Local Rule CV-1: Scope and Purpose of Rules

LOCAL RULE CV-1 Scope and Purpose of Rules

(a) The rules of procedure in any proceeding in this court are those prescribed by the laws of the United States, the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, these local rules, and any orders entered by the court. These local rules shall be construed as consistent with Acts of Congress and rules of practice and procedure prescribed by the Supreme Court of the United States and the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.

(b) Admiralty Rules. The Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Claims, as adopted by the Supreme Court of the United States, shall govern all admiralty and maritime actions in this court.

(c) Patent Rules. The "Rules of Practice for Patent Cases before the Eastern District of Texas" shall apply to all civil actions filed in or transferred to this court which allege infringement of a utility patent in a complaint, counterclaim, cross-claim, or third party claim, or which seek a declaratory judgment that a utility patent is not infringed, is invalid, or is unenforceable. Judges may opt out of this rule by entering an order.