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Court Rules

Western District of Washington Document Format Requirements

193 rules from official source documents

Font, margin, spacing, and file format requirements for court filings.

CRITICAL

First page of any amendment must show debtor's name and case number; amendment must be verified.

The debtor's name and the case number shall appear on the first page of any amended petition, or amended or supplemental schedule, statement, or list. Any amendment or supplement shall be verified in the same manner as required for the original document.

Bankruptcy Mary Jo Heston

CRITICAL

Format
PAPER

Exhibits for trials and evidentiary hearings shall only be submitted on paper unless otherwise ordered by the court.

Exhibits for trials and evidentiary hearings shall only be submitted on paper unless otherwise ordered by the court.

Bankruptcy Mary Jo Heston

CRITICAL

Professional attire required for video appearances.

Attorneys and litigants shall dress as if they were physically appearing in the courtroom. This means attorneys shall appear in professional attire. Litigants shall be appropriately dressed.

Chief Judge David G. Estudillo

CRITICAL

Format
PDF

All PDFs submitted to the Court must be text-searchable.

All PDFs submitted to the Court must be text-searchable.

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead

CRITICALCivil cases

Margins
left 1 in, right 1 in

15-minute recesses at 10:30 a.m. and 2:45 p.m., lunch recess 12:00-1:30 p.m., counsel available by 1:15 p.m.

15-minute recesses will be taken at 10:30 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. And a lunch recess will be taken from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m., although counsel should be ready and available to address any trial matters that need to be discussed outside the presence of the jury, if any, by 1:15 p.m.

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead

CRITICALCivil cases

Exhibits must be submitted in three-ring binders with numbered tabs.

Each set of exhibits must be submitted in a three-ring binder with appropriately numbered tabs.

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead

CRITICALCivil cases

Courtroom opens at 8:15 a.m., counsel ready by 8:30 a.m., trial starts at 9:00 a.m., ends at 4:15 p.m.

The courtroom is open to the parties starting at around 8:15 a.m. each day. Counsel should be ready and available to address pretrial matters, if any, by 8:30 a.m. Trial will begin promptly at 9:00 a.m. and end each day at 4:15 p.m.

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead

CRITICALCivil cases

Voir dire will use successive Zoom panels of 12-15 jurors each.

Voir dire will unfold on Zoom in successive panels since not all prospective jurors will fit on a display screen at once. Panels will typically consist of 12-15 jurors per panel.

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead

CRITICALCivil cases

Format
PDF

Electronic exhibits must be one file per exhibit, max 80 characters in filename.

electronic exhibits must be transmitted individually (i.e., one exhibit per file), but exhibits may have multiple pages; Exhibit file names should match the descriptions listed on the joint exhibit list as closely as possible except that file names should not exceed 80 characters

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead

CRITICAL

Footnotes must be single spaced and use a font of at least 12 points.

Footnotes must be single spaced and 12-point font or larger.

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead

CRITICALCivil cases

Electronic exhibits must be transmitted individually (i.e., one exhibit per file), but exhibits may have multiple pages; (2) Exhibit file names should match the descriptions listed on the joint exhibit list as closely as possible except that file names should not exceed 80 characters, e.g., Ex. 1 − Accident Scene Photo; Ex. 501– Email dated 4−03−23.

Electronic exhibits must be transmitted individually (i.e., one exhibit per file), but exhibits may have multiple pages; (2) Exhibit file names should match the descriptions listed on the joint exhibit list as closely as possible except that file names should not exceed 80 characters, e.g., Ex. 1 − Accident Scene Photo; Ex. 501– Email dated 4−03−23.

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson

CRITICALCivil cases

Trial exhibits must be in three-ring binders with numbered tabs.

Each set of exhibits shall be submitted in a three-ring binder with appropriately numbered tabs.

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson

CRITICALCivil cases

Electronic exhibits must be transmitted individually (i.e., one exhibit per file), but exhibits may have multiple pages; (2) Exhibit file names should match the descriptions listed on the joint exhibit list as closely as possible except that file names should not exceed 80 characters, e.g., Ex. 1 − Accident Scene Photo; Ex. 501– Email dated 4−03−23.

Electronic exhibits must be transmitted individually (i.e., one exhibit per file), but exhibits may have multiple pages; (2) Exhibit file names should match the descriptions listed on the joint exhibit list as closely as possible except that file names should not exceed 80 characters, e.g., Ex. 1 − Accident Scene Photo; Ex. 501– Email dated 4−03−23.

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson

CRITICALCivil cases

Courtesy copies must include CM/ECF header and be double-sided.

The courtesy copy must be the version of the document with the header generated by CM/ECF, as this header includes important information (i.e., case number, document number, page number, date filed, etc.). Courtesy copies shall be printed double-sided.

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson

CRITICALCivil cases

Trial exhibits must be submitted in a three-ring binder with numbered tabs.

Each set of exhibits shall be submitted in a three-ring binder with appropriately numbered tabs.

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson

CRITICALCivil cases

The courtesy copy must be the version of the document with the header generated by CM/ECF, as this header includes important information (i.e., case number, document number, page number, date filed, etc.). Courtesy copies shall be printed double-sided. Courtesy copies should be three- hole punched, tabbed, and placed in a binder or otherwise bound.

The courtesy copy must be the version of the document with the header generated by CM/ECF, as this header includes important information (i.e., case number, document number, page number, date filed, etc.). Courtesy copies shall be printed double-sided. Courtesy copies should be three- hole punched, tabbed, and placed in a binder or otherwise bound.

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson

CRITICALCivil cases

Plaintiff exhibits must be numbered consecutively from 1; Defendant exhibits from 500.

The Court hereby alters the LCR 16.1 procedure for numbering exhibits: Plaintiff(s)’ exhibits shall be numbered consecutively beginning with 1; Defendant(s)’ exhibits shall be numbered consecutively beginning with 500.

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson

CRITICALCivil cases

Trial exhibits must be submitted in a three-ring binder with numbered tabs.

Each set of exhibits shall be submitted in a three-ring binder with appropriately numbered tabs.

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson

CRITICALCivil cases

Audio/video exhibits must be playable in Windows Media Player.

• Exhibits that contain audio or video must be playable in Windows Media Player.

Judge Lauren King

CRITICALCivil cases

Electronic exhibits must follow specific numbering format.

• Exhibits must be numbered as follows:

Judge Lauren King

CRITICALCivil cases

D. Briefs and Exhibits Should be Searchable

D. Briefs and Exhibits Should be Searchable

Judge Lauren King

CRITICALCivil cases

Format
PDF

Electronic exhibits must be on thumb drive or Box.com in PDF format.

• Exhibits must be on a thumb drive or uploaded to the Court’s Box.com folder in PDF format.

Judge Lauren King

CRITICALCivil cases

Plaintiff exhibits numbered 1+, defendant exhibits numbered 500+.

Plaintiff(s)' exhibits must be numbered consecutively beginning with 1; defendant(s)' exhibits must be numbered consecutively beginning with 500.

Judge Lauren King

CRITICALCivil cases

C. Citations Should be in the Body of the Brief, Not in Footnotes

C. Citations Should be in the Body of the Brief, Not in Footnotes

Judge Lauren King

CRITICALCivil cases

Each set of exhibits must be submitted in a three-ring binder with appropriately numbered tabs.

Each set of exhibits must be submitted in a three-ring binder with appropriately numbered tabs.

Judge Lauren King

CRITICALCivil cases

Format
PDF

Each electronic exhibit must be a single PDF document.

• Each exhibit must be a single PDF document.

