---
title: "Laura Taylor Swain | KnowJudges"
canonical: "https://knowjudges.com/kyj/judge/laura-taylor-swain"
page_type: "judge_profile"
updated: "2026-10-09"
---

# Laura Taylor Swain

U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York · Judge

## Profile

- Court: U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York
- State: New York
- Role: Judge
- Service status: active
- Last verified: 2026-07-25

## Summary

Official judge-specific and circuitwide procedural guidance has been located for this profile.

## Biography

### Professional career

- Judge, District Court, S.D. New York, 2000-present
- She became chief judge of the court on April 10, 2021
- Puerto Rican Government Debt Restructuring: Appointed by Chief Justice John Roberts in 2017 to oversee the debt restructuring under PROMESA
- On April 25, 2000, President Bill Clinton nominated her to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York to fill the seat vacated by Judge Thomas P. Griesa
- Selected as a United States bankruptcy judge for the Eastern District of New York in 1996, serving until 2000
- She then worked in private practice at Debevoise & Plimpton LLP in New York City from 1983 to 1996
- Law clerk, Hon. Constance Baker Motley, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, 1982-1983
- After law school, Swain clerked for Judge Constance Baker Motley of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York from 1982 to 1983.

### Education

- Harvard University — J.D. (1982)
- Harvard Law School in — J.D. (1982)
- Radcliffe College

### Additional information

- Swain has held the role of an adjunct professor at Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law since 2011 and chaired the advisory committee for the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure from 2007 to 2010.
- received her commission on July 11, 2000.
- Member, New York State Board of Law Examiners, 1986-1996
- During this period, she also served on the New York State Board of Law Examiners from 1986 to 1996
- Private practice, 1982-1996
- Date of birth: 1958-01-01
- focusing on ERISA, employee benefits, executive compensation, and employment law.
- She was also a founding board member of the Coalition for Consumer Bankruptcy Debtor Education
- Birth place: Brooklyn, NY

## Before you appear

- Read the judge-specific standing order first when one is listed.
- Check the docket and case orders for requirements that supersede broader guidance.
- Confirm current remote-access and courtroom technology arrangements before the proceeding.

## Courtroom Rules

### electronic exhibits

Scope: judge specific

Chief Judge Swain requires notice to the Courtroom Deputy before electronic equipment is used to publish exhibits.

Evidence excerpt: If counsel intend to use electronic equipment to publish exhibits, counsel must notify the Courtroom Deputy so that any necessary arrangements can be made in a timely fashion.

[Chief Judge Swain's Individual Practices Rules](https://nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf)
Source checked: 2026-07-26

### civil remote testimony

Scope: courtwide

In federal district-court civil proceedings, testimony is ordinarily taken in open court; remote contemporaneous testimony requires good cause in compelling circumstances and appropriate safeguards.

Evidence excerpt: For good cause in compelling circumstances and with appropriate safeguards, the court may permit testimony in open court by contemporaneous transmission from a different location.

[Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 43(a), Testimony in Open Court](https://www.uscourts.gov/forms-rules/current-rules-practice-procedure/federal-rules-civil-procedure)
Source checked: 2026-07-26

### criminal recording and broadcasting

Scope: courtwide

Federal district courts may not permit courtroom photography or broadcasting during criminal judicial proceedings unless a statute or another federal rule provides an exception.

Evidence excerpt: Except as otherwise provided by a statute or these rules, the court must not permit the taking of photographs in the courtroom during judicial proceedings or the broadcasting of judicial proceedings from the courtroom.

[Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 53, Courtroom Photographing and Broadcasting Prohibited](https://www.uscourts.gov/court-records/access-court-proceedings/remote-public-access-proceedings/history-cameras-broadcasting-and-remote-public-access-courts)
Source checked: 2026-07-26


## Sources

- [Official profile](https://www.fjc.gov/node/1391251)
- [Official roster](https://www.fjc.gov/node/1391251)
- [Federal Judicial Center biography](https://www.fjc.gov/node/1391251)
- [CourtListener judicial biographical directory](https://www.courtlistener.com/person/3144/laura-taylor-swain/)
- [Chief Judge Swain's Individual Practices Rules](https://nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf)
- [Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 43(a), Testimony in Open Court](https://www.uscourts.gov/forms-rules/current-rules-practice-procedure/federal-rules-civil-procedure)
- [Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 53, Courtroom Photographing and Broadcasting Prohibited](https://www.uscourts.gov/court-records/access-court-proceedings/remote-public-access-proceedings/history-cameras-broadcasting-and-remote-public-access-courts)
- [CourtListener judicial biographical directory](https://www.courtlistener.com/person/3144/laura-taylor-swain/)
- [Wikidata: Laura Taylor Swain](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6499494)

