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Court Rules
Judge Michael Deen
Judge

Judge Michael Deen

Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies

Rules last changed:
Ninth Judicial Circuit of Florida, Orange and Osceola Counties

Limits & Logistics

Courtesy Copies

Notice of Hearing

  • Email

Trial Briefs

  • At Least 5 Working Days Before Trial

Memoranda, Case Law, Other Hearing Materials

Court-wide
  • Before Hearing

Memoranda, Case Law, Other Materials

Court-wide
  • At Least 5 Court Days Before Scheduled Hearing

Communication

Email

Chambers

39orange@ninthcircuit.org
Scheduling
Phone
Court-wide

Clerk

407-836-2059
Technical Issues
Phone
Court-wide

Clerk

407-836-2000
Email
Court-wide

Clerk

Technical Issues
Phone
Court-wide

Chambers

Scheduling
Filters:

Document Format Requirements15 rules

FormattingMandatoryCivil cases

Submitted to the Judge prior to the first day of trial. File originals with the Clerk and provide a Copy in MS Word (in Times New Roman font – 12 pt. single spaced) to the Court via email the Judicial Assistant at 39orange@ninthcircuit.org

File type
Word
Font
Times New Roman
Font size
12 points
Line spacing
Single

Formatting

  • File originals with the clerk
Div-39-Pretrial-Checklist · p. 2
|SectionBE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
FormattingMandatory

All exhibits must be marked before the day of trial

Applies to
  • Exhibits

Formatting

  • Marked before the day of trial
FormattingMandatoryCivil cases

All exhibits and demonstrative aids must be exchanged, initialed by all counsel, tagged and marked for identification, and have any objections separately noted.

Court's wording

Exhibits and Demonstrative Aids: Per the Uniform Order Setting Case for Trial, all exhibits and demonstrative aids (including Power Point Presentations) must be exchanged, initialed by counsel for all parties, and tagged and marked for identification. Any objections must be separately noted.

Div-39-Pretrial-Checklist
|SectionBE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
FormattingMandatory

If a Power Point presentation is to be used in opening statements or closing arguments, a hard copy must be filed with the Clerk to create an appellate record.

Div-39-Procedures · Feb 2026 · p. 11
|Section5. Opening Statements and Closing Arguments
FormattingMandatory

Jury instructions must have a case-style cover page, specified margins and New Roman spacing, completed party names, deleted Notes for Use, and all inapplicable blanks or bracketed terms removed.

Font size
12 points
Line spacing
Single
Margins
Top 1 inch; Bottom 1 inch; Left 1.25 inches; Right 1.25 inches
Applies to
  • Jury instructions

Formatting

  • Delete 'Notes for Use.'

Court's wording

Jury instructions must include a cover page with the case style and be formatted with 1” margins at the top and bottom, and not less than 1.25” margins at the left and right, in 12-Point New Roman font, single-spaced. The parties’ names must be filled in where appropriate. “Notes for Use” must be deleted. Any blanks or bracketed terms contained in the standard jury instructions must be filled in or deleted if inapplicable.

Div-39-Procedures · Feb 2026 · p. 11
|Section7. Jury Instructions
FormattingMandatory

Proposed orders and cover letters submitted electronically to 39orange@ninthcircuit.org must be in Word format.

File type
Word
Applies to
  • Proposed order
  • Cover letter
FormattingMandatory

All Exhibits shall be marked for identification purposes only utilizing LETTERS and shall be given a number once the exhibit is received into evidence.

Applies to
  • Exhibits

Formatting

  • Mark exhibits for identification using letters; assign numbers when received into evidence
FormattingMandatory

If the hearing is in person, all exhibits must be tagged with the yellow tags utilized by the clerk BEFORE the hearing.

FormattingImportantCivil cases

Copy in MS Word (in Times New Roman font – 12 pt. single spaced)

File type
Word
Font
Times New Roman
Font size
12 points
Line spacing
Single
Div-39-Pretrial-Checklist
|SectionBE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
FormattingImportant

Be labeled using their first and last names

Div-39-Procedures · Feb 2026 · p. 4
|SectionVirtual Hearing Procedures
FormattingImportant

The Word file name must: (a) include the case number [e.g., 20**-CA-*******], (b) abbreviated case style [e.g., Doe v. Jones], and (c) whether the file is a “Proposed Order” or “Cover Letter”.

FormattingImportant

DO NOT SEND HARDCOPIES OR USBs.

Formatting

  • Do not send hardcopies or USBs
FormattingImportant

If all letters are utilized, exhibits should be marked with two letters, such as AA.

FormattingImportant

If you are unable to send your hearing materials in two emails due to the attachments being too large, try summarizing the case law (with cites) you are attaching instead of sending every case and try again.

FormattingImportant

Please send your hearing materials in no more than two emails.

Applies to
  • Hearing materials

Formatting

  • Hearing materials must be sent in no more than two emails

Document Filing Requirements60 rules

Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

If yes, provide a blank Order for the Court with columns for the designation (page and line), objection, and a place for the Court to rule. The Court will rule in chambers.

Div-39-Pretrial-Checklist · p. 1
|SectionVIRTUAL PRE-TRIAL CHECKLIST and ORDER CONTROLLING TRIAL
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

All exhibits and demonstrative aids must be exchanged, initialed by all counsel, and tagged and marked for identification.

