AD: Conferences and Meetings

Question 1

Rule 26(f) Conference

Answer 1

• Unless court order says otherwise, at least 21 days before scheduling conference (or scheduling order is due), parties discuss claims, defenses, and settlement.
• Must form discovery plan, including issues about how electronically stored info will be produced, and present it to court in writing within 14 days.

Question 2

Scheduling Order

Answer 2

• Unless local rule or court order says otherwise, the court enters an order scheduling cut-offs for joinder, amendment, motions, etc.

Question 3

Pretrial Conferences

Answer 3

• The court may hold “pretrial conferences” to process the case and foster settlement.
• Final pretrial conference determines issues to be tried and evidence to be proffered. This is recorded in a pretrial conference order, which supersedes the pleadings.
  
  • creates a roadmap for trial. Makes sure there are no suprises.