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## Federal civil docket activity

Dataset updated through 2026-06-30.

| Period | Assigned cases | Terminated cases | Median disposition (months) | Median sample |
| --- | ---: | ---: | ---: | ---: |
| 1y | 257 | 74 | 0.4 | 74 |
| 2y | 1764 | 1199 | 0.7 | 1199 |
| 5y | 4697 | 4074 | 1.1 | 4074 |
| 10y | 5772 | 5136 | 1.7 | 5136 |

Source: https://www.courtlistener.com/recap/


## Published courtroom rules

### Judge and named-part rules

#### Communications with chambers

i. In general. Except as otherwise provided below, communications with Chambers must be by letter. Unless there is a request to file a letter under seal or a letter contains sensitive or confidential information that the sender believes should not be filed electronically (see subdivision A.5 below), all letters to the Court must be filed electronically on the ECF system.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 2 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Filing and working copies

iii. Length, Format, etc. Whether filed electronically or not, letters (together with any related exhibits) may not exceed 3,500 words. All letters must be labeled with the name and docket number of the case, the Judge’s initials (LTS), and (for civil cases) the Magistrate Judge’s initials. Letters solely between parties or their counsel or otherwise not addressed to the Court may not be filed on ECF or sent to the Court (except as exhibits to an otherwise properly filed document).

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 2 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Communications with chambers

c. Communications with Chambers by represented parties should be made by email, directed to SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov. All counsel must be copied, unless the email concerns an ex parte matter.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 2 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Communications with chambers

d. Docketing, scheduling, and calendar matters. For docketing, scheduling and calendar matters, represented parties should email Chambers, copying all counsel, at SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 2 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Adjournments

e. Requests for adjournments or extensions of time. All requests for adjournments or extensions of time must be made in writing and filed on ECF as letter-motions. If such a request in a criminal case contains sensitive or confidential information, it may be submitted by email, to SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov, in lieu of electronic filing. A sensitive or confidential letter-motion in a civil case must be filed on ECF in accordance with the pertinent ECF sealed filing procedures (see subdivision A.5. below). The letter-motion must state (1) the original date, (2) the number of previous requests for adjournment or extension, (3) whether these

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 2 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Adjournments

previous requests were granted or denied, and (4) whether the adversary consents, and, if not, the reasons given by the adversary for refusing to consent. If the requested adjournment or extension affects any other scheduled dates, a proposed Revised Scheduling Order must be submitted in accordance with the ECF procedures. If the request is for an adjournment of a court appearance, absent an emergency it must be made at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled appearance.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 3 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Communications with chambers

f. Courtesy Copies Required. A courtesy copy of all letters, motions, pleadings, and other filings must be promptly emailed to Chambers at SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov. The courtesy copy of any submission filed on ECF must be a copy of the filed version of the submission and must include the automatically-generated ECF header (that is, the text – for example, “Case 1:20- cv-01234-ABC Document 100 Filed 09/03/20 Page 1 of 1”– appearing at the top of each page of a document on the ECF system). No paper courtesy copies need to be submitted, unless requested by Chambers.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 3 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

a. Pre-motion conferences in civil matters. For discovery motions, follow Local Civil Rule 37.2. For motions other than discovery motions, pre-motion conferences are not required. Compliance with the certification requirement of subdivision b.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 3 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

below is, however, required for all civil case motions, whether discovery-related or not.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 3 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

(1) In civil matters, prior to making a motion of any type, and prior to requesting a conference on any discovery issues, the parties must use their best efforts to resolve informally the matters in controversy. Such efforts must include, but need not be limited to, an exchange of letters outlining their respective legal and factual positions on the matters and at least one telephonic or in-person discussion of the matters.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 3 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

(2) If a motion pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 12(b)(6) or 12(c) is contemplated, the plaintiff or counterclaimant must indicate whether it wishes to amend the subject pleading prior to motion practice, and the parties must consider in good faith a stipulation permitting such amendment.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 3 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

ii. Certification in notice of motion. If a motion or a discovery conference request remains necessary in a civil matter, the notice of motion or written discovery conference request must include a separate paragraph certifying

