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Court Rules
Judge William Wallace
Judge

Judge William Wallace

Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies

Rules last changed:
Nineteenth Judicial Circuit of Florida, Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee and St. Lucie Counties

Limits & Logistics

Courtesy Copies

Courtesy copies

  • Mail
  • No Later Than Two Days Before Hearing or Trial
  • Two Days Before Any Hearing or Trial

Communication

Email

Chambers

harrisk@circuit19.org
Scheduling
Phone

Chambers

863-763-3193
Scheduling
Phone

Clerk

863-763-2131
Cases:
Filters:

Document Format Requirements14 rules

FormattingMandatoryCivil cases

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 HarrisK@circuit19.org.

DIPP-Wallace-Checklist-REM
|SectionProbate Checklist
FormattingMandatoryCourt notice

Bring original and TWO COPIES of all Exhibits to be presented to the Court (1 copy for opposing party and one copy for the Court.)

FormattingMandatoryCivil cases

proposed Orders (in Word format)

Close-Formal-Wallace-Checklist-REM
|SectionEstate Administration Checklist
FormattingMandatoryCivil cases

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 HarrisK@circuit19.org.

Sum-Admin-Wallace-Checklist-REM
|SectionProbate Checklist
FormattingImportantCourt notice

If you have photos, videos, text messages, etc., you will need to have a way to show the Court and have a way to submit that evidence to the clerk—either printed hard copies or on a CD/DVD/flash drive…And you must bring a laptop or other device to display any digital evidence you are submitting.

FormattingImportantCriminal cases

DO NOT FOLD, ROLL OR BEND THIS FORM.

COP-Form-with-Attorney · May 2023 · p. 1
|SectionPLEA OF GUILTY / NO CONTEST / ADMISSION – WITH ATTORNEY
FormattingImportant

Exhibits must be labeled in the following format: Plaintiff “A” Defendant “A”.

FormattingImportant

Courtesy copies must be submitted in a .pdf format. Courtesy copies must be submitted on 8.5 x 11-inch paper.

File type
PDF
Paper size
Letter
Fl Nineteenth:4eff7919e35e80002b16ac9c
|SectionCourtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents
FormattingImportantCivil cases

proposed Orders (in Word format)

Open-Formal-Wallace-Checklist-REM
|SectionProbate Checklist
FormattingImportant

DO NOT FOLD, ROLL OR BEND THIS FORM.

COP-Form-Without-Attorney · May 2023 · p. 1
|SectionACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RIGHTS AND CONSEQUENCES OF PLEA OF GUILTY OR NO CONTEST WITHOUT LAWYER OR LEGAL REPRESENTATION
FormattingImportant

Proposed orders may be submitted in Word and/or .pdf format

Applies to
  • Proposed order

Formatting

  • Word and/or .pdf format
FormattingImportant

Courtesy copies must be submitted on 8.5 x 11-inch paper.

Paper size
Letter
Applies to
  • Courtesy copy
FormattingImportant

Courtesy copies must be submitted in a .pdf format.

File type
PDF
Applies to
  • Courtesy copy
FormattingImportant

Exhibits must be labeled in the following format: Plaintiff “A” Defendant “A”.

Applies to
  • Exhibits

Formatting

  • Label exhibits in the format Plaintiff “A” or Defendant “A”

Document Filing Requirements33 rules

Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

proposed Orders (in Word format) are now proper to be sent to the Judge’s office with a cover letter via e-mail only

Close-Formal-Wallace-Checklist-REM
|SectionEstate Administration Checklist
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

4. Certificate for Education Requirement Attached Waived by Court (Copy only, see Fl. Prob. R. 5.625)

Guardianship-and-Guardian-Advocacy-Mandatory-Checklist 0 · p. 1
|SectionRENEWAL APPLICATION FOR NONPROFESSIONAL GUARDIANS
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

This form must be submitted by all nonprofessional guardians with every Application for Appointment as Guardian.

Guardianship-and-Guardian-Advocacy-Mandatory-Checklist 0 · p. 1
|SectionMANDATORY CHECKLIST FOR NONPROFESSIONAL GUARDIANSHIP APPLICATION
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCriminal cases

IN COMPLETING FORM, USE LANGUAGE YOUR CLIENT UNDERSTANDS. DO NOT USE WORDS, ACRONYMS OR ABBREVIATIONS THAT ARE USED ONLY BY ATTORNEYS.

