Judge Julie K. Hampton
Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Document Limits
Courtesy Copies
Courtesy copies
Emergency Motions
- 1 copy
Exhibit
- 3 copies • Simultaneously with Exhibit Lists
Filings >= 50 pages
- Promptly
Adjournments
- Discovery extension motions must be filed sufficiently early to allow opposing counsel to respond before the discovery deadline.
- Vacation and family-related continuance requests are accommodated if made well in advance of the hearing or trial.
- Party agreements on continuance of deadlines are not binding on the Court but are considered.
- +5 more
Request must include
Communication
Duty Judge
Clerk, Chambers
Phone
Clerk
Phone
Chambers
Page & Word Limits2 rules
To obtain permission, the party seeking relief must submit a letter not exceeding two pages. [...] The opposing party should promptly submit a responsive letter of similar length identifying any disagreement.
- Page limit
- Up to 2 pages
(approximately twenty-five pages). Limit any reply to 2,000 words (approximately ten pages). Do not file a sur-reply absent permission. Word limits do not include the case caption, table of contents, table of authorities, signature block, and certificates.
- Page limit
- Up to 25 pages
- Word limit
- Up to 2,000 words
Excluded from the limit
- •Caption
- •Table of contents
- •Table of authorities
- •Signature block
- •Certificates
Document Format Requirements18 rules
Underline the name of each corporation whose securities are publicly traded.
Style. Use American letter-size paper, a minimum 12-point font, and a minimum of 1inch margins with ½ inch margins for footnotes, page numbers and any headers or footers. Double space except for lengthy quotations, headings, and footnotes.
- Font size
- At least 12 points
- Line spacing
- Double
- Margins
- At least 1 inch
- Paper size
- Letter
Formatting
- •Footnotes, page numbers, headers/footers may have ½ inch margins
Exception
Lengthy quotations, headings, and footnotes
All legal authority and evidence must have pinpoint citations; specific citation formats required for different evidence types; use Bates numbers where available.
Court's wording
Provide pinpoint citation for all legal authority. Do the same for evidence. For instance, cite to page and line for depositions, to page and paragraph number for affidavits and pleadings, and to page and section number for contracts and similar materials. Use Bates numbers as the page reference where available.
Use Form 6 to prepare a Joint Pretrial Order. Adapt this form within reason to accommodate the nature and complexity of the case.
- Joint pretrial order
Formatting
- •Use Form 6
through Westlaw or Lexis-Nexis as an appendix to any filing. Provide a cover sheet to identify and separate each authority.
List only those exhibits intended in good faith for use before the jury during trial.
Joint trial notebooks must include each party’s materials paired in order, with Joint Pretrial Order first in civil cases.
- Trial notebook
Formatting
- •Include each party’s materials paired together in order listed in Section 19
Court's wording
Confer and prepare a joint trial notebook to provide the Court. Include each party’s materials paired together in the order listed above. In civil cases, include the Joint Pretrial Order as the first item.
Each offering party must mark its own exhibits with the party’s name, case number, and exhibit number.
Use Form 7 to prepare a trial exhibit list. Also refer to Section 12.
- Exhibit list
Formatting
- •Use Form 7
The designator must prepare and have ready at the Court’s request each designated deposition. Include a cover sheet with concise summary of topics for each witness, the first deposition page, and at least two pages prior to and after any designation. Highlight in contrasting colors to indicate all designated testimony, counter-designations, and objections. Use a condensed transcript (four pages to one) when available.
Do not use footnotes to argue or explain disagreements.
Identify by bold or italicized font any disputed language and which party requests each competing version;
Formatting
- •Disputed language must be identified by bold or italicized font
- •Identify which party requests each competing version of disputed language
In civil cases, counsel for Plaintiff must also jointly submit a Word version by email or USB drive.
- File type
- Word
In civil cases, counsel for Plaintiff must also submit a Word version by email or USB drive.
- File type
- Word
In criminal cases, counsel for Prosecution and Defense must each also submit a Word version by email or USB drive.
- File type
- Word
When providing copies of filings over fifty pages, print double-sided and submit in a binder. Organize exhibits and attachments by tab at the right margin. Use the smallest binders that comfortably hold the material. Do not use binders larger than four inches. Divide into multiple binders when necessary.
- More than 50 pages
Formatting
- •Double-sided
- •Tab exhibits right margin
Provide courtesy copies marked with the file-stamped CM/ECF system docket number unless submitted on an urgent basis.