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 3 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

in clear terms that the movant or requesting party has used its best efforts to resolve informally the matters raised in its submission. If the motion is one pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 12(b)(6) or 12(c), the certification must also state whether the challenged pleading has been amended in response to the arguments raised in the motion.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 4 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

Statement by non-moving party. Within seven (7) days after a motion pursuant to Rule 12(b)(6) or 12(c) is filed, the non-moving party must, by letter, filed on the ECF system, notify the moving party of its intent to amend the complaint as of right, make any request for leave to amend in response to the motion, or state that it will file its opposition to the motion without further amendment. If no letter is filed within seven (7) days, the motion will be briefed in accordance with Local Civil Rule 6.1. If the pleading will be amended as of right, briefing of the motion is stayed pending the timely filing of the amendment. If leave to amend is requested, briefing on the motion is stayed pending the Court’s resolution of the request.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 4 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Adjournments

c. Letter-Motions. All requests for adjournments, extensions and pre-motion conferences (including pre-motion conferences with respect to discovery disputes) should be filed as letter-motions. Letter-motions must be filed via ECF in compliance with the S.D.N.Y. Local Rules and the S.D.N.Y. “Electronic Case Filing Rules and Instructions.”

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 4 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

d. Motions for default judgment. A party wishing to obtain a default judgment must notify the Court by letter (copied to the party against which a default judgment is to be sought and filed on the ECF System) of its desire to seek a default judgment.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 4 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

The Court will enter an order directing the party as to whether evidentiary submissions will be required in connection with the motion. Default judgments will be granted only upon written motion with notice to Defendant(s) and their counsel, if known. A copy of the Clerk’s Certificate of Default, an affidavit or declaration in accordance with Local Civil Rule 55.2(a)(1), and proof of service of the Summons and Complaint, the Motion for Default Judgment, the Clerk’s Certificate of Default and the aforementioned affidavit or declaration must be attached to the Motion for Default Judgment, along with any other material the Court directs be included in the motion papers. The Motion for Default Judgment must also include the papers required by Local Civil Rule 7.1, including a memorandum of law, and must be accompanied by a proposed order detailing the proposed judgment to be entered.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 4 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

f. Evidentiary support. Evidentiary support, in admissible form, of all factual assertions relied upon in support of or in opposition to a motion must be filed and served with the moving or opposition papers, as the case may be. Recitals in notices of motion, attorneys’ affirmations, assertions of material factual matters “on information and belief” and the like are generally insufficient to establish factual matters.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 5 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

g. Briefing. Unless otherwise directed by the Court in the particular case, motions in civil matters must be briefed in accordance with the schedule set forth in Local Civil Rule 6.1.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 5 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

h. Memoranda of law. Unless prior permission has been granted, if filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer, memoranda of law in support of and in opposition to motions are limited to 8,750 words, and reply memoranda are limited to 3,500 words; if filed by a party who is not represented by an attorney and handwritten or prepared with a typewriter, briefs in support of and in response to a motion may not exceed 25 pages, and reply briefs may not exceed 10 pages. These limitations do not include the caption, any index, table of contents, table of authorities, signature blocks, or any required certificates, but do include material contained in footnotes or endnotes. If a brief is filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer, it must include a certificate by the attorney, or party who is not represented by an attorney, that the document complies with the word‐count limitations. The person preparing the certificate may rely on the word count of the word‐processing program used to prepare the document. The certificate must state the number of words in the document. To the extent the court permits a party to submit briefs longer than these limits, and expresses those limits in pages, each additional page must not contain more than 350 additional words if the brief is filed by an attorney or prepared with a computer. Memoranda of 10 pages or more must contain a table of contents. The format of the documents must comply with Local Civil Rule 7.1.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 5 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

i. Filing of motion papers. Motion papers must be filed at the time of service or promptly thereafter.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 5 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

j. Oral argument and evidentiary proceedings on motions. Parties may request oral argument and/or indicate the need for an evidentiary hearing at the time their moving, opposing or reply papers are filed, by including a conspicuous notation of the request on the cover page of the relevant paper. The Court will determine whether argument will be heard and/or whether an evidentiary proceeding is required to resolve disputed factual issues and, if it determines that such an argument or proceeding is necessary, will advise counsel of the relevant date.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 5 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Filing and working copies

