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Court Rules

Western District of Washington Page & Word Limits

103 rules from official source documents

Maximum page counts and word limits for motions, briefs, and other filings by judge.

Page, word and line limits

CRITICAL

Limit
10 pages
Applies to
Mediation statement

Mediation statements are limited to 10 pages, excluding exhibits and attachments.

Such statements shall not exceed 10 pages (exclusive of exhibits and attachments).

Bankruptcy Mary Jo Heston

CRITICAL

Limit
24 pages
Limit
12 pages
Applies to
Brief

Opening and responsive memoranda for dispositive motions limited to 24 pages; reply briefs limited to 12 pages (half of opening).

opening and responsive memoranda relating to motions for summary judgment or other dispositive motions shall not exceed 24 pages, and opening and responsive memoranda for all other motions shall not exceed 12 pages. A reply brief shall not exceed ½ the permitted length of the opening brief without prior approval of the court.

Bankruptcy Mary Jo Heston

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
3 pages
Applies to
Joint discovery dispute statement

Joint discovery dispute statement limited to 3 pages.

The joint discovery dispute statement shall be no more than three (3) pages.

Chief Judge David G. Estudillo

CRITICAL

Limit
10500 words
Applies to
Opposition reply brief

The initial moving party’s combined opposition and reply brief may not exceed 10,500 words.

The initial moving part files its combined opposition/reply brief, which may not exceed 10,500 words.

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead

CRITICAL

Limit
10500 words
Applies to
Opening opposition brief

The opposing party’s combined opening and opposition brief may not exceed 10,500 words.

The opposing party files its combined opening/opposition brief, which may not exceed 10,500 words.

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead

CRITICAL

Limit
4200 words
Applies to
Reply brief

The opposing party’s reply brief may not exceed 4,200 words.

The opposing party files its reply brief, not to exceed 4,200 words.

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead

CRITICAL

Limit
8400 words
Applies to
Opening brief

The initial moving party’s opening brief may not exceed 8,400 words.

The initial moving party files opening brief, which may not exceed 8,400 words.

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
12600 words
Applies to
Joint brief

Joint briefs are limited to 12,600 total words (6,300 per party), excluding caption, date line, and signature block.

must not exceed 12,600 words, excluding caption, date line, and signature block, with each party contributing no more than 6,300 words. Each party may submit a declaration along with the joint brief, as necessary.

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson

CRITICALCivil cases

Attorney limit
6300 words
Applies to
Joint brief

Joint briefs limited to 12,600 words total (6,300 per party), excluding certain sections.

must not exceed 12,600 words, excluding caption, date line, and signature block, with each party contributing no more than 6,300 words. Each party may submit a declaration along with the joint brief, as necessary.

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson

CRITICALCivil cases

Attorney limit
3 pages
Applies to
Joint statement

Joint statement for discovery disputes must not exceed 3 pages.

The joint statement shall be no more than three pages

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
8400 words
Applies to
Motion

Motions for default judgment may include up to 8,400 words. This is longer than the length permitted under the Local Civil Rules. Parties still must certify their compliance with the 8,400 word limit under LCR 7(e)(6).

Motions for default judgment may include up to 8,400 words. This is longer than the length permitted under the Local Civil Rules. Parties still must certify their compliance with the 8,400 word limit under LCR 7(e)(6).

Judge Lauren King

CRITICALCivil cases

Attorney limit
8400 words
Applies to
Motion

Specific briefing schedule for cross-motions for summary judgment.

Consistent with LCR 7(k), if the parties plan on filing cross-motions for summary judgment, they should adhere to the following briefing schedule: (word limit 8,400 words). The motion shall be noted for 49 days from the filing date. • 21 days after plaintiff(s)' motion: defendant(s)' combined response/cross-motion for summary judgment due (word limit 14,000 words). • 21 days after defendant(s)' combined response/cross-motion: plaintiff(s)' combined reply/response due (word limit 8,750 words). • 7 days after plaintiff(s)' combined reply/response: reply from defendant due (word limit 4,200 words). The parties may also propose a different briefing schedule in advance of the deadline. LCR 7(j).

Judge Lauren King

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
15 pages
Applies to
Motion

B. Motion Length

B. Motion Length

Judge Lauren King

CRITICAL

Limit
8400 words
Applies to
Default judgment

Motions for default judgment are limited to 8,400 words, and parties must certify compliance under LCR 7(e)(6).

Motions for default judgment may include up to 8,400 words. This is longer than the length permitted under the Local Civil Rules. Parties still must certify their compliance with the 8,400 word limit under LCR 7(e)(6).

Judge Lauren King

CRITICALCivil cases

Attorney limit
2 pages
Applies to
Disputed instructions

Disputed instructions limited to 2 pages per instruction for arguments and authority.

