Court Rules
About United States District Judge Mary Jo Heston

Judge Heston’s Tacoma calendars will be held in person. IFP and Reaffirmation Agreement hearings will remain telephonic. Please refer to Judge Heston’s Procedures for more information. Judge Heston will set the format for evidentiary hearings and trials (e.g., by ZoomGov or in person) by order on a case-by-case basis.

If attending this meeting via Video: Select the “Join ZoomGov Meeting” link below to join the session. If attending this meeting via Phone-only (no video) (Judge’s approval required prior to hearing): Cell phone users: Select one of the “One tap mobile” (San Jose) options listed below to connect Landline users: Dial one of the “Dial by your location (San Jose)” numbers listed below > Enter the “Meeting ID” when prompted > Press # when prompted for your “Personal Meeting ID” **TIPS FOR SUCCESS** Choose a quiet location without distractions. Choose an area with good light, but not too much bright light behind you. For better sound quality, use a headset with built-in mic (or make sure you are close to your microphone). Turn off apps that have built-in sounds, minimizing background noise. Check and confirm, in advance of the hearing, that you have a working camera and microphone on your device. If you run into technical issues or have questions, send email to: [curtis\_udy@wawb.uscourts.gov](mailto:curtis_udy@wawb.uscourts.gov) **ZOOMGOV ACCESS INFORMATION** **Join ZoomGov Meeting:** [https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1606692441?pwd=ZkVCbVEyTzZBRWovRlI0ODZRUUFjQT09](https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1606692441?pwd=ZkVCbVEyTzZBRWovRlI0ODZRUUFjQT09) Meeting ID: 160 669 2441 Passcode: 827542 **One tap mobile** +16692545252,,1606692441# US (San Jose) +16692161590,,1606692441# US (San Jose) **Dial by your location** • +1 669 254 5252 US (San Jose) • +1 669 216 1590 US (San Jose) • +1 415 449 4000 US (US Spanish Line) • +1 551 285 1373 US (New Jersey) • +1 646 828 7666 US (New York) • +1 646 964 1167 US (US Spanish Line) Meeting ID: 160 669 2441 Find your local number: [https://www.zoomgov.com/u/abGXEPYqMS](https://www.zoomgov.com/u/abGXEPYqMS) | | | --- | | **JUDGE MARY JO HESTON**<br>**VANCOUVER CALENDAR DATES**<br>**Hearing Location: Federal Building**<br>**500 West 12th Street, 2nd Floor**<br>**Vancouver, WA 98660** <br>All documents are to be filed with the Clerk of the Court<br>United States Bankruptcy Court<br>1717 Pacific Avenue, Suite 2100<br>Tacoma, Washington 98402 | Please Note: The second calendar of each month will be held in a hybrid format. Rev.6/22/2026 | | | | | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | **2026 MOTION DATES** | | | **HEARING**<br>**DATE** | | | **TIME** | **TYPE** | | | January | 6 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | January | 6 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | January | 21 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | January | 21 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | February | 3 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | February | 3 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | February | 19 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | February | 19 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | March | 4 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | March | 4 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | March | 17 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | March | 17 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | April | 7 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | April | 7 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | April | 22 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | April | 22 | 2026 | ~~@ 1:00 p.m.~~ 10:00 a.m. | Chapter 13 | | | May | 5 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | May | 5 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | May | 21 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | May | 21 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | June | 2 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | June | 2 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | June | 25 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | June | 25 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | July | 7 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | July | 7 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | July | ~~24~~ 23 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | July | ~~24~~ 23 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | August | 6 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | August | 6 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | August | 20 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | August | 20 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | September | 1 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | September | 1 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | September | 17 | 2026 | @09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | September | 17 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | October | 5 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | October | 5 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | October | 22 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | October | 22 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | November | 3 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | November | 3 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | November | 19 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | November | 19 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | December | ~~1~~ 3 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | December | ~~1~~ 3 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | | | December | 17 | 2026 | @ 09:00 a.m. | Chapter 7, 9, 11, 12, 15 | | | December | 17 | 2026 | @ 01:00 p.m. | Chapter 13 | Confirmation Requirements & Confirmed Hearings **Alice Timken** (Courtroom Deputy) [(253) 882-3951](tel:(253) 882-3951) Pursuant to [Local Rules W.D. Wash. Bankr. 9013-1(d)(8)](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/content/motion-practice) [,](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/attachments/2023%20rules.clean%20-23.10.27%20FINAL_w%20ToC%20Added%20CSC%20CLEAN.pdf) unless otherwise ordered by the court, responsive papers, replies, and confirmation of hearings shall be filed as set forth below: | | | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | **Hearing Date\*** | **Response\*** | **Confirmation\*** | **Reply\*** | | Friday | Friday | noon Monday | Tuesday | | Thursday | Thursday | noon Friday | Monday | | Wednesday | Wednesday | noon Thursday | Friday | | Tuesday | Tuesday | noon Wednesday | Thursday | | Monday | Monday | noon Tuesday | Wednesday | \*All references in these columns are to days of the week preceding the hearing date. In the event any of the days fall upon a legal holiday, then the deadline for the event shall be determined by counting backward until a day that is not a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday. **Electronic Filers must confirm hearings using the E-Docket Confirmation Process. Hearings not confirmed using the E-Confirmation Process may be stricken by the Court. Pro Se filers may contact the appropriate Courtroom Deputy to confirm hearings. If the status of a hearing changes after it has been confirmed, the party is required to provide the updated information using the E-Confirmation Process.** [Judge Mary Jo Heston (MJH) Confirmed Hearing Calendars](https://ecf.wawb.uscourts.gov/ConfirmedHearings/MJH/) Office & Staff Union Station 1717 Pacific Avenue, Suite 2209 Tacoma, WA 98402-3233 Courtroom: H Chambers: [253 882-3950](tel:253 882-3950) Dana Manke (Law Clerk) Carrie Selby (Law Clerk) Sasha Tavitian (Law Clerk) Alice Timken (Courtroom Deputy) Procedures **PROCEDURES FOR CASES ASSIGNED TO JUDGE HESTON** \[Last updated 1/17/2025\] **Tacoma Motion Calendars:** Non-evidentiary hearings set on the Tacoma calendar will be held in person. Requests for remote video appearances should be submitted according to the remote attendance procedures below. **Vancouver Motion Calendars:** All Vancouver calendars will be held via ZoomGov. IFP and Reaffirmation Agreement hearings will remain telephonic. **_Evidentiary Hearings, Trials, and Specially Set Motion Hearings_** **:** Evidentiary hearings will be in person unless otherwise ordered by the Court on a case-by-case basis. **_Telephonic Appearance:_** Telephonic attendance will only be granted for Reaffirmation hearings and IFP requests. **_Remote Attendance_** **:** Attendance at hearings or other conferences may be by remote appearance if approved by the Judge at least 48 hours prior to the hearing/conference. Remote appearance will be by video and must be requested by letter in ECF no later than 48 hours prior to the scheduled hearing. If the party does not have ECF filing capabilities, the letter may be sent to the Clerk’s Office to be docketed. The letter must include the party name, phone number, email address, and the reason for the remote appearance. If remote appearance is approved, the requesting party will be contacted by the Courtroom Deputy with the information for joining the hearing by video. **The Judge will not permit any remote appearance that has not been approved in advance of the hearing, and the standards for approval are according to pre-Covid guidelines.