District Updates: November 2021

Central District of California

COVID-19 Update: The District Court adopted a policy regarding COVID-19 vaccinations and testing, effective October 1, 2021. (Policy.) On October 4, 2021, the Court extended its authority pursuant to provisions of the CARES Act through January 14, 2022. Accordingly, court hearings by video or telephonic conference may continue to be held in certain criminal matters. (Notice.)  

Local Rules: New and amended Local Rules will become effective December 1, 2021. A redlined version of these rules, as well as a complete copy of the Local Civil Rules are available on the Court’s website.

Southern District of California

COVID-19 Update: The Southern District of California has resumed normal operations. However, most proceedings can typically proceed by telephone or videoconference. (See, e.g., id.CJO 63-F.) Face coverings are required for visitors that are not fully vaccinated. (See CJO 59-A.)

Magistrate Judges: The Court is considering the reappointment of Magistrate Judge Jill L. Burkhardt and a Merits Selection Panel is accepting comments from members of the bar and public. (GO 733.)

Northern District of California

COVID-19 Update: All visitors to a Northern District courthouse must review the court’s COVID-19 pre-screening questionnaire before arriving at the courthouse and, effective July 29, 2021, all jurors, attorneys, court staff, and other courthouse visitors, regardless of vaccination status, are required to wear masks within public or common areas of courthouse property. Additionally, the Northern District is holding “hybrid” in-court criminal proceedings incorporating Zoom, regarding which additional information is available on the Court’s website.

Civil Local Rules: The court updated its Civil Local Rules effective November 1, 2021. Comments or suggestions on any of the revisions may be submitted at any time to media@uscourts.gov. 

Clerk of Court: Susan Soong, the court’s Clerk of Court, has been selected as the new Circuit Executive for the Ninth Circuit. If you are interested in applying for the Clerk of Court position, please refer to the court’s Career Opportunities page for application information.

NextGen CM/ECF: On October 25, 2021, the Northern District of California implemented the NextGen CM/ECF system. Action is required by all registered CM/ECF users.  For more information, see NextGen CM/ECF Instructions.

Eastern District of California

Covid-19 Update: The Court issued a General Order regarding vaccination and testing requirements.  (GO-637.) All federal courthouses in the Eastern District of California remain open to the public. (Notice.) Face coverings must be worn in public spaces. (Notice.) Criminal and civil jury trials are being held in person. Judges shall determine whether to hold other proceedings in person. Civil proceedings are primarily being held by telephone or videoconference.