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San Fernando Valley

San Fernando Valley Location

Honorable Martin R. Barash

Judge Tabs

Address/Contact

United States Bankruptcy Court
Central District of California
21041 Burbank Boulevard, Suite 342 / Courtroom 303
Woodland Hills, CA 91367

Chambers
(818) 587-2836

Courtroom Deputy
(818) 587-2863

Court Recorder Contact
(818) 587-2863

Emergency Motion Contacts
(818) 587-2863
(818) 587-2838

 

Self-Calendaring
Self Calendaring (San Fernando Valley)
Self Calendaring (Northern)
Instructions/Procedures
 
Chapter 13

Chapter 13 Calendar

Phone/Video Appearances

NOTICE OF VIDEO AND TELEPHONIC APPEARANCE PROCEDURES FOR JUDGE MARTIN R. BARASH'S CASES

Effective October 2, 2023, Judge Barash will resume in-person hearings.  However, parties in interest (and their counsel) may continue to participate in most hearings remotely using ZoomGov audio and video. 

ZoomGov connection information for each hearing is provided on Judge Barash's publicly posted hearing calendar, which may be viewed online at:  http://ecf-ciao.cacb.uscourts.gov/CiaoPosted/?jid=MB

Unless otherwise ordered by Judge Barash, no party or witness may appear remotely for any trial or evidentiary hearing.

MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND THE PRESS MAY ONLY CONNECT TO THE ZOOM AUDIO FEED, AND ONLY BY TELEPHONE.  ACCESS TO THE VIDEO FEED BY THESE INDIVIDUALS IS PROHIBITED.  IN THE CASE OF A TRIAL OR EVIDENTIARY HEARING, NO AUDIO ACCESS WILL BE PROVIDED.  HOWEVER, MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND THE PRESS MAY OBSERVE SUCH PROCEEDINGS IN PERSON.

A ZoomGov account is not necessary for remote access, and no pre-registration is required.  Remote access through ZoomGov is free of charge. The audio portion of each hearing will be recorded electronically by the Court and constitute its official record.  

ALL PERSONS (OTHER THAN AUTHORIZED COURT STAFF) ARE STRICTLY PROHIBITED FROM MAKING ANY AUDIO OR VIDEO RECORDING OF COURT PROCEEDINGS, BY ANY MEANS.  VIOLATION OF THIS PROHIBITION MAY RESULT IN THE IMPOSITION OF MONETARY AND NON-MONETARY SANCTIONS.

Remote access is a privilege.  Judge Barash reserves the right to suspend or discontinue any party's remote access privileges in his discretion.  Further, although Judge Barash is pleased to make this accommodation available, any party or counsel that elects to appear remotely bears the risk of malfunction or disconnection from the hearing.
 

Tips for a Successful ZoomGov Court Experience

  1. Test the video and audio capabilities of your computer or mobile device in advance of the hearing (i.e., at least one day in advance).  
    1. You can do this by clicking on the ZoomGov meeting link posting for the hearing and/or check your video and audio using the ZoomGov app.
  2. If you intend to speak at the hearing, please find a quiet place from which to participate.
  1. If you are connecting to the hearing using a wireless device, you should situate yourself in a location with a strong wireless signal.
  1. Unless and until it is your turn to speak, please mute your audio to minimize background noise.  
    1. If connected to ZoomGov audio by telephone, you can mute or unmute your connection by pressing *6 on your phone.
  2. When you first speak—and each time you speak after someone else has spoken—please say your name.  This may seem awkward but is essential to making a good court record.  The only part of the hearing being recorded is the audio.  If a transcript is requested, it is sometimes difficult for the transcriber to know who is speaking.  
  1. If you are participating by video, try to avoid having a window or bright background behind you.  (You may, as a result, appear on video as a shadow.)  If you cannot avoid the bright background, try using a desk lamp or other light source to brighten your face.
  1. If you are participating by video using a personal computer, you may separately connect to the audio feed by telephone (for improved audio) using the call-in information provided for the hearing.
    1. If you do this, please connect to the video feed first.  In the ZoomGov app, you will be assigned a Participant Code.  Use this code to associate your video and audio feeds.

  2. If available, a headset-microphone often provides better sound quality for listening and speaking.

  3. Participants and members of the public should at all times remember that although conducted remotely, these hearings are official court proceedings, and individuals should act accordingly.