Judge Lauren King

CRITICAL

Format
PDF

Exhibits must be delivered to the Courtroom Deputy prior to the trial date. Exhibits are to be delivered in the following format: • Exhibits must be on a thumb drive or uploaded to the Court's Box.com folder in PDF format. • Each exhibit must be a single PDF document. • PDF documents should be scanned using Optical Character Recognition if possible and encoded as a searchable PDF. • Exhibits that contain audio or video must be playable in Windows Media Player.

Exhibits must be delivered to the Courtroom Deputy prior to the trial date. Exhibits are to be delivered in the following format: • Exhibits must be on a thumb drive or uploaded to the Court's Box.com folder in PDF format. • Each exhibit must be a single PDF document. • PDF documents should be scanned using Optical Character Recognition if possible and encoded as a searchable PDF. • Exhibits that contain audio or video must be playable in Windows Media Player.

Judge Lauren King

CRITICAL

Judge Lin expects punctuality and respectful treatment of all persons in courtroom.

Judge Lin expects everyone in her courtroom to treat each and every person with dignity and respect. Therefore, at a minimum, she expects the following: 1. Be punctual.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICALCivil cases

Format
PDF

Electronic exhibits must be on USB/CD in PDF format with specific naming conventions.

The electronic set of the trial exhibits must be delivered to Kadya Peter, Courtroom Deputy, in the following format: Each set of exhibits must be on a USB flash drive (preferred) or CD in PDF format. Each exhibit must be a single PDF document. If possible, PDF documents should be provided in a text-searchable format. Exhibits that contain audio or video must be playable in Windows Media Player. Exhibits must be numbered and named. The naming convention for each exhibit file name must include the exhibit number and a brief description. For example, Plaintiff's Exhibit 1 would be named: P-1contract.pdf. Defendant's Exhibit 1 would be named: D-1email.pdf.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICAL

Audio/video exhibits must be playable in Windows Media Player.

Exhibits that contain audio or video must be playable in Windows Media Player.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICAL

Citations should be in Bluebook format and must appear in the body of the briefing, not in footnotes or endnotes (except for citations that follow explanatory footnotes).

Citations should be in Bluebook format and must be included in the body of the briefing, not in footnotes or endnotes (with the exception of citations that follow explanatory footnotes).

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICALCriminal cases

Citations must be in body of brief, not footnotes/endnotes (except explanatory footnotes).

Substantive information and discussion should appear in the body of the brief; footnotes are to be reserved for explanatory and supplemental information. Citations should be in Bluebook format and must be included in the body of the briefing, not in footnotes or endnotes (with the exception of citations that follow explanatory footnotes).

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICALCriminal cases

As a general matter, Counsel will not be restricted to speaking at the podium for opening or closing arguments unless the Court, Court Reporter, a witness, other Counsel, or a juror indicates that they are unable to hear. However, Counsel shall stay at least five (5) feet back from the railing in front of the jury box and, to aid the Court Reporter, may be required to use a handheld microphone provided by the Court if leaving the podium.

As a general matter, Counsel will not be restricted to speaking at the podium for opening or closing arguments unless the Court, Court Reporter, a witness, other Counsel, or a juror indicates that they are unable to hear. However, Counsel shall stay at least five (5) feet back from the railing in front of the jury box and, to aid the Court Reporter, may be required to use a handheld microphone provided by the Court if leaving the podium.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICALCivil cases

Exhibit numbering system: P-1, D-1, J-1; double-sided printing; three-ring binder with tabs.

Plaintiff(s)' exhibits shall be numbered consecutively beginning with P-1; Defendant(s)' exhibits shall be numbered consecutively beginning with D-1. Joint exhibits shall be numbered consecutively beginning with J-1. Duplicate documents shall not be listed twice. Each exhibit shall be printed double-sided unless there is a specific need to not do so. Once a Party has identified an exhibit in the pretrial order, it may be used by any Party. Each set of exhibits shall be submitted in a three-ring binder with appropriately numbered tabs.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICALCivil cases

Each jury instruction must begin on a new page.

Each instruction shall begin on a new page.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICALCivil cases

Format
DOCX

Joint Instructions Statement, jury instruction chart, and verdict form must be submitted in Word format via email to specific addresses.

The Joint Instructions Statement, jury instruction chart, and verdict form must be submitted in Microsoft Word format via e-mail to linorders@wawd.uscourts.gov and to Kadya Peter, Courtroom Deputy, at Kadya_Peter@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICAL

Electronic exhibits must be numbered and named with exhibit number and description.

Exhibits must be numbered and named. The naming convention for each exhibit file name must include the exhibit number and a brief description. For example, Government's exhibit 1 would be named: G-1contract.pdf. Defendant's exhibit 1 would be named: D-1email.pdf.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICAL

Government exhibits numbered G-1+, Defendant exhibits D-1+, Joint exhibits J-1+.

The Government's exhibits shall be numbered consecutively beginning with G-1; Defendant(s)'exhibits shall be numbered consecutively beginning with D-1. Joint exhibits shall be numbered consecutively beginning with J-1.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICAL

Format
DOCX

Joint instructions and verdict form must be submitted in Word format via email.

The Joint Instructions Statement and verdict form must be submitted in Microsoft Word format via e-mail to linorders@wawd.uscourts.gov and to Kadya Peter, Courtroom Deputy, at Kadya_Peter@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICAL

Applies to
Joint claim chart

The Joint Claim Chart must follow the format in the Sample Joint Claim Chart.

The Joint Claim Chart must be in the format provided in the Sample Joint Claim Chart found in the next Section.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICALCivil cases

Format
DOCX

Voir dire documents must be submitted in Word format via email to specific addresses.

In addition to being filed on the docket, all of these documents must be submitted in Microsoft Word format via e-mail to linorders@wawd.uscourts.gov and to Kadya Peter, Courtroom Deputy, at Kadya_Peter@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICAL

Each exhibit shall be printed double-sided unless there is a specific need to not do so.

Each exhibit shall be printed double-sided unless there is a specific need to not do so.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICAL

Exhibits must be submitted in three-ring binders with numbered tabs.

Each set of exhibits shall be submitted in a three-ring binder with appropriately numbered tabs.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICAL

Format
PDF

Electronic exhibits must be on CD/USB in PDF format, one PDF per exhibit.

The electronic set of trial exhibits must be delivered to Kadya Peter, Courtroom Deputy, in the following format: • Exhibits must be on a CD or USB flash drive (preferred) in PDF format. • Each exhibit must be a single PDF document.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICAL

Citations must be in Bluebook format in the body, not footnotes.

Citations should be in Bluebook format and must be included in the body of the briefing, not footnotes or endnotes.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICALCriminal cases

Counsel must stand when addressing court/witness/jury if jury is present.

If a jury is present in the courtroom, Counsel are required to stand when addressing the Court, a witness, or the jury, unless a disability- or health-related accommodation has been requested and granted (see supra Section III.A), or the necessity of such accommodation is readily apparent.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICALCivil cases

Courtesy copies must include ECF-generated header.

The courtesy copy must be the version of the document with the header generated by

Judge Tiffany M. Cartwright

CRITICAL

Exhibits must be numbered: Plaintiff 001-499, Defendant 500+.

Exhibits must be numbered as follows: Plaintiff: 001 - 499 Defendant: 500 – forward

Judge Tiffany M. Cartwright

CRITICAL

Exhibits should be numbered as follows on the Word list: Plaintiff: 001 – 499 Defendant: 500 – forward

Exhibits should be numbered as follows on the Word list: Plaintiff: 001 – 499 Defendant: 500 – forward

Judge Tiffany M. Cartwright

CRITICALCivil cases

Courtesy copies should be printed double-sided. Courtesy copies should be three-hole punched and tabbed but not submitted in a three-ring binder, to avoid waste.

