East Central Reporter

In a recent case in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Alabama, Eastern Division, Federal Judge R. David Proctor issued an unusual order to address professional conduct among attorneys. The case involved a motion to extend the responsive pleading deadline.

Judge Proctor emphasized the importance of professional courtesy in legal proceedings, referencing the Golden Rule as "a critical component of legal professionalism." He noted that adherence to this principle has been declining in litigation and called for its revival.

The judge criticized the plaintiff's counsel for conditioning agreement to an extension on inappropriate terms, especially with Thanksgiving approaching. He remarked that such behavior wastes time and harms professional relationships. "Judges rightly expect lawyers to handle minor procedural issues like extensions without unnecessary conflict," he stated.

To reinforce his point, Judge Proctor ordered both parties' counsels to have lunch together before December 31, 2024. According to the order, "Plaintiff’s counsel will pay the bill; Defendants’ counsel will leave the tip." They are required to discuss how they can maintain professionalism throughout the case and file a joint report detailing their conversation and the tip amount within ten days after their meeting.

The court's order highlights a broader issue of maintaining decorum and professionalism in legal practices. The actual two-page order is available for download, but the resulting report from this unique directive is not yet accessible in public records. Efforts are being made to obtain it for public viewing.