The Court disfavors footnotes and discourages their use by setting word limits rather than page limits. The Court disregards evidence or argument raised only by footnote.
Formatting
- •Court disfavors footnotes
- •Evidence or argument raised only in footnotes will be disregarded
Document Filing Requirements59 rules
Counsel and pro se parties must file an interested party certificate at least 15 days before the Scheduling Conference, listing all financially interested entities; amended certificates are required for newly identified entities, and unincorporated entity parties require citizenship disclosures for all members.
Court's wording
Counsel and all unrepresented parties must also file with the Clerk, at least 15 days before the Scheduling Conference, a certificate listing all persons, associations, firms, partnerships, corporations, affiliates, parent corporations, or other entities, including any unincorporated entities such as LLCs or LLPs, that are financially interested in the outcome of this litigation. If new parties are added or if additional persons or entities financially interested in the outcome of the litigation are identified during this litigation, an amended certificate must be filed promptly with the Clerk. If an unincorporated entity is named as a party, the certificate must state the citizenship of every member of that entity.
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF TEXAS ___________________ DIVISION _____________________ § § Plaintiff, § § v. § Civil Action No. ______________ § _____________________ § § Defendant. § JOINT DISCOVERY/CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN UNDER RULE 26(F) OF THE FEDERAL RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE
Complete and attach a proposed scheduling and docket control order where necessary to suggest modifications to the Court’s standard order. Clearly indicate any disagreements with reasons in support of the requests made.
Joint Pretrial Order must include Rule 26(a)(3) pretrial disclosures; plaintiff responsible for filing; failure to file may result in dismissal or sanctions.
Court's wording
The Joint Pretrial Order will contain the pretrial disclosures required by Rule 26(a)(3) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. Plaintiff is responsible for timely filing the complete Joint Pretrial Order. Failure to do so may lead to dismissal or other sanction in accordance with the applicable rules.
Complete and attach a proposed scheduling and docket control order where necessary to suggest modifications to the Court’s standard order. Clearly indicate any disagreements with reasons in support of the requests made.
Certify that all parties have filed the Disclosure of Interested Persons as directed in the Order for Conference and Disclosure of Interested Persons, listing the date of filing for original and any amendments.
Joint Pretrial Orders must include exhibit lists, with objections to contents filed within 3 business days and responses within 6 business days.
- Document
- Joint pretrial order
Must include
- •Exhibit list
Court's wording
The Joint Pretrial Order will contain the pretrial disclosures required by Rule 26(a)(3) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. Use the forms provided on the Court’s website. https://www.txs.uscourts.gov/ Tipton. Plaintiff is responsible for timely filing the complete Joint Pretrial Order. Failure to do so may lead to dismissal or other sanction in accordance with the applicable rules. Exhibit lists, witness lists and proposed deposition excerpts may not be amended or supplemented after this date unless by agreement. Objections to any of these shall be filed no later than three business days after this date and responses to those objections shall be filed no later than six business days from this date. Boilerplate objections or responses will not be considered.
Include the party’s name, case number, and exhibit number on each exhibit.
Each party must also file as a separate document and attach to this Joint Pretrial Order any intended deposition designations.
Each party must file as a separate document and attach to this Joint Pretrial Order a list of all exhibits expected to be offered.
- Document
- Joint pretrial order
Must include
- •Exhibit list
The Joint Pretrial Order must include the specified statement about reporting additional witnesses, with an exception for certain rebuttal or impeachment witnesses.
Court's wording
Include the following statement: “If any other witnesses will be called at the trial, their names, addresses, and the subject matter of their testimony will be reported to opposing counsel as soon as they are known. This restriction will not apply to rebuttal or impeachment witnesses, the necessity of whose testimony cannot reasonably be anticipated before trial.”
Include a brief statement of the subject matter and substance of the testimony of each.
Each party must file as a separate document and attach to this Joint Pretrial Order a list of all witnesses.
A memorandum of law with authorities addressing only these issues must accompany this Order.
Each offering party must mark its own exhibits before trial.
List in separate paragraphs the names and addresses of witnesses that each party intends in good faith to call in its case-in-chief.
State whether the trial will be jury or nonjury; the probable length of trial; and any foreseeable logistical problems, including the availability of witnesses or unusual exhibits.
Proposed topics and questions for examination of prospective jurors as per Section 24 of the Court’s Procedures;
For any jury trial, each party must file as a separate document and attach to this Joint Pretrial Order the following attachments.
