TX-ND -- Operating Model

TX-ND operates on a submission-first model across a large seven-division geographic footprint with several procedural requirements that distinguish it from most federal districts.

Operating Model: Submission-First

LR 7.1(g): 'Unless otherwise directed by the presiding judge, oral argument on a motion will not be held.' This is the default -- motions are decided on the papers. Oral argument occurs only when the presiding judge affirmatively directs it.

Seven-Division Structure

The district spans all of northern Texas, divided into seven divisions: Abilene, Amarillo, Dallas, Fort Worth, Lubbock, San Angelo, and Wichita Falls (28 U.S.C. § 124(e)). Cases are typically assigned to the division where the action arose, per court practice. This geographic spread means local counsel requirements vary by division location (see below).

Local Counsel Requirement (LR 83.10(a))

'Local counsel is required in all cases where an attorney appearing in a case does not reside or maintain the attorney's principal office in this district.' Local counsel must be within 50 miles of the courthouse in the specific division -- not just anywhere in the district. This is stricter than many courts.

Appendix Required for Evidence (LR 7.1(i))

Any evidence cited in support of or opposition to a motion must appear in a separate appendix filed as a self-contained document. Appendix pages are numbered sequentially through the entire appendix -- numbering does not restart per document.

AI Disclosure on First Page (LR 7.2(f))

'A brief prepared using generative artificial intelligence must disclose this fact on the first page under the heading "Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence."' Absence of the disclosure is a certification that no generative AI was used.

Proposed Order Required (LR 7.1(c))

'Except for an opposed motion that is submitted on paper, each motion must be accompanied by a proposed order that is set forth separately.'

No Separate Statement of Undisputed Facts

TX-ND does not require a separate statement of undisputed material facts for summary judgment. Instead, LR 56.3 requires a 'summary' on the first page of the motion identifying the elements at issue. Arguments and authorities go in the brief (filed separately), not the motion itself.