Western District of Washington Chambers Communication Rules

Video participants must conduct themselves as if physically present.

Source text: Attorneys and litigants appearing by video shall appear and conduct themselves as if they were physically in the courtroom.

Attorneys must appear on camera and have technical capability; inform court if unable.

Source text: Attorneys shall appear on camera. Given the prevalence of video hearings in various courts, attorneys should have a working video feed and understand how to utilize their personal technology to enable an appearance by video. If an attorney is not confident they have the technical experience or knowledge to utilize a camera, they shall inform the court immediately so the court can schedule an in-person appearance rather than a video appearance.

Attorneys must appear from proper location with lighting, no distractions, not from vehicles.

Source text: Attorneys shall appear from an office or room with proper lighting. Attorneys should not appear from a location where there are distractions occurring in the room, which includes distractions from co-workers, family, or pets. Attorneys are prohibited from appearing from vehicles.

Video conference login details limited to client and relevant staff only.

Source text: Attorneys shall only share the video conference login details with their client and staff who are assisting with the matter. The login details shall not be provided to nonparties or to staff who are not involved with the matter.

Must contact courtroom deputy before filing motion to continue.

Source text: Before filing a motion to continue the trial date, counsel must contact Judge Whitehead's Courtroom Deputy, Grant Cogswell, at grant_cogswell@wawd.uscourts.gov to verify that the parties' proposed new trial date fits within the Court's existing schedule.

Jury selection will be conducted via Zoom unless parties object with good cause.

Source text: The Court will conduct jury selection over Zoom unless the parties object and good cause is shown why jury selection should not take place through remote video means.

Recording proceedings by any means is prohibited and illegal.

Source text: No one is allowed to record the proceedings by any means. Recording Zoom proceedings without permission from the Court is illegal.

Objections to witnesses/exhibits must be resolved by meet-and-confer, then emailed to courtroom deputy by 8 PM.

Source text: If the opposing party objects to any witnesses or exhibits, the parties must meet and confer to resolve any objections and to reach stipulations. If objections remain after conferring, the party offering the disputed exhibit(s) must email Mr. Cogswell by 8:00 p.m. with a list of the disputed exhibit(s) to be offered the next day.

Equipment testing must be scheduled with courtroom deputy at pretrial conference.

Source text: At the pretrial conference, the parties must schedule with Mr. Cogswell a time to test any equipment that they wish to use at trial.

Physical copies of in camera review documents must be delivered to chambers, clearly marked for in camera review.

Source text: The party shall also deliver a physical copy of the documents to chambers, clearly marked for in camera review to avoid inadvertent filing on the docket.

All parties must be copied on all emails sent to the Courtroom Deputy.

Source text: All parties must be copied on emails when communicating with the Courtroom Deputy.

Electronic copies of in camera review documents must be sent to the Courtroom Deputy via email.

Source text: If the Court orders a party to submit documents for in camera review, the party shall send an electronic copy of the documents to the Courtroom Deputy at KKEcrd@wawd.uscourts.gov.

All oral argument requests must be submitted via email to the Courtroom Deputy.

Source text: All requests pertaining to oral argument should be submitted via email to the Courtroom Deputy at KKEcrd@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Counsel must notify the Courtroom Deputy via email immediately upon case settlement, with sanctions for non-compliance.

Source text: If this case settles, counsel shall notify the Courtroom Deputy via email at KKEcrd@wawd.uscourts.gov as soon as possible. Pursuant to LCR 11(b), an attorney who fails to give the Courtroom Deputy prompt notice of settlement may be subject to sanctions.

Parties must contact chambers via email before requesting a trial continuance to confirm availability, then file a stipulated motion after obtaining an approved date.

Source text: Please contact the Courtroom Deputy at KKEcrd@wawd.uscourts.gov before requesting a continuance of a trial date to a future date certain, to ensure the Court’s availability. After the parties obtain an approved new trial date from the Courtroom Deputy, the parties may file a stipulated motion for a continuance.

Counsel must notify Courtroom Deputy via email as soon as possible when case settles; failure may result in sanctions under LCR 11(b).

Source text: If this case settles, counsel shall notify Courtroom Deputy Diyana Staples via email at Diyana_Staples@wawd.uscourts.gov as soon as possible. Pursuant to LCR 11(b), an attorney who fails to give the courtroom deputy prompt notice of settlement may be subject to sanctions.

Parties must contact Courtroom Deputy via email before requesting a continuance to ensure Court availability.

Source text: Please contact Courtroom Deputy Diyana Staples at Diyana_Staples@wawd.uscourts.gov before requesting a continuance of a trial date to a future date certain, to ensure the Court's availability.

Contact courtroom deputy before filing motion to continue trial date.

Source text: Prior to filing a motion to continue a trial date, counsel is directed to contact the Court’s courtroom deputy, Natalie Wood, by email at natalie_wood@wawd.uscourts.gov to verify that the parties’ proposed new trial date is acceptable to the Court.

Redlined stipulated protective orders must be submitted to kingorders@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Source text: LCR 26(c) requires that when parties submit a stipulated protective order for the Court’s approval, they must also provide the Court with a redlined version, identifying departures from the model. LCR 26(c)(2). The redlined version must be submitted to kingorders@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Moving party must email Word version of proposed order to kingorders@wawd.uscourts.gov; no substantive relief requests to this email.

Source text: Pursuant to this District’s Electronic Filing Procedures, the moving party must email a Microsoft Word version of a proposed order to kingorders@wawd.uscourts.gov. Parties may not send requests for substantive relief to this email address.

Proposed jury instructions must be emailed to kingorders@wawd.uscourts.gov and natalie_wood@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Source text: Instructions should be sent to kingorders@wawd.uscourts.gov and natalie_wood@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Parties must review Judge Lin's procedures online before hearings/trials.