A proposed jury charge as per Section 25 of the Court’s Procedures; and
A memorandum of law.
Include
- •A memorandum of law.
Any motion in limine as per Section 23 of the Court’s Procedures;
For any bench trial, each party must file as a separate document and attach to this Joint Pretrial Order the following attachments.
Proposed findings of facts and conclusions of law as per Section 26 of the Court’s Procedures; and
Service. Plaintiff must formally serve these procedures with the summons and complaint and file proof of service.
- Document
- Summons and complaint
Must include
- •Certificate of service
The removing party must make certificate of service and provide the additional information within ten days of removal. The Court may summarily remand for failure of compliance.
- Document
- Removal papers
Must include
- •Certificate of service
TRO applications must be filed via CM/ECF and the initiating party must attempt immediate informal service on the opposing party.
Court's wording
File any application for restraining orders or other immediate relief through the CM/ECF system. In addition to service required by rule, the initiating party must in good faith attempt immediate informal service on the opposing party by any available means, including forwarding the application to the last-known mail and email addresses.
Required form. Use Form 2 to give consent to proceed before a Magistrate Judge. Follow the instructions. Do not alter the form.
All counsel who wish to receive CM/ECF notices must file a notice of appearance. Inclusion of names in the signature block of a pleading does not constitute notice of appearance.
Include the applicant’s averment of familiarization with these procedures and the Local Rules with any application for pro hac vice admission. Do not seek pro hac vice admission for an attorney located within the Corpus Christi area.
The parties must jointly confer in good faith regarding appropriate terms for a protective order and file either a joint or opposed motion for entry of a protective order with the proposed order as an exhibit.
- Document
- Protective order motion
Must include
- •Proposed order
Conference and certificate required. Make serious, timely, good faith efforts to seek agreement on all disputed matters and requests for relief except dispositive motions. The Court will strike motions in civil cases—and may strike motions in criminal cases— that do not include a certificate of conference.
- Document
- Motion
Must include
- •Certificate of conference
Proposed orders. Use Form 5 to prepare draft proposed orders.
Include a proposed order granting or denying the requested relief with all nondispositive motions and oppositions.
- Document
- Nondispositive motion
Include
- •Proposed order
Motions must be a single pleading with no separate Memorandum of Law; all required content must be included in the motion.
- Document
- Motion
Include
- •Legal argument
Court's wording
Separate memorandum not allowed. Do not file a separately designated Memorandum of Law. Include necessary factual support, legal argument, and requested relief in the motion itself. Put simply, file a single pleading.
Motions with an argument section over 10 pages must include a table of contents, table of authorities, introduction, argument summary, and point headings.
Must include
- •Legal argument
- •Table of contents
- •Table of authorities
Court's wording
Submissions with an argument section more than ten pages must also contain: • A table of contents setting forth page numbers of all sections and point headings; • A table of authorities organizing in categories and arranging alphabetically all cited cases, statutes, rules, textbooks, and other authorities; • A brief introduction of the dispute; • A concise summary of the argument immediately prior to the argument in full; and • Succinct point headings dividing the argument into separate components.
Provide a certificate of word count following the signature block. Reliance on word- processor register is sufficient in this regard.
Include
- •Word count
All motions must include a short argument summary, statement of facts, legal argument, conclusion stating relief, and succinct headings.
- Document
- Motion
Must include
- •Legal argument
- •Statement of facts
Court's wording
All motions or similar filings must contain: • A short summary of the argument; • A statement of the facts necessary to resolution of the motion; • An argument devoted to relevant, persuasive legal authority; • A short conclusion stating the precise relief sought; and • Succinct headings dividing the motion into the above parts.
Supporting evidence must be filed as separate exhibits with cover sheets; exhibits must be clearly identified on CM/ECF docket entries.
Court's wording
Supply affidavits, deposition testimony excerpts, and supporting documents as separate exhibits to any filing. Provide a cover sheet to identify and separate each exhibit and identify them clearly on the CM/ECF docket entry when filing, e.g., “Exhibit A Declaration of John Doe.”
State for each witness: • Full name, address, and identifying information; • A concise summary of the expected testimonial topics; • Whether the witness will testify live or by deposition; and • Whether testimony is fact, expert, or record custodian.
Form. Use Form 8 to prepare a witness list.
Form. Use Form 9 to prepare deposition designations.
