What Is a Calendar Call in Court?
A calendar call, also known as a docket call or a call of the list, is a court procedure where attorneys and parties involved in a case are required to appear before a judge to confirm the status of the case and set a trial date. The purpose of a calendar call is to ensure that cases are progressing smoothly and to manage the court’s schedule efficiently.
During a calendar call, the judge typically reviews each case on the docket and asks the attorneys or parties involved about the progress of their case. This allows the judge to determine if any issues or delays exist that may hinder the case from proceeding to trial. The judge may also inquire about any pre-trial motions, settlement negotiations, or potential conflicts that may affect the case.
The calendar call is an essential part of the legal process as it helps maintain order and facilitate the timely resolution of cases. It allows the court to allocate its limited resources effectively and ensures that cases are not unnecessarily delayed.
FAQs about Calendar Calls in Court:
Q: Why is a calendar call necessary?
A: A calendar call is necessary to ensure that cases are moving forward and to set trial dates. It helps prevent cases from languishing in the court system and allows judges to manage their dockets efficiently.
Q: When is a calendar call scheduled?
A: The timing of a calendar call varies depending on the court and jurisdiction. It is usually scheduled after all parties have had an opportunity to conduct pre-trial discovery and resolve any preliminary issues.
Q: What happens if a party fails to appear at a calendar call?
A: If a party fails to appear at a calendar call without a valid reason, it may result in penalties or sanctions. The judge may reschedule the matter or proceed with the case in the party’s absence.
Q: Can an attorney appear on behalf of a party at a calendar call?
A: In most cases, an attorney can appear on behalf of their client at a calendar call. However, it is essential for the attorney to have the necessary authority to make decisions on behalf of their client.
Q: Can the trial date be set during a calendar call?
A: Yes, the trial date is often set during a calendar call. The judge considers the availability of both parties and schedules the trial accordingly. However, in complex cases or when additional preparation time is needed, the trial date may be set at a later date.
Q: What happens if the parties reach a settlement after a calendar call?
A: If the parties reach a settlement after a calendar call but before the trial date, they can inform the court and request to have the case dismissed. The judge will then review the settlement agreement and dismiss the case accordingly.
Q: Can a case be removed from the calendar call?
A: Yes, a case can be removed from the calendar call if one of the parties files a motion to dismiss, the case is transferred to another court, or if there are any other valid reasons supported by the court’s rules or procedures.
Q: Can a case be added to the calendar call?
A: In some instances, a case may be added to the calendar call if it was inadvertently left off the original docket or if there are newly discovered issues that need to be addressed.
In conclusion, a calendar call is an important step in the legal process that ensures the smooth progression of cases and helps manage the court’s schedule efficiently. It allows the judge to review the status of each case, set trial dates, and address any issues or delays. By conducting a calendar call, courts can ensure that cases are not unnecessarily delayed and resources are allocated effectively.