Source text: Parties shall review Judge Lin’s procedures at https://www.wawd.uscourts.gov/judges/lin-procedures prior to any hearing or trial for potential updates or modifications to this Order as well as additional information relating to her general practices.

Contact courtroom deputy before filing motion to continue trial.

Source text: Prior to filing a motion to continue a trial date, Counsel is directed to contact the Court’s Courtroom Deputy, Kadya Peter, by email at Kadya_Peter@wawd.uscourts.gov to verify that the Court will be available on the proposed new trial date.

All devices must be turned off or to airplane mode during proceedings.

Source text: All cellular telephones and wireless devices must be turned off or turned to airplane mode during all proceedings. Simply silencing these devices is insufficient, as they may interfere with the courtroom audio system. Individuals whose devices interrupt proceedings may be sanctioned.

Parties must notify opposing counsel of next-day witnesses by 8 p.m. the previous day.

Source text: The Court expects the Parties to provide notice to opposing counsel of their next-day’s witnesses by 8 p.m. the day before a witness is to be called.

After-hours issues require meet-and-confer before emailing Courtroom Deputy.

Source text: Should an issue arise during trial after court hours, Counsel are instructed to meet and confer to see if the issue can be resolved without Court intervention. If such meet-and-confer efforts are unsuccessful, Counsel must notify Courtroom Deputy Kadya Peter of the issue by email at Kadya_Peter@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Contact Courtroom Deputy before filing motion to continue trial date.

Source text: Prior to filing a motion to continue a trial date, Counsel are directed to contact the Court’s Courtroom Deputy Kadya Peter by email at Kadya_Peter@wawd.uscourts.gov to verify that the Court will be available on the proposed new trial date.

Counsel must remain within 20 minutes of courthouse during jury deliberations.

Source text: Throughout jury deliberations, Counsel must remain within twenty (20) minutes of the courthouse so that the Court can expeditiously respond to any jury notes or a verdict. Counsel who choose not to remain in the immediate vicinity of the courtroom must provide the Courtroom Deputy with a telephone number where they can be contacted.

After-hours issues must be resolved by meet-and-confer before contacting chambers.

Source text: Should an issue arise during trial after court hours, Counsel are instructed to meet and confer to see if the issue can be resolved without Court intervention. If such meet-and-confer efforts are unsuccessful, Counsel must notify Courtroom Deputy Kadya Peter of the issue by email at Kadya_Peter@wawd.uscourts.gov.

All parties must be included in communications with chambers.

Source text: For any other types of inquiries, all Parties must be on the line or copied on the email when communicating with the Courtroom Deputy.

Videoconference registration required; video appearance mandatory unless motion granted.

Source text: All videoconference participants must register prior to the hearing or trial date using the link that will be provided in advance of the hearing or trial date. Where a videoconference has been set, Counsel is required to appear via video unless they file, and the Court grants, a motion to appear telephonically.

Phones/devices must be off/airplane mode during proceedings; violations may be sanctioned.

Source text: Except with prior Court approval, all cellular telephones and wireless devices must be turned off or turned to airplane mode during all proceedings. Simply silencing these devices is insufficient, as they may interfere with the courtroom audio system. Individuals whose devices interrupt proceedings may be sanctioned.

After-hours issues require meet-and-confer before emailing courtroom deputy.

Source text: Should an issue arise during trial after court hours, Counsel are instructed to meet and confer to see if the issue may be resolved without court intervention. If such meet and confer efforts are unsuccessful, Counsel must notify Kadya Peter, the Courtroom Deputy, of the issue by email at Kadya_Peter@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Counsel must remain within 20 minutes of courthouse during jury deliberations and provide contact information.

Source text: Throughout jury deliberations Counsel must remain within twenty (20) minutes of the courthouse to allow the Court to expeditiously respond to any jury notes or a verdict. Counsel must provide the Courtroom Deputy with a telephone number where they can be contacted if leaving the immediate vicinity of the courtroom during jury deliberations.

Counsel must have sufficient witnesses; no early recess for missing witnesses.

Source text: Counsel must have sufficient witnesses available to fill up the court day. Judge Cartwright will not recess early or delay the trial if a witness is not available.

All counsel must participate in telephonic call to chambers for immediate discovery disputes.

Source text: If immediate judicial involvement is necessary, the parties may request Judge Tsuchida to hear the motion telephonically. Under Local Rule CR 7(i), all counsel to the discovery dispute must participate in making the call to chambers. Counsel may telephone chambers at (206) 370-8930.

Stand when court is opened, recessed, or adjourned

Source text: Stand as Court is opened, recessed, or adjourned.

Stand when jury enters or exits courtroom in jury trials

Source text: In jury trials, stand when the jury enters or exits the courtroom.

Stand when addressing or being addressed by the Court

Source text: Stand when addressing, or being addressed by, the Court.

Stand at lectern when examining witnesses, may approach for exhibits

Source text: Stand at the lectern while examining any witness—except that counsel may approach the Courtroom Deputy's desk or the witness for purposes of handling or tendering exhibits.

Address all remarks to the Court, not opposing counsel

Source text: Address all remarks to the Court, not to opposing counsel.

Be respectful of opposing counsel, litigants, and witnesses

Source text: Be respectful of opposing counsel and the litigants and/or witnesses.

Refer to all persons by surnames, not first names

Source text: Refer to all persons, including witnesses, other counsel, and parties by their surnames and not by their first or given names.

Only one attorney per party may examine/cross-examine each witness

Source text: Only one attorney for each party shall examine, or cross-examine, each witness. The attorney stating objections, if any, during direct-examination, shall be the attorney recognized for cross-examination.