COP-Form-with-Attorney · May 2023 · p. 1
|SectionPLEA OF GUILTY / NO CONTEST / ADMISSION – WITH ATTORNEY
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCriminal cases

NOTE TO COUNSEL: FORM MUST BE FILLED OUT COMPLETELY.

COP-Form-with-Attorney · May 2023 · p. 1
|SectionPLEA OF GUILTY / NO CONTEST / ADMISSION – WITH ATTORNEY
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCriminal cases

(**COUNSEL MUST ADVISE CLIENT OF ALL CHARGES/FEES TO BE IMPOSED BY COMPLETING THE SECTION BELOW.**)

COP-Form-with-Attorney · May 2023 · p. 2
|SectionPLEA OF GUILTY / NO CONTEST / ADMISSION – WITH ATTORNEY
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCriminal cases

(FOR ADDITIONAL CHARGES, IF ANY, ATTACH ADDENDUM TO PLEA FORM.)

COP-Form-with-Attorney · May 2023 · p. 2
|SectionPLEA OF GUILTY / NO CONTEST / ADMISSION – WITH ATTORNEY
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCriminal cases

The plea document includes attorney attestations about reading or explaining it and an interpreter certification when applicable.

Court's wording

I am the attorney for the Defendant. I certify that I am a ____________________ language (___) I have read the contents of this document word interpreter and I have read this document word for for word to the Defendant, and explained it word to the Defendant who understands the fully to him/her. ____________________ language. The Defendant (___) I have not read this document to the states he/she fully understands the contents of the Defendant, but I have fully explained the document and that he/she signed it freely and contents of this document to him/her. voluntarily.

COP-Form-with-Attorney · May 2023 · p. 3
|SectionDefendant, Attorney, Interpreter, State, and Court Certifications
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

Within 10 days of entry of this order, the guardian shall file with the Clerk of Court a notice of compliance stating that the Examining Committee has been paid in full.

Order-for-Compensation-of-Examining-Committee 0-1 · p. 1
|SectionORDER FOR COMPENSATION OF EXAMINING COMMITTEE
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Requests to use communication technology for an appearance must be made by motion.

Fl Nineteenth:4eff7919e35e80002b16ac9c
|SectionRemote Appearance Procedure
Filing RequirementsMandatory

A notice of hearing involving any remote appearance must list the judge’s Zoom credentials which will be provided by the judicial assistant.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

All notices of hearing must contain the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) notification required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.540.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

All attorneys and self-represented litigants must bring sufficient copies of each exhibit for the clerk, the court, and each party to review during the hearing or trial.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

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.

Fl Nineteenth:4eff7919e35e80002b16ac9c
|SectionEmergency Hearings
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Proposed orders may be submitted in Word and/or .pdf format and provided to opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant and stating that all parties agree to the order or contain a statement identifying any disagreement the parties may have as to the proposed order .

Fl Nineteenth:4eff7919e35e80002b16ac9c
|SectionSubmission of Orders and Judgments
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

A cover letter must accompany proposed Orders sent to the Judge’s office.

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 HarrisK@circuit19.org.

Sum-Admin-Wallace-Checklist-REM
|SectionProbate Checklist
Filing RequirementsMandatory

All notices of hearing must contain the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) notification required by Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.540.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

A notice of hearing involving any remote appearance must list the judge’s Zoom credentials which will be provided by the judicial assistant.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Requests to use communication technology for an appearance must be made by motion.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Proposed orders may be submitted in Word and/or .pdf format and provided to opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant and stating that all parties agree to the order or contain a statement identifying any disagreement the parties may have as to the proposed order .

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Proposed order and final judgment packages shall contain self- addressed stamped envelopes and copies for conforming.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

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.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

All attorneys and self-represented litigants must bring sufficient copies of each exhibit for the clerk, the court, and each party to review during the hearing or trial.

Filing RequirementsImportantCivil cases

Attorney / Petitioner Signature (no e-signatures): _________________________________________________

Placement
Signature block

Include

  • No e-signatures
DIPP-Wallace-Checklist-REM
|SectionProbate Checklist
Filing RequirementsImportantCourt notice

Immediately thereafter, the parties must, IN WRITING, notify the Clerk of the settlement, and the Court will thereafter enter an Order approving the settlement and closing the case.

Filing RequirementsImportantCourt notice

The Clerk of Court must also have a phone number by which the Court may contact each party directly if necessary.

Filing RequirementsImportantCivil cases

Attorney Signature (no e-signatures): _________________________________________________

Close-Formal-Wallace-Checklist-REM
|SectionEstate Administration Checklist
Filing RequirementsImportant

Any request for a CMC or status conference must articulate the reasons for the necessity of the conference.

