General:Punctuality and Preparedness on behalf counsel is required. Uses each court appearance to investigate potential settlement or ADR.

Pre-Trials: Staff Attorney conducts many CMSs; although, Judge does handle some. Judge handles all other court appearances, unless in trial. Deadlines, merits, damages and settlement are disclosed at CMC.

Motion Practice: Staff Attorney handles pending motions, and filing deadlines. Attorneys are responsible for checking docket for case progress. Generally allows oral arguments when requested. Allows Reply briefs but discourages Sur Reply briefs.

Discovery: Case specific. Generally orders that discovery be ongoing. Requires compliance with Loc. R. 21.

Settlement Conference: Considers each court appearance an opportunity to resolve case. Requires lead counsel, parties, and individual with settlement authority to be present. Out of state adjusters must be present. Expects counsel to know case!

Calendaring and Continuances: Motion by party is needed for all continuances unless medical emergency. Disputes over written discovery must be presented by motion. Court may hold hearing or status conference to resolve. Judge will take phone calls re: deposition objections.

Trials: Trial briefs not required unless parties feel it will assist the Court. Motions in limine will not be entertained unless filed and walked up to Judge one week prior to trial. Requires witness list on morning of trial. Exhibits should be marked in advance. Copies of exhibits must be provided to Judge and opposing counsel. Copies of depositions used for impeachment must be provided to the Court. Juries take notes and can ask written questions. Counsel provided with opportunity to object to specific jury questions. Court conducts extensive voir dire. Counsel limited to 20 minutes. Entire panel is questioned. Preemptory challenges are exercised without further questioning of panel. Attorneys may speak to jury after verdict. Prefers counsel to stand while questioning witness. No speaking objections. Rules on videotape objections during trial. Requires counsel to review objections in advance of court's review.

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