Judge Laurie E. Buchanan
Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Document Limits
Courtesy Copies
Brief
- Email • At Least Three Business Days Before Hearing
Courtesy copies
- Email • No Later Than Three Days Before Evidentiary Proceeding
- Five Business Days Before Trial
Exhibits
- 4 copies
Legal Memorandum, Brief, Cited Authority, Witness List, Responsive Memorandum
- At Least Three Business Days Before Hearing
Adjournments
- Continuances are disfavored, require good cause, and must be requested at least five days before the court date; absent good cause, the requesting party must sign the motion.
- A continuance requires good cause and must be requested at least five days before the court date; absent good cause, the requesting party must sign the motion.
- When an extension motion is unopposed, the Court may enter an order without a hearing if the motion details the grounds for good cause.
- Deadlines in the plan remain strictly enforced unless a subsequent court order changes them.
- Motions to extend deadlines, amend the plan, or alter the trial period must comply with Rule 1.200(e); noncompliant extension motions will not be considered.
- +4 more
Request must include
Communication
Chambers
Chambers
Chambers
Chambers
Clerk
Page & Word Limits2 rules
BREVITY IS APPRECIATED AND ENCOURAGED, and memorandums should be kept to no more than five (5) pages in length.
- Memorandum
- Up to 5 pages
Brevity is appreciated and encouraged, and memorandums should be kept to no more than five (5) pages in length.
- Memorandum
- Up to 5 pages
Document Format Requirements22 rules
All proposed orders must be submitted in Word format.
If you have exhibits to include in the agreed order, you must also submit the agreed order in .pdf format and include all necessary attachments.
- File type
- Agreed order
final draft in Word format shall be provided to the Court by e-mail at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org, no later than noon on the Monday prior to the start of the trial.
Formatting
- •Word format
Proposed Parenting Plans, if applicable, must be filed with the Clerk of Court and a copy to the Court in WORD format at least 48 hours prior to the hearing.
Final Judgments must be submitted to the Court in WORD format 48 hours prior to the trial, unless this requirement is modified by the Court.
Final jury instructions and verdict forms must be submitted to the Court in Word format appropriate for submission to the jury.
The parties must prepare and exchange jury instructions before the pretrial meeting and email the final Word draft to the Court by noon on the Monday before trial.
Court's wording
Jury instructions are to be prepared by both sides and exchanged prior to the pre-trial meeting pursuant to the Case Management Plan and Order Setting Trial. A final draft in Word format shall be provided to the Court by e-mail at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org, no later than noon on the Monday prior to the start of the trial.
proposed Orders (in Word format) are now proper to be sent to the Judge’s office with a cover letter via e-mail only to Probate@circuit19.org.
Proposed orders sent to the Judge’s office must be in Word format.
- Proposed order
Formatting
- •Word format
Court's wording
I have reviewed the file and completed the Checklist in this matter. Everything on the Checklist is accounted for and proposed Orders (in Word format) are now proper to be sent to the Judge’s office with a cover letter via e-mail only to Probate@circuit19.org.
All proposed orders must be submitted in WORD format.
Exhibits shall be organized in a binder.
Proposed Order(s) in Word format
No signature stamps are allowed.
Formatting
- •Signature stamps are not allowed
You MUST submit the following in WORD format via e-mail to: OCJudge1@Circuit19.org within 5 days of filing your petition:
The proposed order must be submitted in Word format.
• Proposed Final Judgment (in Word)
Is the plan ready to be submitted in Word to OCJudge1@Circuit19.org?
- Case management plan
Formatting
- •Submit the plan in Word format
Format Must Be PRCYYNNNNNNN
Motions must be submitted in .pdf format.
- File type
- Motion
All proposed orders must be submitted in WORD format.
Proposed Orders must be in Word format.
Court's wording
I have reviewed the file and completed the Checklist in this matter. Everything on the Checklist is accounted for and proposed Orders (in Word format) are now proper to be sent to the Judge’s office with a cover letter via e-mail only to Probate@circuit19.org.
Format Must Be PRCYYNNNNNNN
Document Filing Requirements99 rules
UNDER PENALTIES OF PERJURY, I declare that I have read and examined the foregoing accounting, and the facts alleged are true, to the best of my knowledge and belief.
The guardian’s attorney certification states that the attorney examined the Annual Accounting and represents that it conforms to Florida Guardianship Law.
Court's wording
The undersigned hereby notifies the Court of the filing of the Annual Accounting of the guardian of the property. This Annual Accounting is the representation of the guardian. I have not audited the accompanying Annual Accounting. The undersigned attorney represents that he/she has examined the contents of this Annual Accounting and that it conforms to the requirements of the Florida Guardianship Law.
The preparer certification states that the Annual Accounting was prepared from information provided by the guardian(s), without independent verification or assurance.
Court's wording
I have prepared the Annual Accounting based upon the information provided by the guardian(s) with no independent verification of the information contained herein. I have not audited or reviewed the Annual Accounting or documents supporting the preparation of the Annual Accounting and, accordingly, do not express an opinion or any other form of assurance as to the accuracy of the information contained in the Annual Accounting.
Affidavit of Heirs: Yes No Not Applicable (To be submitted with all petitions for intestate estates OR upon request by the Court.)
The motion must include a certificate of conferral at its end, above the signature block, in substantially the stated form.
- Document
- Motion
- Placement
- Signature block
Must include
- •Certificate of conference
Court's wording
At the end of the motion and above the signature block, the movant must include a certificate of conferral in substantially the following form: “I certify that prior to filing this motion, I discussed the relief requested in this motion by [method of communication and date] with the opposing party and [the opposing party (agrees or disagrees) on the resolution of all or part of the motion] OR [the opposing party did not respond (describing with particularity all of the efforts undertaken to accomplish dialogue with the opposing party prior to filing the motion)].”
The moving party must try to coordinate the hearing date and may schedule unilaterally after three business days if coordination fails, but must certify the attempts made.
- Document
- Hearing scheduling request
Include
- •Certificate of conference
Court's wording
The moving party is responsible for contacting the opposing party to coordinate the hearing date. If after three (3) business days you are unable to coordinate the hearing date, you may unilaterally schedule the hearing setting forth in your good faith certificate the attempts that were made to coordinate the hearing. Failure to include this certification will result in the hearing being stricken from the docket.
Notices of hearing must include Zoom credentials for remote appearances, the required ADA notification, and a good-faith certification; omission of the certification may result in the matter being stricken.
- Document
- Notice of hearing
Must include
- •Certificate of conference
Court's wording
A notice of hearing involving any remote appearance must list the judicial Zoom credentials. All notices of hearing must contain the ADA notification required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.540. All Notices of Hearing must contain a good faith certification in substantial compliance with the following: I HEREBY CERTIFY that the hearing date has been coordinated with opposing counsel/party and the length of time has been agreed upon. If you were unsuccessful in your attempts to contact opposing counsel/party, please specify what attempts were made prior to unilaterally scheduling. Failure to include this certification will result in the matter being stricken from the docket.
If you cancel your hearing, you must file a Notice of Cancellation
A proposed order must be submitted for a UMC hearing, and all proposed orders must be in WORD format.
Court's wording
The Court must receive a copy of the motion, notice of hearing, (and a proposed order if UMC hearing) within five (5) days of scheduling the hearing by email at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org. All proposed orders must be submitted in WORD format.
Proposed orders and motions must certify the full address or email address where the document was or will be served; a generic e-service statement or an address-free cc listing is insufficient.