** No recording of the hearing is permitted, but parties may download a recording directly from CM/ECF: [order-audio-recording-hearing](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/order-audio-recording-hearing). Parties may also contact the Clerk’s Office after the hearing to request audio or an official transcript of the hearing. If parties do not have access to the appropriate technology to appear via video, please contact Judge Heston’s Courtroom Deputy at [alice\_timken@wawb.uscourts.gov](mailto:alice_timken@wawb.uscourts.gov). **Pretrial Conferences:** In most adversary proceedings, Judge Heston will not automatically schedule a pretrial conference prior to the commencement of discovery. Instead, after an answer is filed, Judge Heston will enter a Notice of Trial and Order Setting Deadlines, which may schedule a pretrial conference closer to the trial date. A party may also request a pretrial conference by letter electronically filed with the court. All pretrial conferences will automatically be scheduled via ZoomGov. **Section 105 Conferences:** If a party in interest believes that a conference with the parties and the Court would be beneficial in a chapter 11 case, other than a case under subchapter V of chapter 11, that party may file a request for a status conference pursuant to [11 U.S.C. § 105(d)](https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/11/105) and Local Rules W.D. Wash. Bankr. [9003-1](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/sites/wawb/files/attachments/2023_rules_clean_23_10_27_FINAL_w_ToC_Added_CSC_CLEAN.pdf), stating the reasons for the request. **Confirming Motions and Trials:** Judge Heston requires confirmation of all contested motions, evidentiary hearings, and trials. Motions must be confirmed according to the timeframes found in Local Rules W.D. Wash. Bankr. [9013-1(d)(8)](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/sites/wawb/files/attachments/2023_rules_clean_23_10_27_FINAL_w_ToC_Added_CSC_CLEAN.pdf) by submitting a "Notice of Intent to Argue" through ECF in the E-Confirmation Process. The E-Confirmation Process is set forth on the court website under the Hearings & Locations tab > Confirm a Hearing. **Trials should also be confirmed using the E-Confirmation Process.** Hearings and trials not confirmed may be stricken by the Court. Local Rules W.D. Wash. Bankr. [9013-1(b)(5).](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/sites/wawb/files/attachments/2023_rules_clean_23_10_27_FINAL_w_ToC_Added_CSC_CLEAN.pdf) Pro se filers should contact Judge Heston’s Courtroom Deputy to confirm hearings and provide contact information for the hearing: Alice Timken, [(253) 882-3951](tel:(253)%20882-3951). **Continuing or Striking Motions, Evidentiary Hearings, and Trials:** _Motions_ may not be continued or stricken from the calendar without the agreement of any party who has filed an objection or other response to the motion. By uploading an E-docket request for continuance or notice of motion being stricken or withdrawn, **counsel is representing that the agreement of all interested parties has been obtained**. If the status of a motion changes after it has been confirmed, the party who confirmed the matter is responsible for updating the Court using the E-Confirmation Process as soon as counsel is aware of the change in status. **If a motion is continued, it must be reconfirmed for the continued hearing date using the E-Confirmation Process according to Local Rules W.D. Wash.**[**Bankr.**](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/LBR9013-1) [9013-1(b)(5)](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/sites/wawb/files/attachments/2023_rules_clean_23_10_27_FINAL_w_ToC_Added_CSC_CLEAN.pdf). Notwithstanding the foregoing, a chapter 13 matter may not be continued for more than four (4) months from the original date of the hearing without the consent of Judge Heston, whose consent may be requested by motion before the hearing date. _Evidentiary hearings and trials_ may not be continued or stricken without Court approval. A request to continue or strike a trial date must be made by motion and noted for hearing before the trial date unless approved by the Court at the scheduled pretrial conference. When a matter set for evidentiary hearing or trial is resolved prior to the court date, counsel should notify chambers through the E-Confirmation Process as soon as they are aware that an agreement has been reached. **Procedure for Requesting a Continuance of Confirmation Hearing for Subchapter V Cases:** Subchapter V confirmation hearings may not be continued or stricken without Court approval. A party requesting a continuance of the confirmation hearing must file a motion and set the motion for a hearing in accordance with Local Rules W.D. Wash. Bankr. [9013-1](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/sites/wawb/files/attachments/2023_rules_clean_23_10_27_FINAL_w_ToC_Added_CSC_CLEAN.pdf). **Fee Applications and Final Reports:** Movants who have filed fee applications and final reports to which no party has objected need not appear at the scheduled hearing unless instructed to do so by chambers. **Order Upload:** Orders ready for the Judge’s signature should be submitted in ECF via Bankruptcy > Order