a. Joint pretrial statement. A joint pretrial statement must be filed, and other materials submitted, in accordance with the Pretrial Scheduling Order entered in the particular case.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 6 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Communications with chambers

a. Submission of proposed orders and judgments. All proposed orders and judgments, including stipulations to be “so-ordered,” must be submitted in the manner required by the Court’s “Electronic Case Filing Rules and Instructions,” with a courtesy copy emailed to Chambers at SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 6 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Communications with chambers

b. Applications for temporary restraining orders. If a party wishes to seek a temporary restraining order, it should file a Motion for a Temporary Restraining Order, supporting documents, and a proposed order, on ECF in accordance with the procedures found in ECF Rule 18.2. Information on filing an application ex-parte may be found in section 6, Sealed Filing, of the S.D.N.Y. ECF Rules & Instructions, available on-line at https://nysd.uscourts.gov/rules/ecf-related-instructions. Where the motion is made on notice to the other parties, the moving party should simultaneously serve the documents on any party that will not receive electronic service via the ECF system. The moving party should then email chambers at SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov, giving notice of the filing and the time frame requested for Court action. (Where the motion is made on notice, all parties should be copied on the email.) If the matter is time sensitive and Chambers does not respond within two (2) hours, the moving party may contact the Clerk’s Office before the end of the business day at (212) 805-0140.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 6 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

a. In general. Except as provided in subdivision 5(b)(i) below, and notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in a confidentiality order or stipulation, any party wishing to file under seal and/or in redacted form any document, or any portion thereof, must make a specific request to the Court by letter-motion or motion explaining the particular reasons for seeking to file that information under seal.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 6 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Filing and working copies

i. Sealing/Redactions Not Requiring Court Approval. Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 5.2 describes sensitive information that must be redacted from public court filings without seeking prior permission from the Court. Such sensitive information includes: Social Security numbers; names of minor children; dates of birth; and financial account numbers.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 6 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

Other information that should be treated with caution and may warrant a motion for approval of sealed or redacted filing includes: personal identifying numbers (PIN numbers); medical records, treatment and diagnosis;

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 7 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

ii. Sealing/Redaction Requiring Court Approval. Motions or letter-motions by represented parties for approval of sealed or redacted filings in civil and miscellaneous cases and the subject documents, including the proposed sealed document(s), must be filed electronically through the court’s ECF system in conformity with the Court’s Standing Order, 19-mc-00583 (S.D.N.Y. Dec. 19, 2019), and ECF Rules & Instructions, section 6.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 7 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

The motion must be filed in public view, must explain the particular reasons for seeking to file that information under seal and should not include confidential information sought to be filed under seal. Supporting papers must be separately filed electronically and may be filed under seal or redacted only to the extent necessary to safeguard information sought to be filed under seal.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 7 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

The proposed sealed document must be contemporaneously filed under seal in the ECF system and electronically related to the motion. The summary docket text, but not the sealed document, will be open to public inspection and should not include confidential information sought to be filed under seal.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 7 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

Where the motion seeks approval to redact information from a document that is to be publicly filed, the filing party shall: (a) publicly file the document with the proposed redactions, and (b) electronically file under seal a copy of the unredacted document with the redactions highlighted. Both documents must be electronically filed through the ECF system and related to the motion.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 7 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Filing and working copies

To be approved, any redaction or sealing of a court filing must be narrowly tailored to serve whatever purpose justifies the redaction or sealing and must be otherwise consistent with the presumption in favor of public access to judicial documents. See, e.g., Lugosch v. Pyramid Co. of Onondaga, 435 F.3d 110, 119-20 (2d Cir. 2006). In general, the parties’ consent or the fact

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 7 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

The party seeking leave to file sealed or redacted materials should meet and confer with any opposing parties (or third parties seeking confidential treatment of the information, if any) in advance to narrow the scope of the request. The motion must justify the request in light of the standards set forth in Lugosch and state whether the request is on consent. When a party seeks leave to file sealed or redacted materials on the ground that an opposing party or third party has requested it, the filing party shall notify the opposing party or third party that it must file, within three days, a letter explaining the need to seal or redact the materials.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 8 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Communications with chambers

Additionally, the party seeking leave must email to Chambers, at SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov, by encrypted and/or password- protected means, unredacted courtesy copies of the letter motion and relevant document(s) with all proposed redactions in highlighted form.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 8 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Filing and working copies