Court's wording
All proposed orders and motions MUST contain proper address certification—i.e. the FULL address or email address where the motion was served (or order will be served.) “I certify that a copy of the foregoing was emailed to all parties through the e-service portal” is NOT sufficient. Likewise, listing a party on the order “cc:” without listing the ===== PAGE 6 ===== address is insufficient.
Each proposed order must include a cover letter stating either that all parties agree or identifying any disagreement.
Court's wording
All proposed orders must be accompanied by a cover letter either (1) certifying that all parties agree to the order or (2) containing a statement identifying any disagreement of the parties as to the proposed order.
The Court will not execute proposed orders, agreed orders, or stipulations without a written verification or cover letter stating the action requested, that a copy was provided to all counsel of record and pro se parties, and if there is a stipulation or an agreed order, that there are no objections to the entry of the order.
If you have reached an agreement/stipulation, a separate agreed order in WORD must be provided to the Court with language approving the agreement/stipulation.
If you are requesting an Emergency Hearing, you MUST indicate in the subject line "Request for EMERGENCY Hearing.”
A motion to dismiss must state its grounds and the substantial legal matters to be argued specifically and with particularity.
Court's wording
Motions to Dismiss must strictly comply with the requirements of the Rule in that the grounds on which they are based and the substantial matters of law intended to be argued shall be stated specifically and with particularity.
Motions for More Definite Statement must strictly comply with the requirements of the Rule in that the motion must point out the defects complained of and the details desired.
An emergency-hearing motion must state the issues, why an emergency hearing is necessary, and the time needed for each party’s presentation.
Court's wording
If a party believes there is a factual basis for setting an emergency hearing, a detailed motion setting forth the following must be filed: (1) the issues to be resolved, (2) reasons why an emergency hearing is necessary, and (3) the amount of time needed for each party’s presentation.
Discovery motions, including motions to compel, must include a certification of a good-faith effort to confer or attempt to confer to obtain discovery without court action.
Court's wording
Motions to Compel, as well as all discovery motions must comply with the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure, including, but not limited to, a certification that the movant, in good faith, has conferred or attempted to confer ===== PAGE 8 ===== with the person or party failing to make discovery in an effort to secure the information without court action.
The movant shall submit the proposed order in WORD format, and in a cover letter or email shall certify that that opposing counsel or unrepresented party has been contacted and agreed to the order or waived a hearing thereon.
Must include
- •Proposed order
All Post Judgment cases must be referred to the Magistrate. Please provide a proposed Order of Referral to Magistrate to the Court by email at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org, along
Must include
- •Proposed order
The copy of the motion sent to the Judge shall be accompanied by a generic order in WORD granting/denying the motion, with at least five lines for additional provisions, a transmittal letter showing copies to all counsel and Pro Se parties.
You must obtain the client’s consent in writing which shall be filed with the Court, or a hearing must be held after proper notice to the client.
Counsel must present the Court with a trial notebook containing copies of pertinent filed pleadings five business days before trial.
Court's wording
Counsel shall present to the Court, five (5) business days prior to trial, a trial notebook containing copies of pertinent pleadings filed in the case (i.e., Complaint, Answer and Affirmative Defenses, Counter-Claims, Pre-Trial Stipulation, etc.).
Jury instructions are to be prepared by both sides and exchanged prior to the pre-trial meeting pursuant to the Case Management Plan and Order Setting Trial.
Parties should bring a minimum of four (4) copies of all exhibits with them to trial (original to clerk, copy for each party, copy for the witness, and copy for Court).
A completed exhibit list and all exhibits must be delivered or scanned and emailed to the Clerk and all parties at the specified address.
- Document
- Exhibits
Must include
- •Exhibit list
Court's wording
A completed exhibit list and all exhibits must be delivered or scanned and emailed to the Clerk and all parties at evidence@myokeeclerk.com, you will receive an auto-reply that someone will contact you for pre-payment for printing.
All exhibits are to be marked for identification by the clerk five (5) business prior to the start of trial.
Any demonstrative aide that is to be used at trial must be marked by the clerk and exhibited to opposing counsel and the Court prior to the start of trial.
Your notice for trial must contain a good faith estimate of time required for trial (coordinate with the opposing party).
Final instructions sent with the jury for deliberations must omit citations, instruction titles, and requester information.
Court's wording
In addition, the final instructions (the instructions that go back with the jury for deliberations) should not contain any citations, jury instruction titles, or information as to who requested the instruction.
Attorneys must verify completion and correctness of the Checklists by personal signature.
Before submitting proposed orders, fill in available information, including the case number and email service addresses, and omit the Clerk’s Certificate of Service.
Court's wording
If there is information on the proposed orders that can be filled in by your office, please do so before submitting to the Court, including case number and e-mail service addresses. Do not include Certificate of Service by the Clerk.
Checklists are required for both Opening and Closing Estates.
An Application to Determine Indigency Status must be submitted to the Clerk of Court when the petition is filed.
Court's wording
Application to Determine Indigency Status (In order for the Court to determine who shall be appointed to represent the AIP, an Application to Determine Indigency Status MUST be submitted to the Clerk of Court at the time of filing;
All motions to cancel must provide the reason for cancellation as well as a proposed order.
- Document
- Foreclosure motion to cancel sale
Must include
- •Proposed order
The Court will accept only the Order for Compensation of Examining Committee available on the Court’s website.
Court's wording
Pursuant to Administrative Order 2017-06 in RE: Order for Compensation of Examining Committee, this office will only accept the Order for Compensation of Examining Committee available on www.circuit19.org.
Any person appointed by the court as a guardian, must file proof of course completion with the Clerk of Court, with a copy to Court Administration, within four months of appointment.
Summary judgment and default packets must include the listed documents and materials before the case can proceed to a hearing.
Court's wording
Summary Judgment and Default packets submitted to the court must contain the following as a minimum for the case to proceed to a hearing: • Motion for Summary Judgment or Motion for Default Final Judgment and Notice of Hearing/Re-Notice of Hearing • First page of complaint showing the style of the case and Clerk’s date of filing stamp and Last page of complaint showing verification (if filed after 2/10) • All returns of service indicating service of summons on defendants (returns showing no service should not be submitted) • Notice of dismissal/dropping party for any defendant not served • Any documents filed in the court file regarding status of any bankruptcy proceeding for any defendant • Promissory note sued upon (showing any endorsements) • Allonge or recorded assignments • Affidavit stating plaintiff was the owner and holder of the note at the time of filing and that the servicer has full authority to foreclose (with POA or pooling/servicing agreement) • Affidavit of indebtedness • Affidavit regarding attorney’s fees by plaintiff’s counsel • Affidavit regarding attorney’s fees by supporting expert • Affidavit of costs • Notice of Filing regarding original note, mortgage, assignments or allonges • Proposed Final Judgment (in Word) • Adding tape showing verification of the amounts listed in the proposed Final Judgment
Proposed orders must include the specified service language beneath the service list, including language for electronic service and immediate service on parties with physical addresses.
- Document
- Proposed order
Must include
- •Certificate of service
Court's wording
The proposed order must have the following language under the service list. • A COPY OF THIS ORDER IS BEING SERVED ON THE FOLLOWING PARTIES VIA THE E-FILING PORTAL: (Include all parties with email addresses below this paragraph) • (Insert the moving party, e.g. PLAINTIFF’S, DEFENDANT’S, etc) COUNSEL SHALL SERVE A COPY OF THIS ORDER ON THE FOLLOWING PARTIES IMMEDIATELY AND FILE A CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE IN THIS COURT FILE: (Include all parties with physical addresses below this paragraph)
If the Ward is a beneficiary of a Pooled, Special Needs, or Qualified Income Trust; a statement as to the income and disbursements for the benefit of the ward must be attached.
