June District Updates

June 2021

Central District of California

Covid-19 Update: The court is currently in Phase 3 of its Plan for Phased Resumption of Operations (“Reopening Plan”). All courthouses in the Central District are open to persons with court business and subject to all posted restrictions. In-court hearings will be permitted in all matters at the discretion of the assigned judge. Some hearings may continue to be held by video or telephonic conference. Jury trials are permitted in civil and criminal cases. (Notice)

Magistrate Judge Reappointments: The court is considering reappointing Magistrate Judges Jacqueline Chooljian (Notice) and Louise A. LaMothe (Notice), and Kenly Kiya Kato (Notice).

Southern District of California

Covid-19 Update: Short cause criminal jury trials resumed on March 8, 2021 and civil jury trials resumed on June 1, 2021. Up to five jury trials may begin per week. (See CJO 62-A see also CJO 63, -B, CJO 36-B, and CJO 63). Most other proceedings typically can proceed by telephone or videoconference.

Pro Bono Panel: The Court is currently soliciting applications for new law firms and attorneys to serve on its Pro Bono Panel. Law firms and attorneys currently serving on the Panel will remain on the Panel and need not reapply. Counsel from the Pro Bono Panel have and will be called upon to represent indigent plaintiffs asserting civil rights claims in the Southern District, most of whom are prisoners. (Notice)

Northern District of California

Covid-19 Update: Access to all courthouse locations continues to be restricted to those required or permitted to attend a specific in-person court proceeding, and authorized visitors must follow self-screening and other safety protocols. Trials are proceeding in accordance with the logistical considerations necessitated by the Court’s safety protocols. A list of upcoming hearings to be held by videoconference is available here.

Eastern District of California

Covid-19 Update: Effective June 14, 2021, all courthouses of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of California will reopen to the public. Face coverings and physical distancing are still required, and Judges shall determine whether to hold proceedings in person or by telephone or videoconference. (Notice) NextGen Upgrade: On Tuesday, July 6, 2021, the court will go live on the Next Generation of CM/ECF (NextGen), the latest version of the Federal Judiciary’s case management and electronic case filing system. This upgrade provides benefits including Central Sign-On, which allows attorneys to use one PACER login and password to access all NextGen courts (district, appellate and bankruptcy) in which they practice. On July 6, 2021, e-filers will be required to use their own individual PACER login and password to access the California Eastern District electronic filing system. Preparing for the NextGen implementation requires a 3-step process by all attorneys.