Filing RequirementsImportant

Proposed order and final judgment packages shall contain self-addressed stamped envelopes and copies for conforming.

Fl Nineteenth:4eff7919e35e80002b16ac9c
|SectionSubmission of Orders and Judgments
Filing RequirementsImportantCivil cases

Attorney Signature (no e-signatures):

Open-Formal-Wallace-Checklist-REM
|SectionProbate Checklist
Filing RequirementsImportantCivil cases

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 HarrisK@circuit19.org.

Open-Formal-Wallace-Checklist-REM
|SectionProbate Checklist
Filing RequirementsImportant

Any request for a CMC or status conference must articulate the reasons for the necessity of the conference.

Filing RequirementsImportant

Use of Artificial Intelligence on Court filings shall be in accordance with Administrative Order 2025-10.

Filing & Service rules

Electronic Filing Rules

Submit all exhibits electronically by e-mail to harrisk@circuit19.org. Hand-deliver or mail all printed exhibits to the clerk of court. E-mail all exhibits to the clerk of court at evidence@myokeeclerk.com.

Submit all exhibits electronically by e-mail to harrisk@circuit19.org. Hand-deliver or mail all printed exhibits to the clerk of court. E-mail all exhibits to the clerk of court at evidence@myokeeclerk.com.

Page 1 | Exhibits

Email all exhibits to the clerk of court at evidence@myokeeclerk.com.

E-mail all exhibits to the clerk of court at evidence@myokeeclerk.com.

Page 7 | G. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings

Submit all exhibits electronically by e-mail to harrisk@circuit19.org.

Submit all exhibits electronically by e-mail to harrisk@circuit19.org.

Page 7 | G. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings

Hand-deliver or mail all printed exhibits to the clerk of court.

Hand-deliver or mail all printed exhibits to the clerk of court.

Page 7 | G. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings

Proposed orders may be emailed to the court; attorneys and self-represented litigants excused from email service must submit them by U.S. mail or hand delivery.

Proposed orders may be submitted to the court by e-mail to harrisk@circuit19.org for parties. Attorneys and self-represented litigants excused from e-mail service shall submit proposed orders to the court by U.S. mail or hand-delivered to the judicial office.

Page 1 | Submission of Orders and Judgments

Proposed orders may be submitted by email to the court; attorneys and self-represented litigants excused from email service must submit them by U.S. mail or hand delivery.

Proposed orders may be submitted to the court by e-mail to harrisk@circuit19.org for parties. Attorneys and self-represented litigants excused from e-mail service shall submit proposed orders to the court by U.S. mail or hand- delivered to the judicial office.

Page 5 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments

Courtesy copies may be submitted by email, U.S. mail, or hand delivery; self-represented litigants excused from email service may use mail or hand delivery.

Courtesy copies may be submitted to the court by e-mail to harrisk@circuit19.org. Courtesy copies may be submitted to the court by U.S. mail or hand-delivered to the judicial office. Self-represented litigants excused from e-mail service may submit courtesy copies to the court by U.S. mail or hand-delivery to the judicial office.

Page 6 | E. Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

When the Judge allows a specified number of days, the Defendant must file the Counterclaim within that period after the Pre-Trial Conference.

Also, if at the Pre-Trial Conference the Judge allowed the Defendant a certain number of days to file a Counterclaim, the Defendant must file the Counterclaim within that number of days from the date of this Pre-Trial Conference.

Court notice

Page 1 | COUNTERCLAIMS

A Third-Party Complaint must be filed and served before trial within the time allowed by the Judge.

This must be done prior to Trial within the time allowed you by the Judge.

Court notice

Page 1 | THIRD PARTY COMPLAINTS

The Case Management Plan must be submitted for court approval within 30 days after service on the last-named defendant, or before December 3, 2021, for cases filed before April 30, 2021.

To be submitted to the court for approval (1) within 30 days after date of service on the last-named defendant or (2) prior to 12/3/21 for cases filed prior to 4/30/21

Civil cases

Page 1 | CIVIL CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN AND ORDER

The guardian must file a notice of compliance with the Clerk within 10 days of entry of the order.

Within 10 days of entry of this order, the guardian shall file with the Clerk of Court a notice of compliance stating that the Examining Committee has been paid in full.

Civil cases

Page 1 | ORDER FOR COMPENSATION OF EXAMINING COMMITTEE

The court must receive all hearing materials no later than two business days before the hearing.