The following rules for mediation apply, and must be specifically listed in the Notice of Mediation:
Counsel must identify all jury instructions to which there is an objection by any party.
Do not set for hearing any motions for new trial/rehearing. These motions are considered in camera by written motion. If you set such motion for hearing, it may be unilaterally canceled by the Court.
The Pre-Trial Stipulation must contain the following in separate paragraphs:
Plaintiff is responsible for 1) confirming that the Joint Pre-Trial Stipulation is executed by counsel for all parties, 2) emailing to the Judicial Assistant and 3) filing in the court file.
If the parties/counsel determines the service list is incorrect/incomplete, they shall notify the Court immediately, in writing, via their Certificate of Mailing/Service.
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
Proposed orders must be sent to the Judge’s office by email only, with a cover letter.
proposed Orders (in Word format) are now proper to be sent to the Judge’s office with a cover letter via e-mail only to Probate@circuit19.org.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Checklist for Closing a Formal Administration
Shelter petitions must be emailed to Judge Buchanan with a copy to her Judicial Assistant by 10:00 a.m. Monday through Thursday or by 8:00 a.m. Friday, or as soon as possible thereafter.
All shelter petitions are to be e-mailed directly to Judge Buchanan with a copy to her Judicial Assistant, no later than 10:00 a.m. or as soon as possible thereafter, on Monday, through Thursdays, when shelter hearings are typically conducted at 1:15 p.m., and no later than 8:00 a.m. or as soon as possible thereafter, on Fridays, when shelter hearings are typically conducted at 9:00 a.m.
Page 4 | Shelter Petitions/Hearings
Completed probate checklists, proposed orders, and a description of the documents and requested action must be emailed only to the probate case manager.
Once the checklist is complete, the attorney’s office shall submit via email only to Probate@circuit19.org: • Completed checklist • Proposed Order(s) in Word format; and • A description of the documents being provided, as well as the action you wish to be taken.
Page 13 | L. Probate
Within five days after filing the petition, submit the listed incapacity documents to the Court by email in Word format.
You MUST submit the following in WORD format via e-mail to: OCJudge1@Circuit19.org within 5 days of filing your petition: • Notice of Petition to Determine Incapacity with the Hearing date filled in, if possible (refer to and schedule using the online scheduling system); • Application to Determine Indigency Status (In order for the Court to determine who shall be appointed to represent the AIP, an Application to Determine Indigency Status MUST be submitted to the Clerk of Court at the time of filing; • Order Appointing Attorney/Elisor; and • Order Appointing Examining Committee.
Page 13 | M. Guardianship/Incapacity Proceedings
To set a probate matter for trial, e-file the notice for trial and email a copy to the Court.
If a probate matter needs to be set for trial, a notice for trial shall be e-filed and a copy shall be submitted to the Court by email at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
Page 13 | L. Probate
Email foreclosure summary-judgment and default-final-judgment packets at least ten business days before the hearing or the hearing may be cancelled.
PACKETS MUST BE EMAILED TO FORECLOSUREOC@CIRCUIT19.ORG AT LEAST 10 BUSINESS DAYS PRIOR TO HEARING OR YOUR HEARING MAY BE CANCELLED.
Page 14 | N. Foreclosure
Email the foreclosure motion and proposed order to both specified Court email addresses.
The motion and proposed order must be emailed to the Court at both OCJudge1@Circuit19.org and ForeclosureOC@Circuit19.org.
Page 14 | N. Foreclosure
The proposed final judgment and notice of hearing should be emailed to both listed court addresses within five days after the hearing is scheduled.
The proposed final judgment and notice of hearing should be submitted to the Court by email at ForeclosureOC@Circuit19.org and OCJudge1@Circuit19.org within five (5) days of scheduling the hearing.
Page 16 | N. Foreclosure
E-file the Notice of Compliance only after submitting the plan by email.
Only e-file your Notice of Compliance once you have submitted the plan via email.
Civil cases
Page 1 | CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN AND ORDER SETTING TRIAL
The Joint Pre-Trial Stipulation must be e-filed 10 days before the trial period.
Joint Pre-Trial Stipulation E-filed 10 days prior the trial period
Civil cases
Page 1 | CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN AND ORDER SETTING TRIAL
The Plaintiff must coordinate mediation and e-file a Notice of Mediation.
Plaintiff must coordinate the mediation conference and must e-file a Notice of Mediation.
Civil cases
Page 1 | MEDIATION
Do not e-file the plan; email it to OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
DO NOT E-FILE your plan. Email it to OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
Civil cases
Page 1 | CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN AND ORDER SETTING TRIAL
Documents submitted to this paperless office must be emailed as identifiable, searchable attachments.
This is a paperless office. Documents shall be submitted to this office by email and should be attached as a document with a name that is easily identifiable and searchable.
Page 1 | Submission Procedures
After approval, the Court will sign and e-file the plan.
Once the plan is approved by the Court, the Court will sign and e-file the plan for you.
Civil cases
Page 1 | CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN AND ORDER SETTING TRIAL
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
A court-appointed guardian must file proof of course completion with the Clerk of Court and provide a copy to Court Administration within four months of appointment.
Any person appointed by the court as a guardian, must file proof of course completion with the Clerk of Court, with a copy to Court Administration, within four months of appointment.
Civil cases
Page 1 | General Provisions
Within five days after scheduling a hearing, the Court must receive the motion and notice of hearing, plus a proposed order for a UMC hearing, by email at the stated address.
The Court must receive a copy of the motion, notice of hearing, (and a proposed order if UMC hearing) within five (5) days of scheduling the hearing by email at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
Page 4 | Submission Deadlines
Shelter petitions are due by 10:00 a.m. Monday through Thursday or 8:00 a.m. Friday, or as soon as possible thereafter.
All shelter petitions are to be e-mailed directly to Judge Buchanan with a copy to her Judicial Assistant, no later than 10:00 a.m. or as soon as possible thereafter, on Monday, through Thursdays, when shelter hearings are typically conducted at 1:15 p.m., and no later than 8:00 a.m. or as soon as possible thereafter, on Fridays, when shelter hearings are typically conducted at 9:00 a.m.
Page 4 | Shelter Petitions/Hearings
When counsel is asked to prepare an order, counsel must draft and circulate it to opposing counsel or the pro se party within two business days after the hearing.
If counsel is asked to prepare an order, the order shall be drafted and circulated to opposing counsel or pro se party within two (2) business days of the hearing
Page 6 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments
An order counsel is asked to prepare must be submitted to the Court and all counsel and pro se parties within seven days after the hearing, unless the Court orders otherwise at the hearing.
If counsel is asked to prepare an order, the order shall be drafted and circulated to opposing counsel or pro se party within two (2) business days of the hearing and must be submitted to the Court in Word format and to all counsel and pro se parties within seven (7) days of the hearing, unless otherwise ordered at the hearing.
Page 6 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments
Parties must file an exhibit list with the Clerk at least three business days (72 hours) before a special set hearing.
Parties are to file an exhibit list with the Clerk prior to hearing. This must be done at least three (3) business days (72 hours) prior to the day of special set hearing.
Page 7 | G. Exhibits for Evidentiary Hearing Proceedings
The proposed final judgment and notice of hearing should be submitted within five days after scheduling the hearing.
The proposed final judgment and notice of hearing should be submitted to the Court by email at ForeclosureOC@Circuit19.org and OCJudge1@Circuit19.org within five (5) days of scheduling the hearing.
Page 11 | Uncontested Foreclosure Non-Jury Trial
The final draft is due by noon on the Monday before trial begins.
final draft in Word format shall be provided to the Court by e-mail at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org, no later than noon on the Monday prior to the start of the trial.