Request permission before approaching the bench

Source text: Request permission before approaching the bench.

State only legal grounds for objections, no further comment unless requested

Source text: In making objections, counsel should state only the legal grounds for the objection and should withhold all further comment or argument unless elaboration is requested by the Court.

Present objected exhibits to Court before session for ruling to avoid sidebar conferences

Source text: Those exhibits to which there is an objection shall be presented to the Court for ruling before the opening of the session. If possible, the Court will rule on the objection then, thereby eliminating the necessity for a sidebar conference when the exhibit is offered.

Make stipulation offers/requests privately, not in jury's hearing

Source text: Offers of, or requests for, a stipulation should be made privately, not within the hearing of the jury.

Do not face or address jurors when questioning witnesses

Source text: Do not face or otherwise appear to address yourself to jurors when questioning a witness.

Sidebar conferences presumptively not tolerated except in extraordinary circumstances

Source text: Sidebar conferences will presumptively not be tolerated, except in extraordinary and unforeseen circumstances. These conferences have a distracting effect on the jury and the parties should strive to postpone raising issues outside the jury's presence until the next recess, except when an immediate conference appears necessary.

Do not express personal knowledge or opinion in jury arguments

Source text: In opening statements and in argument to the jury, counsel shall not express personal knowledge or opinion in any matter in issue.

Pro se parties must keep court and opposing parties updated on current mailing/email address; failure to do so within 60 days of returned mail/email may result in dismissal without prejudice.

Source text: (2) A party proceeding pro se shall keep the court and opposing parties advised as to his or her current mailing address and, if electronically filing or receiving notices electronically, his or her current email address. If mail directed to a pro se plaintiff by the clerk is returned by the Postal Service, or if email is returned by the internet service provider, and if such plaintiff fails to notify the court and opposing parties within 60 days thereafter of his or her current mailing or email address, the court may dismiss the action without prejudice for failure to prosecute.

Attorneys must be present in courtroom during all court sessions or waive right to be present.

Source text: It is the right and duty of attorneys to be present in the courtroom at all times the court may be in session. If an attorney voluntarily absents himself or herself during such times or when the jury is deliberating, that attorney waives his or her right to be present and consents to such proceedings as may take place in the courtroom during his or her absence.

Attorneys must obtain court permission before contacting jurors after trial.

Source text: Counsel shall not contact or interview jurors or cause jurors to be contacted or interviewed after trial without first having been granted leave to do so by the court.

Photography, recording, and broadcasting of judicial proceedings is prohibited except as authorized.

Source text: The taking of photographs or any electronic (audio or video) recordings, and the broadcast or streaming thereof in connection with any Judicial Proceeding, is prohibited, except as authorized by the Judicial Conference of the United States or the Judicial Council of the Ninth Circuit. Photographing, transmitting, or recording any court proceedings from a location outside the courthouse in conjunction with a remote appearance, or any other remote court proceeding conducted by telephone or video conference is also prohibited.

Clerk must immediately notify specified officials when relief is granted

Source text: The clerk will immediately notify the Superintendent of the Washington State Penitentiary, the Washington Attorney General, and the prosecutor of the county of conviction whenever relief is granted on a petition.

Clerk must immediately telephone Ninth Circuit clerk about specific petition outcomes

Source text: The clerk will immediately notify the clerk of the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit by telephone of (i) the issuance of a final order denying or dismissing a petition without a certificate of probable cause, or (ii) the denial of a stay of execution.

Clerk must immediately transmit records to Court of Appeals upon notice of appeal

Source text: When a notice of appeal is filed, the clerk will transmit the available records to the Court of Appeals immediately.

Only court reporter and videographer may record depositions

Source text: No participant other than the court-reporting agency and videographer (after appropriate notice) may record by video, photograph, or audio any of the proceedings. This shall include recording using any form of virtual transmitting device,

Court does not accept pleadings via email, only through CM/ECF

Source text: The term, “e-file” differs from “email” in that the court does not accept pleadings via email.

Technical requirements for ECF registration listed

Source text: The following requirements must be met to register for electronic filing: • The filing fee has been paid or the Motion to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (IFP) has been granted. • You are a party to the case for which you are applying for electronic filing. • You meet the following technical requirements: 1. A personal computer with Internet access. 2. Internet Explorer or Firefox browser. Other browsers (Safari, Google Chrome; Microsoft Edge) may have functionality issues with the court’s ECF system and are not supported. 3. Software to convert your documents to PDF format (portable document format) OR a scanner set to 200 dpi (dots per inch) for scanning documents to PDF format. 4. Adobe Acrobat Reader software to view and save documents in PDF format. 5. Experience and knowledge of word processing applications, printers and the Internet. 6. An email account to receive notices of filings and court orders.

All communications during judicial settlement are confidential and may not be used for other purposes.

Source text: To encourage open communication, the Court orders that all matters communicated in connection with this judicial settlement are confidential and not to be used for any other purpose.

Failure to return consent form by deadline constitutes consent to Magistrate Judge jurisdiction.

Source text: If the Notice of Assignment to a U.S. Magistrate Judge and Declination of Consent Form is not returned by the date designated in the form, each party is deemed to have consented to the jurisdiction of the assigned Magistrate Judge under 28 U.S.C. § 636(c).

Discovery disputes: joint email to Payal_Patel@wawd.uscourts.gov with dispute description and availability

Source text: To arrange a telephone hearing, all counsel (not support staff) for the disputing parties shall send a joint email to Payal_Patel@wawd.uscourts.gov with a short (maximum one paragraph) joint description of the dispute, as well as three dates and time ranges when the parties are available for a teleconference.

