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 New York, court procedures for civil litigation are governed by the New York Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR). These rules outline the processes and procedures that parties must follow from the initiation of a lawsuit through its resolution, whether by trial or settlement. The CPLR covers various aspects of litigation including service of process, pleadings, motions, discovery, trial preparation, and enforcement of judgments. Additionally, each court may have its own local rules that complement the CPLR, providing further guidance on matters such as filing deadlines and court-specific practices. Parties are expected to adhere to these rules, and failure to comply can result in delays, sanctions, or dismissal of the case. It is important for parties to be aware of both the state statutes and the local court rules to ensure proper conduct throughout the litigation process.