For Disputed Instructions, the proposed and alternate instruction shall be listed one after the other, with each side’s argument and authority for the instruction not to exceed two (2) pages, collectively, per instruction (i.e., Co-Plaintiffs and Co- Defendants must submit only one set together).

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICAL

Limit
24 pages
Limit
12 pages
Applies to
Claim construction brief

Absent a contrary court order, the parties must serve opening and answering briefs capped at 24 pages each and reply and sur-reply briefs capped at 12 pages each, then file a joint claim construction brief.

Absent a court order to the contrary, claim construction briefing shall proceed in the following manner and order: (1) Plaintiff shall serve, but not file, an opening brief, not to exceed twenty- four (24) pages; (2) Defendant shall serve, but not file, its answering brief, not to exceed twenty-four (24) pages; (3) Plaintiff shall serve, but not file, its reply brief, not to exceed twelve (12) pages; (4) Defendant shall serve, but not file, its sur-reply brief, not to exceed twelve (12) pages; and (5) the Parties shall file a Joint Claim Construction Brief.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICAL

Limit
12 pages
Applies to
Motion in limine

Motions in limine limited to 12 pages without prior approval.

Motions in limine and responses shall not exceed twelve (12) pages without prior approval of the Court.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
2100 words
Limit
6 pages
Applies to
Motion

Same-day motions limited to 2,100 words or 6 pages.

Motions noted under LCR 7(d)(1), except motions for temporary restraining orders, shall not exceed 2,100 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, six pages.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
4200 words
Limit
12 pages
Applies to
Motion

Other motions and oppositions limited to 4,200 words/12 pages; reply briefs to 2,100 words/6 pages

All other motions noted under LCR 7(d)(3) and briefs in opposition shall not exceed 4,200 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, twelve pages. Reply briefs shall not exceed 2,100 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, six pages.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
2100 words
Limit
6 pages
Applies to
Reply brief

Reply briefs shall not exceed 2,100 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, six pages.

Reply briefs shall not exceed 2,100 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, six pages.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
10500 words
Limit
30 pages
Applies to
Brief

Bankruptcy appeals briefs have word/page limits (10,500/30 for initial briefs, 7,000/20 for reply briefs).

Notwithstanding subparagraph (1), unless otherwise ordered by the court, appellant’s and appellee’s initial briefs shall not exceed 10,500 words or, if written by hand or typewriter, thirty pages, and appellant’s reply brief shall not exceed 7,000 words or, if written by hand or typewriter, twenty pages.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
6300 words
Limit
18 pages
Applies to
Motion

Motions in limine and oppositions limited to 6,300 words/18 pages

Any motion in limine noted under LCR 7(d)(4) and any brief in opposition shall not exceed 6,300 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, eighteen pages.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
4200 words
Applies to
Expedited joint motion

Total contribution to expedited joint motion limited to 4,200 words or 12 pages if handwritten/typewritten.

(E) The total text that each side may contribute to a joint LCR 37 submission shall not exceed 4,200 words or, in written by hand or typewriter, twelve pages. This limit shall include all introductory or position statements, and statements in support of, or in opposition to, a particular request, but shall not include the discovery request itself.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
4200 words
Limit
12 pages
Applies to
Objection

Objections to magistrate judge orders limited to 4,200 words or 12 pages (hand/typewriter).

Except as otherwise provided by court order or rule, objections to a magistrate judge’s order or recommended disposition, or any response thereto, shall not exceed 4,200 words or, if written by hand or typewriter, twelve pages.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
700 words
Limit
2 pages
Applies to
Over length motion request

Over-length motion request limited to 700 words/2 pages

The motion shall be no more than 700 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, two pages in length and shall request a specific number of additional words or pages.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
8400 words
Limit
24 pages
Applies to
Temporary restraining order

Temporary restraining order motions limited to 8,400 words or 24 pages.

(2) Length of Motion; Noting Date: The motion must not exceed 8,400 words or, if written by hand or typewriter, twenty-four pages in length and may be noted for the same day it is filed.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
4200 words
Applies to
Motion

Motions noted under LCR 7(d)(2) and briefs in opposition shall not exceed 4,200

Motions noted under LCR 7(d)(2) and briefs in opposition shall not exceed 4,200

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
8400 words
Limit
24 pages
Applies to
Temporary restraining order response

Response to TRO must be filed within 24-48 hours; no reply permitted.