Counsel must narrow issues before contacting court about discovery disputes

Source text: Counsel shall not contact the Court until they have sufficiently narrowed the disputed issues to only those issues they cannot, without Court assistance, resolve themselves.

Parties must contact chambers to request ADR at case outset

Source text: The parties shall evaluate the opportunity for settlement at the outset of the case. To that end, the parties shall contact chambers to request mediation (with a Magistrate Judge, private mediator, or the Court’s mediation program), arbitration, or any other form of alternate dispute resolution where they are in agreement that such would be helpful.

To schedule a telephone hearing for discovery disputes, counsel must send a joint email to chambers with a description and available dates.

Source text: To arrange a telephone hearing, all counsel (not support staff) for the disputing parties shall send a joint email to Payal_Patel@wawd.uscourts.gov with a short (maximum one paragraph) joint description of the dispute, as well as three dates and time ranges when the parties are available for a teleconference.

Counsel must be within 20 minutes of courthouse during jury deliberations.

Source text: Throughout jury deliberations counsel must be within twenty minutes of the courthouse in order for the Court to expeditiously respond to any jury notes or a verdict. Counsel must provide the courtroom deputy or law clerk with telephone numbers where they can be contacted.

The exhibit list must be emailed to settleorders@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Source text: Please email to settleorders@wawd.uscourts.gov

All cellular phones and wireless devices must be turned off or in airplane mode during proceedings.

Source text: All cellular telephones and wireless devices must be turned off or turned to airplane mode during all proceedings. Simply silencing these devices is insufficient, as they interfere with the courtroom audio system. Individuals whose devices interrupt proceedings shall be sanctioned.

Contact courtroom deputy before filing trial continuance motions.

Source text: Prior to filing a motion to continue a trial date, counsel is directed to contact the Court’s courtroom deputy, Victoria Ericksen, by email at victoria_ericksen@wawd.uscourts.gov to verify that the parties’ proposed new trial date is acceptable to the Court.

All argument and witness questioning must occur from the courtroom lectern.

Source text: All argument and witness questioning should occur from the courtroom lectern. Do not approach the jury or a witness without permission.

Cellphones allowed but must be turned off during court; disable digital assistants.

Source text: Cellphones are allowed inside Judge Whitehead’s courtroom, but they must be turned off when court is in session. If your laptop or tablet features a digital assistant (e.g., Siri), be sure to disable the voice-prompt or always-listening feature to avoid accidental courtroom interruptions.

Email inquiries to chambers must copy all parties; ex parte communications discouraged except for motion status or settlement.

Source text: Parties should direct inquiries to Courtroom Deputy Diyana Staples at Diyana_Staples@wawd.uscourts.gov. All parties must be copied on emails when communicating with the courtroom deputy. Ex parte communications with chambers involving any matter other than checking on a decision on a motion under Local Rules W.D. Wash. LCR 7(b)(5) or settlement are strongly discouraged.

Witness sequestration waiver requests must be discussed with opposing counsel first.

Source text: If Counsel desire a waiver of the rule with respect to a specific witness (for example, an expert), Counsel shall first discuss the matter with opposing Counsel and then present the request to the Court during the preliminary morning session prior to the start of trial on the particular day at issue.

After-hours trial issues require meet and confer before contacting courtroom deputy.

Source text: Should an issue arise during trial after court hours, Counsel are instructed to meet and confer to see if the issue may be resolved without court intervention. If such meet and confer efforts are unsuccessful, Counsel must notify Kadya Peter, the Courtroom Deputy, of the issue by email at Kadya_Peter@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Ex parte communications with chambers are strongly discouraged except for settlement or checking motion status.

Source text: Ex parte communications with chambers involving any matter other than settlement or checking on a status of a decision on a motion pursuant to LCR 7(b)(5) are strongly discouraged.

Ex parte communications with chambers are strongly discouraged except for specific purposes.

Source text: Ex parte communications with chambers involving any matter other than checking on a decision on a motion pursuant to LCR 7(b)(5) or settlement are strongly discouraged.

In-person hearings default; remote appearance allowed for non-local counsel with advance arrangement.

Source text: Unless otherwise specified, hearings are in person. Counsel from outside of King County may appear by telephone or video at status conferences and hearings on non-dispositive motions, but they must request and make arrangements with the Courtroom Deputy ahead of time.

Courtroom decorum rules require dignity, respect, and professional conduct.

Source text: Judge Lin expects everyone in her courtroom to treat each and every person with dignity and respect. Therefore, at a minimum, she expects the following from all:

Parties may request accommodation for exhibit submission requirements by contacting Courtroom Deputy 2 business days before deadline.

Source text: If these requirements for the pre-trial submission of exhibits to the Court pose any undue hardship or burden on a Party, the Party may contact Kadya Peter, Courtroom Deputy, at Kadya_Peter@wawd.uscourts.gov as early as possible, but no later than two (2) business days before the trial exhibits are due, so that the Court can endeavor to address the Party's concerns.

Attorneys must promptly notify court when case is settled or not ready for trial.

Source text: Attorneys must advise the court promptly when a case is settled or when for other reasons it will not be ready for trial at the time set. An attorney who fails to promptly notify the court may be subject to such discipline as the court deems appropriate, including the imposition of costs or of a fine.

Counsel and pro se litigants must stand when addressing court unless disabled.

Source text: Counsel and pro se litigants are required to stand when addressing the Court, a witness, or the jury unless unable to do so due to a disability-related or health-related condition. Advance notice should be provided, when appropriate.

Electronic devices may be used in courtrooms for notes and communications; sounds must be disabled.