    1. If video is enabled, please wear attire consistent with the decorum of court proceedings.

    2. ZoomGov permits the use of virtual backgrounds to safeguard your privacy.  If you choose to use a virtual background, please avoid backgrounds that are offensive or distracting.

  4. ZoomGov video participants are permitted to specify a display name.  If using video, please specify your complete name to assist the Court in creating a record of the proceedings.

Printable version of Judge Barash’s Notice of Video and Telephonic Appearances Procedures

Revised: 09/27/2023

Tentative Rulings
Tentative Rulings
About the Judge

Appointment:

Education:

  • Princeton University, A.B., 1989, magna cum laude
  • UCLA School of Law, J.D. 1992; Editor and Business Manager of the UCLA Law Review

Career Record:

  • 2001-2015; Partner, Klee, Tuchin, Bogdanoff & Stern LLP
  • 1999-2001; Associate, Klee, Tuchin Bogdanoff & Stern LLP
  • 1994-1999; Associate, Stutman, Treister & Glatt, P.C.
  • 1992-1993; Law Clerk to the Honorable Procter R. Hug, Jr., Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals
  • Admitted to the California Bar, 1992

Professional Memberships:

  • American Bankruptcy Institute
  • Los Angeles Bankruptcy Forum
  • Financial Lawyers Conference
Judge Location: 
San Fernando Valley
Northern

Honorable Geraldine Mund

Judge Tabs

Address/Contact

United States Bankruptcy Court
Central District of California
21041 Burbank Boulevard, Suite 312 / Courtroom 303
Woodland Hills, CA 91367

Chambers
(818) 587-2840

Courtroom Deputy
(818) 587-2850

Court Recorder Contact
(818) 587-2850

Emergency Motion Contacts
(818) 587-2850

The Honorable Geraldine Mund is a recalled bankruptcy judge assisting the Court with its heavy case load.

Self-Calendaring
Self-Calendaring
Forms

Facsimile Request for Telephonic Appearance Form

Instructions/Procedures

Emergency Motions
Judicial Variance Statement
Procedures For Auction Sales
Reaffirmation Agreement Information and Notice  
Submission of Orders for Signature  
Trial Procedures

Phone/Video Appearances

NOTICE RE TELEPHONIC APPEARANCE PROCEDURES FOR JUDGE GERALDINE MUND’S CASES
 

I.      POLICY GOVERNING TELEPHONIC APPEARANCES

Telephonic appearances are allowed in all matters before Judge Mund in Courtroom 303 except the following:  

  1. Trials and Evidentiary Hearings (all counsel and all witnesses must appear in person).
  2. Chapter 11 Status Conferences (debtor and debtor's counsel must appear in person). Other parties in interest may appear telephonically.
  3. Chapter 11 or Chapter 13 Confirmation Hearings (debtor, debtor's counsel, and all objecting creditors must appear in person).
  4. Hearings on Reaffirmation Agreements (debtor must appear in person).
  5. Any matter designated by the court as one requiring a personal appearance.

No telephonic appearance will be allowed unless it is made through CourtCall, an independent conference call company, pursuant to the procedures set forth in Section II.

Before requesting a telephonic appearance, you should check Judge Mund's Calendar on the Court's website: www.cacb.uscourts.gov under tentative rulings for Judge Mund and review the Tentative Ruling concerning the matter. If the court has issued a Tentative Ruling prior to the hearing, each individual who appears telephonically should have reviewed the Tentative Ruling prior to the hearing.

If an individual schedules a telephonic appearance and then fails to respond to the call of a matter on calendar, the court may pass the matter or may treat the failure to respond as a failure to appear.  Scheduling simultaneous telephonic appearances in multiple courts does not excuse a  failure to appear when a matter is placed on calendar.

The 3:00 p.m. deadline for scheduling telephonic appearances noted below is independent of the  Tentative Rulings process.  Late scheduling of a telephonic appearance is not justified by the fact that Tentative Rulings have not been posted on the court's website by 3:00 p.m. the day before the hearing.

Individuals making use of the conference call service are cautioned that they do so at their own risk. Hearings generally will not be rescheduled due to missed connections. 

II.      SCHEDULING A TELEPHONIC APPEARANCE

By Telephone: Telephone appearances may be arranged by calling Court Call at (866) 582-6878 not later than 3:00 p.m. the day prior to the court hearing date. Any request for a telephonic appearance made after the 3:00 p.m. deadline must be court approved by contacting Judge Mund’s Law Clerk, at (818) 587-2840.