Courtesy copies should be printed double-sided. Courtesy copies should be three-hole punched and tabbed but not submitted in a three-ring binder, to avoid waste.

Judge Tiffany M. Cartwright

CRITICAL

Format
PDF

Electronic exhibits must be submitted before trial in specific format.

Exhibits must be presented to the Court prior to the trial date. Exhibits are to be delivered in the following format:

Judge Tiffany M. Cartwright

CRITICALCriminal cases

Unless otherwise directed, parties must provide their exhibits to Judge Tsuchida on the trial date in a three-ring binder with appropriately numbered tabs.

Unless otherwise directed, the parties shall provide Judge Tsuchida, on the date of trial, their exhibits in a three-ring binder with appropriately numbered tabs.

Magistrate Judge Brian A. Tsuchida

CRITICALCriminal cases

Each exhibit must be clearly marked.

Each exhibit shall be clearly marked.

Magistrate Judge Brian A. Tsuchida

CRITICALCivil cases

Each party must submit its exhibits in a three-ring binder with appropriately numbered tabs.

Each party shall submit its exhibits in a three-ring binder with appropriately numbered tabs.

Magistrate Judge Brian A. Tsuchida

CRITICAL

Margins
top 3 in, bottom 1 in, left 1 in, right 1 in

Pleasings must be on 8.5x11 white paper, double-spaced, with 3-inch top margin on first page, 1-inch other margins, 12-point text, and 10-point footnotes.

Form Under Local Rule CR 10 all pleadings must be on 8.5 X 11 inch white paper, be typed or clearly written and double spaced except for quotations. Three inches of space shall be left at the top of the first page. All other margins must be at least 1 inch wide. The text must be at least 12 points. Footnotes must be at least 10 points.

Magistrate Judge Brian A. Tsuchida

CRITICALCriminal cases

The United States’ exhibits must be numbered consecutively starting with 1, and Defendants’ exhibits consecutively starting with 1A.

The United States’ exhibits shall be numbered consecutively beginning with 1; Defendants’ exhibits shall be numbered consecutively beginning 1A.

Magistrate Judge Brian A. Tsuchida

CRITICALCivil cases

Three judge court cases require special labeling and quadruplicate filings

If the case is such that any party contends that it will require a hearing before a three judge court, the words “THREE JUDGE COURT” shall be typed in capital letters on the first page of the complaint, answer, or other pleading making such allegation immediately below the name of the pleading to the right of the name of the cause, and the original and three copies of the complaint or other pleadings shall be left with the clerk and all other pleadings and papers filed in the cause shall be submitted in quadruplicate, unless the court rules that the cause is not properly before a three judge court.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

(3) Bottom Notation. At the left side of the bottom of each page, an abbreviated title of the pleading, motion or other filing should be repeated, followed by the case number. The page number should be placed after the abbreviated title or in the middle of the bottom of each page. At the right side of the bottom of each page, the law firm (if any), mailing address and telephone number of the attorney or party preparing the paper should be printed or typed.

(3) Bottom Notation. At the left side of the bottom of each page, an abbreviated title of the pleading, motion or other filing should be repeated, followed by the case number. The page number should be placed after the abbreviated title or in the middle of the bottom of each page. At the right side of the bottom of each page, the law firm (if any), mailing address and telephone number of the attorney or party preparing the paper should be printed or typed.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Format
DOCX

Joint Instructions and Joint Statement of Disputed Instructions must be emailed as Word/WordPerfect files to judge's email orders address.

The “Joint Instructions” and any “Joint Statement of Disputed Instructions” shall be filed and shall be attached as a Word or WordPerfect compatible file to an email sent to the email orders address of the assigned judge pursuant to the court’s electronic filing procedures.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

(5) Numbered Paper. Each pleading, motion or other filing shall bear line numbers in the left margin, leaving at least one-half inch of space to the left of the numbers.

(5) Numbered Paper. Each pleading, motion or other filing shall bear line numbers in the left margin, leaving at least one-half inch of space to the left of the numbers.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

(8) Electronic Filing of Documents. All documents filed with the court shall be in accordance with the Electronic Filing Procedures for Civil and Criminal Cases adopted by General Order of the court. The Electronic Filing Procedures are available on the court’s web site at www.wawd.uscourts.gov and from the Clerk’s Office.

(8) Electronic Filing of Documents. All documents filed with the court shall be in accordance with the Electronic Filing Procedures for Civil and Criminal Cases adopted by General Order of the court. The Electronic Filing Procedures are available on the court’s web site at www.wawd.uscourts.gov and from the Clerk’s Office.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Margins
top 3 in, bottom 1 in, left 1 in, right 1 in

(1) Margins and Fonts. No less than three inches of space should be left at the top of the first page. All other margins must be at least one inch wide, although formatted lines and numbering, attorney information, the name of the judge(s) to whom copies should be sent, and footers may be placed in the margins. Examples of correctly formatted pages are attached as Appendix A. The text of any typed or printed brief must be 12 point or larger and must, with the exception of quotations, be double spaced or exactly 24 points. Footnotes must be 10 point or larger and may be single spaced. A proportionally spaced font must be used on all typed filings.

(1) Margins and Fonts. No less than three inches of space should be left at the top of the first page. All other margins must be at least one inch wide, although formatted lines and numbering, attorney information, the name of the judge(s) to whom copies should be sent, and footers may be placed in the margins. Examples of correctly formatted pages are attached as Appendix A. The text of any typed or printed brief must be 12 point or larger and must, with the exception of quotations, be double spaced or exactly 24 points. Footnotes must be 10 point or larger and may be single spaced. A proportionally spaced font must be used on all typed filings.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Required title format for all filings

(2) Title. Each pleading, motion or other filing shall contain the words “United States District Court, Western District of Washington” on the first page and, in the space below the docket number, a title indicating the purpose of the paper and the party presenting it.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Registry deposits must be cashier’s or business checks payable to USDC Court Clerk.

Acceptable forms of deposit into the Court Registry are cashier’s or business check made payable to “USDC Court Clerk.”

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

All filings must be on 8.5 x 11 inch paper

Page size of all pleadings, motions and other filings shall be 8 ½ x 11 inch.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Format
PAPER

Proposed instructions must be on numbered paper with unique numbers, titles, and source citations.

Each proposed instruction, whether filed jointly or under objection, shall be submitted on numbered paper. Each proposed instruction shall bear a unique instruction number and brief title at the top of the page. At the bottom of the page, the parties shall identify the source(s) of the proposed instruction if the source is a model or pattern jury instruction; otherwise, the parties must include other citations to relevant authority.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Electronic exhibits must be provided on CD with paper index.

Electronic exhibits must be provided on a CD unless otherwise ordered by the court. The party offering the electronic exhibit(s) must include an index on paper with the electronic exhibits.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Petitions must comply with LCR 100 formatting rules.

Petitions shall be completed in conformance with LCR 100.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Format
PAPER

Prisoner complaints under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 must be typewritten or legibly handwritten and signed by each plaintiff unless represented by an attorney.

