Court procedures generally refers to the strict processes and procedures the parties to a civil lawsuit must follow during the pretrial, trial, and posttrial phases of civil litigation. These procedures are usually defined and set forth in detail in the applicable rules of civil procedure, rules of court, and local rules.
In Delaware, court procedures for civil litigation are primarily governed by the Delaware Court Rules, which include the Delaware Rules of Civil Procedure. These rules outline the processes and procedures that parties must adhere to during the pretrial, trial, and post-trial phases of a lawsuit. They cover various aspects such as filing complaints, serving documents, discovery, motions, hearings, and trials. The Delaware Rules of Civil Procedure are designed to ensure fairness and efficiency in the legal process. Additionally, each court may have its own local rules that complement the statewide rules of civil procedure, providing further guidance on court operations and case management specific to that jurisdiction. It is important for parties involved in civil litigation to understand and follow these rules to avoid delays, sanctions, or other legal complications.