting the Judicial Assistant via email or phone that the scheduled trial is ready to proceed. Confirmation shall be made no later than noon (12:00pm) five (5) judicial days prior to the scheduled trial date.
Page 10 | (g) Trial Confirmation
Summary judgment and specially set hearings must be confirmed with the Judicial Assistant 48 hours before the hearing by email or phone; failure to confirm may result in cancellation.
Summary judgment and special set hearings must be confirmed by calling/emailing superiorcourt@co.okanogan.wa.us to the Judicial Assistant forty-eight (48) hours before the scheduled hearing (509)422-7093. Failure to comply may result in cancellation.
Page 11 | LR 56. SUMMARY JUDGMENT AND OTHER SPECIAL SETTINGS
Summary judgments and hearings requiring more than ten minutes per side must be specially set by contacting the Judicial Assistant by email or phone.
Summary Judgments as per CR 56 or hearings requiring more than ten minutes per side to argue must be specially set and arranged by contacting the Judicial Assistant at superiorcourt@co.okanogan.wa.us or (509)422-7093.
Page 11 | LR 56. SUMMARY JUDGMENT AND OTHER SPECIAL SETTINGS
When the notice is filed with the clerk, a copy must also be emailed to Superior Court.
Upon filing with the clerk, a copy of the notice shall be emailed to Superior Court at superiorcourt@co.okanogan.wa.us.
Page 11 | LR 56. SUMMARY JUDGMENT AND OTHER SPECIAL SETTINGS
Before filing a motion for new trial or reconsideration, the party must obtain a date and time from the Judicial Assistant Program Scheduler for the Note for Motion.
To ensure that matters are properly scheduled, prior to a party filing a Motion for New Trial or Motion for Reconsideration, they shall obtain a date and time from the Judicial Assistant Program Scheduler to include in their Note for Motion.
Page 12 | LR 59. NEW TRIAL, RECONSIDERATION, AND AMENDMENT OF JUDGMENTS
An applicant agrees to immediately advise the court of a related complaint, investigation, or action that could lead to discipline or suspension or revocation of a professional license.
(11) Agreement to advise the court immediately in the event of any complaint, investigation, or action being commenced related to the applicant’s duties as a GAL in the instant or any other case which could lead to: (a)Discipline of the applicant; or (b)The suspension or revocation of the applicant's professional license(s).
Page 27
Registry members must promptly inform the court if they are temporarily unavailable to serve or intend to resign from the registry.
(1) Persons on the registry shall promptly inform the court of any temporary unavailability to serve, or of their intent to resign from the registry.
Page 27 | Retention on Registry
An applicant agrees to immediately advise the court when specified felony or dishonesty-related criminal charges are filed.
(12) Agreement to advise the court immediately upon the filing of criminal charges for a felony or a crime involving allegations of theft, dishonesty, or moral turpitude.
Page 27
A GAL who leaves the registry while having active or incomplete cases must immediately report that circumstance to the Judicial Assistant acting as Registry Administrator.
(4) A GAL who ceases to be on the registry and who still has active or incomplete cases shall immediately report this circumstance to the Judicial Assistant acting as the Registry Administrator, who shall reassign such cases.
Page 27 | Retention on Registry
If the requesting party is represented, the attorney must contact the proposed GAL to determine availability.
If the requesting party is represented by counsel, the attorney shall then contact the proposed GAL to determine if he/she is available to serve.
Page 28 | LGALR 5. APPOINTMENTS OF GUARDIAN AD LITEM
If the requesting party is unrepresented, the Registry Administrator must contact the proposed GAL to determine availability.
If the requesting party is an unrepresented litigant, the Registry Administrator shall contact the proposed GAL to determine if he/she is available to serve.
Page 28 | LGALR 5. APPOINTMENTS OF GUARDIAN AD LITEM
In the specified cases, a party needing a GAL appointment must request one from the Registry Administrator.
In Title 11 cases or in Title 26 cases where the parties cannot agree, a party needing an appointment from a GAL registry shall request the same from the Registry Administrator.