Court's wording

all exhibits and demonstrative aids (including Power Point Presentations) must be exchanged, initialed by counsel for all parties, and tagged and marked for identification. Any objections must be separately noted.

Div-39-Pretrial-Checklist · p. 1
|SectionBE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

Demonstrative aids may NOT be used during Opening Statement without (i) agreement or (ii) prior (before the first day of trial) court order.

Div-39-Pretrial-Checklist · p. 1
|SectionBE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

Submitted to the Judge prior to the first day of trial. File originals with the Clerk and provide a Copy in MS Word (in Times New Roman font – 12 pt. single spaced) to the Court via email the Judicial Assistant at 39orange@ninthcircuit.org

Div-39-Pretrial-Checklist
|SectionBE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

1- The specific amount of the gross settlement in this proposed offer and Motion for Approval.

Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 1
|SectionITEMS REQUIRDD BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

The court generally needs the guardian ad litem appointment and report, with the amount potentially determining whether appointment is required; the report should address the parent or guardian's position on settlement and distribution.

Court's wording

3- The appointment of, and report from, a Guardian Ad Litem regarding the proposed settlement. The dollar amount, as noted above may require the appointment of a GAL. Special attention will be necessary where the Personal Representative is representing the entire Estate and all the survivors and appears.to have "potential adverse interest(s) to the minor(s)." The GAL should present the position of the natural parent or guardian as to the settlement and distribution and whether it comports with the GAL's recommendation or that it does not.

Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 2
|SectionGuardian Ad Litem Report
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

5- The Court will need to know how the funds will be invested or protected and in what institution(s) or through which vehicle(s). This would include the rating or stability of the institution(s) or fund(s).

Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 2
|SectionProtection of Minor's net proceeds
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

The court generally needs a detailed closing statement, but the statement should not be filed and must instead be submitted under seal or brought to the hearing.

Court's wording

4- A copy of a detailed closing statement showing the attorney's fees and the recipients, costs expended or to be expended, anticipated distribution of funds and to whom, liens resolved and unresolved, outstanding balances owed, as required by The Rules Regulating The Florida Bar and specifically Rule 4-1.5, and unresolved claims against the Estate, as well as any other claims being compensated from these proceeds. The closing statement should NOT befiled with the Court and should be submitted to the Court directly under seal or be brought to the hearing if one is held.

Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 2
|SectionClosing Statement
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

2- The itemized proposed distribution amongst the beneficiaries and/or survivors, the Estate, or other entities with claims and costs and attorney's fees.

Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 2
|SectionITEMS REQUIRDD BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

A copy of the release and applicable settlement agreements must be provided, together with assurances of counsel's review and written agreement that the release applies only to the settling party and its insurers as insurers of that party.

Court's wording

A copy of the release, and any settlement agreements to which the minor, or his guardian on behalf of the minor, will need to sign and assurances that it has been reviewed by counsel and that all parties agree, in writing, that it is only intended to release the settling party and their insurers as insurers of this particular settling party, and is not intended to release any other defendant or non-party.

Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SectionEffect of Release and/or Settlement Agreement
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

Copies of the initial medical records including the history and physical showing the presenting condition, if hospitalized the admission and discharge and summary resume will be necessary.

Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SectionITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

A final report from each primary treating physician with an indication of the need for, or the lack of need for, future care and, if possible the approximate costs.

Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SectionITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

If the injury or treatment involves resulting scarring or disfigurement, photographs of the child after the incident and photographs of the present condition will be required.

Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SectionITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

A copy of annuity information must be provided if an annuity will be purchased.

Court's wording

If an annuity is to be purchased, the Court will need a copy of the information setting forth the cost, present value, payment schedule, the name of the company that will be used, the name of the owner of the annuity and its relationship to those companies being released, as well the rating of the company.

Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SectionITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Short Matters must be coordinated with opposing party; failing that, the NOH must state a detailed reason for not coordinating the short matters hearing accompanied by any coordination attempts in writing.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

Regular hearing requests MUST be confirmed by the Judicial Assistant BEFORE parties are allowed to file a Notice of Hearing (NOH).

Div 39 ai Procedures (Deen) · p. 2
|SectionREGULAR HEARING REQUESTS
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Upon receiving a confirmation from the Judicial Assistant, a notice of hearing which shall contain a certificate of compliance that a meet and confer took place on the motion notice.

Document
Notice of hearing

Must include

  • Certificate of conference
Div 39 ai Procedures (Deen) · p. 2
|SectionREGULAR HEARING REQUESTS
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

The objections must state the specific reasons for the objections.

CME Guidelines 6 18 2026 · p. 1
|SectionRequest for, Objections to and Hearings on
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

Requests for an examination must set forth the time, place, manner, conditions and scope of the examination as well as the name of and the qualifications of the person conducting the examination with specificity.

CME Guidelines 6 18 2026 · p. 1
|SectionRequest for, Objections to and Hearings on
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

A hearing must be immediately requested on any objection filed. Failure to set the objection for immediate hearing will be deemed an “Abandonment of the Request” under the rules.