(5) Response: Unless the court orders otherwise, the adverse party must (1) file a notice indicating whether it plans to oppose the motion within twenty-four hours after service of the motion, and (2) file its response, if any, within forty-eight hours after the motion is served. The response may not exceed 8,400 words or, if written by hand or typewriter, twenty-four pages in length, and no reply will be permitted.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
8400 words
Limit
24 pages
Applies to
Motion

Major motions and oppositions limited to 8,400 words/24 pages; reply briefs to 4,200 words/12 pages

Motions for summary judgment, motions to dismiss, motions for class certification, motions for a temporary restraining order, motions for preliminary injunction, and motions aimed at changing the forum (e.g., motions to remand, transfer, or compel arbitration) and briefs in opposition shall not exceed 8,400 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, twenty-four pages. Reply briefs shall not exceed 4,200 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, twelve pages.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
175 words
Applies to
Reply

Reply to expedited joint motion limited to 175 words or 1/2 page if handwritten/typewritten.

(D) Within four days of receipt of the LCR 37 submission from the opposing party, the moving party will either add its reply and file the joint submission with the court, or notify the opposing party that it no longer intends to move for the requested relief. The moving party’s reply, if any, in support of a disputed discovery request shall follow the opposing party’s rebuttal for such request in the joint submission and shall not exceed 175 words or, if written by hand or typewriter, one half page for each reply.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
3500 words
Limit
10 pages
Applies to
Mediation memorandum

This memorandum should not exceed 3,500 words or, if written by hand or typewriter, 10 pages in length.

This memorandum should not exceed 3,500 words or, if written by hand or typewriter, 10 pages in length.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
1050 words
Limit
3 pages
Applies to
Surreply

Surreply limited to 1,050 words/3 pages

The surreply shall not exceed 1,050 words or, if written by hand or typewriter, three pages.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
4200 words
Limit
12 pages
Limit
2100 words
Limit
6 pages

LCR 7(d)(3) motions and response briefs are limited to 4,200 words or 12 handwritten/typewritten pages; reply briefs are limited to 2,100 words or 6 handwritten/typewritten pages.

(3) Motions noted under LCR 7(d)(3) and briefs in response shall not exceed 4,200 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, twelve pages. Reply briefs shall not exceed 2,100 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, six pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
5 pages
Applies to
Reply

Replies shall not exceed FIVE (5) pages.

Replies shall not exceed FIVE (5) pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
10500 words
Limit
30 pages
Limit
7000 words
Limit
20 pages

Unless the court orders otherwise, initial briefs are limited to 10,500 words or 30 handwritten/typewritten pages, and appellant’s reply brief to 7,000 words or 20 handwritten/typewritten pages.

Notwithstanding subparagraph (1), unless otherwise ordered by the court, appellant’s and appellee’s initial briefs shall not exceed 10,500 words or, if written by hand or typewriter, thirty pages, and appellant’s reply brief shall not exceed 7,000 words or, if written by hand or typewriter, twenty pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
1 page
Applies to
Disputed instruction

The opposing party must immediately follow with any alternative language, objections, and supporting legal authority, within one page.

(2) Immediately following the proposed language and supporting legal authority, the opposing party shall set forth its alternative language, if any, and its objections to the proposed language along with any legal authority in support of the objections (not to exceed one page).

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
175 words
Limit
1 page
Applies to
Reply brief

Each moving-party reply must follow the opposing party’s rebuttal and is limited to 175 words, or one-half page if handwritten or typewritten.

The moving party’s reply, if any, in support of a disputed discovery request shall follow the opposing party’s rebuttal for such request in the joint submission and shall not exceed 175 words or, if written by hand or typewriter, one half page for each reply.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
8400 words
Limit
24 pages
Limit
4200 words
Limit
12 pages

LCR 7(d)(4) motions and response briefs are limited to 8,400 words or 24 handwritten/typewritten pages; reply briefs are limited to 4,200 words or 12 handwritten/typewritten pages.

(4) Motions noted under LCR 7(d)(4) and briefs in response shall not exceed 8,400 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, twenty-four pages. Reply briefs shall not exceed 4,200 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, twelve pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Attorney limit
2 pages
Applies to
Proposed jury instructions

Each party's alternate jury instruction arguments limited to 2 pages.

Where disagreements arise, the proposed jury instructions shall include the alternate instructions and argument and authority for the instruction not to exceed TWO (2) pages for each party and instruction.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
24 pages
Limit
12 pages
Applies to
Claim construction brief

Claim construction opening briefs limited to 24 pages; responsive briefs limited to 12 pages.

Opening briefs shall be limited to 24 pages per side, and responsive briefs shall be limited to 12 pages per side, unless the parties receive permission prior to the due date to file over-length briefs.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Attorney limit
15 pages
Applies to
Motion

Motions limited to 15 pages (except summary judgment), replies to 7 pages, surreplies to 5 pages with leave.

