Protocol and Practice of Persons Appearing in the Court of Judge Patricia Starr

Specific Comments or Advice for Litigants

Specific Requirements or Preferences

Please be courteous to staff. They will assist you if they can, but remember they cannot answer legal questions.  
 
I strive to show respect to everyone who appears in my courtroom. Likewise, I expect courtesy and mutual respect between parties and attorneys.  
 
Please call or email the division if you are running late for a scheduled hearing.  
 

Pre-Trial Practice and Management Issues

Discovery or Disclosure Disputes and/or Sanctions

I expect the parties to follow all rules requiring personal consultation or "meet and confer" with a good faith effort to resolve a dispute before asking for court involvement. An email is not considered personal consultation.  
Please discuss possible resolution of issues before the hearing.  
 

Other Pre-trial Practice Guidelines or Comments

Any request to extend time or continue a matter must include the position of the opposing party, or a statement that efforts to determine that position were unsuccessful.  
 
Motions should include a proposed form of order. All motion must be made in writing. The Court will not consider a contested motion unless all parties have been given the opportunity to respond in writing.

Trial Practice and Protocol

Trial Schedule

The Court strives to use trial time as wisely as possible. The Court expects to use all of the time scheduled for trial in a day absent notice and unavoidable circumstances.

Joint Pre-Trial Memo and/or Conference; Exhibits and Objections

I do not allow speaking objections. Counsel should simply state the basis for the objection; for example, "objection, hearsay," or "objection, asked and answered." Further discussion will be had only if necessary.  
 
All exhibits must be provided to the Clerk in a timely manner.

Courtroom Etiquette

Professional and polite behavior is expected at all times. All witnesses, staff, parties, and opposing counsel should be treated with respect.  
 
All parties must be near a microphone when speaking on the record.