Source text: In the courtrooms, personal electronic devices may be used to take notes, transmit and receive data communications, such as email or text messages, or to access the Internet. Telephone ring tones and other functional sounds produced by devices must be disabled while in the courtroom. Only silent keyboards may be used in the courtroom.

All non-essential attendees must mute audio during virtual depositions

Source text: In addition to the provisions set forth above, each participant should attend from a quiet location. All attendees other than the deponent, court reporter, deposing attorney, and objecting attorney will set their audio connection to mute to avoid unintentional noise.

Email only for new cases; after assignment, use in-person, mail, or ECF.

Source text: You are only permitted to email documents when filing a new case. Once a judge has been assigned, documents must be submitted in person, through the mail or via the court’s electronic filing system, if registered (see page 18).

Clerk cannot provide legal advice, interpret rules, or communicate with judges.

Source text: We cannot:  Give legal advice. This policy applies to all parties, including attorneys.  Tell you whether you should file a case or what information to include in your court pleadings.  Talk to the judge for you or let you talk to the judge outside of court.  Determine when a decision will be made on your IFP or other pending motions as well as interpreting court orders.  Interpret court rules.

Written notice of address, phone, or email changes must be filed within 10 days.

Source text: If your address, phone number or email address (if registered for electronic filing) changes, you must file a written notice within 10 (ten) days of the change, as established by LCR 10(f). All subsequent pleadings, motions, or other filings must reflect the new contact information.

Counsel must maintain 6 feet of social distancing in the courthouse.

Source text: Counsel should maintain social distancing, that is, counsel should maintain six feet of distance between counsel and anyone else in the Courthouse at all times.

Counsel cannot move courthouse seats/chairs as they are positioned for social distancing.

Source text: Counsel are not to move any of the seats/chairs in the Courthouse. These were strategically placed in order preserve social distancing.

Counsel must wear face coverings at all times except when speaking.

Source text: Counsel must wear a face covering at all times, except while speaking.

Parties must contact court if settlement negotiations seem unlikely before conference.

Source text: In the days immediately preceding the settlement conference, if either party believes that negotiation attempts would not be fruitful at the time set for the conference for any reason, that party should contact the Court as soon as possible to discuss the concern.

Hard copies of settlement memoranda are prohibited; electronic submission only.

Source text: Do not mail hard copies of the settlement memorandum to chambers.

Avoid contacting chambers except for scheduling/settlement; ex parte communications discouraged except for scheduling/settlement.

Source text: Except as provided for in this Order, parties and counsel should avoid contacting chambers. Ex parte communications with Judge Fricke or judicial law clerks involving any matter other than scheduling or notice of settlement are strongly discouraged. In relation to scheduling and/or settlement, unless the other parties have consented to have one party contact the Court alone, all parties must be on the line when communicating with the Court.

Waiver requests for witness exclusion must be discussed with opposing counsel and presented to court before trial.

Source text: If counsel desire a waiver of the rule with respect to a specific witness (for example, an expert), counsel shall first discuss the matter with opposing counsel and then present the request to the Court during the preliminary morning session prior to the start of trial on the particular day at issue.

Parties should avoid contacting chambers except for scheduling or settlement; all parties must be on the line for scheduling/settlement communications unless others consent.

Source text: Except as provided for in this Order, parties and counsel should avoid contacting chambers. Ex parte communications with Judge Fricke or judicial law clerks involving any matter other than scheduling or notice of settlement are strongly discouraged. In relation to scheduling and/or settlement, unless the other parties have consented to have one party contact the Court alone, all parties must be on the line when communicating with the Court.

Video appearances are a privilege, not a right, allowing remote participation.

Source text: Video appearances are appearances in the courtroom. They are a privilege, not a right, that allows the parties to participate in a proceeding without traveling to the courthouse.

Chambers phone number provided for contact

Source text: Chambers……………………………………………………………………….(206) 370-8700

Courtroom Deputy phone number provided

Source text: Courtroom Deputy, Grant Cogswell………………………………………..(206) 370-8518

Case Administrator phone number provided

Source text: Case Administrator…………………………………………………………...(206) 370-8453

Email address for proposed orders

Source text: Proposed Orders: whiteheadorders@wawd.uscourts.gov

Email address for general inquiries

Source text: General Inquiries: whiteheadchambers@wawd.uscourts.gov

Email chambers at whiteheadchambers@wawd.uscourts.gov and copy all counsel of record.

Source text: directly at whiteheadchambers@wawd.uscourts.gov. Parties must copy all counsel of record on any email to Chambers.

Contact courtroom deputy for accommodations or accessibility questions.

Source text: If you need an accommodation for a court appearance or have accessibility-related questions, please contact Judge Whitehead’s courtroom deputy.

Share honorifics/pronouns with Courtroom Deputy or when appearing for court.

Source text: The Court invites parties and counsel to share their honorifics or pronouns—such as Ms., Mx., or Mr.—so that the Court may address them respectfully. People appearing before the Court may do so by email to, or speaking with, Judge Whitehead’s Courtroom Deputy, or when appearing for court.

Courtroom etiquette rules: be on time, stand when speaking, address Court only, be professional, be courteous.

Source text: • Be on time. • Stand when speaking. But see Section 5.2. • Address all remarks to the Court, not opposing counsel or the opposing party. • Be professional and ethical. • Be courteous and respectful to courtroom staff at all times.

Counsel must promptly notify Mr. Cogswell at grant_cogswell@wawd.uscourts.gov when case settles.

Source text: If your case settles, counsel must notify Mr. Cogswell as soon as possible at grant_cogswell@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Contact Mr. Cogswell for accommodations or accessibility questions for court appearances.

Source text: If you need an accommodation for a court appearance or have accessibility-related questions, please contact Mr. Cogswell.