A motion and the legal argument supporting the motion shall be filed as a single document. Pleadings shall not contain a table of cases or a table of authority. Except for Motions for Summary Judgment, all other motions, oppositions, and objections shall not exceed FIFTEEN (15) pages (exclusive of the certificate of service). Replies shall not exceed SEVEN (7) pages, unless otherwise noted. Leave of Court must be obtained to file a surreply. If leave is obtained, surreplies shall not exceed FIVE (5) pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
5 pages
Applies to
Sur reply

Surreplies require leave of court and are limited to 5 pages.

Leave of Court must be obtained to file a surreply. If leave is obtained, surreplies shall not exceed FIVE (5) pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
10 pages
Applies to
Opposition

Motions for reconsideration: oppositions limited to 10 pages, replies limited to 5 pages

Motions for reconsideration and oppositions thereto shall not exceed TEN (10) pages (excluding the certificate of service). Replies shall not exceed FIVE (5) pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
30 pages
Applies to
Motion

Summary judgment motions and oppositions limited to 30 pages, replies to 20 pages, sur-replies to 10 pages.

A motion under Fed. R. Civ. P. 56, and oppositions thereto, shall not exceed THIRTY (30) pages (exclusive of the certificate of service). Replies shall not exceed TWENTY (20) pages. If leave to file a sur-reply is given, it shall not exceed TEN (10) pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCriminal cases

Attorney limit
4200 words
Attorney limit
12 pages
Attorney limit
2100 words
Attorney limit
6 pages

Support/opposition briefs: max 4,200 words (or 12 pages if handwritten/typewriter). Reply briefs: max 2,100 words (or 6 pages if handwritten/typewriter). Certain items excluded from count.

Supporting and opposition briefs filed in connection with any pretrial motion shall not exceed 4,200 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, twelve pages without prior approval of the court. Any reply brief shall not exceed 2,100 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, six pages without prior approval of the court. The court may refuse to consider any text, including footnotes, which is not included within the word or page limits. Captions, tables of contents, tables of authorities, signature blocks, and certificates of service need not be included within the word or page limit.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
6300 words
Limit
18 pages
Applies to
Brief

Motions in limine and response briefs are limited to 6,300 words or 18 handwritten/typewritten pages.

(5) Motions in limine noted under LCR 7(d)(5) and any brief in response shall not exceed 6,300 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, eighteen pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
1050 words
Limit
3 pages
Applies to
Sur reply

Surreplies are limited to 1,050 words, or three pages if handwritten or typewritten.

(3) The surreply shall not exceed 1,050 words or, if written by hand or typewriter, three pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
4200 words
Limit
12 pages

Each side’s contribution to a joint LCR 37 submission is limited to 4,200 words, or twelve pages if handwritten or typewritten.

The total text that each side may contribute to a joint LCR 37 submission shall not exceed 4,200 words or, in written by hand or typewriter, twelve pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
20 pages
Applies to
Reply

Reply briefs on summary judgment motions limited to 20 pages.

Replies shall not exceed TWENTY (20) pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
1 page
Applies to
Disputed instruction

The proposed language, proposing party, and supporting legal authority must appear at the top and may not exceed one page.

(1) At the top of the page, the proposed language shall be set forth with an identification of the party proposing it and a statement of any legal authority in support of the proposed language (not to exceed one page);

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
4200 words
Limit
12 pages
Limit
2100 words
Limit
6 pages

LCR 7(d)(2) motions and response briefs are limited to 4,200 words or 12 handwritten/typewritten pages; reply briefs are limited to 2,100 words or 6 handwritten/typewritten pages.

(2) Motions noted under LCR 7(d)(2) and briefs in response shall not exceed 4,200 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, twelve pages. Reply briefs shall not exceed 2,100 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, six pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
700 words
Limit
2 pages
Applies to
Motion

An over-length motion may not exceed 700 words or 2 handwritten/typewritten pages and must specify the additional words or pages requested.

The motion shall be no more than 700 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, two pages in length and shall request a specific number of additional words or pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
10 pages
Applies to
Settlement memorandum
Spacing
Double

Settlement memoranda are limited to 10 double-spaced pages with attachments/exhibits prohibited except in extraordinary circumstances.

Each party shall provide, in confidence, a concise settlement memorandum no longer than ten double spaced pages and which should not include attachments or exhibits unless under extraordinary circumstances.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
10 pages
Applies to
Settlement memorandum

Settlement memoranda limited to 10 double-spaced pages, confidential, no filing or service required.

Each party shall provide, in confidence, a concise settlement memorandum no longer than ten double spaced pages and which should not include attachments or exhibits unless under extraordinary circumstances. Please do not file these confidential memoranda with the Clerk’s Office or serve the memoranda on opposing counsel.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
15 pages
Applies to
Motion

Motions, oppositions, and objections are limited to 15 pages, excluding certificate of service.

