Must I Include a Brief with My Motion or Response?

Generally yes, if it is opposed:  “An opposed motion must be accompanied by a brief that sets forth the moving party’s contentions of fact and/or law, and argument and authorities, unless [the opposed motion is one to amend, for a continuance, to extend time, or to substitute counsel].  A response to an opposed motion must be accompanied by a brief that sets forth the responding party’s contentions of fact and/or law, and argument and authorities.  A responding party is not required to file a brief in opposition to a motion for which a brief is not required[.]”  See L.R. 7.1(d).