For bench trials, also offer the entire deposition marked as an exhibit.
As to each intended deposition designation, the designator must make a joint filing comprehending the parties’ exchanges twenty-four hours in advance of intended use.
Identify any pending motions.
Include
- •Identify any pending motions
Identify in separate paragraphs each party and its respective counsel. List the addresses, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses of counsel.
List only those admitted or otherwise undisputed facts that require no proof that and are necessary to the disposition and relief sought in the case.
Briefly state why the Court has jurisdiction of the subject matter and the parties. Identify any unresolved jurisdictional questions.
Set forth a brief, agreed statement of the case. The Court may read this statement to the jury panel during the voir dire examination. Include names, dates, and relevant places. Briefly state the parties’ contentions and the issues requiring resolution at trial.
State concisely in separate paragraphs the contentions that are necessary to the relief sought in the case. Include only those that are an essential basis for resolving the case. A lengthy list of nonessential contentions is not helpful.
Filing & Service rules
Courtesy Copy Requirements
Emergency motions require CM/ECF filing plus emailing a copy to the Case Manager; extension motions are not considered emergencies.
Emergency motions. File emergency motions on the CM/ECF system. Then send a copy by email directly to the Case Manager so that it quickly reaches the Court’s attention. Motions for extension of deadlines are not emergencies.
Page 4 | Emergencies
Courtesy copies must be promptly submitted for all documents filed under seal, regardless of length.
Documents filed under seal regardless of length;
Page 5 | COURT COPIES
Courtesy copies must be promptly submitted for documents related to matters being heard within seven days of filing.
Documents pertaining to matters being heard by the Court within seven days of filing;
Page 5 | COURT COPIES
Courtesy copies must be promptly submitted for documents of 50 or more pages, including exhibits.
Documents of fifty pages or more in length, including exhibits;
Page 5 | COURT COPIES
Courtesy copies must be promptly submitted for Joint Pretrial Orders and other trial material.
Joint Pretrial Orders and other trial material.
Page 5 | COURT COPIES
Plaintiff or prosecution counsel must deliver three copies of the joint trial notebook at least four business days before the first day of trial.
Counsel to Plaintiff or Prosecution must deliver three copies at least four business days prior to the first day of trial in the manner directed in Section 6.
Page 14 | 19. REQUIRED PRETRIAL FILINGS
Each party must submit all exhibits on a well-organized USB drive along with three copies simultaneously with exhibit lists.
In addition to the lists, each party must simultaneously submit all exhibits on a well- organized USB drive together with three copies in the manner directed in Section 6.
Page 14 | 20. TRIAL EXHIBIT LISTS
A copy of the witness list must be furnished to the court reporter before trial.
Also furnish a copy to the court reporter before trial.
Page 15 | 21. WITNESS LISTS
In criminal cases, counsel for Prosecution and Defense must each also submit a Word version by email or USB drive.
In criminal cases, counsel for Prosecution and Defense must each also submit a Word version by email or USB drive.
Page 18 | JURY INSTRUCTIONS
In civil cases, counsel for Plaintiff must also jointly submit a Word version by email or USB drive.
In civil cases, counsel for Plaintiff must also jointly submit a Word version by email or USB drive.
Page 18 | JURY INSTRUCTIONS
In civil cases, counsel for Plaintiff must also submit a Word version by email or USB drive.
In civil cases, counsel for Plaintiff must also submit a Word version by email or USB drive.
Page 18 | BENCH TRIALS
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
Motions to seal pleadings, briefs, or supporting materials require good cause; public access is presumed and sealed filings are disfavored.
Motion required to seal. A presumption exists as to public access to judicial records. The Court disfavors the filing of any pleading, brief, or supporting material under seal. Seek permission by motion establishing good cause as follows.
Page 7 | PROTECTIVE ORDERS AND FILINGS UNDER SEAL
Sealed materials must be filed under seal, with a separate public motion to seal attaching a redacted version, or show cause why redaction is impossible.
Under seal, file the at-issue pleading, brief, or other material. On the public record, separately file a motion to seal. Prepare and attach to the motion a redacted version of the material suitable to and proposed for filing on the public docket. In the alternative, establish cause why redaction is not possible.
Page 7 | PROTECTIVE ORDERS AND FILINGS UNDER SEAL
Filing Bundling Requirements
Only one joint Plan and one joint Proposed Scheduling Order may be filed.
The parties are to file with the Court only one Plan and one Proposed Scheduling Order.
