Judge Bridgett N. Whitmore
Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies
- Rules last changed:
Limits & Logistics
Document Limits
Courtesy Copies
Attachments
Exhibits
Filings > 50 pages
- No Later Than Two Business Days Before Hearing
TI Notebook
Adjournments
- Permission to exceed page limits may be granted by the Presiding Judge upon a showing of compelling reasons.
- Jury trials are suspended until May 8, 2020, and previously set jury cases are continued sua sponte and reset on future jury dockets.
- The Court may cancel any proceeding involving a person who is infected with COVID-19, symptomatic, awaiting test results, or under quarantine if personal presence would expose others or violate CDC/healthcare quarantine standards.
- +2 more
Request must include
Communication
Clerk, Chambers
Clerk
Phone
Clerk
Clerk
Page & Word Limits5 rules
No Motion or Brief filed with the Court may exceed 25 one-sided pages in length.
- Page limit
- Up to 25 pages
- Motion
- Brief
Only one appendix, also limited to 25 one-sided pages in length may be filed supporting any Motion or Brief.
- Page limit
- Up to 25 pages
- Appendix
requiring briefs to limited to no more than 25 pages.
- Brief
- Up to 25 pages
No Motion or Brief filed with the Court may exceed 25 one-sided pages in length.
- Motion
- Up to 25 pages
- Brief
Only one appendix, also limited to 25 one-sided pages in length may be filed supporting any Motion or Brief.
- Appendix
- Up to 25 pages
Document Format Requirements8 rules
Exhibits and evidence must be delivered electronically to the Court Reporter in PDF format, pre-marked and numbered, before remote hearings.
- File type
- Exhibits
Formatting
- •Pre-marked with exhibit stickers
- •Chronologically numbered
- •Pages sequentially numbered
Court's wording
Any party needing to admit either exhibits or other evidence referred to above must electronically deliver same to the Court Reporter in PDF format in advance of the hearing already pre-marked with exhibit stickers and chronologically numbered for ease of reference (and directing a witness’s attention) during remote proceedings. The pages of each Exhibit, deposition, declaration of other proffered evidence must be sequentially numbered for ease of reference.
Additionally, the use of reduced, multiple pages (i.e.: Min-u-script) is hereby prohibited.
The use of any font less than 12 point, or margins less than 1” on each side of a page is hereby prohibited.
- Font size
- 12 points
Additionally, the use of reduced, multiple pages (i.e.: Min-u-script) is hereby prohibited.
The use of any font less than 12 point, or margins less than 1” on each side of a page is hereby prohibited.
- Font size
- 12 points
All filings must be descriptively titled, with consecutively numbered and titled pages in the lower margin continuing through attachments; orders and judgments must be filed as separate documents.
Formatting
- •Descriptively titled
- •References to attachments must include the sequential page number
Court's wording
All pleadings, motions, briefs, orders and other papers, including exhibits attached thereto, when offered for filing or entry, shall be descriptively titled. Each page of each instrument shall, in the lower margin thereof, be consecutively numbered and titled; e.g., "Plaintiffs Original Petition- Page 2." Page numbers should continue in sequential order through the last page of any attachments or exhibits (i.e. should not re-start with each succeeding document). Any reference to an attachment shall include the sequential page number where the reference can be found. Orders and Judgments shall be separate documents completely separated from all other papers. If documents not conforming to this Local Rule are offered, the Clerk before receiving them shall require the consent of a
Whatever is referenced in the motion or response as an exhibit should be tabbed as such and the portion referenced should be highlighted.
- Motion
- Response
Formatting
- •The referenced portion of each exhibit must be highlighted
The exhibits should be pre-marked in one PDF, if possible, and tabbed/bookmarked.
- File type
- Exhibits
Formatting
- •Pre-marked
- •Tabbed/bookmarked
Document Filing Requirements31 rules
TRO applications must include a certification that the case is not subject to transfer under Local Rule 1.06; if it is, counsel must advise the Court and the judge may refer the matter.
Court's wording
Counsel presenting any application for a temporary restraining order shall at the time the application is presented further certify that to the best of counsel's knowledge, the case in which the application is presented is not subject to transfer under Local Rule 1.06. If the case is subject to transfer, counsel shall fully advise the Court of the circumstances, particularly as to whether there has been any previous application for the same or similar relief or whether the relief sought will conflict with any other previous order, and the Judge to whom the application is presented may decline to act and refer the application or the entire case to the Judge of the Court to which the earlier related case is assigned.