By Facsimile: Use the court-approved "Facsimile Request for Telephonic Appearance Form" located below. Facsimile requests may only be used if the requested appearance is made at least 24 hours in advance of the court hearing date. The facsimile telephone number at Court Call is (866) 533- 2946.

III.      PROCEDURE FOR TELEPHONIC APPEARANCE

Court Call will provide counsel with written confirmation of a telephonic appearance, and give counsel a number to call to make the telephonic appearance.  It is counsel's responsibility to dial into the call not later than 10 minutes prior to the scheduled hearing. Court Call does not place a call to counsel. If you do not timely call and connect with the Court Call operator, you may be billed for the call and the hearing may proceed in your absence.

Telephonic appearances are connected directly with the courtroom's public address system and electronic recording equipment so that a normal record is produced. Participants should be able to hear all parties without difficulty or echo.

At the time of your hearing, you may initially be in the listening mode in which case you will be able to hear the case before yours just as if you were in the courtroom.  After your call is connected to the courtroom, the Judge will call the case, request appearances, and direct the manner in which the hearing proceeds.  Each time you speak, you should identify yourself for the record.  The court's teleconferencing system allows more than one speaker to be heard, so the Judge can interrupt a speaker to ask a question or redirect the discussion.  When the Judge informs the participants that the hearing is completed, you may disconnect and the next case will be called.

 Telephonic appearances by multiple participants are only possible when there is compliance with every procedural requirement.  Sanctions may be imposed when there is any deviation from the required procedures or the Court determines that a person's conduct makes telephonic appearances inappropriate.  Sanctions may include dropping a matter from calendar, continuing the hearing,  proceeding in the absence of an unavailable participant, a monetary sanction, and/or a permanent prohibition against a person appearing telephonically.

Revised October 1, 2012

Download: Facsimile Request for Telephonic Appearance Form

Printable version of Judge Mund's Telephonic Appearance Procedures

 

Tentative Rulings
Tentative Rulings
About the Judge

Appointments:

  • Appointed February 9, 1984 by the United States District Court Judges
  • Reappointed August 27, 1986 and August 27, 2000 by the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit
  • Chief Judge, Bankruptcy Court, Central District of California, 1997-2002
  • Appointed as a Recalled Bankruptcy Judge on February 10, 2011
  • Reappointed as a Recalled Bankruptcy Judge on January 1, 2012, on January 1, 2015 , on January 1, 2018, on January 1, 2019, on January 1, 2020, on January 1, 2021, on January 1, 2022, on January 1, 2023 and on January 2024 (Current term expires on December 31, 2024)

 
Career Record:

  • 1977-84, practicing attorney, Beverly Hills, California
  • Admitted to the California Bar, 1977
Judge Location: 
San Fernando Valley

Honorable Victoria S. Kaufman

Judge Tabs

Address/Contact

United States Bankruptcy Court
Central District of California
21041 Burbank Boulevard, Suite 354 / Courtroom 301
Woodland Hills, CA 91367

Chambers
(818) 587-2823

Courtroom Deputy
(818) 587-2850

Court Recorder Contact
(818) 587-2850

Emergency Motion Contacts
(818) 587-2826
(818) 587-2823

 

Self-Calendaring
Self-Calendaring
Instructions/Procedures

Assistance with Finding a Lawyer

Electronic Devices in the Courtroom
Judicial Variance Statement
Procedures for Auction Sales 
Serving Judge’s Copies of Documents for Cases Assigned to Judge Victoria S. Kaufman
Status Conference Instructions        
Tentative Ruling Procedures for Judge Victoria S. Kaufman     

Chapter 13

Chapter 13 Calendar

Chapter 13 hearings -  The following procedures will be in effect beginning January 7, 2022. All parties and attorneys may appear via ZoomGov for the Chapter 13 confirmation calendar by using the instructions on the judge’s court webpage. The chapter 13 trustee and her counsel will not be in the courtroom with the judge.  No in-person check-in will be required because it is expected that parties will communicate by email before the hearing. 

All efforts will be made to reduce the need for any appearance via ZoomGov, but counsel and clients will need to provide the usual requirements electronically well in advance of the hearing date to make this happen. Before the hearing, the debtor must email the chapter 13 trustee proof of any plan payments that are due by the time of the hearing, file all mortgage declarations and provide required documents to the trustee. All these items should be sent when due but no later than 48 hours before the scheduled hearing. If the case is ready for confirmation and all objections resolved, the chapter 13 trustee may inform the judge that the plan is confirmed on consent. Any plans not being confirmed may be continued without appearance if the chapter 13 trustee consents and creditors who have filed objections inform the chapter 13 trustee of their consent. 