CME Guidelines 6 18 2026 · p. 1
|SectionRequest for, Objections to and Hearings on
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

Examinations sought under Fla. R. Civ. P. 1.360(a)(1)(B) [non-physical condition] must be obtained with an order from this Court, or with a written agreement of all parties.

CME Guidelines 6 18 2026 · p. 1
|SectionRequest for, Objections to and Hearings on
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

Any changes of opinions or conclusions based on new information must be made known to opposing counsel immediately, a revised or supplemental report provided and dates for updated depositions must also be provided.

CME Guidelines 6 18 2026 · p. 5
|SectionOpinions Not Contained in Written Reports
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

Experts rendering opinions under this rule will be prohibited from expressing opinions, diagnostic impressions, causation opinions and other conclusions that are not contained within the written report.

CME Guidelines 6 18 2026 · p. 5
|SectionOpinions Not Contained in Written Reports
Filing RequirementsMandatoryCivil cases

Pursuant to Fla. R. Civ. P. 1.360(b) a “detailed written report” will be issued by the examining physician or healthcare provider and provided to all counsel no later than 14 business days after the day of the examination.

CME Guidelines 6 18 2026 · p. 5
|SectionWritten Reports
Filing RequirementsMandatory

If the non-moving party does not respond within three days, the moving party must submit two proposed orders: one addressing the requested relief and one compelling a written response within ten days.

Court's wording

3) If No Response is Filed: If the non-moving party refuses to submit a response to the motion or otherwise does not respond to the movant within three days, the moving party shall submit two proposed orders: (a) a proposed order addressing the relief requested in the motion; and (b) a proposed order compelling a written response within ten (10) days.

Div-39-Procedures · Feb 2026 · p. 2
|SectionA. GETTING AN ORDER
Filing RequirementsMandatory

1) Agreed Motions: If the motion is agreed to, or unopposed, counsel may simply email the filed motion along with a proposed order. The proposed order must state in the title that it is an agreed order and otherwise comply with the requirements of Section A(11) of these Procedures.

Div-39-Procedures · Feb 2026 · p. 2
|SectionA. GETTING AN ORDER
Filing RequirementsMandatory

A hearing request must follow prior coordination with opposing counsel and be emailed to the judicial assistant with specified case, motion, timing, appearance, conference, and evidentiary information.

Court's wording

To secure hearing time, coordinate with opposing counsel, then email 39orange@ninthcircuit.org with the following in the body of the email: Case No. Full Case Style Motion(s) to be heard Date/Time Coordinated Amount of time requested Remote or In-person appearance Date "meet & confer" completed Is the case evidentiary (require testimony and/or submission of exhibits):

Filing RequirementsMandatory

For evidentiary hearings, the hearing request must indicate that an evidentiary hearing is being requested

Document
Hearing request

Must include

  • Evidentiary hearing
Filing RequirementsMandatory

the party requesting the hearing shall submit the request for hearing time to the judicial assistant with all documentation (including emails) demonstrating that party’s efforts to coordinate a hearing date. The notice of hearing must state that the opposing party refused to coordinate a hearing time in the Certificate of Compliance.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

the notice of hearing must expressly state that the hearing will be evidentiary (e.g., “Notice of Evidentiary Hearing”).

Document
Notice of hearing

Must include

  • Notice of Evidentiary Hearing
Filing RequirementsMandatory

The notice of hearing must state that the opposing party refused to coordinate a hearing time in the Certificate of Compliance.

Document
Notice of hearing
Placement
Certificate section
Filing RequirementsMandatory

An emergency-hearing motion must include a Certificate of Emergency with counsel’s certification and acknowledgment of possible cancellation or rescheduling of other matters.

Document
Emergency motion
Placement
Certificate section

Must include

  • Certificate of Emergency

Court's wording

The motion must contain a “Certificate of Emergency” wherein counsel of record certifies that he or she believes the facts and circumstances to constitute an emergency for which immediate hearing time is required and understands that designating a matter as an emergency may result in the Court cancelling or rescheduling other matters both professional and personal so as to accommodate the parties.

Div-39-Procedures · Feb 2026 · p. 4
|SectionEmergency Hearings and Time Sensitive Hearings
Filing RequirementsMandatory

The hearing notice must expressly state that the hearing will be Virtual and contain the link set forth in this Section.

Div-39-Procedures · Feb 2026 · p. 4
|SectionVirtual Hearing Procedures
Filing RequirementsMandatory

The body of the motion must contain a detailed explanation of the circumstances constituting the emergency.

Document
Emergency motion
Placement
Body of the document
Div-39-Procedures · Feb 2026 · p. 4
|SectionEmergency Hearings and Time Sensitive Hearings
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Failure to include a Certificate of Emergency or certification of a matter as an emergency without a good faith basis may result in the imposition of sanctions and/or denial of the motion.

Filing RequirementsMandatory

In advance of the hearing of a motion for summary judgment, Plaintiff’s counsel shall file the original note and mortgage with the Clerk.

Must include

  • Original note and mortgage
Div-39-Procedures · Feb 2026 · p. 5
|Section6. Foreclosure Cases
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Agreed upon motions to cancel foreclosure sales do not require a hearing and may be considered in chambers with a proposed order. However, all proposed orders canceling a foreclosure sale must also include a new date for sale, even if a borrower is in loan modification.