Page 3 | 4. The Joint Discovery/Case Management Plan and the Proposed Scheduling Order
Joint Pretrial Orders filed on CM/ECF must include attached pretrial filings specified in Section 19.
When filing the Joint Pretrial Order on the CM/ECF system, attach the pretrial filings set out in Section 19.
Page 13 | 18. JOINT PRETRIAL ORDERS IN CIVIL CASES
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
5. Pre-motion Conferences Required for Discovery and Other Pretrial Disputes The Court encourages the parties to make a serious attempt to resolve all discovery and scheduling disputes without intervention by the Court. This includes motions to compel, quash any discovery, or for protection. Lead counsel must personally confer on all discovery and scheduling disputes as a final attempt at resolution prior to involving the Court. Do not bring a motion on discovery and scheduling disputes without permission. To obtain permission, the party seeking relief must submit a letter not exceeding two pages. Identify the nature of the dispute, outline the issues, and state the contested relief sought. Describe the conference between lead counsel and summarize the results. Send a copy to all counsel and unrepresented parties. The opposing party should promptly submit a responsive letter of similar length identifying any disagreement. Do not submit a reply letter. The foregoing letters should be sent by email to the Court’s case manager, Kellie Papaioannou at Kellie_Papaioannou@txs.uscourts.gov. The Court may dispose of the dispute on the letters. When determined advisable, the Court may schedule a telephonic or video conference as soon as practicable. The Court will dispose of disputes at the conference to the extent possible and establish the issues and briefing schedule of any written motion allowed.
5. Pre-motion Conferences Required for Discovery and Other Pretrial Disputes The Court encourages the parties to make a serious attempt to resolve all discovery and scheduling disputes without intervention by the Court. This includes motions to compel, quash any discovery, or for protection. Lead counsel must personally confer on all discovery and scheduling disputes as a final attempt at resolution prior to involving the Court. Do not bring a motion on discovery and scheduling disputes without permission. To obtain permission, the party seeking relief must submit a letter not exceeding two pages. Identify the nature of the dispute, outline the issues, and state the contested relief sought. Describe the conference between lead counsel and summarize the results. Send a copy to all counsel and unrepresented parties. The opposing party should promptly submit a responsive letter of similar length identifying any disagreement. Do not submit a reply letter. The foregoing letters should be sent by email to the Court’s case manager, Kellie Papaioannou at Kellie_Papaioannou@txs.uscourts.gov. The Court may dispose of the dispute on the letters. When determined advisable, the Court may schedule a telephonic or video conference as soon as practicable. The Court will dispose of disputes at the conference to the extent possible and establish the issues and briefing schedule of any written motion allowed.
Page 4 | 5. Pre-motion Conferences Required for Discovery and Other Pretrial Disputes
Pre-motion letter (max 2 pages) and lead counsel conference required for discovery/scheduling motions including compel, quash, protection, extension.
Any party wishing to make a discovery or scheduling motion must obtain permission before the submission of motion papers. This includes any motion to compel, to quash, for protection, or for extension. Lead counsel must personally confer on all discovery and scheduling disputes as a final attempt at resolution prior to involving the Court. To obtain permission, the party seeking relief must submit a letter not exceeding two pages. Identify the nature of the dispute, outline the issues, and state the contested relief sought. Describe the conference between lead counsel and summarize the results. Send a copy to all counsel and unrepresented parties. The opposing party should promptly submit a responsive letter of similar length identifying any disagreement. Do not submit a reply letter. The foregoing letters should be sent by email to the Court’s case manager, Kellie Papaioannou at Kellie_Papaioannou@txs.uscourts.gov.
Page 12 | 9. Additional orders relating to disclosures, discovery, or pretrial motions
Discovery and scheduling motions require prior court permission via a max 2-page pre-motion letter after lead counsel personally confers with opposing counsel.
Any party wishing to make a discovery or scheduling motion must obtain permission before the submission of motion papers. This includes any motion to compel, to quash, for protection, or for extension. Lead counsel must personally confer on all discovery and scheduling disputes as a final attempt at resolution prior to involving the Court. To obtain permission, the party seeking relief must submit a letter not exceeding two pages. Identify the nature of the dispute, outline the issues, and state the contested
Civil cases
Page 6 | SCHEDULING ORDER
The opposing party should promptly submit a responsive letter of similar length identifying any disagreement.