Except for Motions for Summary Judgment, all other motions, oppositions, and objections shall not exceed FIFTEEN (15) pages (exclusive of the certificate of service).

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
10 pages
Applies to
Motion

Summary judgment motion limits: 30 pages for motion/opposition, 20 pages for reply, 10 pages for sur-reply.

A motion under Fed. R. Civ. P. 56, and oppositions thereto, shall not exceed THIRTY (30) pages (exclusive of the certificate of service). Replies shall not exceed TWENTY (20) pages. If leave to file a sur-reply is given, it shall not exceed TEN (10) pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
15 pages
Applies to
Opposition

Oppositions to Motions in Limine are limited to 15 pages, excluding the certificate of service.

Motions in Limine should normally be filed as one motion; oppositions thereto shall not exceed FIFTEEN (15) pages (exclusive of the certificate of service).

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Attorney limit
10 pages
Applies to
Motion

Motions for reconsideration: 10-page limit for motions/oppositions, 5-page limit for replies

Motions for reconsideration are discouraged. Motions that reassert prior arguments or raise new arguments that could have been made earlier will be summarily denied. Motions for reconsideration and oppositions thereto shall not exceed TEN (10) pages (excluding the certificate of service). Replies shall not exceed FIVE (5) pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
10 pages
Applies to
Sur reply

Sur-replies on summary judgment motions, if permitted, limited to 10 pages.

If leave to file a sur-reply is given, it shall not exceed TEN (10) pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
8400 words
Limit
24 pages
Applies to
Response

A response is limited to 8,400 words, or 24 pages if handwritten or typewritten; no reply is permitted.

The response may not exceed 8,400 words or, if written by hand or typewriter, twenty-four pages in length, and no reply will be permitted.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
10 pages
Applies to
Motion

Motions for reconsideration and oppositions are limited to 10 pages, excluding the certificate of service.

Motions for reconsideration and oppositions thereto shall not exceed TEN (10) pages (excluding the certificate of service).

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
3500 words
Limit
10 pages
Applies to
Mediation memorandum

Each party’s mediation memorandum should present concise contentions on liability and damages and should not exceed 3,500 words, or 10 pages if handwritten or typewritten.

Each party shall provide the mediator with a memorandum presenting in concise form its contentions relative to both liability and damages. This memorandum should not exceed 3,500 words or, if written by hand or typewriter, 10 pages in length.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
8400 words
Limit
24 pages
Applies to
Motion

A temporary restraining order motion is limited to 8,400 words, or 24 pages if handwritten or typewritten.

The motion must not exceed 8,400 words or, if written by hand or typewriter, twenty-four pages in length

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Attorney limit
5 pages
Applies to
Reply

Replies shall not exceed FIVE (5) pages.

Replies shall not exceed FIVE (5) pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
2100 words
Limit
6 pages
Applies to
Motion

Except as otherwise provided by court order or rule, LCR 7(d)(1) motions other than temporary restraining order motions are limited to 2,100 words, or 6 pages if handwritten or typewritten.

Except as otherwise provided by court order or rule, the length of motions and briefs shall be as follows: (1) Motions noted under LCR 7(d)(1), except motions for temporary restraining orders, shall not exceed 2,100 words or, if written by hand or with a typewriter, six pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil casesProposed or draft document; may not be in force

Limit
24 pages
Limit
12 pages
Applies to
Brief

Opening briefs are limited to 24 pages per side and responsive briefs to 12 pages per side, unless the parties obtain permission before the due date to exceed those limits.

Opening briefs shall be limited to 24 pages per side, and responsive briefs shall be limited to 12 pages per side, unless the parties receive permission prior to the due date to file over-length briefs.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
7 pages
Applies to
Reply

Reply briefs are limited to 7 pages.

Replies shall not exceed SEVEN (7) pages, unless otherwise noted.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Attorney limit
15 pages
Applies to
Opposition

Motions in Limine: oppositions limited to 15 pages, due 14 days after filing, no reply brief unless ordered

Motions in Limine should normally be filed as one motion; oppositions thereto shall not exceed FIFTEEN (15) pages (exclusive of the certificate of service). Any opposition to a Motion in Limine shall be filed no later than FOURTEEN (14) days after a motion is filed. The moving party will not file any reply brief in support of a motion in limine unless ordered otherwise by the Court.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
4200 words
Limit
12 pages
Applies to
Magistrate judge objection or response

Objections to a magistrate judge’s order or recommended disposition and responses are limited to 4,200 words, or 12 pages if handwritten or typewritten, unless a court order or rule provides otherwise.