Any party may choose to keep a matter on calendar if there is no agreement for the chapter 13 trustee to represent the status of the case. The chapter 13 trustee may also keep any matter on calendar and seek a dismissal rather than a continuance if the debtor has not provided required payments or documents, but counsel may also argue the matter via ZoomGov. The miscellaneous calendar will also be conducted via ZoomGov for all parties. 

With prior Court authorization, individuals also may appear in person.  Tentative rulings, orders setting trial or other scheduling orders will indicate whether an in-person appearance is mandatory, e.g., for an evidentiary hearing.  To obtain authorization to appear in person, individuals must contact chambers, at least 48 hours prior to the hearing, at (818) 587-2823.

Anyone appearing in court must wear a mask or a clear face shield and practice social distancing.  Any individual appearing in court is responsible for bringing their own face mask

Phone/Video Appearances

NOTICE RE AUDIO AND VIDEO APPEARANCE PROCEDURES
FOR JUDGE VICTORIA S. KAUFMAN’S CASES

 

Effective October 2, 2023, Judge Kaufman will resume in-person hearings.  However, parties in interest (and their counsel) may continue to participate in most hearings remotely using ZoomGov audio and video.  

ZoomGov connection information for each hearing is provided on Judge Kaufman’s publicly posted hearing calendar, which may be viewed online at:  http://ecf-ciao.cacb.uscourts.gov/CiaoPosted/?jid=VK

Unless otherwise ordered by Judge Kaufman, no party or witness may appear remotely for any trial or evidentiary hearing.

MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND THE PRESS MAY ONLY CONNECT TO THE ZOOM AUDIO FEED, AND ONLY BY TELEPHONE.  ACCESS TO THE VIDEO FEED BY THESE INDIVIDUALS IS PROHIBITED.  IN THE CASE OF A TRIAL OR EVIDENTIARY HEARING, NO AUDIO ACCESS WILL BE PROVIDED.  HOWEVER, MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND THE PRESS MAY OBSERVE SUCH PROCEEDINGS IN PERSON.

A ZoomGov account is not necessary for remote access, and no pre-registration is required.  Remote access through ZoomGov is free of charge. The audio portion of each hearing will be recorded electronically by the Court and constitute its official record.  

ALL PERSONS (OTHER THAN AUTHORIZED COURT STAFF) ARE STRICTLY PROHIBITED FROM MAKING ANY AUDIO OR VIDEO RECORDING OF COURT PROCEEDINGS, BY ANY MEANS.  VIOLATION OF THIS PROHIBITION MAY RESULT IN THE IMPOSITION OF MONETARY AND NON-MONETARY SANCTIONS.

Remote access is a privilege.  Judge Kaufman reserves the right to suspend or discontinue any party's remote access privileges in her discretion.  Further, although Judge Kaufman is pleased to make this accommodation available, any party or counsel that elects to appear remotely bears the risk of malfunction or disconnection from the hearing.

Tips for a Successful ZoomGov Court Experience

  1. Test the video and audio capabilities of your computer or mobile device in advance of the hearing (i.e., at least one day in advance).  
    1. You can do this by clicking on the ZoomGov meeting link posting for the hearing and/or check your video and audio using the ZoomGov app.
  2. If you intend to speak at the hearing, please find a quiet place from which to participate.
  3. If you are connecting to the hearing using a wireless device, you should situate yourself in a location with a strong wireless signal.
  4. Unless and until it is your turn to speak, please mute your audio to minimize background noise.  
    1. If connected to ZoomGov audio by telephone, you can mute or unmute your connection by pressing *6 on your phone.

  5. When you first speak—and each time you speak after someone else has spoken—please say your name. This may seem awkward but is essential to making a good court record. The only part of the hearing being recorded is the audio. If a transcript is requested, it is sometimes difficult for the transcriber to know who is speaking.  

  6. If you are participating by video, try to avoid having a window or bright background behind you. (You may, as a result, appear on video as a shadow.) If you cannot avoid the bright background, try using a desk lamp or other light source to brighten your face.

  7. If you are participating by video using a personal computer, you may separately connect to the audio feed by telephone (for improved audio) using the call-in information provided for the hearing.