The opposing party should promptly submit a responsive letter of similar length identifying any disagreement.
Civil cases
Page 7 | INDIVIDUAL PRACTICES / STANDING ORDER
Send a copy to all counsel and unrepresented parties.
Send a copy to all counsel and unrepresented parties.
Civil cases
Page 7 | INDIVIDUAL PRACTICES / STANDING ORDER
Reply letters to responsive pre-motion letters are prohibited.
Do not submit a reply letter.
Civil cases
Page 7 | INDIVIDUAL PRACTICES / STANDING ORDER
Ex parte TRO applications are only entertained if the initiating party satisfies Rule 65(b) requirements.
Ex parte applications in civil cases. The Court does not entertain ex parte applications for restraining orders unless the initiating party satisfies the requirements of Rule 65(b).
Page 4 | Emergencies
Parties must have a person with detailed knowledge of relevant electronic systems available at conferences for electronic data discovery disputes.
Disputes as to electronic data. When the dispute includes discovery of electronic data, each party must have available at any conference a person with detailed knowledge of the computers and electronic databases in issue.
Page 9 | DISCOVERY AND SCHEDULING DISPUTES
The opposing party should promptly submit a responsive letter of similar length identifying any disagreement. Do not submit a reply letter.
The opposing party should promptly submit a responsive letter of similar length identifying any disagreement. Do not submit a reply letter.
Page 9 | DISCOVERY AND SCHEDULING DISPUTES
Parties must make good faith attempt to resolve all discovery and scheduling disputes without court intervention; sanctions for bad faith.
Good faith required. Make a serious attempt to resolve all discovery and scheduling disputes without intervention by the Court. This includes disputes to compel or quash any discovery or for protection. Be pragmatic. Seek reasonable compromise. The Court will not hesitate to shift costs or order other relief against a party or counsel acting unreasonably or in bad faith.
Page 9 | DISCOVERY AND SCHEDULING DISPUTES
Lead counsel must personally confer on all discovery and scheduling disputes before involving the Court.
Conference between lead counsel required. Lead counsel must personally confer on all discovery and scheduling disputes as a final attempt at resolution prior to involving the Court.
Page 9 | DISCOVERY AND SCHEDULING DISPUTES
Initiating letter (max ~2 single-spaced pages) required to obtain permission to bring motion on discovery/scheduling disputes, must include specific content.
Initiating letter required. Do not bring a motion on discovery and scheduling disputes without permission. To obtain permission, the party seeking relief must submit a letter not exceeding approximately two single-spaced pages. Identify the nature of the dispute, outline the issues, and state the contested relief sought. Specify the conference between lead counsel and summarize the results.
Page 9 | DISCOVERY AND SCHEDULING DISPUTES
Good faith efforts to seek agreement required for all disputed matters except dispositive motions.
Make serious, timely, good faith efforts to seek agreement on all disputed matters and requests for relief except dispositive motions.
Page 10 | MOTION PRACTICE AND HEARINGS
Requests for in camera inspection of privilege log documents require a letter (max ~3 single-spaced pages) with specific content, after lead counsel conference.
Bring any request by letter not to exceed approximately three single-spaced pages. Lead counsel must confer in good faith to resolve the dispute prior to any letter. In the letter, identify the documents for review, state the grounds for challenge, specify the conference between lead counsel, and summarize the results. This letter establishes consent to ex parte contact between the Court and the party’s opponent regarding the nature and verity of the asserted privilege.
Page 10 | PRIVILEGE LOGS
Each party may freely submit only a single letter requesting in camera inspection. Submit any letter at least sixty days before the end of discovery or promptly upon receipt of any later privilege log.
Each party may freely submit only a single letter requesting in camera inspection. Submit any letter at least sixty days before the end of discovery or promptly upon receipt of any later privilege log.
Page 10 | PRIVILEGE LOGS
Pre-filing conference and issue identification required for Rule 12(b)(6) and 12(c) motions in civil cases; certificate of conference must include this.
Before filing a motion to dismiss for failure to state a claim or counterclaim under Rule 12(b)(6), or a motion for judgment on the pleadings on a claim or counterclaim under Rule 12(c), identify such issues to the opposing party and confer in good faith to resolve them. The Court will strike motions that do not include this in the certificate of conference.
Page 10 | MOTION PRACTICE AND HEARINGS
Motions on discovery or scheduling disputes prohibited without permission obtained under Section 13.c.