Except as otherwise provided by court order or rule, objections to a magistrate judge’s order or recommended disposition, or any response thereto, shall not exceed 4,200 words or, if written by hand or typewriter, twelve pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Attorney limit
15 pages
Limit
15 pages
Attorney limit
10 pages

Motions, oppositions, and objections are limited to 15 pages; replies to 10 pages; sur-replies require leave of court.

Except for motions for summary judgment (see Section II(F) infra) and motions for reconsideration (see Section II(G) infra), all motions, oppositions, and objections shall not exceed FIFTEEN (15) pages (exclusive of the certificate of service). Replies shall not exceed TEN (10) pages, unless otherwise noted. Leave of the Court must be obtained to file a sur−reply.

Senior Judge Barbara J. Rothstein

CRITICALCivil cases

Attorney limit
2 pages
Applies to
Jury instructions

Disputed jury instructions limited to 2 pages per party per instruction.

Where disagreements arise, the proposed jury instructions shall include the alternate instructions and argument and authority for the instruction not to exceed TWO (2) pages per party, per instruction.

Senior Judge Barbara J. Rothstein

CRITICALCivil cases

Attorney limit
24 pages
Attorney limit
12 pages
Applies to
Motion for summary judgment

Summary judgment motions and oppositions are limited to 24 pages, replies to 12 pages, and sur-replies require leave of Court.

A motion for summary judgment pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 56, and oppositions thereto, shall not exceed TWENTY−FOUR (24) pages (exclusive of the certificate of service). Replies shall not exceed TWELVE (12) pages. Leave of the Court must be obtained to file a sur−reply.

Senior Judge Barbara J. Rothstein

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
15 pages
Applies to
Motion

Motions limited to 15 pages, oppositions to 15 pages, replies to 10 pages, no tables allowed, sur-replies require leave.

A motion and the legal argument supporting the motion shall be filed as a single document. Motions shall not contain a table of cases or a table of authorities. Except for motions for summary judgment (see Section II(F) infra) and motions for reconsideration (see Section II(H) infra), all motions, oppositions, and objections shall not exceed FIFTEEN (15) pages (exclusive of the certificate of service). Replies shall not exceed TEN (10) pages, unless otherwise noted. Leave of the Court must be obtained to file a sur−reply.

Senior Judge Barbara J. Rothstein

CRITICALCivil cases

Attorney limit
24 pages
Attorney limit
12 pages
Applies to
Motion

Summary judgment motions limited to 24 pages; oppositions to 24 pages; replies to 12 pages.

A motion for summary judgment pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 56, and oppositions thereto, shall not exceed TWENTY−FOUR (24) pages (exclusive of the certificate of service). Replies shall not exceed TWELVE (12) pages.

Senior Judge Barbara J. Rothstein

CRITICALCivil cases

Limit
10 pages
Applies to
Reply

Replies limited to 10 pages.

Replies shall not exceed TEN (10) pages, unless otherwise noted.

Senior Judge Barbara J. Rothstein

CRITICAL

Attorney limit
8400 words
Attorney limit
14000 words
Attorney limit
8750 words
Attorney limit
4200 words

Cross-motions for summary judgment follow a specific briefing schedule with word limits: plaintiff's motion (8,400 words), defendant's combined response/cross-motion (14,000 words), plaintiff's combined reply/response (8,750 words), defendant's reply (4,200 words).

Consistent with LCR 7(k), if the parties plan on filing cross-motions for summary judgment, they should adhere to the following briefing schedule: • Deadline for dispositive motions: plaintiff(s)' motion for summary judgment due (word limit 8,400 words). The motion shall be noted for 49 days from the filing date. • 21 days after plaintiff(s)' motion: defendant(s)' combined response/cross-motion for summary judgment due (word limit 14,000 words). • 21 days after defendant(s)' combined response/cross-motion: plaintiff(s)' combined reply/response due (word limit 8,750 words). • 21 days after plaintiff(s)' combined reply/response: defendant(s)' reply due (word limit 4,200 words).

Judge Lauren King

CRITICALCivil cases

Attorney limit
10 pages
Attorney limit
5 pages
Applies to
Motion

Reconsideration motions limited to 10 pages; oppositions to 10 pages; replies to 5 pages.

Motions for reconsideration and oppositions thereto shall not exceed TEN (10) pages (excluding the certificate of service). Replies shall not exceed FIVE (5) pages.

Senior Judge Barbara J. Rothstein

Other limits (time, motions, days)

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to
Voir dire

Attorney voir dire: 20 minutes initial, 10 minutes follow-up, must avoid repetitive/irrelevant questions.

Following the Courts screening, counsel may examine the panel members directly. The Court will establish time limits for attorney-led voir dire at the pretrial conference, but regardless of time, the Court will instruct counsel to move on with the examination if questioning becomes too repetitive or irrelevant, or if counsel tries to argue the merits of the case. Typically, the parties will be given an initial 20 minutes for questioning, followed by another 10 minutes of follow-up questions.