The court must receive all materials for the hearing no later than two (2) business days before the hearing.

Page 1 | Submission Deadlines

Proposed orders must be submitted no later than ten days after a hearing unless the court directs otherwise.

Proposed orders must be submitted no later than ten (10) days after any hearing unless otherwise directed by the court.

Page 1 | Submission of Orders and Judgments

All non-electronic exhibits must be received in chambers five days before the evidentiary proceeding.

All other exhibits must be received in chambers five (5) days before the evidentiary proceeding.

Page 1 | Exhibits

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 1 | Notice of Hearing

Requests for remote appearance must be submitted within the two days before the hearing.

Requests for remote appearance must be submitted within two (2) days prior to the hearing.

Page 1 | Remote Appearance Procedure

Electronic exhibits must be submitted five days before the evidentiary proceeding.

Electronic exhibits must be submitted five (5) days before the evidentiary proceeding.

Page 1 | Exhibits

The court must receive all hearing materials at least two business days before the hearing.

The court must receive all materials for the hearing no later than two (2) business days before the hearing.

Page 3 | B. Scheduling Procedures

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 3 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Requests for remote appearance must be submitted within two days before the hearing.

Requests for remote appearance must be submitted within two (2) days prior to the hearing.

Page 4 | C. Remote Appearance

A notice of cancellation must be filed and served immediately on opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant.

You must also immediately file and serve a notice of cancellation on opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant.

Page 4 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Proposed orders must be submitted within ten days after a hearing unless the court directs otherwise.

Proposed orders must be submitted no later than ten (10) days after any hearing unless otherwise directed by the court.

Page 6 | D. Submission of Orders and Judgments

All exhibits other than electronic exhibits must be received in chambers five days before the evidentiary proceeding.

All other exhibits must be received in chambers five (5) days before the evidentiary proceeding.

Page 7 | G. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings

Electronic exhibits must be submitted five days before the evidentiary proceeding.

Electronic exhibits must be submitted five (5) days before the evidentiary proceeding.

Page 7 | G. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings

Service and Proof of Service Rules

A Defendant seeking to hold another person responsible must file a Third-Party Complaint and serve that person with notice of the claim.

If you are the Defendant and you believe that the Plaintiff may win the suit against you, but, if the Plaintiff does, someone else should pay you so you can pay the Plaintiff, then you must file a Third-Party Complaint against that person and serve them with notice of your claim.

Court notice

Page 1 | THIRD PARTY COMPLAINTS

The complaint must be served within 120 days after filing; any extension may not exceed 240 days from filing.

Service within 120 days of filing of the complaint unless an extension is granted, which extension shall not exceed 240 days from the date of filing of the complaint

Civil cases

Page 1 | Case Events and Deadlines

A notice of cancellation must be filed and served immediately on opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant.

You must also immediately file and serve a notice of cancellation on opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant.

Page 1 | Cancelling Hearings

Attorneys and self-represented litigants must provide an email address to receive signed orders electronically unless excused.

All attorneys and self-represented litigants must provide an e-mail address to receive signed orders electronically, unless excused. Fla. R. Gen. Prac. & Jud. Admin. 2.516.

Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

Attorneys and self-represented litigants must update their contact information on Form 2.603 whenever their email account registered for electronic service changes.

It is the responsibility of attorneys and self-represented litigants to update their contact information using Form 2.603 any time there is a change in the e- mail account registered for electronic service.

Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

A notice of hearing must be served immediately after hearing time is reserved.

A notice of hearing must be filed and served immediately after reserving hearing time.

Page 3 | B. Scheduling Procedures

A notice of cancellation must be served immediately on opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant.

You must also immediately file and serve a notice of cancellation on opposing counsel and any self-represented litigant.

Page 4 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Courtesy copies must also be provided to opposing counsel and/or self-litigating parties.

Courtesy copies shall be provided to opposing counsel and/or self- litigating parties.

Page 6 | E. Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents

Provide all mailing-address changes in writing to both the Clerk and the opposing party.

All changes in mailing address must be furnished in writing to the Clerk and to the opposing party.

Court notice

Page 2 | ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBER CHANGES

Send the other side a copy of each continuance request filed with the Clerk.

All requests for continuances should be filed in writing with the Clerk of the Court and a copy sent to the other side.

Court notice

Page 2 | CONTINUANCES

Attorneys and self-represented litigants must provide an email address for electronic receipt of signed orders and update it using Form 2.603 whenever the registered service email changes, unless excused.