    1. If you do this, please connect to the video feed first. In the ZoomGov app, you will be assigned a Participant Code. Use this code to associate your video and audio feeds.

  8. If available, a headset-microphone often provides better sound quality for listening and speaking.

  9. Participants and members of the public should at all times remember that although conducted remotely, these hearings are official court proceedings, and individuals should act accordingly.

    1.  If video is enabled, please wear attire consistent with the decorum of court proceedings.

    2. ZoomGov permits the use of virtual backgrounds to safeguard your privacy. If you choose to use a virtual background, please avoid backgrounds that are offensive or distracting.

  10. ZoomGov video participants are permitted to specify a display name. If using video, please specify your complete name to assist the Court in creating a record of the proceedings.

Revised: September 2023

Printable version of Judge Kaufman's Telephonic Appearance Procedures

Tentative Rulings
Tentative Rulings
Chambers Employment
JUDGE VICTORIA S. KAUFMAN
UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT
CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA
SAN FERNANDO VALLEY DIVISION
 
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN CHAMBERS
 
TERM LAW CLERK
  • Next Term of Employment: Starting September 3, 2024 (two-year term)
  • Applications Now Being Accepted
EXTERNS
  • Currently accepting applications for Fall 2024 and Spring 2025. 

EXTERNS

Qualifications: Applicants should have an excellent academic record, demonstrate exceptional research and writing skills, and have a strong work ethic. Priority will be given to students who have a demonstrated interest in bankruptcy practice - such as registration in, or completion of, a bankruptcy, restructuring or debtor/creditor class in law school; experience in the bankruptcy field; or in a practice area related to the bankruptcy field.  
 
General Job Description: Primary responsibilities for externs include legal research and writing on a broad range of issues. Externs will be provided with the opportunity to observe hearings and trials. In addition to working on core bankruptcy concepts, externs may assist with matters dealing with secured transactions, real property law, family law, evidence and federal practice and procedure. Knowledge of bankruptcy and commercial law are helpful, but there are no prerequisites. Externships will be part-time (at least 20 hours) during the school year and full­ time, four days per week, during the summer.
 
Applications: Please send a letter of interest with resume, law school transcript, writing sample and reference letters to: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Attn: Lindsay Kyser, Law Clerk to the Honorable Victoria S. Kaufman, 21041 Burbank Boulevard, Suite 354/Courtroom 301, Woodland Hills, CA 91367.
 
TERM LAW CLERK
 
Qualifications: The applicant must be a law school graduate. Substantial research and writing experience is required. Applicants preferably are in the top 25% of their class if the school ranks. Law journal experience is a plus. Candidate's coursework should reflect a foundation for practicing bankruptcy and corporate restructuring.
 
General Job Description: Law clerk duties include the following: conducting legal research, preparing bench memos, drafting orders and opinions, editing and proofreading the judge's orders and opinions, verifying citations, consulting with the Judge and members of staff on legal matters affecting the administration of bankruptcy laws, overseeing externs, administrative duties (including, but not limited to, answering phone calls made to chambers, setting up the Judge's bench, organizing events and calendaring) and other duties as prescribed by the Judge.
 

Information for Applicants: Employees of the United States Bankruptcy Court serve on an “AT WILL” basis and are required to adhere to a Code of Conduct.

  • Preference will be given to applicants who have externed in the Bankruptcy Court of the Central District of California and who have a demonstrated interest in bankruptcy law.
  • Due to the volume of applications received, communication will only be with those individuals who will be invited to interview for the position.
  • Interviewees are subject to a full National Crime Information Center (NCIC) background check and FBI fingerprint analysis 
  • The Court reserves the right to modify the conditions of this job announcement or to withdraw the announcement without prior notice.
  • The United States Bankruptcy Court is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
  • Applicant must be either a U.S. citizen or a noncitizen eligible for employment by the federal judiciary.
Applications: Please include a cover letter, résumé, law school transcript and writing sample(s).  Candidates may apply for this position by U.S. mail or email at the following addresses:
 
U.S. Bankruptcy Court
Attn: Angela Jones, Law Clerk to the Honorable Victoria S. Kaufman
21041 Burbank Boulevard, Suite 354/Courtroom 301
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
About the Judge

Appointment(s):

Education:

  • Bryn Mawr College, B.A., 1986, magna cum laude
  • Harvard Law School, J.D., 1989

Career Record:

  • 2004-2006: Of Counsel, Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker LLP
  • 1996-1997; 1999-2004: Of Counsel, Jeffer, Mangels, Butler & Marmaro LLP
  • 1994-1996: Counsel, McCutchen, Doyle, Brown & Enersen LLP
  • 1991-1994: Associate, Levene & Eisenberg P.C.
  • 1989-1991: Associate, Latham & Watkins LLP
  • Admitted to the California Bar, 1989

Professional Memberships:

  • State Bar of California
  • National Conference of Bankruptcy Judges
Judge Location: 
San Fernando Valley

Honorable Maureen A. Tighe

All ZoomGov appearances by members of the Bar shall be by video on a laptop computer or on a Zoom interface on a mobile device or tablet. If an unexpected emergency arises, attorneys who wish to appear by calling into the ZoomGov telephone conference line must telephone chambers and obtain approval to appear telephonically on ZoomGov. 

Judge Tabs

Address/Contact

United States Bankruptcy Court
Central District of California
21041 Burbank Boulevard, Suite 324 / Courtroom 302
Woodland Hills, CA 91367

Chambers:
(818) 587-2806

Courtroom Deputy:
(818) 587-2863

Court Recorder:
(818) 587-2863

Emergency Motion Contacts
(818) 587-2806
(818) 587-2863
Self-Calendaring
Self-Calendaring
Forms

Motion to Avoid Junior Lien on Real Property (Chapter 13)    [MSWord Version]
Order on Motion to Avoid Junior Lien on Real Property (Chapter 13)   [MSWord Version]

Instructions/Procedures

Judicial Variance Statement [Revised January 28, 2021]
Policy Regarding the Use of Electronic Devices in the Courtrooms
Procedures for Auction Sales 
LAM Motion Practice [Revised July 24, 2020]
Notice & Procedures for Appearing at Remote Hearing [Revised January 28, 2021]

Chapter 13

Confirmation Hearings Calendar

Chapter 13 hearings - All parties and attorneys must appear remotely via ZoomGov for the Chapter 13 confirmation calendar, using the instructions on the judge’s court webpage. The trustee and her counsel will not be in the courtroom with the judge. No in-person check-in will be required because it is expected that parties will communicate by email before the hearing. 

All efforts will be made to reduce the need for any appearance telephonically, but counsel and clients will need to provide the usual requirements electronically well in advance of the hearing date to make this happen. Before the hearing, the debtor must email the trustee proof of any plan payments that are due by the time of the hearing, file all mortgage declarations and provide required documents to the trustee. All these items should be sent when due but no later than 48 hours before the scheduled hearing. If the case is ready for confirmation and all objections resolved, the trustee may inform the judge that the plan is confirmed on consent. Any plans not being confirmed may be continued without appearance if the trustee consents and creditors who have filed objections inform the trustee of their consent. 

Any party may choose to keep a matter on calendar if there is no agreement for the trustee to represent the status of the case. The trustee may also keep any matter on calendar and seek a dismissal rather than a continuance if the debtor has not provided required payments or documents, but counsel may also argue the matter remotely. The miscellaneous calendar will also be held remotely for all parties.

Phone/Video Appearances

NOTICE RE AUDIO AND VIDEO APPEARANCE PROCEDURES
FOR JUDGE MAUREEN A. TIGHE’S CASES

All hearings will be conducted both remotely and in person in Courtroom 302 at 21041 Burbank Boulevard, Woodland Hills, California, 91367. However, parties in interest (and their counsel) may continue to participate in most hearings remotely using ZoomGov audio and video. 

ZoomGov connection information for each hearing is provided on Judge Tighe’s publicly posted hearing calendar, which may be viewed online at: http://ecf-ciao.cacb.uscourts.gov/CiaoPosted/?jid=MT

Unless otherwise ordered by Judge Tighe, no party or witness may appear remotely for any trial or evidentiary hearing.

MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND THE PRESS MAY ONLY CONNECT TO THE ZOOM AUDIO FEED, AND ONLY BY TELEPHONE.  ACCESS TO THE VIDEO FEED BY THESE INDIVIDUALS IS PROHIBITED.  IN THE CASE OF A TRIAL OR EVIDENTIARY HEARING, NO AUDIO ACCESS WILL BE PROVIDED.  HOWEVER, MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND THE PRESS MAY OBSERVE SUCH PROCEEDINGS IN PERSON.