Motions on discovery and scheduling. Do not bring a motion on discovery or scheduling disputes absent permission obtained under Section 13.c.
Page 10 | MOTION PRACTICE AND HEARINGS
Opposed motions are considered 28 days after filing; responses due 21 days post-motion, replies 7 days post-response; no sur-replies without permission.
set forth in LR7.3 and considers opposed motions twenty-eight calendar days after their filing date. File any response within twenty-one calendar days of the motion. File any reply within seven calendar days of the response. Do not file a surreply absent advance permission.
Page 11 | Motion practice and hearings
Initiating letter not required for discovery relief against nonparties.
Disputes with nonparties. An initiating letter is not required to seek discovery relief against a nonparty.
Page 9 | DISCOVERY AND SCHEDULING DISPUTES
Criminal case motion briefing follows CrLR12 and Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 12.
Submission date and briefing deadline in criminal cases. The Court proceeds according to CrLR12 and Rule 12 of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure.
Page 11 | Motion practice and hearings
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
Discovery extension motions must be filed sufficiently early to allow opposing counsel to respond before the discovery deadline.
Motions for extension of discovery must be filed far enough in advance of the deadline to enable opposing counsel to respond before the deadline.
Page 4 | 5. Pre-motion Conferences Required for Discovery and Other Pretrial Disputes
Discovery deadline extensions do not require approval if they do not affect the Docket Control Order or other court-set deadlines.
Parties may agree to extension of discovery deadlines without seeking approval when the extension does not affect the Docket Control Order or other deadlines set by the Court.
Page 7 | CONTINUANCES
Modification of Scheduling Order requires a motion establishing good cause.
The Court will modify the Scheduling Order only upon a motion establishing good cause.
Page 7 | CONTINUANCES
Continuance requests must include recommended dates for all adjusted deadlines after the first modification.
Requested changes must include recommended dates to adjust all deadlines following the first modification.
Page 7 | CONTINUANCES
Agreed extensions of submission dates require notice via letter/email and a proposed order maintaining other court-set deadlines.
Advise by letter or email of any agreed extension of the submission date. Provide a proposed order for any agreed extension that maintains other deadlines set by the Court.
Page 11 | Motion practice and hearings
Plaintiff may request a reasonable continuance of the scheduling conference if service has not been perfected.
Plaintiff may request a reasonable continuance if it has not perfected service.
Page 6 | INITIAL SETTINGS AND FILINGS IN CIVIL CASES
Vacation and family-related continuance requests are accommodated if made well in advance of the hearing or trial.
The Court respects and seeks to accommodate vacation and family requests if made well in advance of a hearing or trial setting.
Page 7 | CONTINUANCES
Party agreements on continuance of deadlines are not binding on the Court but are considered.
Agreements on continuance of deadlines do not bind the Court but are given due consideration.
Page 7 | CONTINUANCES
Chambers Communication Rules
The foregoing letters should be sent by email to the Court’s case manager, Kellie Papaioannou at Kellie_Papaioannou@txs.uscourts.gov.
The foregoing letters should be sent by email to the Court’s case manager, Kellie Papaioannou at Kellie_Papaioannou@txs.uscourts.gov.
Page 4 | 5. Pre-motion Conferences Required for Discovery and Other Pretrial Disputes
The foregoing letters should be sent by email to the Court’s case manager, Kellie Papaioannou at Kellie_Papaioannou@txs.uscourts.gov.
The foregoing letters should be sent by email to the Court’s case manager, Kellie Papaioannou at Kellie_Papaioannou@txs.uscourts.gov.
Civil cases
Page 7 | INDIVIDUAL PRACTICES / STANDING ORDER
Direct inquiries regarding any case assigned to Judge Hampton to: Melissa Arguello Case Manager to Hon. Julie K. Hampton 1133 North Shoreline Blvd. Corpus Christi, Texas 78401 Telephone: (361) 888-3432 Email: Melissa_Arguello@txs.uscourts.gov
Direct inquiries regarding any case assigned to Judge Hampton to: Melissa Arguello Case Manager to Hon. Julie K. Hampton 1133 North Shoreline Blvd. Corpus Christi, Texas 78401 Telephone: (361) 888-3432 Email: Melissa_Arguello@txs.uscourts.gov
Page 1 | Applicability and compliance
All communications related to ex parte applications must be directed to the Case Manager via phone or email.
Communication. Make all related communications through the Case Manager via telephone or email.
