Do I personally have to attend a conference?

Represented parties usually appear through counsel, though some conferences and settlement appearances expect the party to be available.

What if I miss a conference?

Consequences range from a default on the conference to dismissal or striking of an answer. Contact the court and opposing counsel before the date if you cannot appear.

Are conferences held remotely?

Practice varies by part and has changed repeatedly in recent years. Confirm the appearance method with the part before the date.

During the case · For the both

Conferences and Case Management in Kings County

Once a case is joined, the court takes over the calendar. Conferences are where deadlines are set, discovery disputes are aired, settlement is probed, and cases are pushed toward trial readiness. They are short, procedural, and consequential — the order that comes out of a preliminary conference binds you for the next year.

The preliminary conference

Parties appear, identify the claims and defenses, and negotiate a discovery schedule that the court then orders. Come with a realistic plan: how many depositions, what documents you need, whether experts are involved, and when you can actually be done. A schedule you cannot meet is an invitation to motion practice against you later.

Compliance conferences

These check the work against the schedule. If a party has not produced what was ordered, the court can impose a firm deadline with consequences attached — conditional preclusion is common. Show up having done what you promised, or with a concrete explanation and a proposed cure. Judges remember who wastes their conference slots.

The note of issue

Filing the note of issue and certificate of readiness tells the court discovery is complete and the case can be placed on the trial calendar. It also starts the clock on the deadline to move for summary judgment. Filing prematurely can cost you discovery you still need; filing late can cost you the case for want of prosecution.

Settlement pressure at conferences

Courts routinely ask whether the case can resolve, and may refer matters to a settlement part or mediation. Arrive with authority to settle within a defined range, or with a client who can be reached. 'I have to ask' is a wasted appearance and a missed opportunity in a system built around resolution.

Common questions

Do I personally have to attend a conference?: Represented parties usually appear through counsel, though some conferences and settlement appearances expect the party to be available.
What if I miss a conference?: Consequences range from a default on the conference to dismissal or striking of an answer. Contact the court and opposing counsel before the date if you cannot appear.
Are conferences held remotely?: Practice varies by part and has changed repeatedly in recent years. Confirm the appearance method with the part before the date.

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Related guides

This guide is general information about court procedure in Kings County, New York. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Court rules, fees and deadlines change — confirm current requirements with the court or an attorney before acting. Dispute Counsel PLLC serves New York residents, businesses and New York local representation.