Complaints filed pursuant to the Civil Rights Act, 42 U.S.C. § 1983, by or on behalf of prisoners, shall be typewritten or legibly handwritten, and signed by each plaintiff unless presented by an attorney.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Admiralty pleadings must include specific jurisdictional labels above the cause number

The words “IN ADMIRALTY” shall be typed in capital letters above the cause number on the first page of a pleading setting forth a claim which is cognizable only in admiralty. The words “AT LAW AND IN ADMIRALTY” shall be typed in capital letters above the cause number on the first page of a pleading setting forth a claim for relief within the admiralty and maritime jurisdiction that is also within the jurisdiction of the court on some other ground.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Format
PAPER

Hard copy originals must be single-sided on 8.5x11 paper unless filed as exhibits; original signatures required.

(11) Format of Hard Copy or Paper Originals. Originals of documents filed with the court shall not contain double-sided pages or items other than 8 ½ x 11 inch paper, unless double-sided or larger original documents are being filed as exhibits. If an original document is required to be filed with the court, any required signature thereto must also be original.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICAL

Format
PAPER

Documents must be submitted on 8½" x 11" white paper, bear 25-line numbers in the left margin, include the case caption, case number and typed or neatly written. If you submit pleadings in writing, use black or blue ink (no pencils) and write legibly on one side of the paper only. All documents must be signed and dated with an original signature and include your name, address and phone number.

Documents must be submitted on 8½" x 11" white paper, bear 25-line numbers in the left margin, include the case caption, case number and typed or neatly written. If you submit pleadings in writing, use black or blue ink (no pencils) and write legibly on one side of the paper only. All documents must be signed and dated with an original signature and include your name, address and phone number.

Magistrate Judge S. Kate Vaughan

CRITICAL

Format
PDF

Documents must be in PDF format for e-filing, with 200 dpi scanning required for scanned documents.

Software to convert your documents to PDF format (portable document format) OR a scanner set to 200 dpi (dots per inch) for scanning documents to PDF format.

Magistrate Judge S. Kate Vaughan

CRITICAL

Documents must be on 8.5x11 paper with line numbers, case caption, original signature, and contact information; handwritten pleadings must use black or blue ink on one side only.

Documents must be submitted on 8½" x 11" white paper, bear 25-line numbers in the left margin, include the case caption, case number and typed or neatly written. If you submit pleadings in writing, use black or blue ink (no pencils) and write legibly on one side of the paper only. All documents must be signed and dated with an original signature and include your name, address and phone number.

Magistrate Judge S. Kate Vaughan

CRITICAL

Format
PDF

Documents filed via ECF must be in PDF format.

Only documents in PDF format may be filed with the court using the ECF system.

Magistrate Judge S. Kate Vaughan

CRITICAL

Documents must use blue/black ink on 8½ x 11 white paper, single-sided, with contact information included.

Documents must be typed or neatly written in blue or black ink (no pencils) on white, 8½ x 11 paper. Do not write on both sides of the paper. You must include your name, address and phone number on each document submitted.

Magistrate Judge S. Kate Vaughan

CRITICAL

Documents must be typed or written in blue/black ink on white 8.5x11 paper, single-sided only.

Documents must be typed or neatly written in blue or black ink (no pencils) on white, 8½ x 11 paper. Do not write on both sides of the paper.

Magistrate Judge S. Kate Vaughan

CRITICALCivil cases

All pleadings, motions, and other filings must use 8½-by-11-inch pages.

Page size of all pleadings, motions and other filings shall be 8 ½ x 11 inch.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Footnotes must be at least 10 points and may be single spaced.

Footnotes must be 10 point or larger and may be single spaced.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Typed or printed briefs must use text of at least 12 points and double spacing or exactly 24-point spacing, except for quotations.

The text of any typed or printed brief must be 12 point or larger and must, with the exception of quotations, be double spaced or exactly 24 points.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Each pleading, motion, and other filing must have line numbers in the left margin with at least one-half inch of space to their left.

Each pleading, motion or other filing shall bear line numbers in the left margin, leaving at least one-half inch of space to the left of the numbers.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Any signature required on an original document filed with the court must itself be original.

If an original document is required to be filed with the court, any required signature thereto must also be original.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

All typed filings must use a proportionally spaced font.

A proportionally spaced font must be used on all typed filings.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Hyperlinks may not link to sealed or restricted documents or directly open other software.

Hyperlinks may not be used to link to sealed or restricted documents, and hyperlinks may not directly open other software.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

A prisoner § 1983 complaint must be typewritten or legibly handwritten and signed by each plaintiff, unless presented by an attorney.

Complaints filed pursuant to the Civil Rights Act, 42 U.S.C. § 1983, by or on behalf of prisoners, shall be typewritten or legibly handwritten, and signed by each plaintiff unless presented by an attorney.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

A proposed amended pleading must mark deleted text with brackets or strikethrough and added text with underlining or highlighting.

The party must indicate on the proposed amended pleading how it differs from the pleading that it amends by bracketing or striking through the text to be deleted and underlining or highlighting the text to be added.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Motion papers must be double-spaced with 12-point sans serif font in text, 10-point sans serif in footnotes, page numbers, and minimum margins.

Motions, oppositions, objections, replies, and surreplies shall be double-spaced and filed in no less than 12-point sans serif font in the text and 10-point sans serif font in the footnotes. The pleadings shall contain page numbers and have margins of no less

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

The party offering deposition testimony must prepare one transcript copy containing the parties’ designations, highlighted testimony, and marginal objections and responses, using a color unique to that party.

The party intending to offer the deposition testimony at trial shall prepare a single copy of the deposition transcript containing the parties’ designations, highlighting all testimony, indicating any objections and all responses to objections in the margins, all in a single color used only by that party.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Motions must be double-spaced, 12-point sans serif font (10-point footnotes), with page numbers.

Motions, oppositions, objections, replies, and surreplies shall be double-spaced and filed in no less than 12-point sans serif font in the text and 10-point sans serif font in the footnotes. The pleadings shall contain page numbers and have margins of no less

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Format
WORD_PERFECT

The proposed order must be emailed to the assigned judge’s email orders address as a Word- or WordPerfect-compatible file.

This proposed order shall be attached as a Word or Word Perfect compatible file to an email sent to the email orders address of the assigned judge pursuant to the court’s Electronic Filing Procedures.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Filed originals must use single-sided 8½-by-11-inch pages, except that double-sided or larger originals may be filed as exhibits.

Originals of documents filed with the court shall not contain double-sided pages or items other than 8 ½ x 11 inch paper, unless double-sided or larger original documents are being filed as exhibits.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Each proposed instruction must use numbered paper, carry a unique number and brief title at the top, and identify its source or cite other relevant authority at the bottom.

Each proposed instruction, whether filed jointly or under objection, shall be submitted on numbered paper. Each proposed instruction shall bear a unique instruction number and brief title at the top of the page. At the bottom of the page, the parties shall identify the source(s) of the proposed instruction if the source is a model or pattern jury instruction; otherwise, the parties must include other citations to relevant authority.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Margins
top 1 in, bottom 1 in, left 1 in, right 1 in

Double-spaced, 12pt Times New Roman, 1-inch margins, page numbers required.

Motions, oppositions, objections, replies, and sur−replies shall be double−spaced and filed in 12−point Times New Roman font, and shall contain page numbers and have margins of no less than 1 inch. Footnotes shall also be 12−point Times New Roman font but may be single−spaced.

Senior Judge Barbara J. Rothstein

CRITICALCivil cases

Administrative records must be filed electronically, no physical copies.

In matters requiring that an administrative record be filed with the Court, parties must provide a copy of the record to the Court in an electronic format. No physical copy of the record shall be filed.

