A Case Management Conference (or “CMC”) is typically scheduled a few months after an initial complaint is filed. Prior to the CMC the parties should each file their own statement on the judicially approved form. This helps streamline the conference.

In San Diego County you may appear in person or online for most conferences. Log-in information can be found on the court website, and the meeting schedule accessed on the San Diego Superior Court Calendar. The judge will usually schedule multiple case management conferences for the same time slot. For San Diego County it is recommended to check in at least twenty minutes before the scheduled start time. The clerk checks in with each party or attorney, asking for their case number and party name. Sometimes, representatives can request priority, meaning they get their case(s) addressed first, out of order. Otherwise, the conference typically goes according to the calendar. Failure to appear can result in various consequences depending on the excuse for the non-appearance. 

The clerk and judge typically utilize the Case Management Conference to ask the parties whether they request a trial date. If a settlement has been reached between parties, no trial date is needed. In some cases, the judge can continue the CMC if there is good cause.  It is also possible that the judge may request the attorneys to contact each other to discuss settlement.

If a trial date is requested, the judge often asks whether the parties wish to waive jury. Then, the judge informs the party of their discovery cut-off date, pre-trial conference date, and trial date. All  fictitiously named parties may be dismissed at the CMC. The judge may request the attorney to provide notice of any further conferences, or the court may provide notice on its own.

*Please note this is just general background information and not to be construed as legal advice. If you have an upcoming Case Management Conference you should consult with an attorney to discuss. If you need representation in a debt collection lawsuit at a Case Management Conference please feel free to contact the attorneys at Golden & Cardona-Loya, LLP. We provide a free consultation and can be reached at 619-476-0030 or at [email protected]