Div-39-Procedures · Feb 2026 · p. 6
|Section6. Foreclosure Cases
Filing RequirementsMandatory

MILs shall not be ruled upon unless they contain a certification of a good faith attempt as to each item to resolve the matter without court action.

Div-39-Procedures · Feb 2026 · p. 6
|Section8. Motions in Limine (“MIL”)
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Discovery motions shall include with the motion or as an attachment, the specific discovery request and the specific objection thereto, along with argument regarding same.

Div-39-Procedures · Feb 2026 · p. 6
|Section7. Discovery Motions
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Notices of hearing on MIL must specifically identify the specific issues which remain in controversy after counsel has conferred.

Div-39-Procedures · Feb 2026 · p. 6
|Section8. Motions in Limine (“MIL”)
Filing RequirementsMandatory

All such motions must comply with the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure including, but not limited to, a certification of a good faith attempt to resolve that matter without court action.

Div-39-Procedures · Feb 2026 · p. 6
|Section7. Discovery Motions
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Not later than three (3) days prior to the commencement of a non-jury foreclosure trial, the parties shall complete and file an Attorney Worksheet for Foreclosure Trial, the form for which is available on the Division 39 webpage.

Document
Foreclosure case

Must include

  • Attorney Worksheet for Foreclosure Trial
Div-39-Procedures · Feb 2026 · p. 6
|Section6. Foreclosure Cases
Filing RequirementsMandatory

Proposed orders must be accompanied by an e-filed cover letter (the cover letter must have the filing stamp across the top) setting forth the date of the hearing, with a copy to all counsel and pro se parties.

Document
Cover letter

Must include

  • Proposed order
Filing RequirementsMandatory

All orders must describe, in the caption, the subject and ruling of the court, i.e., “Order Granting Plaintiff’s Motion for Partial Summary Judgment on Liability.”

Document
Order
Placement
Caption
Filing RequirementsImportantCivil cases

Stipulations – Admissions – Waivers of Custodians: Must be in writing if seeking Court enforcement

Div-39-Pretrial-Checklist · p. 1
|SectionBE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Filing RequirementsImportantCivil cases

Any objections must be separately noted.

Div-39-Pretrial-Checklist · p. 1
|SectionBE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Filing RequirementsImportantCivil cases

The next day’s witnesses shall be disclosed at the end of each trial day

Div-39-Pretrial-Checklist · p. 2
|SectionBE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Filing RequirementsImportantCivil cases

If requesting more than the standard Venire of 22, please provide the reason:

Div-39-Pretrial-Checklist
|SectionVIRTUAL PRE-TRIAL CHECKLIST and ORDER CONTROLLING TRIAL
Filing RequirementsImportantCivil cases

Stipulations – Admissions – Waivers of Custodians: Must be in writing if seeking Court enforcement

Div-39-Pretrial-Checklist
|SectionBE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Filing RequirementsImportantCivil cases

If yes, provide a blank Order for the Court with columns for the designation (page and line), objection, and a place for the Court to rule.

Div-39-Pretrial-Checklist
|SectionVIRTUAL PRE-TRIAL CHECKLIST and ORDER CONTROLLING TRIAL
Filing RequirementsImportantCivil cases

If it is intended to apply to the minor child, by what legal authority can the minor child be bound to defend, indemnify and hold harmless this party.

Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SectionEffect of Release and/or Settlement Agreement
Filing RequirementsImportantCivil cases

The Court may require that the child appear at the hearing in order to allow the Court to observe the condition(s).

Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SectionITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsImportantCivil cases

If the release and/or settlement agreement contain a duty to defend, indemnify and hold harmless, is such agreement intended to bind and apply to the minor child or just the guardian.

Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SectionEffect of Release and/or Settlement Agreement
Filing RequirementsImportantCivil cases

The existence of medical insurance, Medicaid, Medicare or other sources of payment, or lack thereof, for future treatment that has been projected.

Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SectionITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT
Filing RequirementsImportantCivil cases

The above mentioned medical reports should contain an estimate of the cost of and an explanation of the treatment plan for these injuries.

Approval-Minors-Settlement · p. 3
|SectionITEMS REQUIRED BY THE COURT

Filing & Service rules

Electronic Filing Rules

An emergency motion must be emailed to the court before a hearing is set, and the Judicial Assistant will contact counsel if the court finds an emergency hearing warranted.

The motion must be emailed to 39orange@ninthcircuit.org before a hearing will be set. The Judicial Assistant will contact counsel to set a hearing if the Court determines that an emergency hearing is warranted based on the description and certification contained in the motion.

Page 5

Before the pretrial conference, parties must email a completed and signed Pretrial Check List and Order Controlling Trial to the court.

Prior to the pretrial conference, parties shall email to 39orange@ninthcircuit.org a completed and signed Pretrial Check List and Order Controlling Trial.

Page 9 | B. GETTING READY FOR TRIAL

A trial brief, if filed, must be emailed to the court no later than three business days before trial begins.

If a trial brief is to be filed with the Court it must be submitted via email to 39orange@ninthcircuit.org no later than three (3) business days before the trial is to commence.