A ZoomGov account is not necessary for remote access, and no pre-registration is required.  Remote access through ZoomGov is free of charge. The audio portion of each hearing will be recorded electronically by the Court and constitute its official record.  

ALL PERSONS (OTHER THAN AUTHORIZED COURT STAFF) ARE STRICTLY PROHIBITED FROM MAKING ANY AUDIO OR VIDEO RECORDING OF COURT PROCEEDINGS, BY ANY MEANS.  VIOLATION OF THIS PROHIBITION MAY RESULT IN THE IMPOSITION OF MONETARY AND NON-MONETARY SANCTIONS.

Remote access is a privilege.  Judge Tighe reserves the right to suspend or discontinue any party's remote access privileges in her discretion.  Further, although Judge Tighe is pleased to make this accommodation available, any party or counsel that elects to appear remotely bears the risk of malfunction or disconnection from the hearing.

 

Effective November 9, 2023

Printable version of Judge Tighe's Telephonic Appearance Procedures

Printable version of Notice & Procedures for Appearing at Remote Hearing 

Tentative Rulings
Tentative Rulings
About the Judge

Appointment:

Education:

  • Douglass College of Rutgers University, B.A., 1979
  • Rutgers Law School, 1984, J.D.; Editor-in-Chief of the Rutgers Law Review, 1983-84

Career Record:

  • 1998-2003, U. S. Trustee, Office of the U. S. Trustee for the Central District of California, Los Angeles California
  • 2002-2003, U. S. Trustee for the Districts of Southern California, Hawaii, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands
  • 1999-2000, U. S. Trustee for the Districts of Eastern and Northern California and Nevada
  • 1988-1998, Assistant U. S. Attorney, Office of the U. S. Attorney, Los Angeles, California; Deputy Chief, Major Frauds Section; and chairperson, Bankruptcy Fraud Task Force
  • 1986-1988, private practice, Sullivan and Cromwell, New York, New York
  • 1984-1986, Law Clerk, U. S. District Judge Harold Ackerman, District of New Jersey
  • Admitted to the New Jersey Bar, 1985; New York Bar, 1988; California Bar, 1988

Professional Memberships:

  • American Bankruptcy Institute
  • Los Angeles Bankruptcy Forum
Judge Location: 
San Fernando Valley

Honorable Deborah J. Saltzman

All hearings before Judge Saltzman will offer remote connection through ZoomGov. Hearing participants may view and listen to hearings before Judge Saltzman using ZoomGov free of charge. Observers may monitor hearings using the ZoomGov telephone audio connection. 

For Los Angeles Division matters, aside from evidentiary hearings and trials, there is no need to contact the court for permission to appear remotely.  Please check Judge Saltzman’s tentative rulings to find the Zoom link for each day. If you intend to appear in the courtroom, please notify the Courtroom Deputy at least 24 hours before the hearing.

For Northern Division matters, aside from evidentiary hearings and trials, all hearings before Judge Saltzman will be via ZoomGov. The courtroom will be locked; parties must appear by Zoom and will not be permitted to appear in the courtroom.  

Judge’s Copies: Judge Saltzman does not follow the Judge’s Copy requirements of Amended General Order 20-12.  Until further notice, no judge’s copy of any document is required unless a copy is requested by chambers.  If chambers calls to request a judge’s copy, it must be provided by means such that it is received in chambers within two business days (for example, by messenger or overnight mail).

Notwithstanding the requirement in General Order 20-12, Judge Saltzman does not require a call to chambers to advise that a document was filed unless it seeks emergency relief.

Judge Tabs

Address/Contact

United States Bankruptcy Court
Central District of California
Edward R. Roybal Federal Building and Courthouse
255 E. Temple Street, Suite 1634 / Courtroom 1639
Los Angeles, CA 90012

 

Chambers
(213) 894-3021

Emergency Motion Contacts

(213) 894-3022
(213) 894-3004

Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley

Courtroom Deputy
(213) 894-0995

Court Recorder Contact
(213) 894-1539

Santa Barbara

Courtroom Deputy
(805) 884-4873

Court Recorder Contact
(805) 884-4873

Please send all judges' copies to the Los Angeles address.

Self-Calendaring
Self-Calendaring
Instructions/Procedures

Status Conference Procedures

Trial Procedures Supplement to Local Rules

Phone/Video Appearances
Judge Deborah J. Saltzman’s
Procedures for Remote Appearances
 
All hearings before Judge Saltzman will offer remote connection through ZoomGov. Hearing participants may view and listen to hearings before Judge Saltzman using ZoomGov free of charge. Observers may monitor hearings using the ZoomGov telephone audio connection. 
 