All attorneys and self-represented litigants must provide an e-mail address to receive signed orders electronically, unless excused. Fla. R. Gen. Prac. & Jud. Admin. 2.516. It is the responsibility of attorneys and self-represented litigants to update their contact information using Form 2.603 any time there is a change in the e-mail account registered for electronic service.

Page 1 | E-Filing Portal Contact Information

Filing Fees and Waivers

The initial application checklist calls for a $50 check payable to the Broward County Clerk of Court for the court monitor investigation, unless waived by the Court.

4. Check in the amount of $50.00 payable to the Broward County Clerk of Court (Court Monitor Criminal/Credit Investigation) Attached Waived by Court

Civil cases

Page 1 | INITIAL APPLICATION FOR APPOINTMENT OF NONPROFESSIONAL GUARDIAN

The renewal application checklist calls for a $50 check payable to the Broward County Clerk of Court for the court monitor investigation, unless waived by the Court.

3. Check in the amount of $50.00 payable to the Broward County Clerk of Court (Court Monitor Criminal/Credit Investigation) Attached Waived by Court

Civil cases

Page 1 | RENEWAL APPLICATION FOR NONPROFESSIONAL GUARDIANS

Costs must be paid to the Clerk to issue a subpoena and to the Sheriff to serve it.

There are costs that must be paid to the Clerk for issuing the Subpoena, and costs to the Sheriff to serve the Subpoena.

Court notice

Page 1 | WITNESS SUBPOENAS

A request for a copy of the initial application’s court monitor results requires a self-addressed, stamped envelope and a $1 check payable to the Broward County Clerk of Court.

(If yes, include a self-addressed, stamped envelope and check in the amount of $1.00 payable to the Broward County Clerk of Court.)

Civil cases

Page 1 | INITIAL APPLICATION FOR APPOINTMENT OF NONPROFESSIONAL GUARDIAN

Courtesy Copy Requirements

Courtesy copies of case law and other documents must be submitted for every hearing or trial.

Courtesy copies of Case Law and Other Documents must be submitted to the court for any hearing or trial.

Page 1 | Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents

Courtesy copies must be submitted no later than two days before a hearing or trial.

Courtesy copies must be submitted to the court no later than two (2) days before any hearing or trial.

Page 1 | Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents

Courtesy copies of case law and other documents must be submitted to the court for any hearing or trial.

Courtesy copies of Case Law and Other Documents must be submitted to the court for any hearing or trial.

Page 6 | E. Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents

Courtesy copies must be submitted to the court no later than two days before a hearing or trial.

Courtesy copies must be submitted to the court no later than two (2) days before any hearing or trial.

Page 6 | E. Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents

Courtesy copies may be emailed, mailed, or hand-delivered; self-represented litigants excused from email service may use mail or hand delivery.

Courtesy copies may be submitted to the court by e-mail to harrisk@circuit19.org. Courtesy copies may be submitted to the court by U.S. mail or hand-delivered to the judicial office. Self-represented litigants excused from e-mail service may submit courtesy copies to the court by U.S. mail or hand-delivery to the judicial office.

Page 1 | Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents

Courtesy copies must also be provided to opposing counsel and/or self-represented parties.

Courtesy copies shall be provided to opposing counsel and/or self-litigating parties.

Page 1 | Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

File continuance requests in writing with the Clerk and send a copy to the other side.

All requests for continuances should be filed in writing with the Clerk of the Court and a copy sent to the other side.

Court notice

Page 2 | CONTINUANCES

The parties must adhere to the schedule unless they agree to a change and the Court approves it; approval requires good cause based on an emergency or unavailability, but procrastination or counsel unavailability after approval is not good cause.

The schedule of deadlines herein will be strictly adhered to by the parties unless change is otherwise agreed to by the parties and approved by the Court. The Court will consider a request to approve changes to these deadlines upon a showing of good cause by either party based on matters arising from an emergency nature or unavailability. However, once the Civil Case Management Plan has been approved by the Court, procrastination in completing discovery or the unavailability of counsel will not constitute good cause for a change to these deadlines.

Civil cases

Page 1 | Case Events and Deadlines

Continuances are disfavored, require good cause, cannot be based on lack of due diligence, and generally require the requesting party’s signature.

Motions for continuance are disfavored and will be granted only upon good cause shown. Successive continuances are highly disfavored. Lack of due diligence is not grounds for granting a continuance. 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

Continuances are disfavored and require good cause; successive requests are highly disfavored, lack of due diligence is insufficient, and the requesting party must sign the motion unless good cause is shown.

