How are mandatory settlement conference (MSC) dates selected?
Until e-filing becomes generally available, case participants may file a paper declaration of readiness to proceed (DOR). EAMS then selects the conference date and judge automatically. When e-filing becomes generally available, a case participant will be able to use the e-form DOR over the Internet and will have a choice of seven dates. If those are not acceptable, another three dates within pre-determined time frames will be offered. Only the party requesting a conference by e-form will have a choice of dates-not the opponent. When setting dates, an individual participant’s calendar will not be considered. EAMS will attempt to set conferences before any previously assigned judge, unless that judge is recused, or is unavailable in the time frame designated for calendaring. If the assigned judge has taken testimony and is not available for a conference assignment within the pre-determined time frames in EAMS, the case will be set manually by the presiding judge.
