Local Rule RULE 83.12: DISCHARGE OF ASSIGNED COUNSEL ON REQUEST OF PARTY

RULE 83.12 DISCHARGE OF ASSIGNED COUNSEL ON REQUEST OF PARTY

(a) Any party for whom counsel has been assigned shall be permitted to request the judge discharge that counsel from the assignment and assign another. Such a request shall be made promptly after the party becomes aware of the reasons giving rise to the request, or within such additional period as may be permitted by the judge for good cause shown.

(b) When a request for discharge is supported by good cause, the judge shall immediately issue an order discharging and relieving assigned counsel from further representation of the party in the action or appeal. Following the entry of such an order of discharge, the judge may, in the judge's discretion, either enter or not enter a further order directing the assignment of another counsel to represent the party. In any action where the judge discharges assigned counsel but does not issue a further order of assignment, the party shall be permitted to proceed pro se.

(c) In any action where a second counsel is assigned and subsequently discharged upon request of a party, no additional assignment shall be made except on a strong showing of good cause. Any assignments made following the entry of an order of discharge shall be made in accordance with the procedures set forth in SDIL-LR 83.9(b).