Page 11 | Setting Case for Trial
For a virtual uncontested foreclosure hearing, exhibits must be filed with the Clerk at least three business days before the hearing.
If the case is scheduled for a virtual hearing, all exhibits shall be filed with the Clerk of Court at least three (3) business days prior to the hearing.
Page 11 | Uncontested Foreclosure Non-Jury Trial
If applicable, Proposed Parenting Plans must be filed at least 48 hours before the hearing.
Proposed Parenting Plans, if applicable, must be filed with the Clerk of Court and a copy to the Court in WORD format at least 48 hours prior to the hearing.
Page 12 | Domestic Relations Trial Procedures
Final Judgments are due 48 hours before trial unless the Court modifies the requirement.
Final Judgments must be submitted to the Court in WORD format 48 hours prior to the trial, unless this requirement is modified by the Court.
Page 12 | Domestic Relations Trial Procedures
You must submit the following in WORD format by e-mail to OCJudge1@Circuit19.org within 5 days of filing your petition.
You MUST submit the following in WORD format via e-mail to: OCJudge1@Circuit19.org within 5 days of filing your petition:
Page 13 | M. Guardianship/Incapacity Proceedings
Foreclosure motion packets must be submitted at least ten business days before the hearing; otherwise, the hearing may be cancelled.
PACKETS MUST BE EMAILED TO FORECLOSUREOC@CIRCUIT19.ORG AT LEAST 10 BUSINESS DAYS PRIOR TO HEARING OR YOUR HEARING MAY BE CANCELLED.
Page 14 | N. Foreclosure
The Order for Compensation of Examining Committee must be sent within five days after the incapacity hearing.
This Order must be sent within five (5) days after the hearing for incapacity is held.
Page 14 | M. Guardianship/Incapacity Proceedings
For a virtual hearing, all exhibits must be filed with the Clerk of Court at least three business days before the hearing.
If the case is scheduled for a virtual hearing, all exhibits shall be filed with the Clerk of Court at least three (3) business days prior to the hearing.
Page 15 | N. Foreclosure
The proposed final judgment and notice of hearing should be submitted within five days of scheduling the hearing.
The proposed final judgment and notice of hearing should be submitted to the Court by email at ForeclosureOC@Circuit19.org and OCJudge1@Circuit19.org within five (5) days of scheduling the hearing.
Page 16 | N. Foreclosure
Within five days after scheduling a hearing, email the Court the motion, Notice of Hearing, and, for a UMC hearing, a proposed order.
The court must receive a copy of the motion, notice of hearing, (and a proposed order if UMC hearing) within five (5) days of scheduling the hearing by email at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
Page 1 | Submission Deadlines
Counsel must circulate a prepared order within two business days after the hearing and submit it in Word format to the Court and all counsel and self-represented parties within seven days, unless otherwise ordered.
If counsel is asked to prepare an order, the order shall be drafted and circulated to opposing counsel or pro se party within two (2) business days of the hearing and must be submitted to the Court in Word format and to all counsel and pro se parties within seven (7) days of the hearing, unless otherwise ordered at the hearing.
Page 1 | Deadline for Submissions
File an exhibit list with the Clerk at least three business days (72 hours) before a special set hearing.
Parties are to file an exhibit list with the Clerk prior to hearing. This must be done at least three (3) business days (72 hours) prior to the day of special set hearing.
Page 1 | Submission
Professional guardians and employees with a fiduciary obligation to a ward must submit the form annually.
This form must be submitted annually by all professional guardians and employees of professional guardians with a fiduciary obligation to a ward.
Civil cases
Page 1 | ANNUAL GUARDIANSHIP INVESTIGATION CHECKLIST FOR PROFESSIONAL GUARDIANS AND EMPLOYEES OF PROFESSIONAL GUARDIANS
Discovery must be completed by March 15, 2025, unless a later date is agreed to in the joint pre-trial statement or ordered by the Court for good cause.
All discovery must be completed by 03/15/2025, absent agreement for later discovery specifically stated in the joint pre-trial statement, or by order of the Court for good cause shown.
Page 1 | DISCOVERY AND REQUIRED FILINGS
Exhibit lists must be filed by May 15, 2025.
Exhibit lists must be filed by 05/15/2025.
Page 1 | PRE-TRIAL STATEMENT
Pre-trial motions must be filed at least 60 days before docket call and heard at least 15 days before docket call.
All pre-trial motions shall be filed at least sixty (60) days prior to docket call and heard at least fifteen (15) days prior to docket call.
Page 1 | PRE-TRIAL MOTIONS
Discovery depositions must conclude by March 1, 2025, and experts must be available for deposition before the cutoff or may not testify absent good cause.
All discovery depositions shall be concluded by 03/01/2025. NOTE: All expert witnesses must be made available for depositions prior to the cutoff date or they will not be permitted to testify, absent good cause shown.
Page 1 | DISCOVERY AND REQUIRED FILINGS
Petitioner's counsel must ensure all counsel execute the pre-trial statement and file it with the Clerk by May 26, 2025.
It is the duty of counsel for the Petitioner to see that the pre-trial statement is executed by counsel for all parties, and filed with the Clerk by 05/26/2025.
Page 1 | PRE-TRIAL STATEMENT
Counsel and self-represented parties must communicate directly by May 15, 2025, to discuss settlement, stipulate to facts and issues, prepare the pre-trial statement, and examine proposed exhibits and documents.
Counsel for all parties/pro se parties must communicate directly by 05/15/2025 to: Discuss settlement. Stipulate to as many facts and issues as possible. Prepare a pre-trial statement in accordance with Paragraph 12. Examine all exhibits and documents which may be offered into evidence.
Page 1 | PRE-TRIAL MEETING
Interrogatories and requests to produce or inspect must be served by January 1, 2025.
All interrogatories and requests to produce or inspect shall be served by 01/01/2025.
Page 1 | DISCOVERY AND REQUIRED FILINGS
In cases with one or more self-represented parties, specific objections to exhibits in the other party’s unilateral trial statement must be made within 10 days of receipt or are waived.
Only in cases in which there is one or more pro se parties: If for any reason a joint pre-trial statement is not timely executed by all counsel and pro se parties, each counsel and each pro se party must file and serve separate pre-trial statements with a statement of why the joint statement was not executed. Each party will have ten (10) days from receipt of the other party’s unilateral trial statement to make specific objections to each exhibit, including the basis of the objection. Failure to object within that time will constitute a waiver to the admissibility of those exhibits.
Page 1 | PRE-TRIAL STATEMENT
Orders postponing or canceling the sale must be filed with the Clerk by 5:00 p.m. at least five business days before the sale.
All orders postponing or canceling the sale must be filed with the Clerk of Court no later than 5:00 p.m. five (5) business days before the sale date.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Sale of Property
The original proof of publication must be filed at least five business days before the sale; failure to timely file it stops the sale.
Counsel for Plaintiff must be certain that all sale and Clerk fees are paid and that the original proof of publication is filed no less than five (5) business days before the sale date. Failure to timely file the original proof of publication of the notice of sale and pay the sale and Clerk fees will stop the sale.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Sale of Property
If Plaintiff purchases the property, Plaintiff must file an affidavit within five business days, after which the Clerk credits the bid as specified.
If Plaintiff is the purchaser, Plaintiff must file an affidavit within 5 business days and the Clerk must credit Plaintiff’s bid with the total sum with post-judgment interest and costs accruing subsequent to this judgment, or such part of it, as is necessary to pay the bid in full.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Costs
Counsel must expeditiously file all paperwork needed to close a dismissed or settled case.
