Pretrial

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Social Security, some habeas corpus cases, and some prisoners' rights cases, are referred to a Magistrate Judge for report and recommendation. In all other cases, only discovery matters are typically referred to a Magistrate Judge.


The Final Pretrial and Settlement Conference is typically scheduled to take place approximately two months after the close of discovery. The Court enforces the requirements of E.D. Mich. LR 16.2 for the pretrial order, which is due one week before the Final Pretrial and Settlement Conference. Extensions of time for submission of the pretrial order are granted only upon a showing of good cause.


All proposed trial exhibits are required to be marked before the Final Pretrial Conference, and listed in the Final Pretrial Order. Objections to proposed exhibits also must be stated in the Final Pretrial Order.


Motions in limine must be filed by the date of the Final Pretrial Conference, and are decided at trial.


The trial date is set at the Final Pretrial Conference. Attorneys having conflicts with another trial are expected to address them at the Final Pretrial Conference.


Requests for AV equipment, easels, chalkboards, etc., should be made at the Final Pretrial Conference. Letters permitting attorneys to bring laptop computers or other electronics should be requested at the Final Pretrial Conference.