This manual provides trial judges a handbook on managing civil cases. It sets out a wide array of case-management techniques, beginning with early case screening and concluding with steps for streamlining trials and final disposition. It also discusses a number of special topics, including pro se and high visibility cases, the role of staff, and automated programs that supports case management. This new edition incorporates statutory and rules changes and contains updated advice on electronic case management, electronic discovery, and ways of containing costs and expediting cases. The manual, which was produced and is being updated pursuant to a requirement set forth in the Civil Justice Reform Act of 1990, is based on the experiences of federal district and magistrate judges and reflects techniques they have developed. It was prepared under the direction of the Judicial Conference Committee on Court Administration and Case Management, with substantial contributions from the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts and the Federal Judicial Center, and was approved by the Judicial Conference in March 2010. This new edition supersedes the first edition (2001) and the Manual for Litigation Management and Cost and Delay Reduction (1992).

The second edition of the manual is superseded by the third edition. 

Note: Appendices A and C of the manual including sample procedures and guidelines, orders, and other materials are only available on line and are not included in the printed manual.

Appendix A: Sample Forms 1-53 (see below)

Appendix B: Guidelines for Ensuring Fair and Effective Court-Annexed ADR, Court Administration and Case Management Committee (see Manual, p. 173)

Appendix C: Sample CM/ECF Reports (see below)

Appendix D: Bibliography (see Manual, p. 189)

Appendix E: Table of Statutes and Acts (see Manual, p. 199)

Appendix F: Table of Rules (see Manual, p. 201)