Senior Judge Barbara J. Rothstein

CRITICALCivil cases

Margins
top 1 in, bottom 1 in, left 1 in, right 1 in

Motions, oppositions, objections, replies, and sur−replies shall be double−spaced and filed in 12−point Times New Roman font, and shall contain page numbers and have margins of no less than 1 inch. Footnotes shall also be 12−point Times New Roman font but may be single−spaced. Submissions which do not comply with these instructions may be summarily denied or stricken.

Motions, oppositions, objections, replies, and sur−replies shall be double−spaced and filed in 12−point Times New Roman font, and shall contain page numbers and have margins of no less than 1 inch. Footnotes shall also be 12−point Times New Roman font but may be single−spaced. Submissions which do not comply with these instructions may be summarily denied or stricken.

Senior Judge Barbara J. Rothstein

CRITICALCivil cases

All exhibits must be pre-marked by counsel with cause number, exhibit number, and admitted status (left blank) per the specified format.

All exhibits must be pre-marked by counsel using the following format: Cause No.:________________ Plainti or Defendant Exh #:______________ Admitted: (leave blank)

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

CRITICALCivil cases

Each party must submit 3 paper exhibit sets to the Courtroom Deputy the morning of trial, in binders with tabbed dividers marked Clerk, Judge, Witness.

3 sets of paper copies for each party shall be submitted to the Courtroom Deputy the morning of trial in binders with tabbed dividers between exhibits and shall be marked on the side of binder 1) Clerk, 2) Judge and 3) Witness.

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

CRITICALCivil cases

Newly admitted exhibits during trial require daily email to Courtroom Deputy with description, PDF via email or thumb drive, plus paper copies with new dividers.

If new exhibits are admitted during trial, counsel must email daily the Courtroom Deputy the description of the admitted exhibit(s) and (depending on number of exhibits or size) must either email the PDF with the correct new exhibit number or deliver a thumb drive with only the newly admitted exhibits attached. Paper versions must also be provided with new dividers.

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

CRITICAL

Format
PDF

Each exhibit must be submitted as its own single PDF file.

Each exhibit must be a single PDF document

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

CRITICALCivil cases

Each party must submit 3 paper exhibit binders and 2 electronic thumb drives unless directed otherwise by the Courtroom Deputy.

Judge Settle requires 3 binders of paper copies and 2 thumb drives (electronic) from each party unless otherwise instructed by the Courtroom Deputy.

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

CRITICALCivil cases

Audio/video exhibits must be playable in Windows Media Player or VLC Media Player, with no unique codecs required.

Exhibits that contain audio or video must be playable in Windows Media Player OR VLC Media Player. (Video files requiring their own unique codec or media player are not acceptable and need to be converted to an acceptable format to work with approved players. )

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

CRITICAL

Format
PDF

Each exhibit must be submitted as a single PDF document.

Each exhibit must be a single PDF document

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

CRITICAL

Any exhibit with audio or video must be compatible with Windows Media Player.

Exhibits that contain audio or video must be playable in Windows Media Player

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

CRITICALCivil cases

Format
PDF

2 sets of thumb drives for each party must be submitted to the Courtroom Deputy the morning of trial. Exhibits must be in PDF format and should be scanned using Optical Character Recognition if possible and encoded as a searchable PDF. The exhibits should be named the same (see above) as paper exhibits (Plaintiff = 001-499, Defendant = 500-forward).

2 sets of thumb drives for each party must be submitted to the Courtroom Deputy the morning of trial. Exhibits must be in PDF format and should be scanned using Optical Character Recognition if possible and encoded as a searchable PDF. The exhibits should be named the same (see above) as paper exhibits (Plaintiff = 001-499, Defendant = 500-forward).

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

CRITICAL

Format
PDF

Exhibits must be provided on a CD or thumb drive, with a thumb drive preferred, in PDF format.

Exhibits must be on a CD or thumb-drive (preferred) in PDF format

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

CRITICAL

Audio and video exhibits must be playable in Windows Media Player.

Exhibits that contain audio or video must be playable in Windows Media Player

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

CRITICALCivil cases

Plaintiff's exhibits must be consecutively numbered from 001 to 499.

Plaintiff’s exhibits shall consecutively be marked beginning with number 001-499.

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

CRITICAL

Format
DOCX

An exhibit list must be prepared in Microsoft Word format and sent before trial.

An exhibit list in Microsoft Word format must be emailed to the Court prior to the trial date.

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

CRITICALCivil cases

Duplicate documents are prohibited from being listed more than once on the exhibit list.

Duplicate documents shall not be listed twice on the exhibit list.

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

CRITICALCivil cases

Defendant's exhibits must be consecutively numbered starting at 500.

Defendant’s exhibits shall consecutively be marked beginning with number 500-forward.

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

CRITICAL

Format
PDF

Exhibits must be delivered on CD or preferably thumb-drive and be in PDF format.

Exhibits must be on a CD or thumb-drive (preferred) in PDF format

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

CRITICALCivil cases

Format
DOCX

A joint exhibit list in Microsoft Word format (auto numbering off) must be emailed to the Courtroom Deputy before trial, following the paper exhibit numbering system.

A joint exhibit list in Microsoft Word format (auto numbering turned o ) must be emailed to the Courtroom Deputy prior to the trial date and follow the same numbering system as the paper exhibits. This exhibit list can be found here: Judge Benjamin H. Settle Chambers Procedures | Western District of Washington | United States District Court

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

CRITICAL

Trial exhibits must be pre-marked with consecutive numbering (Plaintiff: 1+, Defendant: A-1+)

All trial exhibits must be pre-marked by counsel. Plaintiff’s exhibits shall be numbered consecutively beginning with number 1. Defendants exhibits shall be numbered consecutively beginning with the number A-1.

Senior Judge James L. Robart

CRITICAL

Exhibits must be submitted in three-ring binder with numbered tabs

Each set of exhibits shall be submitted in a three-ring binder with appropriately numbered tabs.

Senior Judge James L. Robart

CRITICAL

All pleadings must be in 12-point Times New Roman font.

In general, follow the guidelines in Local Rule 10(e) except all pleadings must be in 12-point Times New Roman font.

Senior Judge Marsha J. Pechman

CRITICAL

Format
PDF

Exhibits must be submitted on a CD in PDF format.

Exhibits must be on a CD in PDF format

Senior Judge Marsha J. Pechman

CRITICAL

Format
PDF

Each exhibit must be a separate, single PDF document.

Each exhibit must be a single PDF Document

Senior Judge Marsha J. Pechman

CRITICAL

Audio and video exhibits must be playable in Windows Media Player.

Exhibits that contain audio or video must be playable in Windows Media Player

Senior Judge Marsha J. Pechman

CRITICAL

Revised exhibit lists must be emailed in Word format showing only revisions to specific email address.

If the exhibit list or proposed pretrial order is revised at any time after it is filed with the court, the parties shall email a revised list in Word format which sets forth ONLY the revisions that have been made to victoria_ericksen@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Senior Judge Richard A. Jones

CRITICAL

Plaintiff exhibits numbered 1+, Defendant exhibits continue numbering (no A-1, A-2), subparts need court leave.

Plaintiff's exhibits shall be numbered consecutively beginning with 1; Defendant's exhibits shall be numbered consecutively beginning with the next number sequence not used by Plaintiff (e.g., if Plaintiff has 160 exhibits, Defendant should begin numbering its exhibits at 200. Defendant’s exhibits shall not be labeled A-1, A-2, etc.). Subparts and subnumbers shall not be used absent leave of the court.

