Trial readiness conference

A trial readiness conference shall be scheduled and held not more than two weeks prior to the start of the hearing on the merits. All parties and attorneys are required to be present, in-person, for the conference. Any stipulations to adjudication or termination of parental rights along with any relevant post adjudication agreements shall be submitted at the conference. If stipulations are not presented at the conference and the parties indicate that the case shall go forward on the hearing on the merits, the following factors shall be reviewed by the parties: (i) all discovery is complete; (ii) all motions have been decided; (iii) expert witnesses, if applicable, are available and will be called; (iv) number and availability of expected witnesses, including a written witness list from each party; (v) submission of court investigator’s report; (vi) need and availability for interpreters; and (vii) all parties, counsel, and witnesses are ready and available to proceed.