Mary's Tip No. 26--The Judge's Protocols

When I was in my first year of practice, a partner gave me invaluable advice for litigation: "Always know your judge. Know who they are. Know how they think. This is the most important aspect of your case."

For those of you who litigate, knowing what court/judge your case is in front of is vital. Find out what you can about the judge, the court, and the community (if the court is not in your neighborhood).

Just as important, once you're assigned to a file, get to know the judge's specific protocols, if they have any. These are generally located on the court's website, on the judge's page.

Some judges have very specific protocols when it comes to dates/adjournments, motion practice, exhibits, etc. So simply reviewing the court rules (or even the local rules) is not always enough. My recommendation is to become familiar with the judge's protocols at the START of the case, take notes on anything out of the ordinary, and then review them again before filing any type of motion or brief with the court.