Motions for continuance are disfavored and will be granted only upon good cause shown. Successive continuances are highly disfavored. Lack of due diligence is not grounds for granting a continuance. 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 | B. Scheduling Procedures

A continuance may not be granted for technical issues that could have been resolved before trial.

Continuances may not be granted due to technical issues that could have been worked out prior to Trial.

Court notice

Page 2 | VIDEO TESTIMONY

Chambers Communication Rules

After the checklist is complete, proposed Orders in Word format are to be sent with a cover letter by email only to the Judge’s office at HarrisK@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 HarrisK@circuit19.org.

Civil cases

Page 1 | Probate Checklist

A continuance motion must be heard, so contact the Judge’s Judicial Assistant to reserve a time for the Court to consider it.

Motions for Continuances must be heard by the Court and therefore, you must contact the Judge’s Judicial Assistant (863-763-3193) to reserve a time for the Court to consider your Motion for Continuance.

Court notice

Page 2 | CONTINUANCES

After the checklist is complete and accounted for, proposed orders must be sent to the Judge’s office by email only, with a cover letter, to the specified address.

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 HarrisK@circuit19.org.

Civil cases

Page 1 | Estate Administration Checklist

Emails to the judicial office must copy all parties unless the ex parte communication is 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

After the checklist is complete and accounted for, proposed orders may be sent to the Judge’s office with a cover letter by email only at the specified address.

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 HarrisK@circuit19.org.

Civil cases

Page 1 | Probate Checklist

Proposed Orders are to be sent to the Judge’s office by email only at HarrisK@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 HarrisK@circuit19.org.

Civil cases

Page 1 | Probate Checklist

Communications with the judicial office must comply with Canon 3, which bars specified ex parte and other outside-the-parties’-presence communications unless authorized by law.

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.

Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

All parties must be copied on emails to the judicial office unless the ex parte communication is 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 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

Hearings must be requested by contacting the judicial assistant at harrisk@circuit19.org.

Hearings must be requested by contacting the judicial assistant at harrisk@circuit19.org.

Page 3 | B. Scheduling Procedures

Hearings must be canceled by notifying the judicial assistant immediately.

You must cancel hearings by notifying the judicial assistant immediately.

Page 4 | B. Scheduling Procedures

If all parties settle all claims before trial, each party must telephone the Judge so the trial time can be reassigned.

If all parties agree on settlement of all claims before Trial, each party must notify the Judge by telephone so that the allotted trial time may be reassigned to someone else.

Court notice

Page 2 | SETTLEMENT

The judicial assistant must be notified immediately when a hearing is canceled.

You must cancel hearings by notifying the judicial assistant immediately.

Page 1 | Cancelling Hearings

Email communications to the judicial office must include the case number, case name, and relevant matter in the subject line.

Communications to the judicial office may be submitted by e-mail to harrisk@circuit19.org. The subject line of any e-mail to the judicial office 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

Parties may contact the judicial office only as permitted by its procedures, and unsolicited communications from non-parties will not be considered.

Parties may only contact the judicial office in accordance with these practices and procedures. Unsolicited communications from non-parties will not be considered by the court.

Page 1 | Unsolicited Communications

Telephone communication is available, including for self-represented litigants and attorneys excused from email service; the judicial office does not accept text messages.

Communications to the judicial office may be submitted by telephone call to 863-763-3193. The judicial office does not accept text messages. Self-represented litigants and attorneys excused from e-mail service may communicate with the judicial office by telephone call to 863-763-3193. The judicial office does not accept text messages.

Page 1 | Method of Communication

Hearings must be requested by contacting the judicial assistant by email.

Hearings must be requested by contacting the judicial assistant at harrisk@circuit19.org.

Page 1 | Scheduling Hearings

Email communications to the judicial office must use the listed address and include the case number, case name, and relevant matter in the subject line.

Communications to the judicial office may be submitted by e- mail to harrisk@circuit19.org. The subject line of any e-mail to the judicial office 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 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

The judicial assistant may not provide legal advice.

The judicial assistant is not authorized to provide legal advice.

Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

Self-represented litigants and attorneys excused from email service may contact the judicial office by telephone, but may not use text messages.

Self-represented litigants and attorneys excused from e-mail service may communicate with the judicial office by telephone call to 863-763-3193. The judicial office does not accept text messages.

Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

The judicial office accepts telephone communications at the listed number but does not accept text messages.

Communications to the judicial office may be submitted by telephone call to 863-763-3193. The judicial office does not accept text messages.

Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

Parties may contact the judicial office only as permitted by these procedures, and the court will not consider unsolicited communications from non-parties.

Parties may only contact the judicial office in accordance with these practices and procedures. Unsolicited communications from non- parties will not be considered by the court.

Page 2 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

Emails sent to or from the judicial office may be public records subject to disclosure.

Any e-mail sent to or from the judicial office may be a public record subject to disclosure.

Page 3 | A. Communications with the Judicial Office

The judicial assistant aims to substantively respond to inquiries within one business day and, if unable, will acknowledge the message and provide an expected response time and alternate contact.

The judicial assistant strives to substantively respond to all inquiries within one business day. If the judicial assistant is unable to substantively respond within one business day, your message will be acknowledged as received with an indication of when to expect a substantive response and alternate contact for immediate assistance. When the judicial assistant is out of the office, your message will be acknowledged and responded to as soon as possible.

Page 1 | Response to Inquiries

Trials are scheduled by the Court or may be requested from the judicial assistant by email.

Trials are scheduled by the Court or request to the judicial assistant at harrisk@circuit19.org.

Page 3 | B. Scheduling Procedures

The clerk of court may be contacted by telephone at 863-763-2131 for further assistance.

The Clerk of Court may also be reached at 863-763-2131 for further assistance.

Page 7 | G. Exhibits for Evidentiary Proceedings

Court-wide rules

Applies court-wide

These 67 rules apply across Nineteenth Judicial Circuit of Florida, Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee and St. Lucie Counties. Where this judge's own standing orders above address the same topic, the judge's requirement controls.

Filing Timing

All 20
  • A case management plan and order for each streamlined or general civil case must be filed no later than 120 days after commencement.

  • Parties seeking complex designation must initially file and serve the general track case management plan and order within 120 days after commencement, then file an appropriate motion to declare the case complex under Rule 1.201.

  • The plaintiff must submit the case management plan and order to the judge for final approval within 30 days after the last defendant is served with the complaint.

Filing Requirements

All 17
  • Applies to
    Notice of mediation

    The Notice of Mediation must specifically list the applicable mediation rules.

  • Applies to
    Case management order

    A streamlined or general civil case management order must include at least the content and categories provided in Attachment A.

  • Applies to
    Case management order

    A case management order must specify, at a minimum, deadlines for service of complaints, service under extensions, and adding new parties.

Adjournments

All 12
  • Parties may submit an agreed order for an extension that does not change later case-management dates, but must move to amend the case management order if later dates would change.

  • If trial does not occur during the scheduled trial period, the court must set a new trial date by order as soon as reasonably possible.

  • Trial continuance motions are disfavored, should rarely be granted, require good cause, and must comply with Rule 1.460.

Service

All 7
  • Applies to
    General track case management plan and order

    Parties seeking to have a case designated as complex must initially file and serve the general track case management plan and order no later than 120 days after commencement of the action as provided in Rule 1.050, Florida Rules of Civil Procedure, and thereafter, comply with Rule 1.201, Florida Rules of Civil Procedure, by filing an appropriate motion to declare the case complex.

  • Applies to
    Suggestion of non compliance with case management plan

    The filed Suggestion of Non-Compliance with Case Management Plan must be served on all counsel.

  • Applies to
    Order
    Service
    Electronic service

    The order is served on the listed parties with email addresses via the E-Filing Portal.

About Judge William Wallace
  • Courtroom: D
  • Address: 312 N.W. 3rd Street. Suite 368. Okeechobee, FL 34972
  • Phone: (863) 763-3193
  • Fax: (863) 763-7260
  • Email (judicial assistant): HarrisK@circuit19.org
  • Judicial assistant: Karen Harris
Common questions about Judge William Wallace's rules

Are courtesy copies required for Judge William Wallace?

Courtesy copies of case law and other documents must be submitted for every hearing or trial.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Courtesy Copies of Case Law and Other Documents

What formatting rules apply to filings before Judge William Wallace?

Judge William Wallace's formatting rule includes proposed orders must be in word format.. Proposed Orders must be in Word format.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Probate Checklist

What must be included with proposed order filings before Judge William Wallace?

A cover letter must accompany proposed orders sent to the Judge’s office.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Estate Administration Checklist

What must be included with renewal application for nonprofessional guardian filings before Judge William Wallace?

The renewal application checklist calls for a copy of the certificate for the education requirement, unless waived by the Court.