Upload or Adversary > Order Upload, respectively. “Proposed” should NOT be included in the caption. **Shortening Time**: Under Local Rule W.D. Wash. Bankr. [9013-1(d)(3)](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/sites/wawb/files/attachments/2023_rules_clean_23_10_27_FINAL_w_ToC_Added_CSC_CLEAN.pdf), motions to shorten time or limit notice are disfavored. A motion to shorten time must be made by a separate motion and may be filed ex parte. The motion to shorten time must include a certification by the movant's attorney in writing stating the efforts made to give notice to opposing counsel of the movant's intent to bring a motion on shortened time and the reasons why further notice should not be required. Counsel should simultaneously file (1) the motion to shorten time, (2) a received unsigned order shortening time (using the Order Upload docket event), and (3) the underlying substantive motion. **A hearing may not be set on the underlying motion unless an order setting the hearing is first signed by Judge Heston, at which time the Clerk's Office will set the hearing on the judge's calendar**. The received unsigned order shortening time must include (a) the proposed date and time of the hearing on the underlying motion, (b) the proposed response date, and (c) a deadline for providing notice of the underlying substantive motion to parties in interest, which shall be no later than 24 hours after entry of the order shortening time. However, a hearing on a motion to shorten time or to limit notice may be scheduled at the Court's discretion. Additionally, the Court may change the dates and times set forth in the order shortening time. Notice of a hearing on shortened time should be given to all parties in interest within the deadline set forth in the signed order shortening time that sets the hearing on the underlying motion and response date. **Counsel are reminded that if they wish the underlying motion to be heard for argument, it must be timely confirmed in accordance with Local Rules W.D. Bankr. 9013-1(d)(8) and by using the E-Docket Confirmation Process. If a matter is not timely confirmed, even though an Order Shortening Time has been signed, it may not be heard**. **Uncontested Matters:** Orders for uncontested matters should be submitted via ECF with a declaration of no objection. _See_ Local Rules W.D. Wash. Bankr. [9013-1(f)(2).](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/sites/wawb/files/attachments/2023_rules_clean_23_10_27_FINAL_w_ToC_Added_CSC_CLEAN.pdf) Unopposed matters may also be presented at the date and time of the hearing. Judge Heston calls agreed and unopposed matters initially on her motions calendars before contested matters but prefers orders to be submitted electronically. **Formatting and Linking of Motion Papers/Exhibits:** Format and linking requirements are set out in Local Rules W.D. Wash. Bankr. [9004-1](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/sites/wawb/files/attachments/2023_rules_clean_23_10_27_FINAL_w_ToC_Added_CSC_CLEAN.pdf); respecting exhibits, _see_ Local Rules W.D. Wash. Bankr. [9004-1(d).](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/sites/wawb/files/attachments/2023_rules_clean_23_10_27_FINAL_w_ToC_Added_CSC_CLEAN.pdf) **Chamber’s Copies of Filed Papers:**For dispositive motions: parties moving for or opposing dismissal or summary judgment shall provide 1 (one) chambers’ copy of all papers contemporaneously with each filing.  For all other motions: if an opposition or response is filed to any other motion, any party whose filings (including the motion, brief, memorandum, attachments, and exhibits) exceed fifty (50) pages in length shall provide 1 (one) chambers’ copy of all papers within 1 (one) court day after the filing of the opposition or response. Chambers’ copies shall be clearly indexed in three-ringed binders and delivered to chambers or to the Clerk’s Office. **Contacting Chambers:** Judge Heston chambers can be reached at [(253) 882-3950](tel:253-882-3950). Please respect the prohibition against ex parte communication, [Fed. R. Bankr. P. 9003(a)](http://www.law.cornell.edu/rules/frbp/rule_9003), and avoid communications with law clerks concerning matters affecting a particular case other than procedural or scheduling matters. Emails should not be used to communicate with chambers regarding a case. Communication with a law clerk is deemed to be communication with the Judge. **Chapter 13 Attorney Applications for Fees in Excess of the Presumptive Fee:** The presumptive or “no-look” fee is $5,000 for all chapter 13 cases. Local Rules W.D. Wash. Bankr.  [2016-1](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/sites/wawb/files/attachments/2023_rules_clean_23_10_27_FINAL_w_ToC_Added_CSC_CLEAN.pdf)(e)(1). An application for pre-confirmation attorneys’ fees in excess of the presumptive fee must be filed not more than 21 days after entry of the confirmation order. Local Rules W.D. Wash. Bankr. [2016-1](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/sites/wawb/files/attachments/2023_rules_clean_23_10_27_FINAL_w_ToC_Added_CSC_CLEAN.pdf)(e)(1). An attorney who has taken the presumptive fee and seeks approval of fees for pre- or post-confirmation services in an amount above the presumptive amount shall (1) file an itemized time record for all services provided in connection with the case in order to establish the attorney has earned the presumptive fee and the additional amount, and (2) file an application and proposed order seeking approval for only the amount above the presumptive fee. For example, if an attorney seeks compensation of $5,500 after the Court approved a $5,000 presumptive fee in the confirmation order, only $500 should be requested in the application and proposed order. **Chapter 11 Plan Confirmation Hearings and Orders:** Evidence sufficient to permit Judge Heston to make the findings necessary to confirm the plan under [11 U.S.C. § 1129](https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/11/1129) should be submitted with the pre-confirmation report required by Local Rules W.D. Wash. Bankr. [3020-1(a)](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/sites/wawb/files/attachments/2023_rules_clean_23_10_27_FINAL_w_ToC_Added_CSC_CLEAN.pdf). Absent a showing of compelling circumstances, the confirmation order should substantially comply with Fed. R. Bankr. P. [3020(c)(1)](https://www.law.cornell.edu/rules/frbp/rule_3020) and Official Form [315](https://www.uscourts.gov/forms-rules/forms/order-confirming-plan-0). **Subchapter V Case Procedures:** Upon the filing of a chapter 11 case where the debtor elects to be a debtor under subchapter V, the Court will issue an order setting the status conference required by [11 U.S.C. § 1188(a)](https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/11/1188). The Court will provide notice of this order to the debtor, the debtor’s attorney, and the trustee and the status conference will automatically be scheduled via ZoomGov. The status conference will be scheduled for a date between 45 and 60 days after entry of the order for relief. The debtor, the debtor’s attorney, and the trustee will be required to attend the status conference; creditors and other parties in interest may voluntarily attend as well. The order setting the status conference will require the debtor to prepare and serve the report required by [11 U.S.C. § 1188(c)](https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/11/1188) no later than 14 days before the date set for the status conference. The order setting the status conference will also set the deadline for filing proofs of claim and require debtors to serve the notice of the Claim Deadline on all creditors, equity security holders, and other parties in interest by a date specified in the order setting the status conference. [11 U.S.C. § 1189(b)](https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/11/1189) requires the debtor in a subchapter V case to file a plan no later than 90 days after the order for relief. Upon the filing of a plan in a subchapter V case, the Court will issue an order setting the confirmation hearing. That order will also set the deadlines for voting to accept or reject the plan, for filing objections to confirmation of the plan, and for secured creditors to make an election under [11 U.S.C. § 1111(b)(2)](https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/11/1111). The order will require the debtor to mail a copy thereof to all creditors, equity security holders, and other parties in interest. **Notice/Service:** If notice must be given to all parties in interest, notice is presumed adequate if mailed to all entities on the master mailing list, provided the list is current to within 7 days of mailing. Parties must attach a copy of the master mailing list used for noticing to the proof of service filed with the court. _See_ Local Rules W.D. Wash. Bankr. [2002-1(e).](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/sites/wawb/files/attachments/2023_rules_clean_23_10_27_FINAL_w_ToC_Added_CSC_CLEAN.pdf) Local Rules W.D. Wash. Bankr. [9013-1(d)(2)(B)](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/sites/wawb/files/attachments/2023_rules_clean_23_10_27_FINAL_w_ToC_Added_CSC_CLEAN.pdf) requires that proof of any conventional (non-ECF) service of the notice and the motion be filed by the response date. Service of a motion in a contested matter must comply with Fed. R. Bankr. P. [7004](http://www.law.cornell.edu/rules/frbp/rule_7004), unless otherwise governed by the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure. Fed. R. Bankr. P. [9014(b)](https://www.law.cornell.edu/rules/frbp/rule_9014). This includes service of a motion to avoid a lien under [11 U.S.C. § 522(f),](http://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/11/522) a motion to sell free and clear under [11 U.S.C. § 