Overview
Judge Abrams published his first form scheduling order last week which contemplates (similar to Judge Forrest's recently amended form scheduling order) that fact discovery be completed within four months, and the case be trial-ready two months from the close of all discovery (or a decision on a dispositive motion). Variations from this schedule will be permitted if " the case presents unique complexities" or under "other exceptional circumstances." Judge Furman amended his civil practices and trial practices today, and also published criminal practices and a form case management plan. Judge Furman's already-existing case management plan and scheduling order for complex cases should be used for those cases designated for conclusion in the Complex Case Pilot Project. Redlines of the civil practices and trial practices to the prior versions are here (civil) and here (trial). There were several revisions to the civil practices including a requirement that the moving party make a showing of "good cause" before the Court will entertain summary judgment motions in non-jury cases.