Counsel must expeditiously file all paperwork necessary to close the case.
Page 11 | Domestic Relations Trial Procedures
Provide witness lists and responsive memoranda to the Court and opposing counsel at least three business days before the hearing.
A list of any witnesses to be called and any responsive memoranda should be provided to the Court and to opposing counsel at least three (3) business days prior to the hearing.
Page 1 | When Required
Service and Proof of Service Rules
A notice of hearing must be filed and served immediately after hearing time is reserved.
A notice of hearing must be filed and served immediately after reserving hearing time.
Page 4 | Notice of Hearing
Counsel must mail copies of orders that require service by U.S. mail, as reflected in the order.
The order will reflect that counsel will be required to mail copies of any orders that require US mail.
Page 6 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments
The completed exhibit list and all exhibits must be delivered or scanned and emailed to the Clerk and all parties at the stated address.
A completed exhibit list and all exhibits must be delivered or scanned and emailed to the Clerk and all parties at evidence@myokeeclerk.com, you will receive an auto-reply that someone will contact you for pre-payment for printing.
Page 7 | G. Exhibits for Evidentiary Hearing Proceedings
A request for judicial action must be made by filing a motion with the Clerk and sending a copy to all attorneys and unrepresented parties.
If you want to make a request for some judicial action, you must file a motion with the Clerk of Court and send a copy to all attorneys and all unrepresented parties in the case.
Page 12 | Other Division Procedures
A completed exhibit list and all exhibits must be delivered or scanned and emailed to the Clerk and all parties at the listed address.
A completed exhibit list and all exhibits must be delivered or scanned and emailed to the Clerk and all parties at evidence@myokeeclerk.com, you will receive an auto-reply that someone will contact you for pre-payment for printing.
Page 12 | Domestic Relations Trial Procedures
Counsel for the moving party must immediately serve the order on parties with physical addresses and file a certificate of service in the court file.
• (Insert the moving party, e.g. PLAINTIFF’S, DEFENDANT’S, etc) COUNSEL SHALL SERVE A COPY OF THIS ORDER ON THE FOLLOWING PARTIES IMMEDIATELY AND FILE A CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE IN THIS COURT FILE: (Include all parties with physical addresses below this paragraph)
Page 15 | N. Foreclosure
The proposed order’s service language provides for service through the e-filing portal on parties with email addresses.
• A COPY OF THIS ORDER IS BEING SERVED ON THE FOLLOWING PARTIES VIA THE E-FILING PORTAL: (Include all parties with email addresses below this paragraph)
Page 15 | N. Foreclosure
The Plaintiff or Plaintiff’s counsel must serve parties omitted from the e-service list and file a Certificate of Mailing/Service immediately, no later than three business days after filing.
Plaintiff/Plaintiff’s counsel shall serve any party to this action not listed on the above e-service list and will file a Certificate of Mailing/Service into the court file immediately upon service – no later than 3 business days from the date of filing.
Civil cases
Page 1 | ORDER APPROVING CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN AND ORDER SETTING TRIAL
Counsel for the moving party must immediately serve the order on the specified parties and file a certificate of service.
Counsel for (Insert the moving party, e.g. Plaintiff, Defendant, etc.) counsel shall serve a copy of this order on the following parties immediately and file a certificate of service in this court file:
Civil cases
Page 1 | ORDER APPROVING CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN AND ORDER SETTING TRIAL
All parties must be copied on emails to the judicial office unless the communication is legally authorized ex parte.
All communications with the judicial office must comply with Canon 3 of the Code of Judicial Conduct, which prohibits a judge from initiating, permitting, or considering ex parte communications and from considering other communications outside the presence of the parties concerning a pending or impending proceeding, unless authorized by law. All parties must be copied on any e-mail directed to the judicial office, unless an ex parte communication is authorized by law
Page 1 | Ex Parte Communications
A beneficiary who does not join or consent to a petition for Summary Administration must receive formal notice of the Petition.
However, any beneficiary not joining or consenting shall receive formal notice of the Petition (see F.S. 735.203(1))
Civil cases
Page 1 | Checklist for Summary Administration
When one or more parties are self-represented, if all counsel and self-represented parties do not timely execute a joint pre-trial statement, each must file and serve a separate statement explaining why the joint statement was not executed.
Only in cases in which there is one or more pro se parties: If for any reason a joint pre-trial statement is not timely executed by all counsel and pro se parties, each counsel and each pro se party must file and serve separate pre-trial statements with a statement of why the joint statement was not executed.
Page 1 | PRE-TRIAL STATEMENT
Counsel must immediately serve the order on the listed parties with physical addresses and file a certificate of service.
COUNSEL FOR (moving party, e.g. Plaintiff, Defendant) SHALL IMMEDIATELY SERVE A COPY OF THIS ORDER ON THE FOLLOWING PARTIES AND FILE A CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE IN THIS COURT FILE: (Include parties with physical addresses).
Civil cases
Page 1 | Service
When cancelling a hearing, the cancellation email must be copied to all parties.
If you cancel your hearing, you must file a Notice of Cancellation and advise the Judicial Assistant by email no later than noon, the day before the hearing, with a copy to all parties, so that it may be removed from the Court’s docket.
Page 4 | Cancelling Hearings
Envelopes are not required because the moving party is responsible for serving parties with physical addresses.
Envelopes are no longer needed as the moving party (in this case your office) will serve the parties that have physical addresses.
Page 15 | N. Foreclosure
The General Magistrate must schedule the proceedings as soon as reasonably possible and notify each party directly or direct counsel or a party to file and serve a hearing notice.
The General Magistrate shall assign a time for the proceedings as soon as reasonably possible after this referral is made and shall give notice to each of the parties either directly or by directing counsel or a party to file and serve a notice of hearing.
Civil cases
Page 1 | ORDER OF REFERRAL TO GENERAL MAGISTRATE
Filing Fees and Waivers
The required audit fee should be attached to the filing.
HAS THE REQUIRED AUDIT FEE BEEN ATTACHED?
Civil cases
Page 1 | CHECKLIST FOR USE BY GUARDIAN ATTORNEYS AND GUARDIANS OF PROPERTY
The $57.50 investigation fee is payable to the Broward County Clerk of Court unless waived by the court.
6. Investigation Fee in the amount of $57.50, payable to the Broward County Clerk of Court (Includes Court Monitor/Credit Investigation fee and Professional Guardian processing fee.) Attached Waived by Court
Civil cases
Page 1 | To be filled out by Professional Guardians only
Plaintiff’s counsel must ensure sale and Clerk fees are paid and the original proof of publication is filed at least five business days before the sale.
Counsel for Plaintiff must be certain that all sale and Clerk fees are paid and that the original proof of publication is filed no less than five (5) business days before the sale date.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Sale of Property
The Clerk adjusts the filing fee based on the actual claim value, refunds any excess, and requires any additional fee to be paid at least five business days before the sale or the sale is canceled.
For any difference between the estimated amount in controversy and the actual value of the claim that requires the filing fee to be adjusted, the Clerk shall adjust the filing fee. In determining whether the filing fee needs to be adjusted, the graduated filing fee scale in Fl. Stat. § 28.241(1)(a)2.d controls. If an excess filing fee was paid, the Clerk shall provide a refund of the excess fee. If an additional filing fee is owed, the Plaintiff shall pay the additional fee at least five (5) business days prior to the judicial sale. If any additional filing fee owed is not paid prior to the judicial sale, the Clerk shall cancel the judicial sale without further order of the Court.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Value of Claim
The examining committee fee for a psychologist is $250 when the ward has been found indigent.