363(f)](http://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/11/363), and a motion to strip a wholly unsecured mortgage lien and a request to value collateral in a chapter 13 case. When service in compliance with Fed. R. Bankr. P. [7004](http://www.law.cornell.edu/rules/frbp/rule_7004) is required, please pay attention to the rules for service upon specific parties. For instance, service upon a domestic or foreign corporation or upon a partnership or other unincorporated association must be to the attention of a specifically identified officer, managing or general agent, or agent authorized to receive service. Fed. R. Bankr. P. [7004(b)(3)](http://www.law.cornell.edu/rules/frbp/rule_7004). Service on an insured depository institution shall be made by certified mail addressed to an officer of the institution. Fed. R. Bankr. P. [7004](http://www.law.cornell.edu/rules/frbp/rule_7004)(h). **Order of Default/Default Judgments:** An order of default must be entered before entry of a default judgment, and judgments must be separate documents. Local Rules W.D. Wash. Bankr. [7055-1](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/sites/wawb/files/attachments/2023_rules_clean_23_10_27_FINAL_w_ToC_Added_CSC_CLEAN.pdf); Fed. R. Bankr. P. [7058](http://www.law.cornell.edu/rules/frbp/rule_7058). Proof of proper service in compliance with Fed. R. Bankr. P. [7004](http://www.law.cornell.edu/rules/frbp/rule_7004) must be filed. _See_ Local Rules W.D. Wash. Bankr. [7055-1](https://www.wawb.uscourts.gov/sites/wawb/files/attachments/2023_rules_clean_23_10_27_FINAL_w_ToC_Added_CSC_CLEAN.pdf). Telephonic Hearings **Telephonic Attendance:** - Telephonic attendance will only be granted for Reaffirmation hearings and IFP requests. **Guidelines When Appearing by Phone:** - Use a land line phone and not a cell phone, if possible. - Do not use a speaker phone. - Make the call from a quiet area where background noise is minimal. - Wait until Judge Heston calls your case before speaking. - Do not put the phone on hold at any time after the call is connected. - In the event you are unable to connect to the conference call after following the above procedures, please contact chambers. **ZoomGov Attendance:** - Attendance at hearings or other conferences may be by ZoomGov if approved by Judge Heston in advance of the hearing or conference. - ZoomGov appearance must be requested by filing a letter no later than 48 hours prior to the scheduled hearing or conference. - If ZoomGov appearance is approved, the requesting party will be contacted by Judge Heston’s chambers with the information for connecting to the hearing. - Judge Heston usually will not permit any ZoomGov appearance that has not been approved in advance of the hearing or conference. - No recording of the hearing or conference is permitted. Parties may usually access a recording directly from CM/ECF. Parties may also contact the Clerk’s Office after the hearing or conference to request audio or an official transcript of the hearing. **Guidelines When Appearing by ZoomGov:** - Please do not attempt to record this session.  It is prohibited. - Please set your Zoom username to show your first and last name only: Jane Doe, John Doe…(this will make it easier for the judge to identify parties) - If you are disconnected from the session and can’t rejoin, email the Judge’s Courtroom Deputy at: [Alice\_Timken@wawb.uscourts.gov](mailto:Alice_Timken@wawb.uscourts.gov). - **Please join this Zoom session** **at least 10** **mins prior to the scheduled start of the hearing.** **Connecting to the session:** - If attending this meeting via Video: Select the “Join ZoomGov Meeting” link provided by Judge Heston’s courtroom deputy. - If attending this meeting via Phone-only (no video) **(PRIOR PERMISSION FROM JUDGE HESTON REQUIRED**): - Cell phone users: Select one of the “One tap mobile” (San Jose) options included in the ZoomGov Meeting link provided by Judge Heston’s courtroom deputy to connect. - Landline users: Dial one of the “Dial by your location (San Jose)” numbers included in the ZoomGov Meeting link provided by Judge Heston’s courtroom deputy > Enter the “Meeting ID” when prompted > Press # when prompted for your “Personal Meeting ID”. **Tips for success:** - Choose a quiet location without distractions. - Choose an area with good light, but not too much bright light behind you. - For better sound quality, use a headset with built-in mic (or make sure you are close to your microphone). - Turn off apps that have built-in sounds, minimizing background noise. - Check and confirm, in advance of the hearing, that you have a working camera and microphone on your device. If you run into any issues or have questions, please email Judge’s Courtroom Deputy at: [Alice\_Timken@wawb.uscourts.gov](mailto:Alice_Timken@wawb.uscourts.gov) for assistance. ![Chat widget](https://files.alive5.com/images/widgets/upload/usbc-w1621908610701.png) 0