Senior Judge Richard A. Jones

CRITICAL

Two sets of exhibits shall be delivered to the courtroom deputy. Each set of exhibits shall be submitted in a three-ring binder with appropriately numbered tabs. Unless necessary to preserve an exhibit, exhibits should not be placed in plastic sleeves. Additional numbered tabs shall be provided in the event additional exhibits are marked during trial.

Two sets of exhibits shall be delivered to the courtroom deputy. Each set of exhibits shall be submitted in a three-ring binder with appropriately numbered tabs. Unless necessary to preserve an exhibit, exhibits should not be placed in plastic sleeves. Additional numbered tabs shall be provided in the event additional exhibits are marked during trial.

Senior Judge Richard A. Jones

CRITICALCivil cases

Format
PDF

Electronically filed motions, oppositions, and replies must be searchable PDFs, converted to PDF before filing, and may not be scanned.

Motions, oppositions, and replies filed electronically must be submitted in PDF format to permit text searches and to facilitate transmission and retrieval. Before these documents are electronically filed, the CM/ECF User shall convert the documents to PDF format. These documents may not be scanned.

Senior Judge Richard A. Jones

CRITICAL

All trial exhibits must be pre-marked by counsel. Exhibit tags may be obtained from the Clerk’s Office. In the alternative, counsel may create stickers or stamps that conform to this format: Plaintiff’s (or Defendant’s) Exhibit Cause No. _____________ Exhibit No. _____________

All trial exhibits must be pre-marked by counsel. Exhibit tags may be obtained from the Clerk’s Office. In the alternative, counsel may create stickers or stamps that conform to this format: Plaintiff’s (or Defendant’s) Exhibit Cause No. _____________ Exhibit No. _____________

Senior Judge Richard A. Jones

CRITICAL

Format
PDF

Each exhibit must be provided as a single PDF document.

Each exhibit must be a single PDF Document

Senior Judge Robert J. Bryan

CRITICAL

1) The original set of exhibits (witness) shall be submitted in binders with tabbed dividers between each exhibit. 2) A second set of exhibits for the Court should also be in tabbed binders.

1) The original set of exhibits (witness) shall be submitted in binders with tabbed dividers between each exhibit. 2) A second set of exhibits for the Court should also be in tabbed binders.

Senior Judge Robert J. Bryan

CRITICAL

An updated exhibit or witness list submitted after revision must be in Word format.

If the exhibit or witness list is revised at any time after it is filed with the court, Counsel shall email an updated list in Word format to Tyler Campbell, Courtroom Deputy, at tyler_campbell@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Senior Judge Robert J. Bryan

CRITICAL

Format
PDF

Exhibits must be delivered on a CD in PDF format.

Exhibits must be on a CD in PDF format

Senior Judge Robert J. Bryan

CRITICAL

Electronic exhibits must use specific numbering format (00001, A0001) for jury trials.

The electronic version of the exhibits need to be numbered as shown below.* This ensures they remain in the proper order in the evidence portfolio. However, on the exhibit list itself, the exhibits may be numbered 1 – 500 and A1 – A500 respectively for ease of use during the trial process.

Senior Judge Robert J. Bryan

CRITICAL

Each binder must identify its contained exhibit numbers on both the front and spine.

Each binder shall identify the exhibit numbers contained within the binder on the front of the binder, as well as on the spine.

Senior Judge Robert J. Bryan

CRITICAL

Audio or video exhibits must be playable in Windows Media Player.

Exhibits that contain audio or video must be playable in Windows Media Player

Senior Judge Robert J. Bryan

WARNING

Reduced pleadings are limited to 2 pages per side of paper.

Reduced pleadings or documents provided to other parties shall contain no more than 2 pages of reduced standard 8-1/2 x 11 pages per side of the paper using a standard embedded font.

Bankruptcy Mary Jo Heston

WARNING

All exhibits and attachments must be on 8.5x11 inch paper; smaller exhibits must be mounted on 8.5x11 paper.

All attachments and exhibits shall be 8-1/2 x 11 inches, photo-reduced if necessary. An exhibit smaller than 8-1/2 x 11 inches shall be attached to or photocopied onto an 8-1/2 x 11 sheet of paper.

Bankruptcy Mary Jo Heston

WARNING

Pleadings must be on 8.5x11 inch paper, with a standard embedded font at 11 or 12 point, double-spaced.

All pleadings shall be in 8-1/2 x 11 inch document format, using a standard embedded font, 11 or 12 point, and shall be double spaced.

Bankruptcy Mary Jo Heston

WARNING

Each page of orders and judgments must contain at least two lines of text.

Orders and judgments shall contain at least two lines of text on each page.

Bankruptcy Mary Jo Heston

WARNING

Orders must be 8.5x11 inches, use a standard embedded font (11 or 12 point), double-spaced, with line numbers in the left margin.

Orders shall be in 8-1/2 x 11 inch document format, using a standard embedded font, 11 or 12 point, and shall be double spaced. Each order shall bear line numbers in the left margins.

Bankruptcy Mary Jo Heston

WARNING

Motions, notices, responses, and replies must include judge name, chapter, location, hearing date/time, and response date on the top right-hand corner.

The name of the assigned judge, the chapter under which the case is pending, and the location, date and time of hearing, and the response date shall be noted on the top right-hand corner of the motion, notice of hearing, response, and reply.

Bankruptcy Mary Jo Heston

WARNING

Judges sign orders electronically; electronic signatures have the same effect as handwritten; undated documents are deemed dated as of docket entry.

The judges of the court sign orders, findings of fact and conclusions of law, judgments, and other pleadings requiring their signatures by electronic means, and such electronic signatures shall have the same effect as a handwritten signature. Any document signed by a judge that is not dated shall be deemed to be dated as of the date the pleading is entered on the docket.

Bankruptcy Mary Jo Heston

WARNING

each pleading shall bear line numbers in the left margin.

each pleading shall bear line numbers in the left margin.

Bankruptcy Mary Jo Heston

WARNING

Orders must end with "///End of Order///", omit date/signature lines for the judge, and include "Presented by" with attorney name, bar ID, and signature line in the lower left corner.

The designation "///End of Order///" shall be placed after the final line of text on the order. No date or signature line is to be provided for the judge. The attorney(s) presenting the order shall so indicate in the lower left hand corner of the last page of the order by stating "Presented by" with their name, bar identification number and signature line.

Bankruptcy Mary Jo Heston

WARNING

Margins
top 4 in

The first page of every order must have a 4-inch blank top margin for court use.

For all orders, the first page of the order must have a 4 inch top margin that is left blank for court use only.

Bankruptcy Mary Jo Heston

WARNING

Use slip sheets to separate and identify attached exhibits or exhibits grouped and filed together.

Use slip sheets to separate and identify exhibits when one or more exhibits are attached to a document or grouped together and filed as one (e.g., “Exhibit A,” and nothing more on the page).

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead

WARNING

Exhibits attached to a document or filed together must be separated and identified with slip sheets.

Use slip sheets to separate and identify exhibits when one or more exhibits are attached to a document or grouped together and filed as one (e.g., “Exhibit A,” and nothing more on the page).

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead

WARNING

Format
PDF

PDF documents longer than 14 pages should include electronic bookmarks or an outline with embedded links.

Any PDF document longer than 14 pages should also include electronic bookmarks or an outline with links embedded in the file.

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead

WARNING

Submissions longer than 14 pages must include a table of contents, regardless of word count.

For submissions longer than 14 pages (regardless of word count), please include a table of contents.

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead

WARNINGCivil cases

Electronic exhibits must be transmitted as individual files (one exhibit per file).