Page 10 | D. TRIALS

Proposed orders must be submitted electronically by email in Word format to 39orange@ninthcircuit.org.

Proposed orders must be submitted electronically in Word format by email to 39orange@ninthcircuit.org.

The cover letter, but not the proposed order, must be e-filed.

The cover letter but not the proposed order must be e-filed.

Case law will be accepted only before the hearing and only by email.

Case law will only be accepted prior to the hearing via email.

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

Motions in limine must be scheduled and heard no later than one week before the trial period begins.

Motions in Limine: Filed prior to this pre-trial conference?  Yes  No -  None Must be scheduled and heard no later than one week prior to the beginning of the trial period.

Civil cases

Page 1 | VIRTUAL PRE-TRIAL CHECKLIST and ORDER CONTROLLING TRIAL

Written deposition designations must be disclosed 30 days before the pretrial conference, and written counter-designations must be disclosed 20 days before it.

Have the parties filed their Depo Designations, Counter-Designations and Objections? Yes No • If yes, provide a blank Order for the Court with columns for the designation (page and line), objection, and a place for the Court to rule. The Court will rule in chambers. Pursuant to the Uniform Order Setting Case for Trial, must be disclosed in writing (citing page and line numbers) (i) 30 days before the Pre-Trial Conference (designations), and (ii) 20 days before the Pre-Trial Conference (counter-designations)

Civil cases

Page 1 | VIRTUAL PRE-TRIAL CHECKLIST and ORDER CONTROLLING TRIAL

Jury instructions and verdict forms must be exchanged no later than 10 days before the pretrial conference.

Jury Instructions and Verdict Forms – • Exchanged no later than 10 days prior to the Pre-Trial Conference

Civil cases

Page 2 | BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Jury instructions and verdict forms must be exchanged no later than 10 days before the pretrial conference.

Exchanged no later than 10 days prior to the Pre-Trial Conference

Civil cases

Page 1 | BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Deposition designations must be disclosed in writing with page-and-line citations 30 days before the pretrial conference, and counter-designations must be disclosed 20 days before it.

Pursuant to the Uniform Order Setting Case for Trial, must be disclosed in writing (citing page and line numbers) (i) 30 days before the Pre-Trial Conference (designations), and (ii) 20 days before the Pre-Trial Conference (counter-designations)

Civil cases

Page 1 | VIRTUAL PRE-TRIAL CHECKLIST and ORDER CONTROLLING TRIAL

Motions in limine must be scheduled and heard no later than one week before trial begins.

Must be scheduled and heard no later than one week prior to the beginning of the trial period.

Civil cases

Page 1 | VIRTUAL PRE-TRIAL CHECKLIST and ORDER CONTROLLING TRIAL

A party challenging an inappropriately piggybacked cross-notice must file a motion to strike it before the scheduled hearing.

Such adverse party must file a motion to strike the cross-notice in advance of the scheduled hearing.

Page 4

A party unfamiliar with virtual-hearing technology must move for an in-person hearing no more than five days before the hearing.

If you do not know how to use the technology prior to the hearing, then file a motion to have hearing in person no more than 5 days before the hearing.

Page 4 | Virtual Hearing Procedures

Parties relying on exhibits at a virtual evidentiary hearing must deliver those exhibits to the clerk three days before the hearing.

If the evidentiary hearing is virtual, all exhibits that a party intends to rely on at the evidentiary hearing must be delivered to the Clerk three (3) days prior to the hearing.

Page 4 | Virtual Evidentiary Hearings

The motion and notice of hearing must be emailed to the court no later than two days before the hearing.

Motions to be heard, along with the notice of hearing must be emailed to 39orange@ninthcircuit.org no later than two (2) days prior to the date of the hearing.

Page 5 | 5. Short Matters

The Attorney Worksheet for Foreclosure Trial is due no later than three days before commencement of a non-jury foreclosure trial.

Not later than three (3) days prior to the commencement of a non-jury foreclosure trial, the parties shall complete and file an Attorney Worksheet for Foreclosure Trial, the form for which is available on the Division 39 webpage.

Page 6 | 6. Foreclosure Cases

A trial brief must be submitted at least three business days before the trial commences.

If a trial brief is to be filed with the Court it must be submitted via email to 39orange@ninthcircuit.org no later than three (3) business days before the trial is to commence.

Page 10 | D. TRIALS

The parties must email the Judicial Assistant the joint proposed jury instructions and verdict form in Word format at least 24 hours before trial and identify which instructions are agreed or disputed.

Joint Proposed Jury Instructions and Verdict Form must be emailed to the Judicial Assistant at 39orange@ninthcircuit.org in Word format no later than 24 hours before the trial. The parties shall designate which instructions are agreed and which instructions, if any, are in dispute.

Page 11 | 7. Jury Instructions

Trial briefs are optional, but any submitted trial brief must be provided to Judge Alvaro’s Chambers as hard copies at least five working days before trial.

Trial Briefs: Not required, but if you choose to submit them, please provide hard copies to Judge Alvaro’s Chambers at least five (5) working days prior to trial to allow adequate time for review

Civil cases

Page 1 | BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Service and Proof of Service Rules

Exhibits must be exchanged with opposing counsel or the pro se litigant.

exchanged with opposing counsel or pro se litigant.