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to
Voir dire

Each side limited to time limits set by Court at final pretrial conference for voir dire.

Each side (not Party) is limited to time limits set by the Court at the final pretrial conference.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICALCriminal cases

Each side limited to time limits set by Court for voir dire.

However, each side (not each Party) is limited to time limits set by the Court at the pretrial conference.

Judge Tana Lin

CRITICAL

Applies to
Pleading

Pleasings must comply with Local Rule CR 7(e) length restrictions; over-length pleadings may be returned or arguments beyond limits may be disregarded.

Length The parties must comply with the length restrictions set forth in Local Rule CR 7(e). The Court may return over-length pleadings or decline to consider arguments presented beyond the specified page limits.

Magistrate Judge Brian A. Tsuchida

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to
Reply brief

A reply brief may not exceed half the total length of the opposition brief.

In all cases, the reply brief shall not exceed one-half the total length of the brief filed in opposition.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to
Jury composition

Civil jury trials have 9 jurors with 3 peremptory challenges per side.

In civil trials, the jury shall consist of nine jurors. Each side shall have three peremptory challenges.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to
Opposition

Motions in Limine oppositions due 14 days after filing

The parties shall endeavor to resolve any evidentiary disputes prior to filing a Motion in Limine. Motions in Limine should normally be filed as one motion; oppositions thereto shall not exceed FIFTEEN (15) pages (exclusive of the certificate of service). Any opposition to a Motion in Limine shall be filed no later than FOURTEEN (14) days after a motion is filed.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to
Closing argument

Closing arguments limited to 45 minutes per side; longer requests must be submitted in advance.

Closing Arguments: Closing arguments generally will be limited to no more than FORTY-FIVE (45) minutes per side. Requests for longer presentations must be submitted to the Court before closing arguments begin. Plaintiff may reserve for rebuttal up to one-half of the time actually used during the direct argument.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to
Voir dire

Each party's counsel has 10 minutes for additional voir dire questioning.

Counsel for each party may have TEN (10) minutes each to further question the prospective jurors.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

CRITICALCivil cases

Opening statements limited to 30 minutes per side (unless complex case or court authorization)

Opening Statements: Except for especially complex cases, or otherwise authorized by the Court, opening statements shall be no more than thirty (30) minutes per side.

Senior Judge Barbara J. Rothstein

CRITICALCivil cases

Applies to
Voir dire

Each party gets 10 minutes for additional voir dire questioning.

Counsel for each party may have TEN (10) minutes each to further question the prospective jurors.

Senior Judge Barbara J. Rothstein

CRITICAL

Comply with Local Rule 7(e) length restrictions; arguments beyond limits may be declined.

Parties must comply with the length restrictions specified in Local Rule 7(e). The court may decline to consider arguments presented beyond the specified word count or page limits.

Senior Judge James L. Robart

CRITICAL

Applies to
Brief

Follow Local Civil Rule 7(e) length limits; overlength motions disfavored and must be filed separately.

Parties must comply with the length restrictions specified in Local Civil Rule 7(e). The Court may decline to consider arguments presented beyond the specific length restrictions. Motions for leave to file overlength briefs are disfavored and will only be considered in extraordinary circumstances, which circumstances must be set forth in detail by the party making the request. Motions for leave to file overlength briefs must be filed and noted for consideration to provide the Court sufficient time to rule on the motion before the brief at issue is due. Counsel shall not file a motion for leave to file an overlength brief concurrently with the overlength brief.

Senior Judge Richard A. Jones

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to
Opposition brief

Opposition brief gets equal additional pages if over-length motion granted; reply brief limited to half opposition length

If the court grants leave to file an over-length motion, the brief in opposition will automatically be allowed an equal number of additional pages. In all cases, the reply brief shall not exceed one-half the total length of the brief filed in opposition.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

WARNINGCivil cases

Court may refuse to consider text exceeding limits; certain items excluded from count

The court may refuse to consider any text, including footnotes, which is not included within the word or page limits. Captions, tables of contents, tables of authorities, signature blocks, and certificates of service need not be included within the word or page limit.

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to
Brief

The court may refuse to consider text, including footnotes, that exceeds the applicable word or page limit.

The court may refuse to consider any text, including footnotes, which is not included within the word or page limits.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

WARNINGCivil cases

The joint submission limit includes introductory, position, supporting, and opposing statements, but excludes the discovery request itself.

This limit shall include all introductory or position statements, and statements in support of, or in opposition to, a particular request, but shall not include the discovery request itself.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

WARNINGCivil cases

Opening statements limited to 30 minutes per side unless complex case or court authorization.

