Rule 15 - Settlement ConferencesA. It is essential that, in addition to trial counsel, the individual parties be personally present. In the case of corporate parties and insurance carriers, a representative of that entity with authority to consider and approve or disapprove any settlement proposal shall be personally present.B. Any party may request a settlement conference. Any party may request that the settlement conference be conducted by a judge other than the judge assigned to try the action. Whether a confidential settlement memorandum should be prepared and submitted is the prerogative of the settlement judge; counsel should consult with the judge's office to determine the need for and the format of a settlement memorandum.C. Statements and other communications divulged at the settlement conference may not be used by any party at any hearing or at the trial of the action, except as is necessary to enforce or interpret the agreement of the parties.Added June 17, 1999, effective 7/1/1999.