All local rules for W.D. Tex., integrated with this judge's published requirements.
Use every reasonable effort to provide notice to the adverse party that the TRO has been filed, and provide a copy of the TRO to the opposing party by fax or electronic (e-mail) delivery. Parties should comply with Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 65 and Local Rules.
An attorney may address a procedural question that is not answered by the federal rules of procedure, local rules, or the Judge’s Standing Orders to the law clerks at (915) 534-6740. Please do not call the judge’s staff to inquire about substantive issues.
Not immediately notifying the Court that the case has been settled.
Leave of Court is required for briefs longer than that permitted by local rule and standing order. Such leave is routinely granted, however.
A chambers’ copy is never required.
Extensions to answer a complaint require an agreed motion and proposed order. See Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 6.
Ordinarily, the Court does not hold hearings on civil motions. However, should you believe a hearing is warranted, you should make such a request in the opening paragraph of your motion or response with an explanation as to why the hearing is necessary. The Court will notify you if a hearing will be held.
Yes — motions decided on the papers without oral argument.
Does the Court allow telephone conferences for the resolution of motions or other matters? No.
You must make any request for a continuance in writing as early as possible, and you must confer with opposing counsel prior to filing the motion.
At the time a lawsuit is filed, the case is assigned to this district judge and a magistrate judge. The parties should advise the district clerk of their respective positions concerning transferring the case to a magistrate judge for jury or nonjury trial by consent, pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 636(c). Discovery matters are routinely referred to the magistrate judge.
No, except on discovery matters. The Court enters a General Order regarding Discovery very early in the case. That Order requires various discovery disclosures to be made without the necessity of any written motion. No "routine" discovery motions should be filed, unless the General Order of Discovery has not been complied with.
No, but parties are encouraged to hyperlink citations in their briefs for Westlaw or Lexis access. Source ↗
All motions to dismiss based on the pleadings shall be filed within ninety (90) days of the earlier of the serving of the complaint, the filing of a petition for removal, or the transfer of an action from another judicial district. The filing of a motion to dismiss will not result in an automatic stay of discovery or extend the time for completing discovery. Source ↗