Electronic exhibits must be transmitted individually (i.e., one exhibit per file), but exhibits may have multiple pages

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson

WARNINGCivil cases

Exhibit file names should match the descriptions listed on the joint exhibit list as closely as possible except that file names should not exceed 80 characters

Exhibit file names should match the descriptions listed on the joint exhibit list as closely as possible except that file names should not exceed 80 characters

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson

WARNINGCivil cases

Courtesy copies must be printed double-sided.

Courtesy copies shall be printed double-sided.

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson

WARNING

Format
DOCX

Proposed jury instructions must be filed on the docket and also emailed in Word format.

Proposed jury instructions must be submitted both on the docket and in Word format via e-mail.

Judge Lauren King

WARNING

Citations must be in the body of the brief, not in footnotes, except for citations following explanatory footnotes.

Citations must be included in the body of the briefing, not in footnotes, with the exception of citations following explanatory footnotes.

Judge Lauren King

WARNINGCivil cases

Citations must be included in the body of the briefing, not in footnotes, with the exception of citations following explanatory footnotes.

Citations must be included in the body of the briefing, not in footnotes, with the exception of citations following explanatory footnotes.

Judge Lauren King

WARNING

Applies to
Claim construction hearing

The Court will construe no more than ten claim terms at the hearing unless the parties obtain advance leave of Court.

Unless the Parties obtain leave of the Court in advance, the Court will construe a maximum of ten (10) claim terms at the claim construction hearing.

Judge Tana Lin

WARNING

Videoconference participants must test their connection link before hearing or trial.

All videoconference participants must test the link that will be provided in advance of the hearing or trial date to make sure it works for them.

Judge Tana Lin

WARNING

In addition, parties submitting proposed orders are requested to format them such that the Court’s signature block does not appear alone without any identifying content—such as the signature(s) of the presenting attorney(s) and/or at least one or two lines of specific text from the body of the order—above it on the page. This supports the Court’s efforts to deter unauthorized or fraudulent use of its signature. A proposed order drafted such that the Court’s signature appears alone on a page, or accompanied only by generic language such as “It is so ordered,” will require reformatting, which may delay entry of the order.

In addition, parties submitting proposed orders are requested to format them such that the Court’s signature block does not appear alone without any identifying content—such as the signature(s) of the presenting attorney(s) and/or at least one or two lines of specific text from the body of the order—above it on the page. This supports the Court’s efforts to deter unauthorized or fraudulent use of its signature. A proposed order drafted such that the Court’s signature appears alone on a page, or accompanied only by generic language such as “It is so ordered,” will require reformatting, which may delay entry of the order.

Judge Tana Lin

WARNING

Applies to
Claim construction brief

The Court recommends limiting claim construction briefs to ten jointly chosen terms unless the parties obtain prior leave of Court.

Claim construction briefs should therefore be limited to ten (10) terms that the Parties choose jointly, absent prior leave of Court.

Judge Tana Lin

WARNINGCriminal cases

Electronic devices allowed but must be silenced; digital assistants must be disabled.

Cellphones, laptops, and electronic devices are allowed inside the courtroom, but telephone ringtones and other functional sounds produced by devices must be disabled while in the courtroom. If your phone, laptop or tablet features a digital assistant (e.g., Siri), be sure to disable the voice-prompt or always-listening feature to avoid accidental courtroom interruptions. Individuals whose devices interrupt proceedings may be sanctioned.

Judge Tana Lin

WARNING

All Parties appearing via video should sign in using their first and last names as they appear in filings to the Court.

All Parties appearing via video should sign in using their first and last names as they appear in filings to the Court.

Judge Tana Lin

WARNING

Electronic devices allowed in courtroom but must be silenced; voice assistants must be disabled. Violators may be sanctioned.

Cellphones, laptops, and electronic devices are allowed inside the courtroom, but telephone ringtones and other functional sounds must be disabled. If your phone, laptop or tablet features a digital assistant (e.g., Siri), be sure to disable the voice-prompt or always-listening feature to avoid accidental courtroom interruptions. Individuals whose devices interrupt proceedings may be sanctioned.

Judge Tana Lin

WARNING

Substantive information should appear in the body of the brief, not in footnotes; footnotes should be used only for explanatory and supplemental information.

Further, substantive information and discussion should appear in the body of the brief; footnotes are to be reserved for explanatory and supplemental information.

Judge Tana Lin

WARNINGCivil cases

Counsel should follow LCR 51’s guidance on the format of proposed instructions.

Counsel should follow the guidance set forth in LCR 51 regarding the format of proposed instructions.

Judge Tiffany M. Cartwright

WARNING

The complaint must be legibly handwritten or typed, and you should not write on the back of any page.

Your Complaint must be legibly handwritten or typed. NOTE: DO NOT WRITE ON THE BACK OF ANY OF THE PAGES OF THE COMPLAINT; any writing on the back of any page might not be considered by the Court.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

WARNINGCriminal cases

Margins
top 1 in, bottom 1 in, left 1 in, right 1 in

No less than three inches of space should be left at the top of the first page. All other margins must be at least one inch wide, although formatted lines and numbering, attorney information, the name of the judge(s) to whom copies should be sent, and footers may be placed in the margins. The text of any typed or printed brief must be 12 point or larger and must, with the exception of quotations, be double spaced or exactly 24 points. Footnotes must be 10 point or larger and may be single spaced. A proportionally spaced font must be used on all typed filings.

No less than three inches of space should be left at the top of the first page. All other margins must be at least one inch wide, although formatted lines and numbering, attorney information, the name of the judge(s) to whom copies should be sent, and footers may be placed in the margins. The text of any typed or printed brief must be 12 point or larger and must, with the exception of quotations, be double spaced or exactly 24 points. Footnotes must be 10 point or larger and may be single spaced. A proportionally spaced font must be used on all typed filings.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

WARNINGCivil cases

Margins
top 3 in

The first page should leave at least three inches at the top; other margins must be at least one inch, subject to the stated permitted margin placements.

No less than three inches of space should be left at the top of the first page. All other margins must be at least one inch wide, although formatted lines and numbering, attorney information, the name of the judge(s) to whom copies should be sent, and footers may be placed in the margins.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

WARNINGCriminal cases

Each pleading, motion or other filing shall bear line numbers in the left margin, leaving at least one-half inch of space to the left of the numbers.

Each pleading, motion or other filing shall bear line numbers in the left margin, leaving at least one-half inch of space to the left of the numbers.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

WARNINGCriminal cases

Each proposed jury instruction must be numbered consecutively and include supporting authority at the foot of the page.

Each proposed instruction shall be numbered consecutively as "Plaintiff's (or Government's or Defendant's) proposed Instruction No. (fill in number)," and each shall reflect, at the foot of the page, any supporting authority for the instruction.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

WARNINGCriminal cases

Original documents must be single-sided on 8.5x11 inch paper; signatures on originals must be original.

Originals of documents filed with the court shall not contain double-sided pages or items other than 8 ½ x 11 inch paper, unless double- sided or larger original documents are being filed as exhibits. If an original document is required to be filed with the court, any required signature thereto must also be original.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

WARNINGCivil cases

Settlement memorandum emails must use a specific subject line format including case name and party position.

The email subject line should read: “Confidential – [name of party] v. [name of party] - , 2018 - [Plaintiff’s/Defendant’s] Settlement Position Paper.”

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

WARNINGCivil cases

The party offering a video deposition must know how to use the necessary courtroom technology and ensure the video is appropriately edited.

The party offering the video is responsible for being familiar with the courtroom technology necessary to play it and for ensuring that the video is edited appropriately.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

WARNING

Format
PDF

PDF exhibits should be OCR-scanned and searchable when possible.