Any party unable to comply with the requirement for electronic filing under seal through the ECF system, or who has reason to believe that a particular document should not be electronically filed, must move for leave of the Court to file in the traditional manner, on paper.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 8 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Courtroom conduct and technology

In conformity with the Court’s Standing Order, 25-mc-00421 (S.D.N.Y. Sep. 24, 2025), sealed documents filed in ECF are no longer electronically accessible or viewable by non-court users, service of those documents can no longer be accomplished through ECF. Parties must serve sealed documents by other appropriate means consistent with the applicable Federal Rules of Procedure. Service accomplished outside the ECF system must be documented in accordance with the applicable Federal Rules of Procedure concerning certificates of service.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 8 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Courtroom conduct and technology

c. Pro se parties who wish to seek permission to file documents under seal, and who do not have permission to file documents electronically, are directed to contact the Court’s Pro Se Intake Unit, at the contact information provided on the Court’s website, see https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/prose/role-of-the-prose-intake- unit/contact, for appropriate direction.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 8 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Trial exhibits and witnesses

reasonably be expected to cause exceptionally grave damage or injury to any person, entity or institution, it must seek leave to do so following the procedures set forth in the Court’s Amended Standing Order, 21-mc-0006 (S.D.N.Y. June 27, 2024).

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 9 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Communications with chambers

b. Communications. All filings and communications from by pro se parties must be filed through the Pro Se Intake Unit, and must not be emailed, mailed, or faxed directly to chambers. Similarly, pro se parties should not call chambers; procedural questions should instead be addressed to the Court’s Pro Se Intake Unit. Information about the Pro Se Intake Unit, how to submit filing through that Unit, and how to contact that Unit with questions is available on the Court’s website, at https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/prose/role-of-the-prose-intake-unit/contact.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 9 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Filing and working copies

d. Contact Information. Pro se parties are required to maintain their current mailing address on the docket at all times, and must notify the Court of any change of address by filing a change of address form with the Pro Se Intake Unit. Failure to notify the Court of a change of address may result in dismissal of a case brought by a pro se party.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 9 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Filing and working copies

e. Pro Se Law Clinic. Pro se parties are advised that there is a Pro Se Law Clinic available to assist self-represented parties in civil cases. The Clinic may be able to provide a pro se party with advice in connection with their case. The Pro Se Law Clinic is run by a private organization called the City Bar Justice Center; it is not part of, or run by, the Court (and, among other things, therefore cannot accept filings on behalf of the Court, which must still be made by any self-represented party through the Pro Se Intake Unit). Litigants in need of legal assistance should complete the City Bar Justice Center’s intake form to make an appointment. If a litigant has questions about the intake form or needs to highlight an urgent deadline already disclosed in the form, the clinic can be contacted by phone (212-382-4794) or email (fedprosdny@nycbar.org). In-person appointments in the Thurgood Marshall Courthouse in Manhattan and the Charles L. Brieant Jr. Federal Building and Courthouse in White Plains are available Monday through Thursday, 10am to 4pm. Appointments are also available remotely Monday through Friday, 10am to 4pm.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 9 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

7. Participation by Junior Attorneys. The Court encourages the participation of less experienced attorneys in all proceedings—including pretrial conferences, hearings on discovery disputes, oral arguments, and examinations of witnesses at trial—particularly where that attorney played a substantial role in drafting the underlying filing or in preparing the relevant witness. Nevertheless, all attorneys appearing before the Court must have authority to bind the party they represent consistent with the proceedings (for example, by agreeing to a discovery or briefing schedule), and should be prepared to address any matters likely to arise at the proceeding. The Court looks forward to seeing a diverse range of advocates before it.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 10 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Communications with chambers

1. Initial pretrial conference. The Assistant U.S. Attorney must contact Chambers by email (at SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov) as soon as possible after the case is assigned to Judge Swain. The Assistant must provide all pertinent information to Chambers, including a copy of the information/indictment. The Courtroom Deputy will set up a conference/arraignment.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 10 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Communications with chambers

