Common Deadlines in Federal Litigation Chart

by Practical Law Litigation

A Checklist setting out common deadlines in federal litigation under the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (FRCP) and various federal statutes. This Checklist provides a quick-reference guide to key timeframes for filing, serving, and responding to important court documents. It covers procedural deadlines related to pleadings, motions, discovery, appeals, and other miscellaneous events, such as demanding a jury trial or making an offer of judgment. The tables organize deadlines for specific litigation events, including answering a complaint, filing a motion to dismiss, responding to discovery requests, and filing a notice of appeal. This Checklist also notes important considerations for practice, such as the need to consult local court rules, the judge's individual practices, and case-specific orders. It serves as a valuable resource for navigating the essential time limits throughout the lifecycle of a federal case, from commencement to post-judgment motions and appeals.