Time for taking testimony

Where the order of reference specifies the time to begin taking testimony before the Master, and also the time for closing proofs, the Master shall have no power to extend the time beyond the day named in the order, but when a matter is referred to a Master to examine and report upon, and the order of reference does not specify any time to begin taking testimony or for closing proofs, the Master shall, as soon as practicable, assign a time and place to hear the parties, give reasonable notice to all persons interested, and proceed with all reasonable diligence in every such reference. Any party in interest shall be at liberty to apply to the Court for an order that the Master speed the proceedings and certify to the Court the reasons for any delay. History. Added, effective Jan. 1, 1988. Rule 120. Limiting time for taking testimony. The Master may in the Master’s discretion fix a day within which any party shall close the party’s proofs, which time the Master may in the exercise of discretion for good cause shown extend for such reasonable time as justice may require; and in case the parties shall not close their proofs within the time limited by the Master, the Master shall proceed with the hearings and report upon the testimony and evidence that may have been submitted to the Master without waiting for further evidence or testimony from the party so failing to close their proofs within the time limited. History. Added, effective Jan. 1, 1988; amended, effective Jan. 1, 1991.