2. Substitution of counsel. When there is to be a substitution of defense counsel, counsel of record must contact Chambers by email (at SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov) to schedule a conference. At the conference, the Court will address the application by defense counsel to be relieved. The defendant, counsel of record, the proposed replacement counsel, and the Assistant United States Attorney must all attend the conference.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 10 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

a. Counsel are expected to comply with Local Criminal Rule 16.1. Any motion described in that Rule must include a Rule 16.1 affidavit.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 10 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Communications with chambers

b. Unless otherwise directed by the Court in the particular case, motions must be briefed in accordance with the schedule set forth in Local Criminal Rule 12.1. Counsel must email courtesy copies of all motion papers to Chambers at SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 10 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Motion practice

c. Except for good cause shown, all motions in limine must be interposed so as to permit full briefing by at least seven (7) days before the final pretrial conference date.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 10 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Communications with chambers

4. Applications to file under seal. Any party wishing to request permission to file document(s) or information under seal in a criminal matter must email its application to Chambers at SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov, copying all counsel unless the application concerns an ex parte matter. The email should also include complete, unredacted

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 10 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Filing and working copies

copies of the material proposed to be sealed or redacted and copies that include highlighting of all proposed redactions. The application must clearly identify the redaction(s) and explain the reasons for the redaction(s). The copy reflecting the proposed redactions must be filed electronically on ECF pending the Court’s order. In conformity with the Court’s Standing Order, 25-mc-00421 (S.D.N.Y. Sep. 24, 2025), sealed documents filed in ECF are no longer electronically accessible or viewable by non-court users, service of those documents can no longer be accomplished through ECF. Parties must serve sealed documents by other appropriate means consistent with the applicable Federal Rules of Procedure. Service accomplished outside the ECF system must be documented in accordance with the applicable Federal Rules of Procedure concerning certificates of service.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 11 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Filing and working copies

a. If an application to file under seal or with redactions is granted, the applying party must bring complete, unredacted copies of the material proposed to be sealed or redacted to the Court’s Records Management Department (500 Pearl Street, Room 370) to be filed under seal, along with a copy of the Court’s order granting the application.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 11 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Filing and working copies

b. If the Court has not ruled on the party’s application for sealed filing of a document submitted in connection with a criminal proceeding prior to such proceeding, the applying party must bring a hard copy of the document to the proceeding for the Court’s review and potential filing under seal.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 11 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Communications with chambers

5. Pleas. The plea agreement or Pimentel letter must be emailed to Chambers at SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov at least five (5) full business days before the time set for the conference at which the disposition is to be addressed. Defense counsel are expected to have reviewed any plea, cooperation, or other agreement, as well as any Advice of Rights form provided to counsel by the Court – with the assistance of an interpreter, if necessary – with the defendant prior to the time set for the conference with the Court. The relevant documents must be executed prior to the time set for the conference with the Court.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 11 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Communications with chambers

a. All motions in limine must be briefed so as to be fully submitted no later than one week before the Final Pretrial Conference. A courtesy copy of each submission should be emailed to Chambers at SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov on the date the paper is served and filed.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 11 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Filing and working copies

i. Each party must serve on each other party and file with the Court its proposed voir dire and verdict form. Prior to service and filing of the proposed voir dire and verdict form, counsel must provide copies to opposing counsel for inspection and noting of objection; and

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 11 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Trial exhibits and witnesses

ii. The parties must file a single document captioned JOINT REQUEST TO CHARGE, which must include the full text of all of their proposed jury instructions, with source citations. If the parties are not in agreement on a particular charge, the disputed language must be highlighted and any counterproposal(s) presented together with the disputed section. Disputed language must be accompanied by a brief explanation of the objection(s), with citations to the relevant legal authority.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 12 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Communications with chambers

iii. A courtesy copy of each submission must be emailed to Chambers at SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov, in pdf and Microsoft Word format.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 12 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Communications with chambers

c. Any Trial Memoranda must be served and filed no later than one week before the Final Pretrial Conference. A courtesy copy must be emailed to Chambers at SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov, that same day.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 12 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Trial exhibits and witnesses

d. Exhibits must be pre-marked and sufficient copies provided by counsel for witnesses, opposing counsel, jurors, the court reporter, any interpreters and the Courtroom Deputy.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 12 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Trial exhibits and witnesses

e. If counsel intend to publish documentary exhibits by distributing copies to the jury, make a separate copy for each juror, so as to avoid unnecessary delay. If counsel intend to use electronic equipment to publish exhibits, counsel must notify the Courtroom Deputy so that any necessary arrangements can be made in a timely fashion.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 12 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Trial exhibits and witnesses