PDF documents should be scanned using Optical Character Recognition if possible and encoded as a searchable PDF

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

WARNING

Format
PDF

PDF exhibits should be OCR-scanned and searchable if possible.

PDF documents should be scanned using Optical Character Recognition if possible and encoded as a searchable PDF

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle

WARNING

Submit each exhibit set in individual file folders, not notebooks or binders, with appropriately numbered tabs.

Each set of exhibits shall be submitted in individual file folders (not in notebooks or binders) with appropriately numbered tabs.

Senior Judge Marsha J. Pechman

WARNING

Format
PDF

PDF exhibits should be scanned using OCR and made searchable if possible.

PDF documents should be scanned using Optical Character Recognition if possible & encoded as a searchable PDF

Senior Judge Marsha J. Pechman

WARNINGCivil cases

Format
DOCX

The parties should submit the Joint Instructions and Joint Statement of Disputed Instructions in Word format by email if they have not already done so.

In addition to the requirements set forth in LR 51, if they have not already done so, the parties should submit the Joint Instructions and Joint Statement of Disputed Instructions in Word format to jonesorders@wawd.uscourts.gov

Senior Judge Richard A. Jones

WARNING

Format
PDF

PDF documents should be scanned using OCR and encoded as searchable PDFs when possible.

PDF documents should be scanned using Optical Character Recognition if possible & encoded as a searchable PDF

Senior Judge Robert J. Bryan

WARNING

Video exhibits must be submitted on separate disk due to JEEP size limitations.

VIDEO EXHIBITS shall be submitted on a separate disk. Currently, JEEP has size limitations for video exhibits. Therefore, there is a separate process for saving them to the Portfolio.

Senior Judge Robert J. Bryan

INFO

Orders and judgments must be formatted per Local Bankruptcy Rule 9021-1.

Orders and judgments shall be formatted in accordance with Local Bankruptcy Rule 9021-1.

Bankruptcy Mary Jo Heston

INFO

Orders are exempt from the formatting requirements of Rule 9004-1 and must not include the judge's name on the front page.

Orders are to be formatted in accordance with Local Bankruptcy Rule 9021-1 and are not governed by the formatting provisions set forth above. Accordingly, an order will not include the name of the judge assigned to the case in the upper right side of the top of the front page.

Bankruptcy Mary Jo Heston

INFOCivil cases

Plaintiff exhibits numbered 1+, Defendant exhibits prefixed A-1+.

The Court alters the LCR 16 procedure for numbering exhibits as follows: Plaintiff’s exhibits should be numbered consecutively beginning with 1; Defendant’s exhibits should include the prefix “A” and should be numbered consecutively beginning with A-1.

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead

INFOCivil cases

Plaintiff exhibits numbered 1+, Defendant exhibits numbered 500+.

The Court hereby alters the LCR 16.1 procedure for numbering exhibits: Plaintiff(s)’ exhibits shall be numbered consecutively beginning with 1; Defendant(s)’ exhibits shall be numbered consecutively beginning with 500.

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson

INFOCivil cases

Format
PDF

Electronic copies of exhibits should be sent to the Courtroom Deputy in PDF format with OCR searchable text seven days before trial.

no later than seven days before the trial date, the parties should send an electronic copy of all exhibits in .PDF format with Optical Character Recognition (“OCR”) searchable text to the Courtroom Deputy at KKEcrd@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson

INFOCivil cases

Format
PDF

PDF exhibits should be OCR-scanned and searchable.

• PDF documents should be scanned using Optical Character Recognition if possible and encoded as a searchable PDF.

Judge Lauren King

INFOCivil cases

Format
PDF

PDF documents should be OCR-scanned and searchable.

If possible, all PDF documents, including exhibits, should be scanned using Optical Character Recognition ("OCR") and encoded as a searchable PDF.

Judge Lauren King

INFOCriminal cases

The Court prefers that citations be included in the body of the briefing, not in footnotes, with the exception of citations following explanatory footnotes.

The Court prefers that citations be included in the body of the briefing, not in footnotes, with the exception of citations following explanatory footnotes.

Judge Lauren King

INFOCivil cases

Claim construction hearing is scheduled for 5 hours.

The claim construction hearing will be set for one full trial day (5 hours). If more or less time is required, the parties are instructed to inform Natalie Wood, Courtroom Deputy, at Natalie_Wood@wawd.uscourts.gov.

Judge Lauren King

INFO

Format
PDF

PDF documents should be OCR'd and searchable if possible.

If possible, all PDF documents, including exhibits, should be scanned using Optical Character Recognition ("OCR") and encoded as a searchable PDF.

Judge Lauren King

INFO

The Court prefers searchable-text PDFs for docket filings where feasible.

Where feasible, the Court prefers PDFs to be filed on the docket, in a searchable-text format.

Judge Tana Lin

INFO

PDF exhibits should be text-searchable when possible.

If possible, PDF documents should be provided in a text-searchable format.

Judge Tana Lin

INFO

Additional pages may be attached when more space is needed to answer a question.

If you need additional space to answer any question(s), you may attach additional pages.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

INFO

Format of documents.......................................................................................... 31

Format of documents.......................................................................................... 31

Magistrate Judge S. Kate Vaughan

INFOCivil cases

The parties are permitted to place witness lists on separate pages.

The parties’ witness lists may be on separate pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

INFOCivil cases

Electronically filed documents may contain hyperlinks to other portions of the document, other documents, or websites containing cited source documents.

Electronically filed documents may contain hyperlinks to other portions of the same document, to other documents, or to a website that contains a source document for a citation.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

INFO

Consult Local Rule 10(e)(7) for guidance on the form of proposed orders.

See Local Rule 10(e)(7) for guidance on the form of proposed orders.

Senior Judge Marsha J. Pechman

INFOCivil cases

Other parties may designate additional deposition portions by highlighting them in a different color.

Other parties may offer other portions of the deposition by highlighting them, using a different color.

Senior Judge Richard A. Jones

INFO

Do not attach stickers to CDs; write directly on CD for identification.

Do not attach stickers to the CD. You may write on the CD itself for identification purposes.

Senior Judge Robert J. Bryan
Common questions about Western District of Washington document format requirements

What formatting rules apply to filings in Western District of Washington?

Magistrate Judge Brian A. Tsuchida's formatting rule includes binding three ring binder, provide exhibits to judge tsuchida on the date of trial, and use appropriately numbered tabs. Unless otherwise directed, parties must provide their exhibits to Judge Tsuchida on the trial date in a three-ring binder with appropriately numbered tabs.

View ruleOfficial source Source: page 1, section Misdemeanor Criminal Trial Exhibits

Senior Judge Benjamin H. Settle's formatting rule includes exhibits pre-marked by counsel and format includes cause no., plaintiff/defendant exh #, admitted (left blank). All exhibits must be pre-marked by counsel with cause number, exhibit number, and admitted status (left blank) per the specified format.

View ruleOfficial source Source: page 1, section Submitting Exhibits

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson's formatting rule includes one file per exhibit, max 80 characters filename, and filename should match joint exhibit list. Electronic exhibits must be transmitted individually (i.e., one exhibit per file), but exhibits may have multiple pages; (2) Exhibit file names should match the descriptions listed on the joint exhibit list as closely as possible except that file names should not exceed 80 characters, e.g., Ex. 1 − Accident Scene Photo; Ex. 501– Email dated 4−03−23.

View ruleOfficial source Source: page 4, section VII. EXHIBITS

117 more rules answer this question.