Video and audio connection information for each hearing will be provided on Judge Saltzman's publicly posted hearing calendar, which may be viewed online at:  http://ecf-ciao.cacb.uscourts.gov/CiaoPosted/?jid=DS 
 
Zoom participants may use a personal computer (equipped with camera, microphone, and speaker) or a handheld mobile device (such as a smartphone).  Participants and observers may participate with audio only through ZoomGov using a telephone (standard telephone charges may apply). 
The audio portion of each hearing will be recorded electronically by the court and will constitute its official record.
 

Tips for a More Successful ZoomGov Court Experience

  1. Test the video and audio capabilities of your computer or mobile device in advance of the hearing (i.e., at least one day in advance).
    1. Click on the ZoomGov meeting link posting for the hearing and/or check your video and audio using the ZoomGov app.
  2. If you intend to speak at the hearing, please find a quiet place from which to participate.
  1. If you are connecting to the hearing using a wireless device, situate yourself in a location with a strong wireless signal.
     
  2. Unless and until it is your turn to speak, please mute your audio to minimize background noise.
    1.  If connected to ZoomGov audio by telephone, you can mute or unmute your connection by pressing *6 on your phone.
  3. When you first speak—and each time you speak after someone else has spoken—please say your name.  This may seem awkward but is essential to making a good court record.  The only part of the hearing being recorded is the audio.  If a transcript is requested, it is sometimes difficult for the transcriber to know who is speaking.
     
  4. If you are participating by video, try to avoid having a window or bright background behind you (a bright background can make you appear on video as a silhouette or shadow).  If you cannot avoid the bright background, try using a desk lamp or other light source to brighten your face.
     
  5. If you are participating by video using a personal computer, you may separately connect to the audio feed by telephone (for improved audio) using the call-in information provided for the hearing.
    1. If you do this, please connect to the video feed first.  In the ZoomGov app, you will be assigned a Participant Code.  Use this code to associate your video and audio feeds.

  6. If available, a headset-microphone often provides better sound quality for listening and speaking.

  7. Participants and members of the public should at all times remember that although conducted remotely, these hearings are official court proceedings, and individuals should act accordingly.

    1. If video is enabled, please wear suitable attire. A suit isn’t necessary, but “business casual” would be appropriate.

    2. ZoomGov permits the use of virtual backgrounds to safeguard your privacy.  If you choose to use a virtual background, please avoid backgrounds that are offensive or distracting.

  8. ZoomGov video participants are permitted to specify a display name.  If using video, please specify your complete name to assist the Court in creating a record of the proceedings.

Revised 10/02/23

Printable version of Judge Saltzman's Telephonic Appearance Procedures

 

Tentative Rulings
Tentative Rulings
About the Judge

Appointment:

 Education:

  • Amherst College, B.A., 1991, Phi Beta Kappa
  • University of Virginia School of Law, J.D., 1996

Career Record:

  • 2008-2010: DLA Piper LLP (US)
  • 2006-2008: Hennigan, Bennett & Dorman LLP
  • 2001-2006; 1996-2000: O'Melveny & Myers LLP
  • 2000-2001: Klee, Tuchin, Bogdanoff & Stern LLP
  • Admitted to the California Bar, 1996

 Professional Memberships:

  • State Bar of California
  • National Conference of Bankruptcy Judges
  • Los Angeles County Bar Association
  • American Bankruptcy Institute
  • Financial Lawyers Conference
Judge Location: 
Los Angeles
San Fernando Valley
Northern

Honorable Alan M. Ahart

Judge Tabs

Address/Contact

United States Bankruptcy Court
Central District of California
21041 Burbank Boulevard, Suite 216D
Woodland Hills, CA 91367

Chambers
(818) 587-2853

The Honorable Alan M. Ahart is a recalled bankruptcy judge assisting the Court with its heavy case load.

About the Judge

Appointment(s):

 Education:

  • University of California at Berkeley, 1970, A.B.
  • State University of New York, 1975, J.D.
  • University of Pennsylvania School of Law, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 1979, LL.M.

 Career Record:

  • Represented financial institutions before appointment to the bench in 1988

Professional Memberships:

  • Federal Bar Association
Judge Location: 
San Fernando Valley
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