Parties should direct inquiries to the Courtroom Deputy via email at KKEcrd@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Source text: Parties should direct inquiries to the Courtroom Deputy at KKEcrd@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Moving party should contact Courtroom Deputy via email to schedule discovery pre-motion conference.

Source text: Thereafter, the moving party should contact the Courtroom Deputy at KKEcrd@wawd.uscourts.gov to schedule a conference.

Oral argument requests must be submitted via email to Courtroom Deputy Diyana Staples.

Source text: All requests pertaining to oral argument should be submitted via email to Courtroom Deputy Diyana Staples at Diyana_Staples@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Contact Courtroom Deputy for urgent discovery disputes.

Source text: When presented with disputes regarding discovery issues that are particularly time-sensitive, counsel may jointly contact the Courtroom Deputy, Natalie Wood, by email at natalie_wood@wawd.uscourts.gov to request, and if granted, make arrangements for a telephone or virtual conference with the Court.

Questions about Standing Order must copy all parties.

Source text: Parties may submit questions on, or suggestions for improvement to, this Standing Order to Natalie_Wood@wawd.uscourts.gov. If the party has a case before the Court, all parties must be copied on the message.

Counsel may jointly email Courtroom Deputy Natalie Wood at natalie_wood@wawd.uscourts.gov for time-sensitive discovery disputes to arrange conference.

Source text: When presented with disputes regarding discovery issues that are particularly time-sensitive, counsel may jointly contact the Courtroom Deputy, Natalie Wood, by email at natalie_wood@wawd.uscourts.gov to request, and if granted, make arrangements for a telephone or virtual conference with the Court.

Questions should be directed to the provided email address prior to trial dates.

Source text: Questions should be directed to natalie_wood@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Parties must inform the Courtroom Deputy via email if the claim construction hearing requires more or less than the standard 5 hours.

Source text: If more or less time is required, the parties are instructed to inform Natalie Wood, Courtroom Deputy, at Natalie_Wood@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Parties may submit questions or suggestions about this Standing Order via email, and must copy all parties if they have a pending case.

Source text: Parties may submit questions on, or suggestions for improvement to, this Standing Order to Natalie_Wood@wawd.uscourts.gov. If the party has a case before the Court, all parties must be copied on the message.

Counsel must stand when addressing court unless accommodated; stay 5 feet from jury box railing.

Source text: Counsel are required to stand when addressing the Court, a witness, or the jury unless a disability-related or health-related accommodation is readily apparent or is requested and granted (see Section III.B). As a general matter, Counsel will not be restricted to speaking at the podium unless the judge, court reporter, witness, other Counsel, or a juror indicates that they are unable to hear. However, Counsel shall stay at least five feet back from the railing in front of the jury box and, to aid the Court Reporter, shall use the handheld microphone provided by the Court when leaving the podium.

Pro se criminal litigants held to same standards as attorneys.

Source text: Parties who represent themselves in criminal matters (i.e., appear pro se) should be aware that the Court holds them to the same standards of conduct to which it holds attorneys.

Contact chambers if motion becomes unopposed after filing.

Source text: If, after filing a motion, the responding party does not oppose the motion, please contact chambers to alert the clerk that the motion has become an unopposed one.

All parties must be included in communications with Courtroom Deputy.

Source text: For any other inquiry, all Parties must be on the line or cc'd on the email when communicating with the Courtroom Deputy.

Disability/health accommodations can be requested from Courtroom Deputy.

Source text: Counsel or other participants may request disability- or health-related accommodations to facilitate participation in any upcoming hearing, whether held virtually, in person, or in a hybrid format. Participants are encouraged to request accommodations as far in advance as possible by contacting Courtroom Deputy Kadya Peter by email at Kadya_Peter@wawd.uscourts.gov or by telephone at (206) 370-8525.

Initial inquiries should be directed to Courtroom Deputy Kadya Peter.

Source text: Parties should direct initial inquiries they have to the Courtroom Deputy, Kadya Peter, by email at kadya_peter@wawd.uscourts.gov or by telephone at (206) 370-8525.

Accommodation requests accepted for disability/health needs via email or phone.

Source text: An attorney or other participant may request disability-related or health-related accommodations to participate in an upcoming hearing for their case, whether held virtually, in-person, or in a hybrid format. Participants are encouraged to request accommodations as far in advance as possible by contacting the Courtroom Deputy, Kadya Peter, by email at kadya_peter@wawd.uscourts.gov or by telephone at (206) 370-8525.

Video participants must use names as they appear in court filings.

Source text: All Parties appearing via video should sign in using their first and last names as they appear in filings to the Court.

Pretrial conference agenda available on Judge Lin's Chambers Procedures page.

Source text: An agenda of topics to be covered at the pretrial conference is posted on Judge Lin's Chambers Procedures page, https://www.wawd.uscourts.gov/judges/lin-procedures.

Tuesday trial days may be shortened for in-custody criminal hearings.

Source text: Judge Cartwright holds trial Monday through Friday of each week. The Tuesday trial day may be shortened if necessary to allow for in-custody hearings in criminal cases. Judge Cartwright will advise counsel in advance if the Tuesday trial day will be shortened.

Courtroom opens at 8:15 a.m. for counsel.

Source text: The courtroom will be open and available to counsel at approximately 8:15 a.m.

Final pretrial matters at 8:30 or 8:45 a.m.

Source text: Final Pretrial matters are taken up at 8:30 or 8:45 a.m.

Jury voir dire starts at 9:00 a.m. with 20 minutes per side.

Source text: The jury panel is sworn for voir dire in the courtroom at 9:00; after Court-directed voir dire, the Court usually gives each side 20 minutes to conduct voir dire, and a jury is usually sworn prior to the noon recess.