Counsel must submit a proposed judgment or dismissal order within 30 days after a verdict, judgment, or written settlement announcement; failure to do so may result in dismissal with prejudice and costs.
- Document
- Proposed judgment
Must include
- •Proposed order
Court's wording
Within 30 days after the Court has announced a verdict or judgment or the Court receives a written announcement of settlement from either party or from a mediator, counsel shall submit to the Court a proposed judgment or dismissal order, unless ordered otherwise. Failure to so furnish the Court with such a proposed judgment or dismissal order will be interpreted to mean that counsel wish the Court to enter an Order of Dismissal with prejudice with costs taxed at the Judge's discretion.
For the purpose of Rule 2.07(a), a "Certificate of Conference" shall mean the appropriate one of the following four paragraphs (verbatim):
Must include
- •Certificate of conference
No appointments will be made without a current application on file unless agreed to by all parties.
The parties signed below affirm that we have conducted a conference regarding the jury trial set in this Court on ____________ and have made the following agreements.
A Joint Pretrial Order is required for all cases lasting 3 days or longer.
Court's wording
The Court’s Joint Pretrial Order shall be required for all cases lasting 3 days or longer. It can be located on this Court’s website and must be submitted 2 days before the Pretrial Conference, or the Pretrial will be canceled.
All motions must include a certificate of conference per Local Rule 2.07; motions without one will not be set for hearing, except where excluded (e.g., summary judgment motions).
- Document
- Motion
Must include
- •Certificate of conference
Court's wording
Motions require Certificates of Conference as stated in Local Rules 2.07. Motions without Certificates of Conference in compliance with Local Rule 2.07 will NOT be set for hearing by the District Clerks office. Certificates of Conference must be attached to all motions, except those excluded by Local Rules, (i.e. Motions for Summary Judgment).
All Motions to Compel MUST contain a Certificate Conference. The Movant must show and attach attempts to conference with opposing counsel.
- Document
- Motion to compel
Must include
- •Certificate of conference
In the absence of any such plea, the signature of the attorney filing the original defensive pleading shall be that attorney's certificate either that the disclosure of the attorney filing the case was accurate, or, if no disclosure was made by the attorney filing the case, that the case is not so related to a prior filed or disposed of case.
The attorney answering any filed case shall point out in the original defensive pleading or in a separate simultaneous filing any failure of the attorney filing the case to have made a proper and accurate disclosure.
The attorney filing a case that is so related to another previously filed case shall disclose in the original pleading or in a separate simultaneous filing that the case is so related and identify by style, case number and Court the related case.
If no such disclosure is made, the signature of the attorney filing the case on the original pleading shall be that attorney's certification that the case is not so related to another previously filed case.
Any party to a pending case shall promptly notify the Court of the filing by any other party of a petition in bankruptcy. Such notice shall be made by filing a Suggestion of Bankruptcy with the clerk of the Court and serving copies on all counsel of record.
The Court does not require a separate motion or hearing on agreed matters, except for continuances in cases over one year old or as otherwise provided. All uncontested or agreed matters should be presented with a proposed form of order and should reflect the agreement of all parties either (a) by personal or authorized signature on the form of order, or (b) in the certificate of conference on the motion. This Rule does not apply to cases involving financial settlements to minors.
- Document
- Agreed matter
Should include
- •Certificate of conference
If you are representing yourself and you are the person completing the Civil Case Information Sheet, do not check the “Title IV-D Agency” box.
You must select only one case type or issue on the Sheet.
THIS FORM MUST BE SUBMITTED ANNUALLY
If rulings are required from the court, please copy and paste and attach any transcripts with the designations highlighted, necessary pages only)
All agreed Orders should be signed off by all parties.
Telephonic hearings are allowed through Court Call. The notice of hearing must provide the method of hearing and the party must set up the teleconference with CourtCall.
Orders for Default Judgments may be submitted for consideration for liquidated damages as long as they are submitted by Motion and all supporting affidavits. Non-liquidated damages must be set for hearing or by affidavit.
Attorney withdrawals require strict compliance with TRCP Rule 10 and Local Rule 4.02, and counsel must advise a corporate party that only a Texas-licensed attorney can represent it in Court.
Court's wording
The Court requires strict compliance with Rule 10 of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure and Local Rule 4.02. If the party that will be left without counsel (if the motion is granted) is a corporate entity, contemporaneous with advising the party of its right to object, counsel must also advise the corporate party that only an attorney licensed in the State of Texas can represent its interest in Court. That is, that it cannot represent itself Pro Se.