Psychologists: $250.00
Page 14 | M. Guardianship/Incapacity Proceedings
The examining committee fee for a lay person is $125 when the ward has been found indigent.
Lay People: $125.00
Page 14 | M. Guardianship/Incapacity Proceedings
The examining committee fee for a physician is $350 when the ward has been found indigent.
Physicians: $350.00
Page 14 | M. Guardianship/Incapacity Proceedings
To request a copy of Court Monitor results, submit a self-addressed, stamped envelope and a $1.00 check payable to the Broward County Clerk of Court.
10. Request a Copy of Court Monitor Results Yes No (If yes, submit a self-addressed, stamped envelope and a check in the amount of $1.00 payable to the Broward County Clerk of Court.)
Civil cases
Page 1 | To be filled out by Professional Guardians only
The Clerk must receive the service charge imposed by section 45.031, Florida Statutes.
The Clerk must receive the service charge imposed in Section 45.031, Florida Statutes.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Costs
Courtesy Copy Requirements
Courtesy copies must be emailed to the Court at least three days before any evidentiary proceeding.
Courtesy copies must be emailed to the court no later than three(3) days prior to any evidentiary proceeding.
Page 6 | E. Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents
For special set hearings, provide legal memoranda or briefs, significant cited authorities, a witness list, and any responsive memoranda to the Court and opposing counsel at least three business days before the hearing.
When Required: Any legal memoranda or briefs for special set hearings, along with copies of significant cited authorities (highlighting the pertinent sections is appreciated by the Court), should be provided to the Court and opposing counsel at least three (3) business days prior the hearing. A list of any witnesses to be called and any responsive memoranda should be provided to the Court and to opposing counsel at least three (3) business days prior to the hearing.
Page 6 | E. Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents
Email courtesy copies to the Court no later than three days before an evidentiary proceeding.
Courtesy copies must be emailed to the court no later than three(3) days prior to any evidentiary proceeding.
Page 1 | Deadline for Submissions
Counsel must provide the Court a trial notebook containing copies of pertinent pleadings five business days before trial; electronic copies are encouraged.
Counsel shall present to the Court, five (5) business days prior to trial, a trial notebook containing copies of pertinent pleadings filed in the case (i.e., Complaint, Answer and Affirmative Defenses, Counter-Claims, Pre-Trial Stipulation, etc.). Electronic copies are strongly encouraged.
Page 1 | Trial Notebook
Parties should bring a minimum of four (4) copies of all exhibits with them to court (original to Clerk, copy for each party, copy for the witness, and copy for the Court).
Parties should bring a minimum of four (4) copies of all exhibits with them to court (original to Clerk, copy for each party, copy for the witness, and copy for the Court).
Page 7 | G. Exhibits for Evidentiary Hearing Proceedings
Any legal memoranda or briefs for special set hearings, along with copies of significant cited authorities (highlighting the pertinent sections is appreciated by the Court), should be provided to the Court and opposing counsel at least three (3) business days prior the hearing.
Any legal memoranda or briefs for special set hearings, along with copies of significant cited authorities (highlighting the pertinent sections is appreciated by the Court), should be provided to the Court and opposing counsel at least three (3) business days prior the hearing.
Page 1 | When Required
Filing Bundling Requirements
Additional motions may not be piggy-backed by cross-notice for hearings under one hour without the Judicial Assistant’s permission.
Please note that additional motions may not be “piggy- backed” by cross-notice without permission from the Judicial Assistant.
Page 3 | Scheduling Hearings of less than 1-hour
Additional motions may not be piggy-backed by cross-notice for UMC hearings without the Judicial Assistant’s permission.
Additional motions may not be “piggy-backed” by cross-notice without permission from the Judicial Assistant.
Page 3 | Uniform Motion Calendar (UMC) Hearings via Zoom
CHECKS FOR AUDIT FEES AND CERTIFIED COPIES SHOULD NOT BE COMBINED.
CHECKS FOR AUDIT FEES AND CERTIFIED COPIES SHOULD NOT BE COMBINED.
Civil cases
Page 1 | CHECKLIST FOR USE BY GUARDIAN ATTORNEYS AND GUARDIANS OF PROPERTY
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
Before filing a motion, the movant must make a good-faith effort to confer with the opposing party; failure to include the required certificate may result in the motion or hearing being stricken.
• Domestic Relations/ Probate/ Dependency Conferral prior to filing motions: Before filing a motion, the movant must confer with the opposing party in a good-faith effort to resolve the issues raised in the motion. At the end of the motion and above the signature block, the movant must include a certificate of conferral in substantially the following form: “I certify that prior to filing this motion, I discussed the relief requested in this motion by [method of communication and date] with the opposing party and [the opposing party (agrees or disagrees) on the resolution of all or part of the motion] OR [the opposing party did not respond (describing with particularity all of the efforts undertaken to accomplish dialogue with the opposing party prior to filing the motion)].” Failure to include this certification will result in the motion and/or hearing being stricken from the docket.
Page 3 | Domestic Relations/ Probate/ Dependency Conferral prior to filing motions
A motion for rehearing or reconsideration may not be set for hearing without the Court’s prior permission.
Please do not set a Motion for Rehearing or Motion for Reconsideration for hearing without first receiving permission from the Court.
Page 8 | H. Pretrial Procedures, Conferences, and Motion Practice
Parties must attend mediation before setting a Temporary Relief Hearing.
Pursuant to Administrative Order, parties must attend mediation before a Temporary Relief Hearing may be set.
Page 8 | H. Pretrial Procedures, Conferences, and Motion Practice
Filing a motion for protective order without presenting it to the Court is insufficient.
The filing of a Motion for Protective Order, without presenting it before the Court, is insufficient.
Page 8 | H. Pretrial Procedures, Conferences, and Motion Practice
A Temporary Relief Hearing scheduled before mediation will be stricken, and the motion will not be heard.
If you schedule a Temporary Relief Hearing without first having been to mediation your motion will not be heard and your hearing will be stricken.
Page 8 | H. Pretrial Procedures, Conferences, and Motion Practice
Set discovery motions to compel when the violation occurs; they will not be heard after the discovery deadline.
Motions to compel discovery must be set at the time of the violation, not on the eve of trial, and will not be heard past the discovery deadline.
Civil cases
Page 1 | MOTIONS AND HEARINGS
Failure to comply with the motion-hearing deadline requirement constitutes abandonment of the issue and waiver of the motion.
Failure to follow this requirement constitutes abandonment of the issue and waiver of the motion.
Civil cases
Page 1 | MOTIONS AND HEARINGS
Absent good cause, motions will not be heard after the deadlines in the plan.
Due to docket management constraints, absent good cause shown, motions will not be heard after the deadlines set forth herein.
Civil cases
Page 1 | MOTIONS AND HEARINGS
Before filing a non-dispositive motion, the movant must confer in good faith and include the specified certificate of conferral in the motion.
Before filing a non-dispositive motion, the movant must confer with the opposing party in a good-faith effort to resolve the issues raised in the motion. At the end of the motion and above the signature block, the movant must include a certificate of conferral in substantially the following form: “I certify that prior to filing this motion, I discussed the relief requested in this motion by [method of communication and date] with the opposing party and [the opposing party (agrees or disagrees) on the resolution of all or part of the motion] OR [the opposing party did not respond (describing with particularity all of the efforts undertaken to accomplish dialogue with the opposing party prior to filing the motion)].”
Page 1 | Civil Conferral Prior to Filing Motions
File a motion with the Clerk before scheduling it for hearing or contacting the office for hearing time.