Opening statements and first witnesses on first trial afternoon.

Source text: Counsel should be prepared to deliver opening statements and call their first witnesses on the afternoon of the first trial day.

15-minute break at 10:30 a.m.

Source text: 15 minute mid-morning break is taken at approximately 10:30 a.m.

Lunch recess 12:00-1:30 p.m., jury matters at 1:15 p.m.

Source text: Noon/Lunch recess is taken at from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m., if matters need to be discussed outside the presence of the jury, this will occur at 1:15 p.m.

15-minute break at 3:00 p.m.

Source text: 15 minute mid-afternoon break is taken at approximately 3:00 p.m.

Court recesses at 4:30 p.m.

Source text: Court recesses for the day at 4:30 p.m.

Courtroom must be cleared promptly if no jury matters remain.

Source text: If there are no matters to take up at the end of the day outside the presence of the jury, the courtroom needs to be cleared and closed as soon as possible so court staff can attend to other matters.

All parties must exit courthouse by 5:00 p.m. unless court in session.

Source text: Court Security Officers require that all parties exit the courthouse by 5:00 p.m., unless court remains in session.

Discuss leaving trial materials overnight with courtroom deputy.

Source text: The parties should discuss leaving trial materials overnight in the courtroom with the courtroom deputy.

Magistrate Judge Tsuchida's clerk schedules settlement conferences

Source text: In cases referred to Magistrate Judge Tsuchida for settlement, Judge Tsuchida’s Courtroom Deputy Clerk will contact the parties to schedule the conference.

District judge handles release/detention reviews; magistrate handles other release reviews in criminal cases.

Source text: A district judge shall conduct any review of a magistrate judge=s order of release or detention, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. ' 3145(a) or (b). All other applications for review of conditions of release in criminal cases shall be heard by a magistrate judge unless otherwise directed by a district judge.

Electronic devices may be used for calls, email, texts, and internet in courthouse environs.

Source text: In the environs, personal electronic devices may be used to make telephone calls, transmit and receive data communications, such as email or text messages, or to access the Internet.

Court is in continuous session year-round in Seattle/Tacoma and may hold proceedings via electronic transmission.

Source text: The court shall be in continuous session throughout the year in Seattle and in Tacoma. The court may establish other locations in this district for holding court pursuant to General Order. Nothing in this rule shall prohibit the court from conducting proceedings via electronic transmission in lieu of live court proceedings.

Clerk may issue text-only docket orders electronically; unrepresented parties receive mailed notice.

Source text: The clerk of court may issue text only docket orders for any act within the clerk’s authority. A text only docket order is an order electronically entered on the case docket without an attached document and is as official and binding as if the clerk of court had signed a document containing the text. If the one or more of the parties are unrepresented and do not file electronically, the clerk of court will mail to those recipients a copy of the Notice of Electronic Filing of the text only docket order.

Personal electronic devices may be brought into the courthouse.

Source text: Personal electronic devices, such as smartphones, laptops, tablet computers, or similar functioning devices having wireless communications capabilities, may be brought into the courthouse.

Electronic service to SSAClerk@usdoj.gov permitted

Source text: You may also choose to effectuate service electronically as detailed in General Orders 04-15 and 05-15, by sending a copy of the summonses and complaint, along your identifying information and social security number, by email to USAWAW.SSAClerk@usdoj.gov.

Clerk's Office hours: M-F 9am-4pm.

Source text: The Clerk’s Office window is open to the public Monday-Friday from 9am to 4pm. Please make sure you have completed and signed all of the required forms before submitting them to the court.

After-hours filing via locked drop box.

Source text: If you arrive outside of those hours, documents may be filed via the locked drop box located in the lobby of both courthouses.

Mailing documents based on county of incident or defendant residence.

Source text: Documents may also be mailed to the Seattle or Tacoma courthouse. Where you mail them is based on the county where the incident took place or where the defendant(s) reside (see page 6).

Email new case documents based on county.

Source text: You also have the option of submitting new case documents electronically. Where you email them is based on the county where the incident took place or where the defendant(s) reside (see page 6).

Clerk can answer general questions and provide required forms for case filing.

Source text: We can:  Answer general questions about how the court works, including providing you with the required forms to open a new case.  Provide general information about court policies and procedures.

CM/ECF system provides email notifications of all case filings

Source text: The CM/ECF system allows you to receive and view via email everything that has been filed by you, the judge, the defendants, or any other parties in your case.

ECF filing rules and procedures available on court website

Source text: Information about how to directly file documents into CM/ECF, the rules and procedures that must be followed and the ECF User Manual can be found on our website at www.wawd.uscourts.gov/representing-yourself-pro-se/how-to-e-file.

ECF Support Team contact information provided

Source text: For questions, please contact the ECF Support Team at (206) 370-8440, option#2 or via email at cmecf@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Electronic filing is optional; paper filing still permitted

Source text: You are not required to use the court’s electronic filing system. If you are not computer savvy or do not have access to a computer, we recommend that you file your documents in person or through the mail.

First registration option: receive electronic notices but must file paper copies

Source text: To receive service of documents and notice of electronic filings to your email address, chose the FIRST option. This option does not allow you to file documents electronically. Instead, you must file a paper copy either in person or through the mail.

Second registration option: electronic filing and electronic-only document service

Source text: documents and be notified via email when a document has been filed, check the SECOND option. With this option, you waive your right to file and receive documents in your case in person or by other means. You will receive all documents electronically from the court and other parties. A paper copy will not be mailed to you.

Registration form can be returned via email or mail

Source text: Once you have completed the form, you can return it via email or through the mail. The court's email address and mailing address can be found at the bottom of the registration form.