Page 2

Regular-hearing materials must be submitted electronically by email with opposing counsel copied.

All hearing materials must be submitted electronically via email, with opposing counsel cc’ed.

Page 1 | REGULAR HEARING REQUESTS

For short matters, a copy of the filed Notice of Hearing and motion must be emailed to the judicial assistant at least two days before the hearing.

No coordination with the JA is needed for short matters, but you MUST submit copy of filed Notice of Hearing (NOH) & Motion at Least 2 days before hearing date via email at 39orange@ninthcircuit.org.

Page 1 | SHORT MATTERS

PowerPoints and similar presentations must be provided to opposing counsel sufficiently in advance to permit objections to be raised and resolved.

Any PowerPoint or similar presentation must be provided to opposing counsel in compliance with demonstrative aid disclosures in the Uniform Trial Order. Power Points not shown to opposing counsel sufficiently in advance of its intended use to permit objections to be raised and resolved, shall not be permitted.

Page 11 | 5. Opening Statements and Closing Arguments

Hearing materials must be emailed to chambers and opposing counsel at least three days before the hearing.

Hearing materials shall be emailed to chambers and opposing counsel not less than three (3) days prior to the hearing.

Copies of all exhibits must be provided to opposing counsel at least three business days before the hearing, either in hard copy or digitally.

Copies of all exhibits must be provided to Opposing Counsel three (3) business days prior to the hearing in hard copy or digitally.

For a virtual hearing, exhibits must be delivered to the clerk three days before the hearing.

If the hearing is virtual, exhibits must also be delivered to the Clerk three (3) days prior to the hearing if the hearing is virtual.

Hearing materials must be submitted by email; binders and USB drives will be discarded without review.

All hearing materials shall be submitted via email and the Court will discard any binders or usb drives without reviewing them.

A self-represented party must keep the clerk and opposing parties informed of the current designated email address, where case-related written communications will be served.

I understand that I must keep the clerk’s office and the opposing party or parties notified of my current e-mail address(es) and that all copies of notices, orders, judgments, motions, pleadings, or other written communications in this case will be served at the e-mail address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.

Pro se cases

Page 1 | Designation of E-mail Address by a Party Not Represented by an Attorney / Designation of Physical Address

A self-represented party using a physical address for service must keep the clerk and opposing parties informed of the current address, where written communications will be served.

I understand that I must keep the clerk’s office and the opposing party or parties notified of my current address(es) and that all copies of notices, orders, judgments, motions, pleadings, or other written communications in this case will be served at the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.

Pro se cases

Page 2 | Designation of E-mail Address by a Party Not Represented by an Attorney / Designation of Physical Address

The email submitting a proposed order must be copied to all parties to the case, and should specifically indicate whether the form and/or content of the order is agreed or not.

The email submitting a proposed order must be copied to all parties to the case, and should specifically indicate whether the form and/or content of the order is agreed or not.

Any cases being relied on by the parties at a hearing or trial should be provided to opposing counsel and the Court no later than three (3) days before the hearing.

Any cases being relied on by the parties at a hearing or trial should be provided to opposing counsel and the Court no later than three (3) days before the hearing.

A self-represented party without an email account or regular email access may designate a physical address for service of case-related written communications.

By completing this form, I am authorizing the court, clerk of court, and all parties to send copies of notices, orders, judgments, motions, pleadings, or other written communications to me at this address.

Pro se cases

Page 1 | Designation of E-mail Address by a Party Not Represented by an Attorney / Designation of Physical Address

A self-represented party may designate an email address for electronic service of case-related written communications through email or the Florida Courts E-filing Portal.

By completing this form, I am authorizing the court, clerk of court, and all parties to send copies of notices, orders, judgments, motions, pleadings, or other written communications to me by email or through the Florida Courts E-filing Portal.

Pro se cases

Page 1 | Designation of E-mail Address by a Party Not Represented by an Attorney / Designation of Physical Address

Courtesy Copy Requirements

A courtesy copy of the filed Notice of Hearing must be emailed to the Judicial Assistant to secure the hearing timeslot.

A courtesy copy of the filed NOH must be emailed to JA to secure timeslot.

Page 2 | REGULAR HEARING REQUESTS

Trial briefs are optional, but submitted hard copies must be provided to Judge Alvaro’s Chambers at least five working days before trial.

Trial Briefs: Not required, but if you choose to submit them, please provide hard copies to Judge Alvaro’s Chambers at least five (5) working days prior to trial to allow adequate time for review

Civil cases

Page 2 | BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Sealing & Redaction Procedures

The party responsible for seeking and obtaining the appropriate measure to seal limited documentation under Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.420(d) must be identified.

Which party will take responsibility to seek, and obtain, the appropriate measure to seal the limited documentation in the Court file pursuant to Florida Rules of Judicial Administration, Rule2.420(d)?

Civil cases

Page 4 | Effect of Release and/or Settlement Agreement

Pre-Motion Conference Requirements

Counsel must meet and confer on every requested motion in limine before the court sets it for hearing.

Before setting any MIL for hearing, counsel must meet either and confer on each and every requested Motion in Limine. See Admin Order 2012-03.