Opening Statements: Except for especially complex cases, or otherwise authorized by the Court, opening statements shall be limited to no more than THIRTY (30) minutes per side.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to
Motion

Page limit exceptions granted only for extraordinary complexity.

Motions to exceed the page limitations will be granted only where the matter is one of extraordinary complexity.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

WARNINGCivil cases

Applies to
Motion

Page limit extensions granted only for extraordinary complexity.

Motions to exceed the page limitations will be granted only where the matter is one of extraordinary complexity.

Senior Judge Barbara J. Rothstein

WARNINGCivil cases

Page limit extensions are granted only for extraordinary complexity.

Motions to exceed the page limitations will be granted only where the matter is one of extraordinary complexity.

Senior Judge Barbara J. Rothstein

INFOCriminal cases

Applies to
Peremptory challenge

Government gets 6 peremptory challenges, defense gets 10 in criminal cases.

The government will normally have six challenges, and the defense will have ten.

Judge Lauren King

INFOCivil cases

Applies to
Opposition

If leave to file an over-length motion is granted, the opposition brief automatically receives an equal number of additional pages.

If the court grants leave to file an over-length motion, the brief in opposition will automatically be allowed an equal number of additional pages.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

INFOCivil cases

Captions, tables of contents, tables of authorities, signature blocks, and certificates of service are excluded from word and page counts.

Captions, tables of contents, tables of authorities, signature blocks, and certificates of service need not be included within the word or page limit.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

INFOCivil cases

Opening statements are limited to 30 minutes per side unless the case is especially complex or the Court authorizes otherwise.

Opening Statements: Except for especially complex cases, or otherwise authorized by the Court, opening statements shall be limited to no more than THIRTY (30) minutes per side.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke

INFOCivil cases

Applies to
Oral argument

Oral argument limited to 15 minutes per side unless otherwise ordered

If the Court finds that oral argument is necessary, the parties shall be limited to FIFTEEN (15) minutes per side unless otherwise ordered.

Magistrate Judge Theresa L. Fricke
Common questions about Western District of Washington page & word limits

What page or word limits apply to motion in Western District of Washington?

Judge Lauren King's rule states these limits: 8400 words. Motions for default judgment may include up to 8,400 words. This is longer than the length permitted under the Local Civil Rules. Parties still must certify their compliance with the 8,400 word limit under LCR 7(e)(6).

View ruleOfficial source Source: page 7, section B. Motion Length

Senior Judge Barbara J. Rothstein's rule states these limits: attorney: 15 pages; attorney: 15 pages; 15 pages; attorney: 10 pages. Motions, oppositions, and objections are limited to 15 pages; replies to 10 pages; sur-replies require leave of court.

View ruleOfficial source Source: page 2, section II.A. Structure, Page Limitations, Deadlines, and Typeface

Magistrate Judge Michelle L. Peterson's rule states these limits: 2100 words; 6 pages. Same-day motions limited to 2,100 words or 6 pages.

View ruleOfficial source Source: page 24, section Length of Motions and Briefs

17 more rules answer this question.

What page or word limits apply to joint brief in Western District of Washington?

Judge Kymberly K. Evanson's rule states these limits: 12600 words. Excludes caption and signature blocks. Joint briefs are limited to 12,600 total words (6,300 per party), excluding caption, date line, and signature block.

View ruleOfficial source Source: page 3, section PROCEDURE FOR MOTIONS IN LIMINE

1 more rule answers this question.

What page or word limits apply to opposition reply brief in Western District of Washington?

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead's rule states these limits: 10500 words. The initial moving party’s combined opposition and reply brief may not exceed 10,500 words.

View ruleOfficial source Source: page 11, section 5.8 Cross-motions for Summary Judgment

What page or word limits apply to jury instructions in Western District of Washington?

Senior Judge Barbara J. Rothstein's rule states these limits: attorney: 2 pages. Disputed jury instructions limited to 2 pages per party per instruction.

View ruleOfficial source Source: page 10, section D. Jury Trials

What page or word limits apply to motion for summary judgment in Western District of Washington?

Senior Judge Barbara J. Rothstein's rule states these limits: attorney: 24 pages; attorney: 12 pages. Excludes certificates. Summary judgment motions and oppositions are limited to 24 pages, replies to 12 pages, and sur-replies require leave of Court.

View ruleOfficial source Source: page 3, section II.F

What page or word limits apply to opening opposition brief in Western District of Washington?

Judge Jamal N. Whitehead's rule states these limits: 10500 words. The opposing party’s combined opening and opposition brief may not exceed 10,500 words.

View ruleOfficial source Source: page 11, section 5.8 Cross-motions for Summary Judgment