Category Archives: FAQs

Does the Northern District of Texas have Patent Rules?

Yes.  Although not found in the Northern District of Texas’ Local Rules, the Northern District of Texas does have a set of patent rules.  They are found in Amended Miscellaneous Order No. 62, which is located here.

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Do I Get An Extra 3 Days to Respond to a Motion Filed Electronically in the Northern District of Texas?

No.  Under Local Rule 7.1(e), “[a] response and brief to an opposed motion must be filed within 21 days from the date the motion is filed.”  (Reply briefs may generally be filed “within 14 days from the date the response … Continue reading

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When is Local Counsel Required?

“Unless exempted by LR 83.11 [which deals with attorneys appearing on behalf of the United States Justice Department or the Attorney General of the State of Texas], local counsel is required in all cases where an attorney appearing in a case … Continue reading

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How Must Attorneys Conduct Themselves at Trial or Hearings?

“Unless the presiding judge otherwise directs, during a trial or hearing, attorneys must:  (a) stand when making objections or otherwise addressing the presiding judge; (b) use the lectern while examining or cross-examining witnesses; (c) when examining a witness, refrain from … Continue reading

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Can Jurors be Contacted?

Not without the presiding judge’s permission:  “A party, attorney, or representative of a party or attorney, shall not, before or after trial, contact any juror, prospective juror, or the relatives, friends, or associates of a juror or prospective juror, unless … Continue reading

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Must Courtesy Copies be Submitted to the Presiding Judge?

It depends on your presiding judge’s requirements, which can be found here.

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What Happens to Sealed Documents After the Case is Finally Disposed Of?

“Unless the presiding judge otherwise directs, all sealed documents maintained on paper will be deemed unsealed 60 days after final disposition of a case.  A party that desires that such a document remain sealed must move for this relief before … Continue reading

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Can a Document be Filed Under Seal?

“A party may file under seal any document that a statute or rule requires or permits to be so filed.”  “If no statute or rule requires or permits a document to be filed under seal, a party may file a … Continue reading

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How Many Motions for Summary Judgment May be Filed?

Typically, one per party:  “Unless otherwise directed by the presiding judge, or permitted by law, a party may file no more than one motion for summary judgment.”  See L.R. 56.2(b).

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What Must a Summary Judgment Motion and Response Include?

A motion for summary judgment must, (i) on the first page, under the heading “summary,” contain a concise statement that identifies the elements of each claim or defense as to which summary judgment is sought, (ii) contain the legal and/or … Continue reading

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