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BenchPath

Pretrial Conference

Before filing

  1. 1

    Read the order setting the conference — it lists exactly what must be filed and by when

  2. 2

    Confer with opposing counsel on any joint statement the order requires

    Joint pretrial statements are order-driven; start early enough to resolve disputes over exhibits and witnesses.

Filing

  1. 3

At the hearing

  1. 4

    Appear with authority

    Many divisions require the attorney who will try the case, with settlement and scheduling authority.

After the hearing

  1. 5

    Review the pretrial order carefully

    On the issues it lists, the pretrial order supersedes the pleadings.

Steps marked “check the division's instructions” vary by judge — that variance is exactly what BenchPath tracks. Search your county and division for the specific requirements before relying on the generic sequence. Not legal advice.