Page 4 | Emergencies
Counsel must provide a copy of any letter or email to the Court to all parties via the same delivery method, and may not file such correspondence on CM/ECF unless directed by the Court.
Prior to or with delivery of any letter or email to the Court, use the same means to provide a copy to all other parties. Do not file copies of letters or email on the CM/ECF system. The Court dockets or directs filing as determined advisable.
Page 5 | Informal communication with the Court
Courtesy copies must be mailed or hand-delivered to the Case Manager with a transmittal letter specifying content; transmittal letters must not be filed and copies must be sent to all parties without attachments.
Delivery to chambers. Mail or hand-deliver courtesy copies to the attention of the Case Manager with a transmittal letter specifying the content. Do not file transmittal letters. Mail or email a copy of such letters without attachments to all other parties.
Page 5 | COURT COPIES
Counsel may not initiate contact with Law Clerks except to return a message, and may only discuss matters within the indicated subject.
A Law Clerk may contact counsel with a specific inquiry at the Court’s direction. Do not initiate contact with the Law Clerks unless returning a message. Do not discuss matters beyond the indicated subject.
Page 5 | Informal communication with the Court
Advise by letter or email of any agreed extension of the submission date.
Advise by letter or email of any agreed extension of the submission date.
Page 11 | Motion practice and hearings
Parties must immediately email chambers to report pending motion resolution before ruling; court will deny as moot or terminate.
Resolution by agreement. Immediately advise by email of resolution of a pending motion prior to the Court’s ruling. The Court will then deny the motion as moot or have the clerk terminate the motion.
Page 11 | Motion practice and hearings
Parties must immediately notify the Court by email upon settlement; the Court will enter a dismissal order without prejudice to reinstatement if conditions fail.
Notice of settlement and conditional orders of dismissal. Immediately notify the Court by email of settlement. The Court will enter an order of dismissal. The dismissal will be without prejudice to move within a reasonable time for reinstatement if approval of documentation or condition precedent fails.
Page 21 | Mediation and settlements in civil cases
Parties must notify the Court by letter or email when serious settlement discussions are underway; the Court will postpone pending motions until advised of settlement outcome.
Notice of settlement discussions. Notify the Court by letter or email whenever serious settlement discussions are underway. The Court will postpone consideration of pending motions until advised of success or impasse.
Page 21 | Mediation and settlements in civil cases
Informal communication is disfavored, must be directed to the Case Manager via letters or email, and may not address substantive issues.
Informal communication disfavored. The Court disfavors informal communication about cases except as stated in these procedures. Do not address substantive issues in informal communication. Address such issues only through written filings and in-person conferences and hearings. Neither the Case Manager, the Law Clerks, nor other personnel provide legal advice or predict what the Court will do on a given matter. Case Manager as main point of contact. Direct all informal communications to the Court through the Case Manager. Unless stated otherwise below, use the following: Letters to initiate discovery and scheduling disputes under Section 13; Letters or email for other minor procedural questions;
Page 4 | Informal communication with the Court
Status inquiries. Seek answers when possible from the District Court’s website. Review information on the status of documents, entry of orders, and docket entries on the CM/ECF system prior to contacting the Court. Direct filing questions to the Office of the Clerk.
Status inquiries. Seek answers when possible from the District Court’s website. Review information on the status of documents, entry of orders, and docket entries on the CM/ECF system prior to contacting the Court. Direct filing questions to the Office of the Clerk.
Page 5 | Informal communication with the Court
Promptly advise by email of need for decision on an expedited basis or date certain. Provide reasons justifying prompt attention.
Promptly advise by email of need for decision on an expedited basis or date certain. Provide reasons justifying prompt attention.
Page 11 | Motion practice and hearings
Questions about participating in remote proceedings may be directed to the Clerk of Court via phone at 361-888-3142.
Any questions as to how one may participate may be directed to the Clerk of Court for the SDTX, Corpus Christi Division, at 361-888-3142.
Page 1 | Important
Members of the public may request remote proceeding access via email to ccmagduty@txs.uscourts.gov.
Any member of the public wishing access to the proceeding may obtain that access by emailing a request to ccmagduty@txs.uscourts.gov. Instructions for how to participate will be forwarded by return email.
Page 1 | Important
Counsel may jointly or individually advise by email of any request for oral argument together with circumstances to justify it.
Counsel may jointly or individually advise by email of any request for oral argument together with circumstances to justify it.
Page 11 | Motion practice and hearings