If the parties are opposed to mediation, they must notify the Court of the reasons for such opposition. It is Counsels responsibility to inform the Court if they have been unable to agree to a mediator 30 days after the trial notice has been issued.
Please highlight the issues and highlight the relevant passages in the caselaw.
Final trial announcements must include witness counts, estimated trial length, and any coronavirus symptoms among parties, witnesses, or attorneys.
Court's wording
At the time of announcement, the parties need to provide the following information: a. How many witnesses each side will call; b. Estimated length of the trial; and c. If any parties, witnesses or attorneys are exhibiting any symptoms associated with the coronavirus.
The moving party shall set up the call-in number and provide the number to the court and opposing counsel in its notice of hearing.
Any attorney may reserve up to three weeks in any calendar year for vacations by sending a "vacation letter" for each case (with appropriate cause number and style) to the Court Coordinator and opposing counsel, reserving weeks in which no hearings, depositions, or trials are set as of the date of the letter. Once a letter is on file, no hearings, depositions, or trials may be set during the reserved weeks except upon notice and hearing.
All counsel and any self-represented person appearing in the civil courts of Dallas County shall by entering an appearance acknowledge that he or she has read and is familiar with these Local Rules, the Rules of Decorum set forth in Appendix 2, and The Texas Lawyers Creed set forth in Appendix 3.
If you are the person filling out the Civil Case Information Sheet and you do not have a lawyer, check this box.
Please list the exhibit numbers, not the name)
Include
- •List exhibit numbers, not the name
Please list the numbers
Filing & Service rules
Electronic Filing Rules
All orders must be e-filed along with the motion and/or response.
All orders must be e-filed along with the motion and/or response.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Orders
Filing Timing and Cure Windows
Applications for immediate or temporary relief must be filed and assigned to a court before being presented to a judge, except in emergencies when the Clerk's office is closed.
Except in emergencies when the Clerk's office is not open for business, no application for immediate or temporary relief shall be presented to a Judge until it has been filed and assigned to a Court as provided in Local Rule 1.01.
Page 6 | Local Rule 2.01
A Suggestion of Bankruptcy must be filed as soon as practicable and no later than 20 days after a party receives notice of another party's bankruptcy petition.
The Suggestion of Bankruptcy shall be filed as soon as practicable, but in no event more than 20 days after a party receives notice of the filing of a petition in bankruptcy by any other party.
Page 6 | Local Rule 1.13
Amended pleadings asserting new claims or defenses must be filed no later than 120 days before the Initial Trial Setting.
I. Deadline for filing Amended Pleadings Asserting New Claims or Defenses. - 120 days before the Initial Trial Setting.
Civil cases
Page 1 | DEADLINES & TIMELINES
A reset or continuance of the Initial Trial Setting does not change deadlines in this Order or under the Texas Rules unless the Court orders otherwise or the parties agree under TRCP 11.
Any reset or continuance of the Initial Trial Setting will not alter any deadline in this Order or established by the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure unless otherwise provided by Order, or by the agreement of the parties, in accordance with TRCP 11.
Civil cases
Page 1 | TRIAL SETTING, AMENDMENT OF DATES & DISMISSAL FOR WANT OF PROSECUTION
Additional parties must be joined by 120 days before the Initial Trial Setting unless a motion for leave shows good cause.
III. Deadline to Join Additional Parties. - 120 days before the Initial Trial Setting. No additional parties may be joined after this date, except on motion for leave showing good cause.
Civil cases
Page 2 | DEAD sistema & TIMEFRAME
Responsible third parties must be designated by 120 days before the Initial Trial Setting, with defendants filing any Section 33.004 motions for leave by that same date.
II. Deadline to Designate Responsible Third Parties. - 120 days before the Initial Trial Setting. Defendants shall file any motions for leave to designate responsible third parties, under Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code §33.004 by this date.
Civil cases
Page 2 | DEADLINE & TIMLINES
Parties seeking affirmative relief must designate experts under TRCP 194.2(f) no later than 120 days before the Initial Trial Setting.
IV. Deadline for any Party seeking affirmative relief to designate experts as per Tex. R. Civ. P. 194.2(f) - 120 days before the Initial Trial Setting.
Civil cases
Page 2 | DEADLINES & TIMELINES
The application is due January 31st of each year.