f. Unless ordered otherwise in the particular case, by no later than noon of the business day before the start of the trial, the Government must provide the Court with three copies of the exhibit list and, electronically, pre-marked documentary exhibits and Section 3500 material assembled sequentially as a consolidated and bookmarked PDF.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 12 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Trial exhibits and witnesses

g. Sidebars during presentation of the evidence are discouraged. Counsel are expected to anticipate any problems that might require argument and to raise those issues with opposing counsel and the Court in advance of the time that the jury will be hearing the evidence. See also Judge Swain’s General Rules for Trial Counsel.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 12 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Trial exhibits and witnesses

h. Counsel should make certain that they have custody of all original exhibits. The Court does not retain them and the Clerk is not responsible for them.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 12 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Adjournments

a. Adjournments. Any request for adjournment of a sentencing shall be made in writing as early as possible, but no later than three (3) business days before the date at issue, barring an unforeseen emergency. Such requests should state whether opposing counsel consents.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 12 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Filing and working copies

i. The Court assumes that every document in a sentencing submission, including letters, will be filed in the public record either in paper form or through the ECF system, using the procedures described below. In this regard, the parties are not, unless necessary, to include the five categories of “sensitive information” in their submissions (i.e., social security numbers, names of minor children [use the initials only], dates of birth [use the year only], financial account numbers, and home addresses [use only the City and State]). Parties may redact the five categories of “sensitive information” without application to the Court.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 13 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Adjournments

ii. A defendant’s sentencing submission must be filed and served two weeks in advance of the date set for sentence. The Government’s sentencing submission must be filed and served one week in advance of the date set for sentence. Any reply submission must be made at least three days before the date set for sentence. (If the presentence report is not available in time for counsel to make submissions consistent with this timetable, counsel may request an adjournment.) The parties must provide the Court with a courtesy copy of each submission, by email to SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov, when it is served.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 13 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Filing and working copies

iii. Letters and other documents submitted in support of sentencing submissions should be grouped and filed together as attachments to a single document marked SENTENCING MEMORANDUM with the caption and docket number clearly indicated. The defendant is responsible for filing all letters submitted on behalf of the defendant, including those from friends, relatives, etc. The Government is responsible for providing all letters from victims.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 13 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Communications with chambers

iv. Applications to file a sentencing memorandum, or material submitted in connection with a sentencing memorandum, under seal, should be emailed to Chambers at SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov, in compliance with subdivision B.4 above. The party seeking to file a submission under seal shall bring a hard copy of the unredacted submission to the sentencing hearing, in compliance with subdivision B.4 above.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 13 · Collected 2026-10-27

#### Communications with chambers

If counsel have any questions about these practices, email Chambers at SwainNYSDCorresp@nysd.uscourts.gov, copying all counsel unless the question concerns an ex parte matter.

See document heading and cited passage; do not apply outside the issuing part or proceeding.

[Official rules document](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/practice_documents/LTS%20Swain%20Individual%20Rules%20as%20of%20January%2014%202026.pdf) · Source page 13 · Collected 2026-10-27

### Shared court rules

- [SDNY and EDNY — Joint Local Civil and Criminal Rules](https://knowjudges.com/courtroom-rules/ny-shared-set-201c11a4597834a9a953) — Federal district-court proceedings only. Civil and criminal sections have distinct scope and district-specific exceptions. Not Bankruptcy Court rules. [Official source](https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/local_rules/2026-01-02%20-%20EDNY%20and%20SDNY%20Joint%20Local%20Rules%20As%20Amended.pdf). Collected 2026-10-27.
- [Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, December 1, 2025](https://knowjudges.com/courtroom-rules/national-shared-set-651872d6e45e0d82319ecccc) — Civil actions in United States District Courts; Rule 81 exceptions apply. Section-specific exceptions, waivers, later amendments and case orders remain applicable. This is a source excerpt, not an exhaustive statement of the rule. [Official source](https://www.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/document/federal-rules-of-civil-procedure.pdf). Collected 2026-10-27.
- [Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure, December 1, 2025](https://knowjudges.com/courtroom-rules/national-shared-set-8721a344fececced2257fe1d) — Criminal proceedings in United States District Courts; this conservative mapping does not distribute appellate-specific provisions to appellate judges. Section-specific exceptions, waivers, later amendments and case orders remain applicable. This is a source excerpt, not an exhaustive statement of the rule. [Official source](https://www.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/document/federal-rules-of-criminal-procedure.pdf). Collected 2026-10-27.