Common questions about Judge Mary Jo Heston's rules

Are courtesy copies required for Judge Mary Jo Heston?

Courtesy copies are required for all covered filings. Details: delivery upon filing, by chambers drop off. Copies of filed documents must be delivered to chambers following each judge's procedures.

View ruleSource: page 41, section Local Bankruptcy Rule 9013-1(d)(4)

Does Judge Mary Jo Heston require a pre-motion conference or letter before filing a motion?

Judge Mary Jo Heston's rules set a pre-motion procedure for covered motions. Withdrawal without replacement requires a court order, obtained either by stipulation or by motion with hearing.

View ruleSource: page 18, section RULE 2089-1(b)

What page or word limits apply to brief before Judge Mary Jo Heston?

Judge Mary Jo Heston's rule states these limits: 24 pages; 12 pages. Opening and responsive memoranda for dispositive motions limited to 24 pages; reply briefs limited to 12 pages (half of opening).

View ruleSource: page 40, section Local Bankruptcy Rule 9013-1(d)(1)(C)

What page or word limits apply to mediation statement before Judge Mary Jo Heston?

Judge Mary Jo Heston's rule states these limits: 10 pages. Excludes exhibits and attachments. Mediation statements are limited to 10 pages, excluding exhibits and attachments.

View ruleSource: page 54, section RULE 9045-1. DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROCEDURES

What formatting rules apply to filings before Judge Mary Jo Heston?

Judge Mary Jo Heston's formatting rule includes file format paper and only paper submissions allowed for trial exhibits unless court orders otherwise.. Trial and evidentiary hearing exhibits must be submitted on paper only.

View ruleSource: page 33, section Rule 5005-1

What must be included with petition filings before Judge Mary Jo Heston?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. Petitions by ECF filers must include debtor's signature; missing signature may result in dismissal within 1 business day.

View ruleSource: page 7, section RULE 1017-1. DISMISSAL OF CASE

What must be included with list of creditors filings before Judge Mary Jo Heston?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. Debtor must file a list of creditors within 7 days of petition filing.

View ruleSource: page 7, section RULE 1017-1(c)

How may parties contact Judge Mary Jo Heston's chambers?

Parties may contact Judge Mary Jo Heston's trustee by email only as allowed by the rule. The rule lists email courtmail@seattlech13.com, specialcounsel@chapter13tacoma.org. Ex parte chapter 13 dismissal orders must be emailed to the Seattle and Tacoma chapter 13 trustees.