Due January 31st of each year.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Application for Appointment as Attorney Ad Litem, Guardian Ad Litem or Amicus
Trial announcements are made per Local Rule 3.02 (Thursday through Friday at 10:30 a.m. the week before the Tuesday trial date); failure to announce results in dismissal.
Trial Announcements are to made according to Local Rules 3.02 Announcements for Trial. (Starting on Thursday and through Friday at 10:30 a.m. the week prior to the Tuesday trial date.) If no announcement is made, the case shall be dismissed.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Trial Announcements
The Joint Pretrial Order must be submitted 2 days before the Pretrial Conference, or the Pretrial will be canceled.
The Court’s Joint Pretrial Order shall be required for all cases lasting 3 days or longer. It can be located on this Court’s website and must be submitted 2 days before the Pretrial Conference, or the Pretrial will be canceled.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Pre-Trial
Motions for summary judgment must be heard no later than 45 days before trial, subject to leave for good cause; they are heard by submission.
All Motions for Summary Judgment must be heard no later than forty-five (45) days before trial. A party may move for leave to allow such hearing based upon good cause. All motions for summary judgment are heard via submission.
Civil cases
Page 3 | Motions for Summary Judgment
A case will be dismissed for want of prosecution if a default judgment is not obtained within 45 days after service on a defendant.
If service has been made on a Defendant and a Default Judgment is not obtained after 45 days from service, the case shall be dismissed for want of prosecution.
Civil cases
Page 4 | Initial Dismissal for Want of Prosecution Docket
A case will be dismissed if service is not obtained within 4 months and there is no activity.
If no service has been obtained after 4 months and no activity has been made on the case, the case shall be dismissed.
Civil cases
Page 4 | Initial Dismissal for Want of Prosecution Docket
All pretrial deadlines are suspended for cases set for jury trial until jury trials are reinstated in Dallas County.
All pretrial deadlines are hereby suspended for all cases which are set for jury trial in the 193rd. Deadlines will go back in effect once jury trials are reinstated within Dallas county.
Civil cases
Page 1 | 2
If the parties do not make an announcement on Monday by noon, the case may be dismissed, or a default may be taken.
If the parties do not make an announcement on Monday by noon, the case may be dismissed, or a default may be taken.
Civil cases
Page 1 | 4
Emergency filings made when the Clerk's office is closed must be docketed and assigned to a Court at the earliest practicable time, with writs returnable to that Court and the acting Judge notifying the assigned Court.
Whenever immediate action of a Judge is required in an emergency when the Clerk's office is not open for business, the case shall nevertheless at the earliest practicable time be docketed and assigned to a Court as provided in Local Rule 1.01 and all writs and process shall be returnable to that Court. Any Judge taking such emergency action shall notify the Court in which such case is docketed at the earliest convenient and practical time.
Page 6 | Local Rule 2.01
If any pre-trial deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline moves to the first preceding date that is not a weekend or holiday.
in the event that one of these dates falls on a weekend or holiday, the date will be the first preceding date, which is not a weekend or a holiday
Civil cases
Page 1 | DEADLINES & TIMELINES
Amended pleadings may be filed after the amended-pleading deadline if they are filed within two weeks after the pleading to which they respond.
Amended may be filed after the deadline for amended pleadings, if filed within two (2) weeks after the pleading to which they respond.
Civil cases
Page 2 | DEADLINES & TIMELINES
Challenged material remains confidential for 20 days if no motion is filed, or until the Court rules if a motion is filed.
The material shall be treated as Confidential Material until the expiration of twenty (20) days if no motion is made by the party requesting confidential treatment (at which time the material shall no longer be treated as Confidential Material), or, if a motion is made, until the Court rules.
Civil cases
Page 3 | 3. Challenge to Claim
Parties should exchange all Pre-Trial materials no later than ten (10) days before Trial, unless otherwise ordered.
Unless otherwise ordered, parties should exchange all Pre-Trial materials no later than ten (10) days before Trial.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Pre-Trial
Expert challenges must be heard no later than forty-five (45) days before Trial unless otherwise allowed in the Uniform Scheduling Order.
Unless otherwise allowed for in the Court’s Uniform Scheduling Order, expert challenges must be heard no later than forty-five (45) days before Trial.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Pre-Trial
Parties shall meet and confer on Pre-Trial issues no later than seven (7) days before Trial.
