Local Rule LR 9019-1: Alternative Dispute Resolution: Settlement and Compromise

LR 9019-1 Alternative Dispute Resolution: Settlement and Compromise

(a) Settlement judge. A judge presiding over a particular adversary proceeding, bankruptcy case, or other bankruptcy-related matter may appoint another active, senior, or recall-status judicial officer, including a United States Bankruptcy Judge, from any judicial district to act as settlement judge to assist in possible resolution of disputes, including to mediate disputes or to act as a mediator.

(b) Authority. Settlement judges appointed as provided in this rule act in their official capacity to the full extent authorized by the titles 11 and 28 of the United States Code, including 28 U.S.C. § 651, and by the inherent authority of the Office of United States Bankruptcy Judge to assist interested parties in resolving disputes through means of the settlement judge's selection, unless limited by the appointment order. Except as limited by the appointment order or any other order entered by the presiding judge, the settlement judge may hear, decide, and issue orders concerning any dispute or matter related to the settlement process or to any resulting settlement.