View ruleSource: page 43, section Rule 9013-1

How does Judge Mary Jo Heston handle sealed or redacted filings?

A motion to seal is required for covered sealed filings before Judge Mary Jo Heston. Process: file redacted on ecf. The ECF event for sealing motions allows filing under seal without prior approval; sealed documents must be docketed separately but simultaneously.

View ruleSource: page 45, section Sealing

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge Mary Jo Heston?

Judge Mary Jo Heston's rules specify what an adjournment or extension request must include. The request must include reason for request and original date. Motion for extension of time to file schedules must be filed before deadline and contain specified information; court cannot extend to within 7 days of 341 meeting unless continuance arranged.

View ruleSource: page 5, section RULE 1007-1. LISTS, SCHEDULES, STATEMENTS

Are filing fees or waivers addressed before Judge Mary Jo Heston?

A fee is required for covered filings, and the rule identifies waiver availability. Voluntary petition must be accompanied by full payment, waiver application, or installment application.

View ruleSource: page 5, section General Requirements

Is electronic filing required before Judge Mary Jo Heston?

Yes. Electronic filing is required for the covered filings. Attorneys and trustees must file all documents electronically through ECF.

View ruleSource: page 31, section Rule 5005-1
Complete rules summary for Judge Mary Jo Heston

Orders and judgments must be formatted per Local Bankruptcy Rule 9021-1.

Voluntary petition must be accompanied by full payment, waiver application, or installment application.

Debtor unable to pay filing fee may file installment application with initial payment due with petition; initial installment amounts vary by chapter; denial if prior case within 8 years with fees owed.

Individual chapter 7 debtor may file waiver application (Form B 103B) with petition for waiver of filing fee.

Motion for extension of time to file schedules must be filed before deadline and contain specified information; court cannot extend to within 7 days of 341 meeting unless continuance arranged.

Motions for reconsideration shall not be noted for hearing unless the court requests oral argument.

Debtors on active military duty must indicate on Schedule I; if deployed for 14+ days after filing, must file notice with deployment dates, address, and redacted orders.

Upon conversion of a bankruptcy case, debtor must file amendments to required documents or a declaration of no changes.

First page of any amendment must show debtor's name and case number; amendment must be verified.

Petition may be amended to change debtor's name by ex parte motion.

In chapter 7/12/13 cases, when amending schedules to add creditors after 341 notice mailed but before 341 meeting, debtor must serve notice and 341 copy on added creditors and file proof of service.

Mediator must file Certificate of Compliance within 14 days of mediation conference conclusion.

Amendments to schedules must be accompanied by the prescribed fee.

Debtor must serve amendment to exemptions on trustee and affected entities, and file proof of service on non-ECF participants.

Debtor or trustee must file certificate of service of notice within 7 days.

Petitions by ECF filers must include debtor's signature; missing signature may result in dismissal within 1 business day.

Missing debtor signature on ECF petition may result in dismissal within 1 business day without further notice.

Petitions by unrepresented individuals must include debtor's signature; missing signature results in rejection or 7-day deficiency notice for joint petitions.

Missing signature on petition by unrepresented individual results in immediate rejection by clerk.

Joint petitions missing a joint debtor's signature receive a 7-day deficiency notice to cure.

Debtor must file a verified statement of social security number or taxpayer identification number with the petition.

ECF petition missing verified statement may be dismissed after 1 business day.

Paper petitions missing verified statement may be rejected by the clerk.

Joint petitions with only one verified statement receive a 7-day deficiency notice.

Proponent of chapter 11 plan must give notice of the deadline for accepting or rejecting the plan.

Debtor must file a list of creditors within 7 days of petition filing.

Creditor list must be filed within 7 days of petition; failure may result in dismissal.

Debtor must file schedules and statements with the petition; failure may result in dismissal after 15 days' notice.

Dismissal for missing schedules requires 15 days' notice to debtor.

Motion to vacate dismissal order must be served on trustee and all parties in interest.

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