Parties shall meet and confer so as to maximize agreement, on Pre-Trial issues no later than seven (7) days before Trial.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Pre-Trial
Parties must request a Pre-Trial hearing the month before Trial with the Court Coordinators office if outstanding Pre-Trial issues will require a hearing.
If the parties anticipate outstanding Pre-Trial issues will require a hearing, the parties are to request a Pre- Trial hearing the month before Trial with the Court Coordinators
Civil cases
Page 1 | Pre-Trial
Counsel should have pleadings on file before requesting a hearing from the District Clerk's office.
Counsel should have pleadings on file before calling the District Clerks office to request a hearing.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Motions
Jury questionnaire disputes must be brought to the Court's attention promptly and clearly before the morning of Trial.
The dispute needs to be brought to the Court’s attention promptly and clearly before the morning of Trial.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Voir dire
Service and Proof of Service Rules
The movant must send the Zoom link to all parties.
MOVANT MUST SEND LINK TO ALL PARTIES!
Page 1 | Procedures for the Zoom proceedings
Before presenting a TRO application to the Court, the applicant must notify the opposing party (or counsel) and provide a copy of the application and proposed order at least 2 hours in advance, unless an exception applies.
relief shall notify the opposing party's counsel, or the opposing party if unrepresented by counsel in the present controversy, and provide opposing counsel or party with a copy of the application and proposed order at least 2 hours before the application and proposed order are to be presented to the Court for decision, except as provided in subparagraph b) hereof.
Page 7 | 2.02
Documents involving expedited relief or hearings within seven days must be served on all opposing parties the same day they are filed, except original petitions and TRO applications.
Other than original petitions and any accompanying applications for temporary restraining order, any documents filed with the Court that relate to requests for expedited relief or to matters set for hearing within seven days of filing must be served upon all I opposing parties in a manner that will ensure receipt of the papers by them on the same day the papers are filed with the Court or Clerk.
Page 8 | 2.05
Respondent must file and serve all responsive evidence at least 4 days before the TI hearing.
4 Days before TI Hearing – Respondent must file and serve all responsive evidence including affidavits and excerpts of discovery;
Civil cases
Page 3 | TRO's
Applicant must file and serve all argument and supporting evidence at least 10 days before the TI hearing.
10 Days before TI Hearing – Applicant must file and serve all argument and supporting evidence including the final affidavits (see ¶1) and excerpts of discovery;
Civil cases
Page 3 | TRO's
New cases filed during this period remain subject to citation, service, and due diligence requirements; service cannot be postponed.
You will not be able to file a new case and then have citation and service postponed during this time period. Issues of due diligence will still apply to all cases filed during this time period.
Civil cases
Page 2 | 9
The exhibits should be e-mailed to opposing counsel as well.
The exhibits should be e-mailed to opposing counsel as well.
Page 1 | Procedures for the Zoom proceedings
The Zoom link must be sent to all intended participants, including witnesses, attorneys, and parties.
Send the Zoom link to everyone that you intend to have participate in the proceeding (witnesses, attorneys, parties, etc.)
Page 1 | Procedures for the Zoom proceedings
Copies of the Suggestion of Bankruptcy must be served on all counsel of record.
Such notice shall be made by filing a Suggestion of Bankruptcy with the clerk of the Court and serving copies on all counsel of record.
Page 6 | Local Rule 1.13
A self-represented litigant who fails to accept or pick up mail at the address they provided is deemed to have received it; delivery may be proven by a postal receipt for certified or registered mail or comparable proof.
Failure to accept delivery or to pick up mail addressed to the address provided by a self-represented litigant will be considered constructive receipt of the mailed or delivered document and may be established by a postal service receipt for certified or registered mail or comparable proof of delivery.
Page 13 | 4.05. SELF-REPRESENTED/PRO SE LITIGANTS (revised)
A party joining an additional party must serve a copy of this order on the new party at the same time as the joinder pleading.
The party joining an additional party shall serve a copy of this Order on the new party concurrently with the pleading joining that party.
Civil cases
Page 2 | DEADLINES & TIMELINES
Copies of exhibits and evidence must be sent contemporaneously to opposing counsel.
Copies must contemporaneously be directed to opposing Counsel.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Proceedings in the Courtroom.
A copy of the participant information submission must be sent to all counsel of record and self-represented parties.
The attorneys and parties are directed to collaborate and transmit to the Court Reporter in a single submission with a copy to all counsel of record and self-represented parties.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Proceedings in the Courtroom.