Page 28 | LGALR 5. APPOINTMENTS OF GUARDIAN AD LITEM
a copy of the request for arbitration settings must be provided as follows: (a) Mailed to the Judicial Assistant at: Okanogan County Superior Court, P.O. Box 112, Okanogan, Washington 98840; OR (b) Emailed to superiorcourt@co.okanogan.wa.us; AND delivered to the Judicial Assistant at the Okanogan County Courthouse At 149 3rd Ave N., Okanogan, WA 98840
a copy of the request for arbitration settings must be provided as follows: (a) Mailed to the Judicial Assistant at: Okanogan County Superior Court, P.O. Box 112, Okanogan, Washington 98840; OR (b) Emailed to superiorcourt@co.okanogan.wa.us; AND delivered to the Judicial Assistant at the Okanogan County Courthouse At 149 3rd Ave N., Okanogan, WA 98840
Page 33 | Arbitration Setting
At every hearing, appointed or assigned counsel must advise the court if counsel is out of compliance with the applicable standards or has not filed the certificate before appearing or filing a Notice of Appearance.
An appointed or assigned attorney who is not in compliance with the applicable standards, or who has not filed a certificate prior to appearing or filing a notice of appearance, shall so advise the court at every hearing.
Page 34 | LCrR 3.1 RIGHT TO AND ASSIGNMENT OF LAWYER
Opposing counsel must immediately tell the court whether its position on the exhibit falls under subsection (a), (b), or (c).
Opposing counsel shall immediately indicate to the court his or her position with respect to such exhibit, i.e., whether his or her position falls under (a), (b) or (c) above.
Page 49 | Additional Exhibits
If pleadings are filed within 48 hours of the hearing date, counsel must notify the clerk’s office.
IF PLEADINGS ARE FILED WITHIN FORTY-EIGHT (48) HOURS OF THE HEARING DATE, COUNSEL MUST NOTIFY THE CLERK’S OFFICE AND ENSURE THE DOCUMENTS ARE SCANNED INTO THE ELECTRONIC FILE FOR THAT CASE.
Page 3 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (b)(5)
A party anticipating more than ten minutes of oral argument per side must contact the Judicial Assistant to request a special setting.
If it is anticipated by either party that oral arguments will be more than ten (10) minutes per side, that party shall contact the Judicial Assistant to request a special setting.
Page 3 | LR 7. CIVIL MOTIONS (b)(7)
Once a remote hearing is authorized, arrangements must be made through the Judicial Assistants by phone or email; parties must follow Appendix C’s remote-appearance requirements.
(e) Remote Hearings. Remote hearings are authorized for most matters other than trial upon court approval or the court’s own action. The record of such hearings will be electronically recorded. If authorized, arrangements shall be made through the Judicial Assistants at (509)422-7093 and/or an email addressed to the superiorcourt@co.okanogan.wa.us. Parties must adhere to the remote appearance requirements in appendix C
Page 5 | Remote Hearings
Counsel and parties with second- or third-priority trial settings must contact the Judicial Assistant to stay informed about their setting’s status.
Counsel and parties with second and third settings are required to maintain awareness of the status of their trial setting by contacting the Judicial Assistant who will endeavor to provide current information on the status of cases set with higher priority.
Page 7 | LR 16. PRETRIAL PROCEDURE AND FORMULATING ISSUES
If the court decides to hear a motion and additional time is needed for a response and reply, the Judicial Assistant must coordinate an updated hearing date and time with the parties.
If the court determines that a motion shall be heard and additional time is needed to allow for a response and reply pursuant LR 59(b), the judicial assistant shall coordinate with the parties for an updated date and time for the matter to be heard.
Page 12 | LR 59. NEW TRIAL, RECONSIDERATION, AND AMENDMENT OF JUDGMENTS
A guardian or conservator may ask the assigned judge’s judicial assistant to have periodic review considered without oral argument or appearance; if granted, the review may be rescheduled and an appearance required if an unanticipated objection arises.
A guardian and/or conservator may request, through the assigned judge’s judicial assistant, that periodic review be considered without oral argument or appearance. If such a request is granted, the review may be rescheduled and appearance required if there is an unanticipated objection to the report on the hearing date.
Page 22 | Waiver of hearing
Participants may use chat to tell the Court they are present or report technical difficulties, but must not use it to convey case information.
You may use the chat function to let the court know that you are present or if you are having technical difficulties. Do not use the chat function to convey information about the case.
Page 63
Contact the court for information about scheduling the hearing.
Contact the court for scheduling information.
Page 57 | To the person filing this motion