Page 6 | 8. Motions in Limine (“MIL”)

Chambers Communication Rules

A copy of the jury instructions or verdict forms must be emailed to the judicial assistant in MS Word, using 12-point Times New Roman single spacing.

provide a Copy in MS Word (in Times New Roman font – 12 pt. single spaced) to the Court via email the Judicial Assistant at 39orange@ninthcircuit.org

Civil cases

Page 2 | BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

To secure a regular hearing, parties must coordinate with opposing counsel and email the hearing request to 39orange@ninthcircuit.org.

To secure hearing time, coordinate with opposing counsel, then email 39orange@ninthcircuit.org with the following in the body of the email:

Page 1 | REGULAR HEARING REQUESTS

For a contested motion, the moving party must email the filed motion materials to chambers after the response is filed or after the no-response condition is met, requesting a chambers ruling.

2) Contested Motions: The moving party shall file the motion and the non-moving party shall file a written response. After both the motion and response are filed (or if no response is filed as addressed in paragraph 3 below), the moving party shall email the filed materials to chambers requesting a ruling in chambers.

Page 2 | A. GETTING AN ORDER

Before a foreclosure summary-judgment hearing, plaintiff’s counsel must ask the clerk in advance to retrieve the original note and mortgage for possible cancellation if the motion is granted.

Additionally, Plaintiff’s counsel shall contact the Clerk in advance of the hearing to request the Clerk to retrieve the original note and mortgage so that the original note is available for cancellation at the time of the hearing in the event the motion is granted.

Page 5 | 6. Foreclosure Cases

Parties must coordinate with opposing counsel before emailing the judicial assistant to request hearing time.

To secure hearing time, coordinate with opposing counsel, then email 39orange@ninthcircuit.org with the following in the body of the email:

Page 3

For an agreed or unopposed motion, counsel may submit the filed motion to chambers by email together with a proposed order.

1) Agreed Motions: If the motion is agreed to, or unopposed, counsel may simply email the filed motion along with a proposed order.

Page 2 | A. GETTING AN ORDER

Court-wide rules

Applies court-wide

These 181 rules apply across Ninth Judicial Circuit of Florida, Orange and Osceola Counties. Where this judge's own standing orders above address the same topic, the judge's requirement controls.

Filing Requirements

All 99
  • Applies to
    Child support guidelines worksheet

    The Child Support Guidelines Worksheet must match the child support amount stated in the Final Judgment.

  • Applies to
    Proposed final judgment

    Counsel must bring the original proposed Final Judgment to the final hearing.

  • Applies to
    Proposed final judgment
    Must include
    certificate of service

    The proposed Final Judgment must include a proper certificate of service naming both parties.

Service

All 20
  • Applies to
    Final judgment

    After the Final Judgment is signed, counsel must sign its certificate of service and provide copies to all parties.

  • Applies to
    Income deduction order

    A copy of the Income Deduction Order must be served on the obligor’s payor or payors.

  • Applies to
    Income deduction order

    The obligor must notify the obligee and, when applicable, the IV-D agency within seven days after a change in address or payor information.

Communication

All 17
  • Contact
    Phone to clerk
    Phone
    407-836-2059

    Employers and income withholders may contact the Orange County Clerk of Courts by phone at 407-836-2059, by email, or through the court website for questions.

  • Contact
    Phone to clerk
    Phone
    407-836-2059

    Employees and obligors may contact the Orange County Clerk of Courts by phone at 407-836-2059, by email, or through the court website for questions.

  • Contact
    Phone to clerk
    Phone
    407-836-2059

    Questions may be directed to the Orange County Clerk of Courts by phone at 407-836-2059 or by email/website at the listed address.

Formatting

All 14
  • All incorporated exhibits must be properly tagged with a Clerk’s evidence tag.

  • Every checklist line must be completed with a date, and check marks, Xs, and N/A entries are prohibited.

  • The Income Withholding for Support form must be regular on its face.

About Judge Michael Deen

Michael Deen is listed as a current judicial officer of the Ninth Judicial Circuit of Florida. The circuit publishes these sections on the profile page: Judicial Assignment, Education, Professional Activities, Multimedia, Important Information.

Current assignment

Division or department: Circuit Civil, Division 39 / 2 Courtroom: 18-B Chambers: Orange County Courthouse Phone: 407.836.6004 Judicial assistant: Henrietta Coffee Judicial assistant email: 39orange@ocnjcc.org

Official sources

Common questions about Judge Michael Deen's rules

Are courtesy copies required for Judge Michael Deen?

Courtesy-copy rule applies for notice of hearings. Details: by email. A courtesy copy of the filed Notice of Hearing must be emailed to the Judicial Assistant to secure the hearing timeslot.

View ruleSource: page 2, section REGULAR HEARING REQUESTS

Does Judge Michael Deen require a pre-motion conference or letter before filing a motion?

Counsel must meet and confer on every requested motion in limine before the court sets it for hearing.

View ruleSource: page 6, section 8. Motions in Limine (“MIL”)

What formatting rules apply to filings before Judge Michael Deen?

Judge Michael Deen's formatting rule includes times new roman font, 12 point type, single spacing, file format docx, submit to the judge prior to the first day of trial., file originals with the clerk., and provide a copy to the court by emailing the judicial assistant at 39orange@ninthcircuit.org.. Jury instructions and verdict forms must be submitted before trial, with originals filed with the clerk and an MS Word copy emailed to the judicial assistant in 12-point Times New Roman single-spaced format.

View ruleSource: page 2, section BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

What must be included with exhibits and demonstrative aids filings before Judge Michael Deen?

All exhibits and demonstrative aids must be exchanged, initialed by all counsel, and tagged and marked for identification.

View ruleSource: page 1, section BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

What must be included with deposition designations order filings before Judge Michael Deen?

A blank order with specified columns must be provided for the court to rule on deposition designations and objections in chambers.

View ruleSource: page 1, section VIRTUAL PRE-TRIAL CHECKLIST and ORDER CONTROLLING TRIAL

How may parties contact Judge Michael Deen's chambers?

The rule lists email 39orange@ninthcircuit.org. A copy of the jury instructions or verdict forms must be emailed to the judicial assistant in MS Word, using 12-point Times New Roman single spacing.

View ruleSource: page 2, section BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

How does Judge Michael Deen handle sealed or redacted filings?

A motion to seal is required for covered sealed filings before Judge Michael Deen. The party responsible for seeking and obtaining the appropriate measure to seal limited documentation under Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.420(d) must be identified.

View ruleSource: page 4, section Effect of Release and/or Settlement Agreement

Is electronic filing required before Judge Michael Deen?

Yes. Electronic filing is required for the covered filings. Proposed orders must be submitted electronically by email in Word format to 39orange@ninthcircuit.org.

What filing deadlines does Judge Michael Deen set?

Motions in limine must be scheduled and heard no later than one week before the trial period begins.

View ruleSource: page 1, section VIRTUAL PRE-TRIAL CHECKLIST and ORDER CONTROLLING TRIAL

What rule applies to service for exhibits before Judge Michael Deen?

Details: recipient: the opposing party. Exhibits must be exchanged with opposing counsel or the pro se litigant.

View ruleSource: page 2
Complete rules summary for Judge Michael Deen

All exhibits and demonstrative aids must be exchanged, initialed by all counsel, and tagged and marked for identification.

Motions in limine must be scheduled and heard no later than one week before the trial period begins.

Written deposition designations must be disclosed 30 days before the pretrial conference, and written counter-designations must be disclosed 20 days before it.

A blank order with specified columns must be provided for the court to rule on deposition designations and objections in chambers.

Demonstrative aids may not be used during opening statements without agreement or a court order entered before trial begins.

Stipulations, admissions, and waivers of custodians must be in writing if court enforcement is sought.

Trial briefs are optional, but submitted hard copies must be provided to Judge Alvaro’s Chambers at least five working days before trial.

The witnesses expected for the next trial day must be disclosed at the end of each trial day.

Jury instructions and verdict forms must be exchanged no later than 10 days before the pretrial conference.

A copy of the jury instructions or verdict forms must be emailed to the judicial assistant in MS Word, using 12-point Times New Roman single spacing.

Objections to exhibits or demonstrative aids must be noted separately.

Jury instructions and verdict forms must be submitted before trial, with originals filed with the clerk and an MS Word copy emailed to the judicial assistant in 12-point Times New Roman single-spaced format.

All exhibits must be marked before the day of trial.

Exhibits must be exchanged with opposing counsel or the pro se litigant.

Deposition designations must be disclosed in writing with page-and-line citations 30 days before the pretrial conference, and counter-designations must be disclosed 20 days before it.

All exhibits and demonstrative aids must be exchanged, initialed by all counsel, tagged and marked for identification, and have any objections separately noted.

Stipulations, admissions, and waivers of custodian must be in writing when the party seeks court enforcement.

Trial briefs are optional, but any submitted trial brief must be provided to Judge Alvaro’s Chambers as hard copies at least five working days before trial.

Motions in limine must be scheduled and heard no later than one week before trial begins.

The emailed copy of the jury instructions and verdict forms must be in MS Word, use Times New Roman 12-point font, and be single-spaced.

A party requesting more than the standard venire of 22 must provide a reason for the larger request.

Jury instructions and verdict forms must be submitted to the judge before trial, with originals filed with the clerk and an emailed MS Word copy provided to the judicial assistant.

Jury instructions and verdict forms must be exchanged no later than 10 days before the pretrial conference.

When deposition designations have been filed, a blank order with columns for designations, objections, and the Court's ruling must be provided.

The court generally needs the specific gross settlement amount in the proposed offer and motion for approval.

The court generally needs the guardian ad litem appointment and report, with the amount potentially determining whether appointment is required; the report should address the parent or guardian's position on settlement and distribution.

The court generally needs an itemized proposed distribution among beneficiaries, survivors, the estate, and other entities, including claims, costs, and attorney's fees.

The party responsible for seeking and obtaining the appropriate measure to seal limited documentation under Florida Rule of Judicial Administration 2.420(d) must be identified.

If the release or settlement agreement includes a confidentiality provision, it must be clarified whether the minor child is bound, the authority for that binding, and the consequence of a violation.

The court generally needs a detailed closing statement, but the statement should not be filed and must instead be submitted under seal or brought to the hearing.

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