Applicant must serve final affidavits and identify witnesses within 2 days after the TRO application is filed or granted.
2 Days after TRO application filed or granted, whichever is later – Applicant must serve final affidavits of all supporting witnesses under Applicant’s control and identify all other supporting witnesses and documents;
Civil cases
Page 3 | TRO's
Filing Fees and Waivers
Before a severed claim is assigned a new cause number, plaintiff's attorney must satisfy the Clerk's deposit-for-costs requirement.
Before the severed claim is assigned a new cause number, the attorney for plaintiff in the new cause shall meet the Clerk's requirement concerning deposit for costs.
Page 6 | Local Rule 1.09
Courtesy Copy Requirements
For contested motions over 50 pages, counsel must provide a courtesy copy of the motion, response, and reply to the Court no later than two business days before the hearing.
On all contested motions over 50 pages, counsel must provide a courtesy copy of the motion, response, and reply, if any, to the Court no later than two (2) business days prior to the hearing.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Motions
Email courtesy copies of exhibits to 193court@dallascourts.org.
Please Email Courtesy Copies of Exhibits to 193court@dallascourts.org.
Page 1 | Procedures for the Zoom proceedings
If exhibits exceed 50 pages, mail physical copies.
If the number of pages exceeds 50, please mail physical copies.
Page 1 | Procedures for the Zoom proceedings
Please e-mail all exhibits that you intend to offer during the proceedings as soon as possible to VDobbins@dallascounty.org, the Court Reporter.
Please e-mail all exhibits that you intend to offer during the proceedings as soon as possible to VDobbins@dallascounty.org, the Court Reporter.
Page 1 | Procedures for the Zoom proceedings
Attachments must be listed and a courtesy copy sent to the Court.
Please list attachments here and send a courtesy copy of the attachments to the Court
Civil cases
Page 4 | F. ATTACHMENTS
Parties must submit a courtesy copy of the TI notebook to the Court 2 days before the TI hearing.
2 Days before TI Hearing – Parties shall submit a courtesy copy of the TI notebook to the Court, including argument and supporting evidence.
Civil cases
Page 3 | TRO's
Sealing & Redaction Procedures
The protective order does not itself seal Court Records; any motion to seal Court Records must strictly comply with Rule 76a of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure.
This Order does not seal Court Records in this case and is only intended to facilitate the prompt production of discovery materials. Any motion to seal Court Records must strictly adhere to Rule 76a, TRCP.
Civil cases
Page 7
A party may designate deposition portions as confidential on the record or by written notice to opposing counsel within 72 hours after receiving the deposition transcript.
A party may, on the record of a deposition or by written notice to opposing counsel no later than seventy-two (72) hours after receipt of the deposition transcript, claim any portion(s) of the deposition as “CONFIDENTIAL” based on a good faith determination that any
Civil cases
Page 1 | 2. Designation
A party may designate a document as confidential by stamping it "CONFIDENTIAL" or using another reasonable method agreed by the parties, provided the stamping does not obscure the document's writings.
A document (or portion of a document) that a party determines in good faith to be a Protected Document may be claimed as confidential by (1) stamping the word “CONFIDENTIAL” on the document, or (2) using any other reasonable method agreed to by the parties. Such stamping shall not obscure any writings on the documents.
Civil cases
Page 1 | 2. Designation
When a confidentiality claim is challenged, the party requesting confidential treatment must move for a ruling from the Court.
In the event a claim is challenged, the party requesting confidential treatment will move for an appropriate ruling from the Court.
Civil cases
Page 3 | 3. Challenge to Claim
Any party may challenge a confidentiality designation by written notice of objection to the claiming party's counsel; challenges to deposition designations may also be made on the record.
Any party may challenge a claim made under Section 2(a) or 2(b) by written notice of its objection to counsel for the claiming party or non-party. Challenge to a claim made under Section 2(b) may be made either upon the record of the deposition or as provided in the preceding sentence.
Civil cases
Page 3 | 3. Challenge to Claim
Parties are not required to challenge confidentiality designations at the time of designation, and failing to do so does not waive the right to challenge later.
A party shall not be obligated to challenge the propriety of the designation of documents as Confidential Materials at the time of designation, and failure to do so shall not preclude a subsequent challenge to the designation.
Civil cases
Page 3 | 3. Challenge to Claim
Filing Bundling Requirements
Attorneys and parties must collaborate and transmit participant information to the Court Reporter in a single submission.