CM/ECF support available by phone (206-370-8440) or email (cmecf@wawd.uscourts.gov), M-F 8am-5pm

Source text: Electronic Filing Assistance If you have questions about electronic filing, the CM/ECF support desk can be contacted by phone or email. (206) 370-8440 cmecf@wawd.uscourts.gov Monday – Friday, 8am to 5pm

First viewing of filed documents is free; subsequent views cost $0.10 per page.

Source text: You may view a document once without being charged by clicking on the document number in the email you receive. This is known as the “free look.” Make sure you click on the document once (not twice) or you may be charged a viewing fee by PACER, which is currently .10 cents per page.

Magistrate judge may handle various stages of civil cases under FRCP 73(a).

Source text: If your case has been assigned to a district court judge, he or she may refer your case to a magistrate judge to handle different stages of your case leading up to trial. A magistrate judge may preside over a civil action or proceeding, including a jury or bench trial, pursuant to FRCP 73(a).

Contact Clerk's Office for case questions after assignment.

Source text: If you have questions after your case has been assigned a case number and judge, you may contact the Clerk’s Office at the Seattle or Tacoma office (based on case assignment) and ask to speak with a case administrator.

Pretrial conference may be scheduled after discovery under LCR 16(a)(1).

Source text: The judge assigned to your case may schedule a “pretrial conference” after discovery has been completed. A pretrial conference is a meeting between the judge and the parties to narrow down the issues and resolve matters necessary to the disposition of the case, as established by LCR 16(a)(1).

Contact ECF Support Team by phone for CM/ECF technical questions.

Source text: For questions, please contact the ECF Support Team at (206) 370-8440, option#2 or via email at cmecf@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Email permitted to request appointment with Magistrate Judge for pre-conference matters.

Source text: Counsel may contact the Court by sending an email to [insert] if counsel would request an appointment with Magistrate Judge Fricke to address any matters they believe need to be discussed in advance, including any request to bring exhibits, technology-assisted presentations, or conduct lengthy opening statements.

Counsel may email the Court to request an appointment for advance discussion of exhibits, technology, or lengthy opening statements.

Source text: Counsel may contact the Court by sending an email to [insert] if counsel would request an appointment with Magistrate Judge Fricke to address any matters they believe need to be discussed in advance, including any request to bring exhibits, technology-assisted presentations, or conduct lengthy opening statements.

Parties should contact the Court promptly if they believe settlement negotiations would not be fruitful.

Source text: In the days immediately preceding the settlement conference, if either party believes that negotiation attempts would not be fruitful at the time set for the conference for any reason, that party should contact the Court as soon as possible to discuss the concern.

Clerk must reassign to originally assigned Magistrate Judge if parties later consent.

Source text: If the parties later consent in such a case, the Clerk shall reassign the case to the Magistrate Judge to whom the case was initially assigned.

Clerk must assign IFP motions to Magistrate Judge upon filing.

Source text: Unless the Court otherwise directs, upon filing, the Clerk shall assign to a Magistrate Judge all motions and applications to proceed in forma pauperis.

Clerk must promptly notify parties of assigned judges.

Source text: The Clerk shall promptly advise the parties of the identity of the designated District Judge and Magistrate Judge.

Clerk must provide consent forms and advise parties of reassignment process.

Source text: The Clerk shall (a) advise the parties that consent to the assigned Magistrate Judge is voluntary, consent may be declined and that a request for reassignment may be made; (b) provide the parties with a Notice of Assignment to a U.S. Magistrate Judge and Declination of Consent Form, and advise them the form must be received by the Clerk by the date designated in the form should they choose to decline consent; and (c) advise the parties that, upon receipt of a request for reassignment, the case will be assigned to a District Judge, randomly selected from the District Judges in the division where the case is properly filed.

Declining party's identity is not disclosed to judges.

Source text: If a party declines consent, the identity of the party declining consent will not be communicated to any judge.

Parties in District Judge cases can consent to Magistrate Judge jurisdiction via Joint Status Report.

Source text: In all cases initially assigned to a District Judge the parties shall nevertheless be afforded an opportunity to consent to having the case heard by a Magistrate Judge specifically identified in the request for a Joint Status Report.

Clerk must reassign case to Magistrate Judge upon party consent.

Source text: If the parties consent, the Clerk shall reassign the case to the Magistrate Judge as set forth under 28 U.S.C. § 636(b).

Contact courtroom deputy for audio/video filing instructions.

Source text: If an audio or video exhibit must be filed, the party shall contact the courtroom deputy, Natalie Wood, via email at natalie_wood@wawd.uscourts.gov for instructions on how to file it.

Questions about exhibit numbering should be directed by email to the courtroom deputy.

Source text: If you have any questions about this numbering requirement, please contact the courtroom deputy at mary_trent@wawd.uscourts.gov

Counsel must stand when addressing court, witness, or jury, but not restricted to podium.

Source text: Counsel are required to stand when addressing the Court, a witness, or the jury. However, counsel is not restricted to standing at the podium unless the judge, court reporter, witness, counsel, or a juror indicates that they are unable to hear.

Wait 45 days after noting date before inquiring about motion status; contact Victoria Ericksen.

Source text: The local civil rules provide that when 45 or more days have elapsed since the noting date of a motion, the parties are encouraged to contact the Court to inquire as to the status of the motion. The Court makes every effort to rule on motions within 30 days of the noting date. Counsel are asked to not inquire regarding the status of a motion until at least 45 days beyond the noting date. Once that time period has elapsed, the parties may contact the Court’s deputy clerk, Victoria Ericksen, at victoria_ericksen@wawd.uscourts.gov to inquire.