Courtesy copies are required only when requested by chambers. Courtesy copies welcomed but not required for pleadings over 50 pages or upon request.
Yes. A pre-motion letter is required for discovery. Details: 3 pages. Discovery disputes require conference and 3-page joint statement before filing motions.
Judge Tiffany M. Cartwright's formatting rule includes file format PDF, binding stapled, cd or thumb-drive, pdf format, single pdf per exhibit, ocr searchable if possible, windows media player compatible for audio/video, and specific numbering system. Electronic exhibits must be submitted before trial in specific format.
The rule requires word format. Exhibit list in Word format must be emailed before trial.
Parties may contact Judge Tiffany M. Cartwright's chambers by in person only as allowed by the rule. Counsel must have sufficient witnesses; no early recess for missing witnesses.
The rule does not state that a motion to seal is required for the covered filing process. Process: file unredacted to clerk and file unredacted to chambers. For in camera review, send electronic copy to Mary Trent; if over 50 pages, also deliver physical copy to Tacoma Clerk's Office.
Judge Tiffany M. Cartwright's rules specify what an adjournment or extension request must include. The request must include reason for request, affects other dates, and proposed rescheduled date. Trial continuances require good cause beyond normal litigation; discovery delays or settlement discussions don't qualify.
Bundling is encouraged for covered papers before Judge Tiffany M. Cartwright. Encouraged alternate briefing schedule for cross-motions (4 briefs instead of 6).
Yes. Judge Tiffany M. Cartwright's rules include a junior lawyer participation incentive. Encourages Rule 9 interns and junior attorneys to argue in court.
Electronic exhibits must be submitted before trial in specific format.
Exhibits must be numbered: Plaintiff 001-499, Defendant 500+.
Exhibit list in Word format must be emailed before trial.
Exhibit list must use same numbering: Plaintiff 001-499, Defendant 500+.
Courtesy copies welcomed but not required for pleadings over 50 pages or upon request.
Courtesy copies must include ECF-generated header.
Courtesy copies must be double-sided, three-hole punched, and tabbed.
Encouraged alternate briefing schedule for cross-motions (4 briefs instead of 6).
Encourages Rule 9 interns and junior attorneys to argue in court.
Discovery disputes require conference and 3-page joint statement before filing motions.
For in camera review, send electronic copy to Mary Trent; if over 50 pages, also deliver physical copy to Tacoma Clerk's Office.
Stipulated motions with non-compliant schedules will be denied.
Trial continuances require good cause beyond normal litigation; discovery delays or settlement discussions don't qualify.
Discovery-related motions must be filed 6 months before trial.
Dispositive and expert testimony challenges must be filed 4 months before trial with hearing set within 4 weeks.
Motions in limine must be filed 37 days before trial.
Tuesday trial days may be shortened for in-custody criminal hearings.
Courtroom opens at 8:15 a.m. for counsel.
Final pretrial matters at 8:30 or 8:45 a.m.
Jury voir dire starts at 9:00 a.m. with 20 minutes per side.
Opening statements and first witnesses on first trial afternoon.
15-minute break at 10:30 a.m.
Lunch recess 12:00-1:30 p.m., jury matters at 1:15 p.m.
15-minute break at 3:00 p.m.
Court recesses at 4:30 p.m.
Courtroom must be cleared promptly if no jury matters remain.
Counsel must have sufficient witnesses; no early recess for missing witnesses.
All parties must exit courthouse by 5:00 p.m. unless court in session.
Discuss leaving trial materials overnight with courtroom deputy.