The attorneys and parties are directed to collaborate and transmit to the Court Reporter in a single submission with a copy to all counsel of record and self-represented parties.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Proceedings in the Courtroom.
Pre-Motion Conference Requirements
No counsel for a party shall file, nor shall any clerk set for hearing, any motion unless accompanied with a "Certificate of Conference" signed by counsel for movant in one of the forms set out in Rule 2.07(c). b. Prior to the filing of a motion, counsel for the potential movant shall personally attempt to contact counsel for the potential respondent to hold or schedule a conference to resolve the disputed matters. Counsel for the potential movant shall make at least three attempts to contact counsel for the potential respondent. The attempts shall be made during regular business hours on at least two business days.
No counsel for a party shall file, nor shall any clerk set for hearing, any motion unless accompanied with a "Certificate of Conference" signed by counsel for movant in one of the forms set out in Rule 2.07(c). b. Prior to the filing of a motion, counsel for the potential movant shall personally attempt to contact counsel for the potential respondent to hold or schedule a conference to resolve the disputed matters. Counsel for the potential movant shall make at least three attempts to contact counsel for the potential respondent. The attempts shall be made during regular business hours on at least two business days.
Page 8 | 2.07
The Court will not conduct a Pre-Trial conference on matters the parties have not discussed and meaningfully attempted to resolve.
The Court will not conduct a Pre-Trial conference on matters the parties have not discussed and made a meaningful attempt to resolve.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Pre-Trial
Adjournment & Extension Requirements
Jury trials are suspended until May 8, 2020, and previously set jury cases are continued sua sponte and reset on future jury dockets.
Pursuant to the Declaration of the Hon. Clay Jenkins, Dallas County Judge, the utilization of Juries in the George Allen Civil Courts Building is hereby suspended until May 8, 2020, or until further Order from the County Judge. Cases which have been previously set on the respective District Courts' Jury dockets between the effective date of this Order and May 8, 2020 are hereby Continued sua sponte and shall be reset on future Jury Trial dockets of each of the respective Courts, consistent with the existing applicable rules and policies of each of said Courts.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Cases Set for Trial by Jury.
The Court may cancel any proceeding involving a person who is infected with COVID-19, symptomatic, awaiting test results, or under quarantine if personal presence would expose others or violate CDC/healthcare quarantine standards.
The Court may, upon notice, cancel any proceeding that requires the involvement of a person infected with COVID19, showing symptoms, waiting for test results, or under self or ordered quarantine if the person will be required to personally present in a setting that would expose others or violate quarantine standards set by Center for Disease Control or their health care provider.
Civil cases
Page 5 | Miscellaneous
The Court generally grants a first continuance but will not grant a continuance after multiple trial settings even by agreement; parties may set the motion for hearing to explain extenuating circumstances.
The Court will consider all motions for continuance and will generally grant a continuance of the first trial setting. If there have been multiple trial settings, the court will not grant the continuance, even with the agreement of all parties. However, the parties may set the continuance motion for hearing to explain to the court the extenuating circumstances.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Continuances
the DWOP dockets and status conference dockets may be handled by submission with an email to the 193rd Court Coordinator (Cynthia.Willis@dallascounty.org) explaining your request for additional time. The court will then determine if and how much additional time will be given and reset the case for a future hearing.
the DWOP dockets and status conference dockets may be handled by submission with an email to the 193rd Court Coordinator (Cynthia.Willis@dallascounty.org) explaining your request for additional time. The court will then determine if and how much additional time will be given and reset the case for a future hearing.
Civil cases
Page 2 | 10
Permission to exceed page limits may be granted by the Presiding Judge upon a showing of compelling reasons.
Permission to file a brief in excess of these page limitations may be granted by the Presiding Judge of any particular Court upon a showing of compelling reasons.
Civil cases
Page 1 | GENERAL ORDER
Chambers Communication Rules
For remote proceedings, the moving party must email the Court Reporter and Court Coordinator the email addresses of all participants at least 48 hours before the hearing.
In any proceeding conducted remotely either by telephonic or technological means or by any other means which may be deemed appropriate by the Court, the moving Party shall, no less than 48 hours in advance of said hearing, email the Court Reporter and the Court Coordinator the email address of all attorneys, (or self represented parties), witnesses and others who may be participating in said proceeding so that information regarding the technological platform, any link, access code thereto and other pertinent information necessary to effectuate the remote connection may be effectuated.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Proceedings in the Courtroom.