All motions must be filed with the Clerk before you set the motion for hearing using the online scheduling system or contact this office for hearing time.
Page 1 | Submission Procedures
Before filing a motion, the movant must confer in good faith and include the specified certificate of conferral in the motion.
Before filing a motion, the movant must confer with the opposing party in a good-faith effort to resolve the issues raised in the motion. At the end of the motion and above the signature block, the movant must include a certificate of conferral in substantially the following form: “I certify that prior to filing this motion, I discussed the relief requested in this motion by [method of communication and date] with the opposing party and [the opposing party (agrees or disagrees) on the resolution of all or part of the motion] OR [the opposing party did not respond (describing with particularity all of the efforts undertaken to accomplish dialogue with the opposing party prior to filing the motion)].”
Page 1 | Domestic Relations/ Probate/ Dependency Conferral prior to filing motions
Do not set a motion for rehearing or reconsideration for hearing without first obtaining the Court’s permission.
Please do not set a Motion for Rehearing or Motion for Reconsideration for hearing without first receiving permission from the Court.
Page 1 | Motions for Rehearing, Reconsideration, or New Trial
Parties must attend mediation before setting a Temporary Relief Hearing; a hearing set without prior mediation will be stricken and the motion will not be heard.
Pursuant to Administrative Order, parties must attend mediation before a Temporary Relief Hearing may be set. If you schedule a Temporary Relief Hearing without first having been to mediation your motion will not be heard and your hearing will be stricken.
Page 1 | Temporary Relief hearings
All parties must be available for an emergency hearing unless exigent circumstances prevent it.
All parties shall make themselves available for the emergency hearing, barring exigent circumstances.
Page 7 | F. Emergency and Other Urgent Matters
The Court initially considers motions to dismiss under Rule 1.140(b) and motions for more definite statement under Rule 1.140(e) without a hearing.
The Court will initially consider all Motions to Dismiss filed pursuant to Rule 1.140(b) and Motions for More Definite Statement filed pursuant to Rule 1.140(e), without hearing.
Page 1 | Motion to Dismiss and/or Motion for More Definite Statement
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
Continuances are disfavored, require good cause, and must be requested at least five days before the court date; absent good cause, the requesting party must sign the motion.
Continuances are disfavored and will be granted only upon good cause shown. A request for continuance must be submitted at least five days prior to the scheduled court date. Except for good cause shown, the motion must be signed by the party requesting the continuance, as required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.545(e).
Page 4 | Continuance Procedure
A motion to modify the trial period must strictly comply with Rules 1.200(e) and 1.460 or it will be automatically denied.
Additionally, any motion to modify the trial period set per this case management plan order must not only strictly comply with Rule 1.200(e) but also Rule 1.460. Failure to strictly comply with these rules will result in the motion being automatically denied.
Civil cases
Page 1 | EXTENSIONS OF TIME; MODIFICATION OF DEADLINES IN THIS CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN
Trial continuances are disfavored, should rarely be granted, and require good cause and compliance with Rule 1.460.
Motions to continue trial are disfavored and should rarely be granted and then only upon good cause shown. Any motion to continue a trial date must comply with Rule 1.460.
Civil cases
Page 1 | CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN AND ORDER SETTING TRIAL
Deadlines in the plan remain strictly enforced unless a subsequent court order changes them.
The deadlines in this case management plan order will be strictly enforced unless changed by subsequent court order.
Civil cases
Page 1 | EXTENSIONS OF TIME; MODIFICATION OF DEADLINES IN THIS CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN
Motions to extend deadlines, amend the plan, or alter the trial period must comply with Rule 1.200(e); noncompliant extension motions will not be considered.
Any motion to extend a deadline, amend this case management plan order, or alter an ordered trial period must comply with Fla. R. Civ. P. 1.200(e). Motions for extension of time that do not comply with Rule 1.200(e)(1) will not be considered by the court.
Civil cases
Page 1 | EXTENSIONS OF TIME; MODIFICATION OF DEADLINES IN THIS CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN
A scheduled mediation may not be canceled or continued without approval; if a continuance requested within two business days is granted, the requesting party is responsible for both parties’ mediation fees.
A mediation conference scheduled through the Family Mediation Program may not be canceled or continued without approval of the Family Mediation Program or the referring Court. If, within two (2) business days of the scheduled mediation conference, a party request that the mediation be continued and the request is granted, then the party requesting the continuance shall be solely responsible for the total fee for mediation (both their mediation fee and the fee of the other party).
Civil cases
Page 1 | General Provisions
A continuance requires good cause and must be requested at least five days before the court date; absent good cause, the requesting party must sign the motion.
Continuances are disfavored and will be granted only upon good cause shown. A request for continuance must be submitted at least five days prior to the scheduled court date. Except for good cause shown, the motion must be signed by the party requesting the continuance, as required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.545(e).
Page 1 | Continuance Procedure
When an extension motion is unopposed, the Court may enter an order without a hearing if the motion details the grounds for good cause.
When a motion for extension of time is filed, and there is no opposition for the extension, an order may be entered without a hearing, so long as the motion details the grounds for “good cause.”
Page 8 | H. Pretrial Procedures, Conferences, and Motion Practice
Filing a motion to continue alone does not continue the case.
Simply filing a motion to continue will not suffice to continue the case.
Civil cases
Page 1 | MOTION TO CONTINUE
Chambers Communication Rules
Proposed orders are to be sent to the Judge’s office with a cover letter by email only at Probate@circuit19.org.
I have reviewed the file and completed the Checklist in this matter. Everything on the Checklist is accounted for and proposed Orders (in Word format) are now proper to be sent to the Judge’s office with a cover letter via e-mail only to Probate@circuit19.org.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Checklist for Opening a Formal Administration
Requests for hearings requiring more than one hour must be emailed to the stated address with an explanation, information about resolution efforts and opposing counsel’s position on the estimated time, and a copy of the filed motion or petition.
Any hearings that require more than one hour must be requested by email to OCJudge1@Circuit19.org in writing with an explanation as to why more than one hour is needed and that attempts to resolve the issue have failed. You must also indicate whether opposing counsel agrees with the estimated time requested for hearing. A copy of the filed motion/petition MUST be attached.
Page 3 | Scheduling Hearings of more than 1-hour
If a hearing is cancelled, file a Notice of Cancellation and email the Judicial Assistant by noon on the day before the hearing, copying all parties.
If you cancel your hearing, you must file a Notice of Cancellation and advise the Judicial Assistant by email no later than noon, the day before the hearing, with a copy to all parties, so that it may be removed from the Court’s docket.
Page 4 | Cancelling Hearings
Submissions in this section should be emailed to OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
All submissions should be emailed to OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
Page 6 | E. Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents
Foreclosure documents must be submitted to ForeclosureOC@Circuit19.org.
The email address for submitting FORECLOSURE documents is: ForeclosureOC@Circuit19.org.
Page 6 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments
Proposed orders must be emailed to the Judicial Assistant at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
All proposed order shall be submitted by email to the Judicial Assistant at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
Page 6 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments
Probate documents must be submitted to Probate@Circuit19.org.
The email address for submitting PROBATE documents is: Probate@Circuit19.org.
Page 6 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments
The filing party must email an emergency-hearing motion to the Court at the stated address.
The filing party must submit the motion to the Court by email at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
Page 7 | F. Emergency and Other Urgent Matters
A copy of the motion and proposed orders must be emailed to the Court at the stated address.
A copy of the motion and proposed order(s) shall be submitted to the Court by email at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
Page 7 | H. Pretrial Procedures, Conferences, and Motion Practice
The movant must email the motion and proposed orders to the Court at the stated address.