View ruleSource: page 1, section RENEWAL APPLICATION FOR NONPROFESSIONAL GUARDIANS

How may parties contact Judge William Wallace's chambers?

The rule lists email HarrisK@circuit19.org. After the checklist is complete, proposed Orders in Word format are to be sent with a cover letter by email only to the Judge’s office at HarrisK@circuit19.org.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Probate Checklist

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge William Wallace?

File continuance requests in writing with the Clerk and send a copy to the other side.

View ruleSource: page 2, section CONTINUANCES

Are filing fees or waivers addressed before Judge William Wallace?

A fee is required for covered filings, and the rule identifies waiver availability. The initial application checklist calls for a $50 check payable to the Broward County Clerk of Court for the court monitor investigation, unless waived by the Court.

View ruleSource: page 1, section INITIAL APPLICATION FOR APPOINTMENT OF NONPROFESSIONAL GUARDIAN

Is electronic filing required before Judge William Wallace?

Yes. Electronic filing is required for the covered filings. Submit all exhibits electronically by e-mail to harrisk@circuit19.org. Hand-deliver or mail all printed exhibits to the clerk of court. E-mail all exhibits to the clerk of court at evidence@myokeeclerk.com.

View ruleSource: page 1, section Exhibits

What filing deadlines does Judge William Wallace set?

When the Judge allows a specified number of days, the Defendant must file the Counterclaim within that period after the Pre-Trial Conference.

View ruleSource: page 1, section COUNTERCLAIMS

What service or proof of service rules apply before Judge William Wallace?

A Defendant seeking to hold another person responsible must file a Third-Party Complaint and serve that person with notice of the claim.

View ruleSource: page 1, section THIRD PARTY COMPLAINTS
Complete rules summary for Judge William Wallace

After the checklist is complete, proposed Orders in Word format are to be sent with a cover letter by email only to the Judge’s office at HarrisK@circuit19.org.

Proposed Orders must be in Word format.

The Attorney or Petitioner signature on the checklist must not be an e-signature.

A Defendant seeking to hold another person responsible must file a Third-Party Complaint and serve that person with notice of the claim.

When the Judge allows a specified number of days, the Defendant must file the Counterclaim within that period after the Pre-Trial Conference.

Bring the original and two copies of every exhibit, with one copy for the opposing party and one for the Court.

If all parties settle all claims before trial, each party must telephone the Judge so the trial time can be reassigned.

Costs must be paid to the Clerk to issue a subpoena and to the Sheriff to serve it.

Provide all mailing-address changes in writing to both the Clerk and the opposing party.

The Clerk of Court must have a phone number to contact each party directly if necessary.

Immediately after notifying the Judge by telephone of a settlement, the parties must notify the Clerk in writing.

File continuance requests in writing with the Clerk and send a copy to the other side.

Send the other side a copy of each continuance request filed with the Clerk.

A continuance motion must be heard, so contact the Judge’s Judicial Assistant to reserve a time for the Court to consider it.

A continuance may not be granted for technical issues that could have been resolved before trial.

Bring a way to display and submit photos, videos, text messages, and other evidence, using printed copies or a CD, DVD, or flash drive; bring a device to display digital evidence.

A Third-Party Complaint must be filed and served before trial within the time allowed by the Judge.

The Case Management Plan must be submitted for court approval within 30 days after service on the last-named defendant, or before December 3, 2021, for cases filed before April 30, 2021.

The complaint must be served within 120 days after filing; any extension may not exceed 240 days from filing.

The parties must adhere to the schedule unless they agree to a change and the Court approves it; approval requires good cause based on an emergency or unavailability, but procrastination or counsel unavailability after approval is not good cause.

After the checklist is complete and accounted for, proposed orders must be sent to the Judge’s office by email only, with a cover letter, to the specified address.

Proposed orders must be in Word format.

A cover letter must accompany proposed orders sent to the Judge’s office.

The attorney signature on the checklist must not be an e-signature.

A request for a copy of the initial application’s court monitor results requires a self-addressed, stamped envelope and a $1 check payable to the Broward County Clerk of Court.

The initial application checklist calls for a $50 check payable to the Broward County Clerk of Court for the court monitor investigation, unless waived by the Court.

The renewal application checklist calls for a $50 check payable to the Broward County Clerk of Court for the court monitor investigation, unless waived by the Court.

The renewal application checklist calls for a copy of the certificate for the education requirement, unless waived by the Court.

All nonprofessional guardians must submit the mandatory checklist with every application for appointment as guardian.

Counsel must complete the plea form in full.

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