All local rules for E.D. Pa., integrated with this judge's published requirements.
Judge Straw permits counsel to communicate with his courtroom deputy and law clerks on scheduling and administrative matters, but never on the merits of a case.
Silent on page limits for civil motions. The local rules set no district-wide page limit for motions or supporting briefs. Each judge's individual practices govern; consult the assigned judge's chambers procedures. E.D. Pa. L.R. 7.1 ↗
Silent on page limits for opposition briefs. The local rules set no district-wide page limit. Each judge's individual practices govern. E.D. Pa. L.R. 7.1 ↗
Silent on page limits for reply briefs. The local rules set no district-wide page limit. Each judge's individual practices govern. E.D. Pa. L.R. 7.1 ↗
Memoranda must not exceed twenty-five (25) pages in length (excluding table of contents and appendices), must be double spaced and must use 12-point Times New Roman font. Memoranda over fifteen (15) pages in length must include a table of contents and table of authorities.
Judge Straw will permit reply briefs not to exceed fifteen (15) pages.
Response to motion due within 14 days of service E.D. Pa. L.R. 7.1(c) ↗
Calendar control and other matters affecting the conduct of court business shall be governed by written policy statements on file in the Clerk's Office, which may be adopted or modified by the court in the implementation of the local rules (but not in derogation thereof), and also in the implementation of operating agreements that may be in effect between this court and certain other courts concerning conflicting engagements of counsel, recognition of busy-slips, and the like. E.D. Pa. L.R. 40.3 ↗
Judge Straw requires a courtesy copy of all motion papers to be sent directly to chambers via email.
If exhibits are over 20 pages, a hard copy must be sent to chambers.
Proposed order required with every motion E.D. Pa. L.R. 7.1(a) ↗
Judge Straw will approve confidentiality or sealing orders consistent with applicable legal standards. See, In re Avandia Mktg., Sales Practices & Prods. Liab. Litig., 924 F.3d 662 (3d Cir. 2019).
Oral argument at court's discretion; no automatic right E.D. Pa. L.R. 7.1(f) ↗
Judge Straw will schedule oral argument on motions if it appears likely to be helpful to the Court's resolution of the matter. Counsel may request oral argument if considered appropriate.
Counsel will have substantial input in the setting of dates in the Rule 16 Order, Judge Straw expects counsel to comply with the dates set out in that Order. Extensions will be entertained upon a good cause showing that circumstances beyond the reasonable expectation of counsel have hampered the progress of the case. Judge Straw requires a letter brief requesting an extension.
Discovery disputes referred to assigned magistrate judge E.D. Pa. L.R. 72.1 ↗
Judge Straw expects the parties to resolve discovery disputes without Court intervention. Should counsel be unable, in good faith, to resolve their dispute, Judge Straw permits contact with the Court through his courtroom deputy to set up telephone or chambers conferences to resolve outstanding issues. The use of motion practice in discovery matters is discouraged.