Ill. R. Cir. Ct. Lake Cnty. 2-3.02

As amended through September 23, 2024

Rule 2-3.02 - Final Trial conferences

A. In addition to the pre-trial settlement conference, the Court, in its discretion, may order a final trial conference during which the attorneys for each party shall be prepared to exhaust any possibility of settlement and discuss all issues remaining prior to trial.

B. All attorneys responsible for conducting the trial shall appear in court for the final trial conference and at the time the case is called for trial. If any such attorney is unable to appear, alternate counsel shall present an affidavit of the responsible counsel setting forth the reasons he is unable to appear.

C. Counsel appearing for the final trial conference shall be familiar with and comply with the Trial Judge's Standing Order relating to trial deadlines and the conduct of the trial. Counsel responsible for conducting the trial shall appear, with full authority of their clients to discuss each issue.

D. Each attorney shall have present in person or immediately available by telephone a representative with authority to discuss and determine each aspect of potential settlement.

E. Motions in Limine shall be in writing and shall be presented to the Court at the final trial conference unless the Court orders that they be presented on a different date. The Court, in its discretion, may consider Motions in Limine presented after the final trial conference if it determines that the grounds became known subsequent to the deadline or for other good cause. All Orders on Motions in in Limine shall be reduced to writing by movant's counsel and presented to the Court for signature prior to voir dire examination in jury cases and opening statements in bench cases.

F. At the final trial conference or at any other time as may be designated by the Court, the parties shall produce all of the exhibits they expect to offer into evidence. Each of the exhibits shall be marked for identification by the attorneys, or as the Court may direct. The parties shall then stipulate as to the exhibits to which there are no objections, and such exhibits shall be admitted into evidence without the necessity of further foundation.

Ill. R. Cir. Ct. Lake Cnty. 2-3.02

Amended effective 10/24/2016.