When the assigned judge is unavailable for a TRO hearing, the Court Coordinator directs the hearing to another judge; attorneys and others are strictly prohibited from approaching any court to inquire about a particular judge for the TRO.
The District Courts have an established policy with regard to the assignment of a Judge to hear a T.R.O. when the Court in which the underlying case has been filed is not available. The Court Coordinator of the Court in which the underlying case has been filed may direct any required hearing to another District Judge or Associate Judge as appropriate. The practice of an Attorney or other person approaching any Court to inquire of particular Judge to hear such an Order remains strictly prohibited.
Civil cases
Page 5
All participants and individuals appearing at the District Court must alert court staff (including the Bailiff) if they or another participant have COVID-19, flu-like symptoms, fever, coughing, or sneezing.
Every participant in a proceeding, witness, counsel, paralegal, client or other individual who appears at the District Court is Ordered to alert the Court staff, specifically including the Bailiff, if the participant has, or knows of another participant who has COVID-19, or other flu-like symptoms or fever, coughing or sneezing.
Civil cases
Page 5 | Miscellaneous
Attorneys must obtain Judge Whitmore's permission before filing a TRO with another court; TROs from other courts are considered only with that court's permission.
If Judge Whitmore is unavailable, Counsel MUST have permission from Judge Whitmore before “shopping” the order to other courts. Again, Attorneys are not to “shop” a TRO without Judge Whitmore’s permission. TRO’s from other courts will be considered by Judge Whitmore ONLY with permission from that court pursuant to the established procedure.
Civil cases
Page 3 | TRO's
To cancel or pass a hearing, contact the Clerks' Office at 214-653-7791.
To CANCEL/PASS the Hearing, Please Contact the Clerks’ Office at 214-653-7791.
Page 1 | Procedures for the Zoom proceedings
The application and a resume must be emailed to the Court Coordinator at 193Court@dallascourts.org.
Email this application and a copy of your resume, to the Court Coordinator at: 193Court@dallascourts.org.
Civil cases
Page 1 | Application for Appointment as Attorney Ad Litem, Guardian Ad Litem or Amicus
Counsel must email the court coordinator to request a TRO hearing and provide a timeframe; the coordinator will set a date and time for a Zoom hearing.
Upon filing of the Application and the Order, counsel will email the court coordinator requesting a hearing on the TRO. Please provide the coordinator with a time-frame by which the TRO should be heard. The coordinator, will then respond back with a date and time for the TRO to be heard via Zoom.
Civil cases
Page 3 | TRO's
Counsel needing more time must contact the court Administrator before the DWOP hearing to request a reset.
If counsel requires more time to effect service, etc., contact the court Administrator PRIOR to the hearing and dismissal time and the case MAY be reset to another DWOP date or a Status Conference.
Civil cases
Page 4 | Initial Dismissal for Want of Prosecution Docket
Do not fax the Court or Administrator without prior permission; email may be used to communicate with the Administrator but pleadings must not be filed with the Administrator; permission for email/fax is limited to the specific incident and requires copying opposing counsel.
Please do not fax either the Court or Court Administrator any documents unless prior permission has been granted. You may communicate with the Administrator via email, but pleadings are not to be filed with the Administrator. If permission is granted to communicate with the Court via email or fax, it is limited to that particular incident, and all opposing counsel/parties must be copied.
Civil cases
Page 4 | E-Mail and/or Fax Communication
DWOP and status conference dockets may be handled by submission; parties email the 193rd Court Coordinator to request additional time.
the DWOP dockets and status conference dockets may be handled by submission with an email to the 193rd Court Coordinator (Cynthia.Willis@dallascounty.org) explaining your request for additional time.
Civil cases
Page 2 | 10
Members of the public may obtain access to telephonic or technological court proceedings by contacting the Court Coordinator for dial-in or access code/link information.
Consistent with the State policy of open Courts, any member of the public wishing to listen/view and telephonically or technologically conducted proceeding may gain access to same by contacting the Court Coordinator for dial-in info or access code/link information.
Civil cases
Page 5 | Miscellaneous
Please also provide a word-formatted copy to the court reporter at vdobbins@dallascounty.org. and the court at 193Court@dallascourts.org.
Please also provide a word-formatted copy to the court reporter at vdobbins@dallascounty.org. and the court at 193Court@dallascourts.org.
Civil cases
Page 2 | Jury Charges