The movant shall submit a copy of the motion and proposed order(s) to the Court by email at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
Page 8 | H. Pretrial Procedures, Conferences, and Motion Practice
Upon filing a motion for rehearing, reconsideration, or new trial, the moving party must email a copy to the Court for review.
Upon filing said motion the moving party shall submit a copy to the Court for review by email at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
Page 8 | H. Pretrial Procedures, Conferences, and Motion Practice
A proposed Order of Referral to Magistrate for a post-judgment case must be emailed to the Court at the stated address.
All Post Judgment cases must be referred to the Magistrate. Please provide a proposed Order of Referral to Magistrate to the Court by email at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org, along
Page 8 | H. Pretrial Procedures, Conferences, and Motion Practice — Domestic Relations POST JUDGMENT matters
The proposed final judgment and notice of hearing should be emailed to both listed Court addresses within five days after the hearing is scheduled.
The proposed final judgment and notice of hearing should be submitted to the Court by email at ForeclosureOC@Circuit19.org and OCJudge1@Circuit19.org within five (5) days of scheduling the hearing.
Page 11 | Uncontested Foreclosure Non-Jury Trial
A copy of the e-filed Notice for Trial must be emailed to the Court.
You must submit a copy of your e-filed Notice for Trial to the Court by email to OCJudge1@circuit19.org.
Page 11 | Domestic Relations Trial Procedures
If a case is dismissed or settled after an order is entered, counsel must immediately email the Judicial Assistant to remove it from the trial docket.
If at any time after the entry of an order, a case is dismissed, or results in a completed settlement, Counsel must immediately notify this Court’s Judicial Assistant to remove the case from the trial docket by email at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
Page 11 | Domestic Relations Trial Procedures
The final draft must be emailed to the Court by noon on the Monday before trial begins.
final draft in Word format shall be provided to the Court by e-mail at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org, no later than noon on the Monday prior to the start of the trial.
Page 11 | Setting Case for Trial
A party seeking judicial action must contact the judicial assistant to obtain a hearing date.
You must contact the judicial assistant for a hearing date.
Page 12 | Other Division Procedures
Proposed Parenting Plans, Final Judgments, and Orders must be emailed to the Court at the listed address.
All Proposed Parenting Plans, Final Judgments and Orders must be emailed to OCJudge1@Circuit19.org, pursuant to the Court’s procedures.
Page 12 | Domestic Relations Trial Procedures
Email the plan in Word format to OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
Is the plan ready to be submitted in Word to OCJudge1@Circuit19.org?
Civil cases
Page 1 | CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN AND ORDER SETTING TRIAL
If the case settles, the Plaintiff must immediately email the Judicial Assistant, copy all parties, and attach an already e-filed notice of settlement and dismissal documents.
If your case settles, the Plaintiff shall immediately notify the Court’s Judicial Assistant via e-mail (showing copies provided to all parties), attaching an already e-filed notice of settlement and dismissal documents.
Civil cases
Page 1 | CASE DISPOSITIONS
To cancel a hearing, file a Notice of Cancellation and email the Judicial Assistant with a copy to all parties by noon on the day before the hearing.
If you cancel your hearing, you must file a Notice of Cancellation and advise the Judicial Assistant by email no later than noon, the day before the hearing, with a copy to all parties, so that it may be removed from the Court’s docket.
Page 1 | Cancelling Hearings
A request for a hearing longer than one hour must be emailed in writing with reasons, failed resolution efforts, opposing counsel’s position on the requested time, and a copy of the filed motion or petition.
Any hearings that require more than one hour must be requested by email to OCJudge1@Circuit19.org in writing with an explanation as to why more than one hour is needed and that attempts to resolve the issue have failed. You must also indicate whether opposing counsel agrees with the estimated time requested for hearing. A copy of the filed motion/petition MUST be attached.
Page 1 | Scheduling Hearings of more than 1-hour
After the checklist is completed and accounted for, proposed Orders are to be sent to the Judge’s office with a cover letter by email only at Probate@circuit19.org.
I have reviewed the file and completed the Checklist in this matter. Everything on the Checklist is accounted for and proposed Orders (in Word format) are now proper to be sent to the Judge’s office with a cover letter via e-mail only to Probate@circuit19.org.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Checklist for Summary Administration
If the case is dismissed or settled after this order, counsel must immediately notify the Court’s Judicial Assistant by telephone or email to remove it from the trial date; paperwork alone is insufficient notice.
If at any time after the entry of this order this case is dismissed or results in a completed settlement, counsel must immediately notify this Court's Judicial Assistant to remove the case from the trial date. Due to the volume of cases pending, counsel should not assume that the submission of a copy of the dismissal or the settlement paperwork would satisfy this requirement. Counsel must make the notification by telephone or email.
Page 1 | CASE DISPOSITIONS
If a case settles before trial, immediately email a copy of the Notice of Settlement to the Court.
If your case settles prior to trial, please immediately email a copy of the Notice of Settlement to the Court at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
Page 9 | I. Setting Case for Trial (Civil and Domestic Relations)
A copy of any filed Objection to the Magistrate should be emailed to OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
A copy of any filed Objection to the Magistrate should be emailed to OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
Page 9
Probate questions and submissions go to the case manager, except hearing documents, which must be emailed to the Judicial Assistant.
All Probate questions and submissions shall be directed to the case manager at Probate@Circuit19.org, with the exception of hearing documents, those shall be submitted to the Court’s Judicial Assistant by email to OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
Page 13 | L. Probate
If no hearing time is available online, email the Judicial Assistant with request details, a copy of the petition or motion, and the total hearing time needed.
If you have a pending Guardianship or Mental Health case that needs to be set for hearing and there is no time available on the online scheduling calendar, please email the Judicial Assistant at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org with the details of your request, including a copy of the petition/motion and the total time needed for hearing.
Page 14 | M. Guardianship/Incapacity Proceedings
Do not contact the Judicial Assistant to ask about the case’s status or trial-week priority.
Do not contact the Judicial Assistant to determine the status of this case or priority of this case for the trial week.
Civil cases
Page 1 | TRIAL SCHEDULING
The court will not consider unsolicited communications from non-parties, and parties must contact the judicial office under these procedures.
Unsolicited communications from non-parties will not be considered by the court. Parties may only contact the judicial office in accordance with these practices and procedures.
Page 1 | Unsolicited Communications
Communications to the judicial office must be emailed to the Judicial Assistant and include the case number, case name, and relevant matter in the subject line.
Method of Communication: All communications to the judicial office must be submitted by e-mail to OCJudge1@Circuit19.org. The subject line must contain the case number, case name, and relevant matter (e.g., 2024 DR 001234 SC – Doe v. Doe – 2-Hour Hearing Requested.)
Page 1 | Method of Communication
Submit all documents in a single email to the Judicial Assistant.
Please submit all documents attached to one (1) email to the Judicial Assistant at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org.
Page 1 | Submission Procedures
For procedures not covered by the guidelines, counsel may email the Court in writing, and a status hearing may be set to address inquiries.
If any procedures are not covered herein, counsel is free to contact the Court, in writing via e-mail at OCJudge1@Circuit19.org. A status hearing can be set at which time the Court will attempt to answer any inquiries.
Page 16 | O. Information Not Covered
Contact the judicial assistant by email for scheduling, rescheduling, instructions, or other questions.
Please contact wykowskia@circuit19.org for scheduling (and rescheduling), instructions and/or other questions.
Court notice
Page 1 | REMOTE ACCESS TO JUDGE BUCHANAN ONLY OKEECHOBEE COUNTY HEARINGS DUE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC