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Announcement History
Most recent announcements are listed first
Date Sent
04/23/2026 02:51:26 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: SEALED DOCUMENT ACCESS:
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Effective April 20, 2026, electronic access to view sealed documents in CM/ECF will no longer be available to the filer or any party with the right to access them. All requests by authorized individuals to access a sealed document must now be directed to the Clerk's Divisional Office. The Clerk's Instructions for Filing Documents Under Seal will be updated to reflect this new access restriction.
Date Sent
04/03/2026 10:59:15 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: ATTENTION CHAPTER 13 ATTORNEYS: CHAPTER 13 PROCEDURE UPDATES
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The Court's Form Order Approving Administrative Expense Claim for Debtor's Attorney in Dismissed and Converted Chapter 13 Cases is posted in the Procedure Manual. The form order authorizes the Chapter 13 Trustee to disburse payment to the applicant "pro rata with other administrative expense claims (if any), to the extent that the Chapter 13 Trustee is in possession of funds not previously disbursed under Debtor's Chapter 13 plan." Orders submitted by debtors' counsel in dismissed or converted Chapter 13 cases must include this language in their orders. Creditors frequently file Motions for an Order Confirming that the Automatic Stay is Not in Effect Pursuant to Local Rule 4001-1(c)(2) when the debtor's Chapter 12 or 13 plan provides for surrender of the creditor's collateral, for the debt to be paid by the debtor directly to the creditor rather than through the Chapter 13 trustee's office, or does not provide for the creditor's claim. Proposed orders on such motions must include the following language: "This Court makes no determination of whether a default exists."
Date Sent
03/31/2026 09:37:02 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CHANGE TO ACCOMPANYING ORDERS LIST
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The Court's Accompanying Orders List has been updated to add Motions to Appear by Zoom. Note that this applies to cases pending in the Orlando Division only. http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/proguide/documents/Procedure/Accompanying_Orders_List.pdf?id=1
Date Sent
02/27/2026 10:04:28 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF NATIONAL SERVICE DISRUPTION
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The National Program Office for the U.S. Courts has reported that Bankruptcy Court CM/ECF services and PACER services are not accessible or are responding very slowly. They are working to resolve the issue but anticipate that CM/ECF will be unavailable all morning. Please visit our website athttps://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/proguide/documents/Procedure/Emergency_Matters_Alert_Notification_to_Clerks_Office.pdf?id=1for information regarding emergency filings, if needed.
Date Sent
02/20/2026 09:46:17 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Court Connection - February 2026
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Copy and paste the following link in your browser: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFEDCOURTS/bulletins/4096233
Date Sent
01/05/2026 08:05:20 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CHANGES TO NEGATIVE NOTICE LIST
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The Court has added the following motions (applicable to Chapter 13 cases filed after December 1, 2025) to the Negative Notice List. Motion Under Rule 3002.1(f)(1) to Determine Status of Mortgage Claim Motion Under Rule 3002.1(g)(4) to Determine Final Cure and Payment of the Mortgage Claim. Note that both motions require 28-day notice. And for the sake of procedural consistency, the Court also now requires 28-day notice on a Motion to Declare Debtor Current and Reinstated on Secured Claim. https://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/negativenotice/list.pdf?rnd=1
Date Sent
12/19/2025 10:35:26 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: UPDATE TO COURT HOLIDAY CLOSURES
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All divisions of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will be closed on the following federal holidays: December 24, 2025 December 25, 2025 December 26, 2025 January 1, 2026 All divisions will also be closed on January 2, 2026.
Date Sent
11/30/2025 01:32:05 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: UPDATES FROM THE PACER SERVICE CENTER (PSC)
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The Administrative Office of the United States Courts requested that the following information regarding the Public Access to Court Electronic Records Service Center ("PSC") be disseminated broadly to reduce PSC telephonic wait times and call volume: On October 16, 2025, PACER released an update that allows users with CM/ECF-level access (e.g., filers, interested parties, etc.) whose account search status becomes inactive due to search inactivity the ability to reset their own password without contacting the PSC. Users with CM/ECF-level filing access can still file even if their search status shows as inactive due to six months of inactivity. Some common questions are answered on the PACER website on the MFA Tips and Resources page. Please visit this page before contacting the PSC, as most issues can be handled by following the steps outlined on the website. When to contact the PSC You will need to contact the PSC to reactivate your PACER search status if your account has been deactivated. When you do not need to contact the PSC If you do not receive an MFA enrollment prompt when logging into PACER, no action is necessary. If you receive an MFA enrollment prompt, you can enroll on your own by following the steps outlined on the MFA Tips and Resources page. Support from the PSC is not required for enrollment. Thank you for your patience as the PSC works to reduce call wait times and strengthen account security. Contacting the PSC only when necessary will help ensure support is available for those who have an urgent need. The Clerk's staff, including the CM/ECF Help Desk, cannot assist with your enrollment in MFA or issues obtaining the passcodes associated with MFA.
Date Sent
11/21/2025 10:21:25 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CHANGES TO FEDERAL RULES OF APPELLATE, BANKRUPTCY, AND CIVIL PROCEDURE AND FORMS EFFECTIVE DECEMBER 1, 2025
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The following amended and new Federal Rules of Appellate, Bankruptcy, and Civil Procedure; Official Bankruptcy Forms; and Director's Forms will be effective December 1, 2025: Amended Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure 6 and 39; Amended Bankruptcy Rules 3002.1 and 8006; Amended Federal Rules of Civil Procedure 16 and 26 and new FRCP 16.1; Amended Official Bankruptcy Form 410S1and new Bankruptcy Forms 410C13-M1, 410C13-M1R, 410C13-N, 410C13-NR, 410C13-M2, and 410C13-M2R; https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFEDCOURTS/bulletins/3fc77be
Date Sent
11/17/2025 07:43:58 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: REMINDER: UPCOMING COURT HOLIDAY CLOSURES
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REMINDER: UPCOMING COURT HOLIDAY CLOSURES (Posted: Monday, November 17, 2025) All divisions of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will be closed for the following federal holidays: November 27, 2025: Thanksgiving Day December 25, 2025: Christmas Day January 1, 2026: New Year's Day Additionally, certain divisions will be closed on the following days:** November 28, 2025: Jacksonville and Orlando Divisions Closed Tampa Division Open December 26, 2025: Orlando and Tampa Divisions Closed Jacksonville Division Open January 2, 2026 All Divisions Closed Copy and paste in your browser: https://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/announcements/documents/upload/401391371_File_1.pdf
Date Sent
11/14/2025 09:46:22 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CLERK'S OFFICE TO RESUME NORMAL OPERATIONS ON MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17
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On November 12, 2025, the President signed a continuing resolution enabling the entire federal government, including the Judiciary, to remain open through January 30, 2026, while Congress and the Administration continue negotiations on the unfinished appropriations bills for fiscal year 2026. Judiciary staff who were furloughed during the shutdown can return to work. Accordingly, the Clerk's Offices for the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will resume normal operational hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) on Monday, November 17, 2025. Thank you for your understanding and patience during the budgetary lapse. Jos A. Rodriguez, Clerk of Court
Date Sent
11/05/2025 01:34:47 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: UPCOMING COURT HOLIDAY CLOSURES
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All divisions of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will be closed for the following federal holidays: November 11, 2025: Veterans Day November 27, 2025: Thanksgiving Day December 25, 2025: Christmas Day January 1, 2026: New Year's Day Additionally, certain divisions will be closed on the following days: November 10, 2025: Orlando and Tampa Divisions Closed Jacksonville Division Open November 28, 2025: Jacksonville and Orlando Divisions Closed Tampa Division Open December 26, 2025: Orlando and Tampa Divisions Closed Jacksonville Division Open January 2, 2026 All Divisions Closed
Date Sent
10/29/2025 02:37:44 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CHANGE IN CLERK'S OFFICES OPERATIONAL HOURS ON FRIDAYS
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Effective Friday, October 31, 2025, the operational hours of the Clerk's Offices in all divisions of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will change due to the government shutdown and employee furloughs. Each Friday until further notice, the Clerk's Office intake counters will be closed to the public. We will endeavor to return messages left on voicemail within one business day. Attorneys and other registered CM/ECF users may continue to file electronically. For more information, please copy/paste this link in your browser: https://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/announcements/documents/upload/163635307_File_1.pdf
Date Sent
10/27/2025 02:34:43 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: IMPORTANT UPDATE RE JUDGE WILLIAMSON PORTRAIT CEREMONY AND VIEW FROM THE FLORIDA BANKRUPTCY BENCH EVENTS
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During the federal government shutdown, federal courts must limit operations to those necessary to perform the Judiciary's constitutional functions. As a direct result of those limitations, the Bankruptcy Court has postponed the November 5 portrait ceremony and reception in memory of Judge Michael G. Williamson. The portrait ceremony will be rescheduled after the court resumes normal operations. Please note that the shutdown will not affect the Business Law Section's View from the Florida Bankruptcy Bench programs and the related receptions. All of the originally scheduled judicial panelists will participate. The following events will proceed: November 5 at 5:00 p.m. Le Mridien, 601 N. Florida Avenue View from the Bench Reception hosted by the Tampa Bay Bankruptcy Bar Association* *Note The View from the Reception in Tampa will go forward as a TBBBA-sponsored event with no charge for this year's reception only. Advance registration is required and space is limited. Walk ins will not be admitted. If you already RSVP'd for the Portrait Ceremony, then your reservation has been transferred to the View from the Bench reception, and it is not necessary to re-register. November 6 at 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. View from the Florida Bankruptcy Bench USF Health CAMLS, 124 S. Franklin Street, Tampa November 6 at 5:30 p.m. Joe's Stone Crab, 11 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach Reception and dinner hosted by the Bankruptcy Bar Association of the Southern District of Florida November 7 at 8 a.m. To 12:30 p.m. View from the Florida Bankruptcy Bench Akerman LLP, 98 SE 7th Street Brickell City Centre, Suite 1100, Miami The registration deadline for the seminars has been extended through October 31. Please note that the programs are live presentations only and will not be recorded for after-market purchase. Space is limited and walk-in registrations will not be available. Register now to avoid missing Florida's preeminent bankruptcy seminar.
Date Sent
10/27/2025 08:09:01 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: UPDATE TO BANKRUPTCY RULE 5003(e) NOTICING LIST (Posted: Thursday, October 23, 2025)
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The Court has updated its register of addresses for service of notices on federal and state governmental units. The register includes a new address for service on the United States Attorney for cases pending in the Fort Myers Division. https://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/noticing_information/
Date Sent
09/08/2025 03:04:16 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING MESSAGE FROM PACER -- MULTIFACTOR AUTHENTICATION DELAYED
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The PACER Service Center (PSC) is currently experiencing long call wait times due to the enforcement of several security features that will enhance the security of PACER accounts, including updated password standards and multifactor authentication (MFA). To help mitigate the wait times, enforcement of the updated password standards has been temporarily delayed. In addition, we ask that only users who receive a prompt to enroll in MFA when they log in should do so. If you do not receive an MFA enrollment prompt, no action is necessary. Please do not contact the PSC with questions about MFA until you are required to enroll. This ensures support is available for those who need it. Some common questions we received are answered on the list of MFA Tips and Resources which should be reviewed before calling the PSC. Additionally, we would like to get your feedback regarding the MFA options using this short survey. Thank you for your patience as we work to reduce call wait times and strengthen account security. **NOTE: The Clerk's staff, including the CM/ECF Help Desk, cannot assist with your enrollment in MFA.**
Date Sent
08/27/2025 03:56:08 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: PACER ENROLLMENT TIPS FOR MULTIFACTOR AUTHENTICATION
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If you need further assistance after reviewing the online resources, you can contact the PACER Service Center via email or phone. pacer@psc.uscourts.gov 800-676-6856 (Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT) Due to high call volume, you should anticipate lengthy wait times. NOTE: The Clerk's staff, including the CM/ECF Help Desk, cannot assist with your enrollment in MFA.
Date Sent
08/27/2025 03:55:32 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: LOCAL RULES LAWYERS' ADVISORY COMMITTEE UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT, MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA SOLICITS PROPOSALS FOR NEW OR REVISED LOCAL RULES (Posted: Thursday, August 21, 2025)
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The Local Rules Lawyers' Advisory Committee for the United States Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida, invites interested parties, including members of the Bar and Court employees, to submit their suggestions, comments, and proposals for proposed new Local Rules or revisions to the current Local Rules. Suggestions should be submitted no later than October 3, 2025.
Date Sent
04/04/2025 09:50:56 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: PACER AND CM/ECF PLANNED OUTAGE: MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR APRIL 27, 2025
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Due to scheduled maintenance, PACER and CM/ECF e-filers may experience intermittent authentication issues when logging on and intermittent connection issues when making payments through Pay.gov. The applications will be affected on Sunday, April 27.
Date Sent
03/18/2025 03:14:44 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: PROPOSED NEW AND AMENDED LOCAL RULES FOR PUBLIC COMMENT (Posted: Monday, March 17, 2025)
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The judges of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida are considering proposed amendments to the Local Rules, as well as two new rules. The proposals are posted for public comment on the Courts website commencing on March 17, 2025. The public comment period ends on May 9, 2025. Once finalized and approved with the judges, the new and amended Local Rules will become effective on August 1, 2025. Attorneys and parties who appear before the Court are encouraged to review the proposed new and amended Local Rules. The Court appreciates all comments and will consider them prior to the effective date.
Date Sent
01/21/2025 05:32:45 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: JACKSONVILLE COURTHOUSE CLOSURE WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22, 2025
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Due to the winter storm warnings and potential hazardous driving conditions, the Jacksonville division of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will be closed on Wednesday, January 22, 2025.
Date Sent
01/02/2025 02:44:39 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: COURT WILL REMAIN OPEN ON JANUARY 9 NATIONAL DAY OF MOURNING
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Although President Biden has declared a National Day of Mourning for President Jimmy Carter on January 9, 2025, the Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will remain open.
Date Sent
12/23/2024 09:39:18 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: UPDATE ON IMPACT OF CANADIAN POSTAL WORKERS STRIKE ON SERVICE OF PAPERS TO CANADIAN PARTIES
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On December 10, 2024, the Bankruptcy Noticing Center (BNC) began to bypass notices that specifically contain the word "Canada" in the last line of the address. Bypassed addresses are indicated as such on the BNC Certificate of Notice. As part of the bypass process, the BNC (i) notifies the debtor's attorney of mail that is bypassed as undeliverable, and (ii) notifies the court of bypassed mail if the debtor is pro se and for adversary proceedings. As a reminder, electronic noticing through the BNC is unavailable to international recipients. Between November 15 and December 9, 2024, notices to Canadian recipients were not bypassed. Those notices were held at the U.S./Canadian border and are now being processed for delivery. We will post further updates as the BNC provides us with new information.
Date Sent
12/20/2024 03:54:50 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: COURT CLOSURES - HOLIDAYS
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All divisions of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will be closed on Tuesday, December 24, 2024; Wednesday, December 25, 2024; and Wednesday, January 1, 2025.
Date Sent
12/19/2024 09:29:12 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: IMPACT OF CANADIAN POSTAL WORKERS STRIKE ON SERVICE OF PAPERS TO CANADIAN PARTIES
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Due to a postal worker strike in Canada, mail from the Bankruptcy Noticing Center (BNC) to Canadian recipients is being held at the U.S./Canadian border and will not be delivered until the postal strike ends. Canadian recipients have not received mail from the BNC since November 15, 2024. Please note that electronic noticing through the BNC is unavailable to international recipients. Counsel should make accurate representations of service of papers to Canadian parties, particularly if serving papers by negative notice under Local Rule 2002-4.
Date Sent
12/09/2024 01:23:04 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CHANGES TO BANKRUPTCY RULES AND FORMS EFFECTIVE DECEMBER 1, 2024
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Effective December 1, 2024, the following Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure, Official Bankruptcy Forms, and Director's Bankruptcy Forms were amended: Bankruptcy Rules 1007, 4004, 5009, 7001, 8023.1 (new rule), and 9006; Official Form 410; and Director's Forms 1040, 2000, and 2630. Official Form 423 was abrogated. Rule 1007(b)(7) requires submission of a certificate from the approved course provider to evidence completion of a course in personal financial management. In addition, the Bankruptcy Rules, Parts I through IX, have been restyled. Click HEREfor information about the rule amendments. Click HEREfor information about the form amendments.
Date Sent
11/05/2024 12:24:10 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF PLANNED OUTAGE: MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR NOVEMBER 9-11, 2024
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Due to scheduled maintenance, the CM/ECF application will be offline and unavailable from Saturday, November 9, at 1:00 a.m. to Monday, November 11, at 12:00 p.m.
Date Sent
10/13/2024 07:25:18 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: STATUS UPDATE RE TAMPA AND ORLANDO FEDERAL COURTHOUSES
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The Tampa and Orlando Divisions of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will resume normal operations on Tuesday, October 15, 2024. The Jacksonville Division resumed normal operations on Friday, October 11.
Date Sent
10/10/2024 03:59:00 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: FURTHER UPDATE RE TAMPA, ORLANDO, AND JACKSONVILLE COURTHOUSE CLOSURES DUE TO HURRICANE MILTON
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Due to Hurricane Milton, the Tampa and Orlando Divisions of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will remain closed on Friday, October 11, 2024. All hearings scheduled for October 11 in Tampa, Fort Myers, and Orlando cases are canceled and will be rescheduled. The Jacksonville Division will resume normal operations on Friday, October 11. Any additional court closures will be announced here as they become official. For information on creditors' meetings, please contact the trustee assigned to the case.
Date Sent
10/09/2024 10:35:28 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: FURTHER UPDATE RE TAMPA, ORLANDO, AND JACKSONVILLE COURTHOUSE CLOSURES DUE TO HURRICANE MILTON
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Due to Hurricane Milton, the Tampa Division of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will close on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, October 9, 10, and 11, 2024. All hearings scheduled for October 9 - 11 in the Tampa division are canceled and will be rescheduled. The Orlando and Jacksonville Divisions will close on Wednesday and Thursday, October 9 and 10, 2024. All hearings scheduled for October 9 and 10 in the Orlando and Jacksonville divisions are canceled and will be rescheduled. Any additional court closures will be announced here as they become official. For information on creditors' meetings, please contact the trustee assigned to the case.
Date Sent
10/09/2024 09:56:39 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: UPDATE RE TAMPA, ORLANDO, AND JACKSONVILLE COURTHOUSE CLOSURES DUE TO HURRICANE MILTON
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Due to Hurricane Milton, the Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville Divisions of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will close on Wednesday and Thursday, October 9 and 10, 2024. All hearings scheduled for October 9 and 10 in each division are canceled and will be rescheduled. Any additional court closures will be announced here as they become official. For information on creditors' meetings, please contact the trustee assigned to the case
Date Sent
10/09/2024 09:38:19 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: UPDATE RE TAMPA AND ORLANDO COURTHOUSE CLOSURES DUE TO HURRICANE MILTON
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Due to Hurricane Milton, the Tampa Division of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will close on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, October 8 - 10, 2024. All hearings scheduled for Tampa and Fort Myers cases on October 8, 9, and 10 are canceled and will be rescheduled. The Orlando Division will close on Wednesday and Thursday, October 9 and 10, 2024. All hearings scheduled for Orlando cases on October 9 and 10 are canceled and will be rescheduled. Any additional court closures will be announced here as they become official. For information on creditors' meetings in Tampa, Fort Myers, and Orlando cases, please contact the trustee assigned to the case.
Date Sent
10/07/2024 04:44:46 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: UPDATE RE TAMPA AND ORLANDO COURTHOUSE CLOSURES DUE TO HURRICANE MILTON
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Due to Hurricane Milton, the Tampa Division of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will close on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, October 8 - 10, 2024. All hearings scheduled for Tampa and Fort Myers cases on October 8, 9, and 10 are canceled and will be rescheduled. The Orlando Division will close on Wednesday and Thursday, October 9 and 10, 2024. All hearings scheduled for Orlando cases on October 9 and 10 are canceled and will be rescheduled. Any additional court closures will be announced here as they become official. For information on creditors' meetings in Tampa, Fort Myers, and Orlando cases, please contact the trustee assigned to the case.
Date Sent
10/07/2024 10:04:25 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: DUE TO HURRICANE MILTON, THE TAMPA AND FORT MYERS DIVISIONS OF THE U.S. BANKRUPTCY COURT FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA WILL CLOSE TO THE PUBLIC ON TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8 AND 9, 2024.
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Due to Hurricane Milton, the Tampa Division of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will close on Tuesday and Wednesday, October 8 and 9, 2024. All hearings scheduled for Tampa and Fort Myers cases on October 8 and 9 are canceled and will be rescheduled. Any additional court closures will be announced here as they become official. For information on creditors' meetings in Tampa and Fort Myers cases, please contact the trustee assigned to the case.
Date Sent
09/26/2024 05:58:54 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: FURTHER UPDATE RE STATUS OF MIDDLE DISTRICT COURTHOUSE CLOSURES DUE TO HURRICANE HELENE
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Due to Hurricane Helene, the Tampa Division of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida, including the Tampa intake window, will remain closed on Friday, September 27. All hearings scheduled for Tampa and Fort Myers cases on September 27 are cancelled and will be rescheduled. The Orlando and Jacksonville Divisions, including the intake windows, will reopen and resume normal operations on Friday, September 27.
Date Sent
09/25/2024 12:08:56 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: UPDATE RE TAMPA, ORLANDO, AND JACKSONVILLE COURTHOUSE CLOSURES DUE TO TROPICAL STORM/HURRICANE HELENE
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Due to Tropical Storm/Hurricane Helene, the following courthouse closures and suspensions of operations will occur: The Tampa Division of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida, including the Tampa intake window, will close on Wednesday and Thursday, September 25 and 26, 2024. All hearings scheduled for Tampa and Fort Myers cases on September 25 and 26 are cancelled and will be rescheduled. Depending on conditions, and subject to further announcement, the Tampa courthouse may reopen on Friday. For information on creditors' meetings in Tampa and Fort Myers cases, please contact the trustee assigned to the case. The Orlando and Jacksonville Divisions, including the intake windows, will close on Thursday, September 26. All hearings scheduled for Orlando and Jacksonville cases on September 26 are cancelled and will be rescheduled. Depending on conditions, and subject to further announcement, the Orlando and Jacksonville courthouses may reopen on Friday. For information on creditors' meetings in Orlando and Jacksonville cases, please contact the trustee assigned to the case.
Date Sent
09/03/2024 09:38:01 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: JUDGE MCEWEN'S MENTORING PROGRAM FOR YOUNG LAWYERS
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The next session of Judge McEwen's mentoring program for lawyers new to the practice of bankruptcy law is scheduled virtually for Tuesday, September 24, 2024, from Noon to 1:15 p.m. via Zoom. LOGIN INFORMATION WILL BE PROVIDED TO THE FIRST 100 WHO RSVP. Judge McEwen's special guest for this program is Guy Van Baalen, Assistant U.S. Trustee, Tampa Division. Program Title: SUBCHAPTER V: LET US INTRODUCE (OR REINTRODUCE) THE MOST POPULAR 11 ON THE PLANET (AT LEAST IN FLMB) Copy/Paste the link below in your browser: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/announcements/documents/upload/780599914_File_1.pdf
Date Sent
08/30/2024 07:54:55 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Local Rules Lawyers' Advisory Committee Solicits Proposals for New or Revised Local Rules
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The Local Rules Lawyers' Advisory Committee invites interested parties, including members of the Bar and Court employees, to submit their suggestions, comments, and proposals for proposed new Local Rules or revisions to our current Local Rules. Suggestions should be submitted no later than October 15, 2024. You may copy/paste to your browser the link below to submit recommendations to the Committee: http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/localrules/comments-with-form.asp.
Date Sent
07/22/2024 10:04:28 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: AMENDMENTS TO LOCAL RULES EFFECTIVE AUGUST 15, 2024
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The Bankruptcy Judges of the Middle District of Florida have approved amendments to the Local Rules, effective August 15, 2024. Copy/Paste to your browser: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/announcements/documents/upload/813258498_File_1.pdf https://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/localrules/amendments.htm
Date Sent
05/28/2024 11:30:36 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: AMENDMENTS TO LOCAL RULES AND COMMENT FORM
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The judges of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida are considering proposed amendments to the Local Rules. The proposals are posted for public comment on the Court's website commencing on May 28, 2024. The public comment period ends on July 1, 2024. When promulgated by the judges, the amended Local Rules will become effective on August 1, 2024. Attorneys and parties who appear before the Court are encouraged to review the proposed amendments. The Court appreciates all comments and will consider them prior to the promulgation of the amended Local Rules.
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05/13/2024 01:44:34 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: JUDGE MCEWEN'S MENTORING PROGRAM FOR YOUNG LAWYERS
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The next session of Judge McEwen's mentoring program for lawyers new to the practice of bankruptcy law is scheduled virtually for Thursday, June 6, 2024, from Noon to 1:15 p.m. via Zoom. LOGIN INFORMATION WILL BE PROVIDED TO THE FIRST 100 WHO RSVP. Judge McEwen's special guest for this program is Chief Judge Caryl E. Delano. Program Title: ONE WHITE BOARD: A FAST-PACED OVERVIEW OF THE PROGRESSION OF A CHAPTER 11 CASE AND WHAT CODE SECTIONS ARE IMPLICATED AT EACH STAGE. http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/announcements/documents/upload/223050497_File_1.pdf
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04/25/2024 12:39:53 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CHANGES TO MIDDLE DISTRICT'S SUMMARY JUDGMENT AND NEGATIVE NOTICE PROCEDURES
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Effective April 25, 2024, the Bankruptcy Court will issue and serve an Order Setting Deadline for Filing Response to Motion for Summary Judgment for all summary judgment motions filed in bankruptcy cases and adversary proceedings. The Order provides that responses to summary judgment motions must be filed within 21 days of the date of the Order, unless the Court has previously set a different briefing schedule. The Court has removed Motions for Summary Judgment from the Negative Notice List and has included a comment to Local Rule 7001-1(k)(4)(F) to inform readers, pending an upcoming amendment to the rule, that motions for summary judgment are no longer eligible for negative notice.
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03/13/2024 04:21:13 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: LEGAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM AVAILABLE TO LOW-INCOME INDIVIDUAL DEBTORS AND CREDITORS IN CERTAIN MATTERS
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LEGAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM AVAILABLE TO LOW-INCOME INDIVIDUAL DEBTORS AND CREDITORS IN CERTAIN MATTERS (Posted: Wednesday, March 13, 2024) The Middle District of Florida has revised its Legal Assistance Program (LAP) to supplement the types of matters eligible for pro bono services by a volunteer attorney under the LAP. The following types of matters are eligible for referral to a volunteer attorney under the LAP: Adversary proceedings or motions relating to the debtor's entitlement to a discharge and/or the dischargeability of a debt, including motions for a hardship discharge under 11 U.S.C. § 1328(b). Contested matters concerning the debtor's claimed exemptions. Representation of spouses and former spouses of debtors in connection with the dischargeability of obligations under marital settlement agreements and/or judgments for the dissolution of marriage. Representation of an individual defendant in an action to recover money or property under 11 U.S.C. §§ 542, 544, 547, or 550. In addition, if circumstances warrant, the Bankruptcy Judge assigned to the case may refer a party to LAP. The Court maintains a list of attorneys who have volunteered to accept a request to serve as a pro bono attorney for a qualifying low-income individual. We hope that all attorneys will consider volunteering for the LAP.
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03/05/2024 11:18:46 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: JUDGE MCEWEN'S MENTORING PROGRAM FOR YOUNG LAWYERS
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The next session of Judge McEwen's mentoring program for lawyers new to the practice of bankruptcy law is scheduled virtually for Wednesday, March 27, 2024, from Noon to 1:15 p.m. via Zoom. LOGIN INFORMATION WILL BE PROVIDED TO THE FIRST 100 WHO RSVP. Judge McEwen's special guests for this program are: Jeffrey Hakanson, Esq.; Grace Anne Monnig, Assistant United States Attorney; Pam Arciola, Courtroom Deputy; Acel Masar, IT Tech; and a Special "Ghost" Appearance. Program Title: HODGE PODGE FOR $400
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12/27/2023 02:56:42 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: EFFECTIVE JANUARY 2, 2024: UPDATE TO COURT PROCEDURES GOVERNING COURT APPEARANCES AND FORM NOTICES OF HEARING
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The judges of the Middle District of Florida have posted their procedures governing court appearances (including remote access by video and telephone) on their individual webpages, located at www.flmb.uscourts.gov/judges. In addition, the Court has revised its form Notices of Hearing to direct parties to the assigned judge's webpage for procedures governing court appearances. Judge Funk will continue to use CourtCall for telephonic appearances. All other judges will use Zoom for both video and telephonic appearances. NOTE: In accordance with the broadcast policy of the Judicial Conference of the United States, effective September 22, 2023, non-parties (i.e., members of the press or the public) are permitted audio access only to civil and bankruptcy proceedings in non-trial proceedings. Members of the press and the public may attend all hearings in person. https://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/proguide/index.asp
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12/04/2023 02:06:07 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CHAPTER 13 PRACTITIONERS: THE COURT HAS ENTERED ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER FLMB- 2023-3 PRESCRIBING PROCEDURES FOR CHAPTER 13 CASES FILED ON OR AFTER DECEMBER 4, 2023 AND ADOPTS REVISED MODEL CHAPTER 13 PLAN AND ORDER CONFIRMING PLAN, EFFECTIVE DECEMBER 4, 2023
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The Court has entered Administrative Order FLMB-2023-3, effective in Chapter 13 cases filed on or after December 4, 2023, The Court has also revised the Model Chapter 13 Plan and Order Confirming Plan, effective December 4, 2023. The revisions conform the Administrative Order, the Model Plan, and the Order Confirming Plan to the Middle District's current Chapter 13 procedures; facilitate more uniform Chapter 13 procedures; and make the procedures more understandable for practitioners, debtors, and creditors.
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12/01/2023 11:23:45 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: EFFECTIVE DECEMBER 1, 2023 - REVISIONS TO BANKRUPTCY COURT MISCELLANEOUS FEE SCHEDULE, AMENDED OFFICIAL BANKRUPTCY FORMS, FEDERAL RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE, FEDERAL RULES OF APPELLATE PROCEDURE, AND FEDERAL RULES OF EVIDENCE
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Congress has taken no action on the proposed amendments to the Federal Rules of Appellate, Bankruptcy, and Civil Procedure, and the Federal Rules of Evidence, adopted by the Supreme Court and transmitted to Congress on April 24, 2023. Under the Rules Enabling Act, 28 U.S.C. §§ 2071-75, rules take effect today, December 1, 2023.
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11/22/2023 11:39:32 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: FILING FEE INCREASES EFFECTIVE DECEMBER 1, 2023
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The Judicial Conference of the United States has approved inflationary adjustments, effective December 1, 2023, to the fees on the Bankruptcy Court Miscellaneous Fee Schedule (28 U.S.C. § 1930). https://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/announcements/documents/upload/683271019_File_1.pdf
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11/06/2023 01:51:10 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CHAPTER 13 PRACTITIONERS: COURT POSTS PROPOSED REVISIONS TO ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER GOVERNING PROCEDURES IN CHAPTER 13 CASES, MODEL PLAN, AND ORDER CONFIRMING PLAN FOR PUBLIC COMMENT COMMENTS DUE BY NOVEMBER 20, 2023
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The Middle District of Florida is in the process of revising the Administrative Order Governing Procedures in Chapter 13 Cases, the Model Plan, and the Order Confirming Plan. Comments are due by November 20, 2023. Attorneys and parties who appear before the Court are encouraged to review the proposed revisions. The Court appreciates all comments and will consider them prior to the December 1, 2023 effective date of the revisions.
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09/28/2023 08:21:23 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: COURT TERMINATES COVID-RELATED TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF ATTORNEYS' OBLIGATION TO OBTAIN ORIGINAL CLIENT SIGNATURES PRIOR TO FILING SIGNED PAPERS
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The Court has entered Administrative Order FLMB-2023-2, which vacates Administrative Order FLMB-2020-4 and reinstates attorneys' obligation to obtain their clients' original signatures prior to filing petitions and other papers via CM/ECF. Effective October 1, 2023, compliance with Local Rule 1001-2(g)(2) and (h) is required. See The Source -> Administrative Orders.
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09/06/2023 03:20:38 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: JUDGE MCEWEN'S MENTORING PROGRAM FOR YOUNG LAWYERS (Posted: Wednesday, September 6, 2023)
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The next session of Judge McEwen's mentoring program for lawyers new to the practice of bankruptcy law is scheduled virtually for Wednesday, September 27, 2023, from Noon to 1:15 p.m. by Zoom. Login Information will be provided to the first 100 who RSVP. Judge McEwen's special guests for this program are: Guy Van Baalen, Assistant U.S. Trustee, Tampa Division; and Nathan Wheatley, Trial Attorney, U.S. Trustee's Office. Program Title: COMING TO A COMPUTER NEAR YOU! MEETING OF CREDITORS VIA ZOOM IN CHAPTER 7, 12, AND 13 CASES
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09/03/2023 10:48:53 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: DUE TO HURRICANE IDALIA, THE JACKSONVILLE DIVISION OF THE U.S. BANKRUPTCY COURT FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA WILL CLOSE ON WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 30, 2023 (Posted: Tuesday, August 29, 2023)
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Due to Hurricane Idalia, the Jacksonville Division of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida, including the intake window, will close on Wednesday, August 30, 2023. All hearings scheduled for August 30, 2023, are cancelled and will be rescheduled. For information on creditors' meetings in Jacksonville cases, please contact the trustee assigned to the case.
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08/28/2023 06:36:52 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: DUE TO TROPICAL STORM/HURRICANE IDALIA, THE TAMPA DIVISION OF THE U.S. BANKRUPTCY COURT FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA WILL CLOSE ON TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 29 AND 30, 2023
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Due to Tropical Storm/Hurricane Idalia, the Tampa Division of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida, including the intake window, will close on Tuesday and Wednesday, August 29 and 30, 2023. For information on creditors' meetings in Tampa and Fort Myers cases, please contact the trustee assigned to the case.
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08/21/2023 01:39:24 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: UST REGION 21 IMPLEMENTATION OF ZOOM 341 MEETINGS IN CHAPTER 7, 12, AND 13 CASES
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The U.S. Trustee Program will implement virtual meetings of creditors (via Zoom) in chapter 7, 12, and 13 cases in the Middle District of Florida for § 341 meetings in cases filed on or after September 1, 2023. For more information, including joining a meeting and what documents to provide to the trustee prior to the meeting. https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFEDCOURTS/bulletins/36b2018
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08/11/2023 11:44:53 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: AMENDED ORDER ESTABLISHING PRESUMPTIVELY REASONABLE DEBTOR'S ATTORNEY'S FEES IN TAMPA AND FORT MYERS CHAPTER 13 CASES
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The judges of the Tampa and Fort Myers Divisions have today entered an Amended Order Establishing Presumptively Reasonable Debtor's Attorney's Fees in Chapter 13 Cases. http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/announcements/documents/upload/826605765_File_1.pdf
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08/01/2023 11:54:20 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: REVISIONS TO LOCAL RULES EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1, 2023; NEW FORM CERTIFICATE OF AUTHORIZATION TO FILE BANKRUPTCY PETITION (NON-INDIVIDUAL CASES); REVISION TO NEGATIVE NOTICE LIST (MOTIONS FOR RELIEF FROM CODEBTOR STAY)
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Revisions to the Middle District of Florida's Local Rules are effective today, August 1, 2023. Local Rule 1074-1(b) requires non-individual debtors to file a certificate of authorization to file the bankruptcy petition. Debtor's counsel should docket the certificate using a new CM/ECF docket event: "Certificate of Authorization to File Bankruptcy Petition." Local Rule 4001-1(c(2)(C) clarifies procedures for filing motions for relief from the codebtor stay in Chapter 12 and 13 cases. The Court's Negative Notice List has been updated to add the following motions in Chapter 12 and Chapter 13 cases: Motion for Relief from Codebtor Stay as to Codebtor Only Combined Motion for Relief from Stay as to the Debtor and Codebtor
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07/24/2023 05:46:02 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: INACCESSIBILITY OF CM/ECF AND RELATED APPLICATIONS DUE TO RECENT UPGRADE
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The Court's CM/ECF application underwent a required upgrade and was offline from July 21-23, 2023. Due to the upgrade, certain areas of CM/ECF (case filing, adversary proceeding filing, claims register reports, etc.) and its related applications (ePoc, eBallots, eFin) remain inaccessible to ECF users. Our IT staff is diligently working to address all issues. In the meantime, if you encounter a filing issue with a deadline-related matter (case/adversary proceeding, claims, ballots, etc.), please refer to Local Rule 1001-2(m) and Local Rule 5001-2 for the alternatives to e-filing. We appreciate your understanding.
Date Sent
07/03/2023 07:50:58 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF PLANNED OUTAGE: MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR JULY 21-23, 2023
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Due to scheduled maintenance, the CM/ECF application will be offline and unavailable from 5:00 p.m. on Friday, July 21, 2023, to 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, July 23, 2023.
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07/03/2023 07:49:36 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF PLANNED OUTAGE: MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR JULY 21-23, 2023
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Due to scheduled maintenance, the CM/ECF application will be offline and unavailable from 5:00 p.m. on Friday, July 21, 2023, to 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, July 23, 2023.
Date Sent
06/30/2023 02:02:57 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: AMENDMENTS TO LOCAL RULES EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1, 2023
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The Bankruptcy Judges of the Middle District of Florida have approved amendments to the Local Rules, effective August 1, 2023.
Memomrandum
Local Rules
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04/26/2023 12:26:09 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: AMENDMENTS TO LOCAL RULES AND COMMENT FORM
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The judges of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida are considering proposed amendments to the Local Rules. The proposals are posted below for public comment commencing on April 24, 2023. The public comment period ends on June 2, 2023. When promulgated by the judges, the amended and new Local Rules will become effective on July 1, 2023. Attorneys and parties who appear before the Court are encouraged to review the proposed amendments. The Court appreciates all comments and will consider them prior to the promulgation of the new and amended Local Rules.
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04/26/2023 12:25:30 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: JUDGE COLTON'S REVISED CHAPTER 13 HEARING PROCEDURES
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Effective April 19, 2023, Judge Colton will follow new Chapter 13 hearing procedures. These procedures only affect cases scheduled in front of Judge Colton and do not apply to any other Tampa division judge. A memorandum outlining these new procedures has been posted on Judge Colton's web page located under the Judges/Chambers tab.
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04/21/2023 03:40:59 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: IN MEMORIAM - U.S. BANKRUPTCY JUDGE CYNTHIA C. JACKSON
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The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida is saddened to announce that the Honorable Cynthia C. Jackson (ret.) passed away on April 21, 2023. Judge Jackson was appointed as a bankruptcy judge by the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals on March 5, 2013. She presided in the Orlando Division until February 2020, when she transferred to the Jacksonville Division. Due to health reasons, Judge Jackson retired in August 2021.
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03/02/2023 12:27:09 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: THE COURT'S LATEST COURT CONNECTION NEWSLETTER IS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE
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Go here: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFEDCOURTS/bulletins/263e962 to view the January 2023 edition.
Date Sent
01/05/2023 09:46:09 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: REVISION TO ACCOMPANYING ORDERS AND NEGATIVE NOTICE LISTS
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Effective January 5, 2023, Applications to Employ/Retain a Professional in Chapter 11 cases are no longer included on the Court's Accompanying Orders List and have been added to the Court's Negative Notice List. Applications in Chapter 11 cases require 14 days' negative notice. Attorneys may upload an order approving the application upon the later of (a) the expiration of the negative notice period, and (b) 21 days after the date of the petition. A new sample application has been added to the Court's Procedure Manual located in The Source (http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/thesource/ ).
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11/09/2022 02:13:35 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: IN ADDITION TO THE ORLANDO AND TAMPA DIVISION CLOSURES, DUE TO TROPICAL STORM/HURRICANE NICOLE, THE JACKSONVILLE DIVISION AND ITS INTAKE COUNTER WILL BE CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC
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The Jacksonville division of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will be closed on Thursday, November 10, 2022, due to Tropical Storm/Hurricane Nicole.
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11/09/2022 02:06:40 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: DUE TO TROPICAL STORM/HURRICANE NICOLE, THE TAMPA AND ORLANDO DIVISIONS OF THE U.S. BANKRUPTCY COURT FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA AS WELL AS BOTH DIVISION'S INTAKE COUNTERS WILL BE CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC
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The Tampa and Orlando divisions of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will be closed on Thursday, November 10, 2022, due to Tropical Storm/Hurricane Nicole.
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11/08/2022 01:18:32 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: DUE TO TROPICAL STORM NICOLE, THE ORLANDO COURTHOUSE AND THE BANKRUPTCY COURT'S ORLANDO INTAKE WINDOW WILL BE CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC
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The Orlando division of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will be closed on Wednesday, November 9, 2022, due to Tropical Storm Nicole. The path of the storm is being closely monitored and information will be forthcoming if additional Orlando closures are needed and if the path of the storm will impact any other division of our Court.
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11/07/2022 01:30:24 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: MEMORIAL TRIBUTE TO THE HONORABLE MICHAEL G. WILLIAMSON, UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY JUDGE
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The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida is deeply saddened to announce that the Hon. Michael G. Williamson passed away on November 3, 2022. For more than two decades, Judge Williamsona brilliant writer and thinker with a keen sense of humorserved the Middle District of Florida with honor and distinction, including as its Chief Judge from 2015 to 2019. Judge Williamson will be greatly missed by his friends and colleagues in the Middle District of Florida. A 1976 graduate of Georgetown University Law Center, Judge Williamson practiced law in Orlando for two decades. As an attorney with a state-wide Chapter 11 practice, he was known for his professionalism and civility. In 2000, the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals appointed Judge Williamson to the bankruptcy bench in Tampa. As a judge, Judge Williamson fulfilled his vocation as a writer, speaker, and educator. During his twenty-two years on the bench, Judge Williamson authored more than 220 reported decisions, spoke at more than 280 seminars, and authored a Practical Evidence Manual, a go-to resource for Middle District bankruptcy practitioners. Judge Williamson also served as a co-author of Wests Bankruptcy Law Manual since 2013 and as an Adjunct Professor at Stetson University College of Law since 2014. Judge Williamsons influence on the practice of bankruptcy law in the State of Florida, and nationally, cannot be overstated. All the while, Judge Williamson maintained his commitment to the attorneys who practice in the Middle District of Florida. For over two decades, Judge Williamson was a Master in the J. Clifford Cheatwood American Inn of Court, serving as the Inns President in 2004. From 2016 to 2019, Judge Williamson served as a Judicial Board Member of the Tampa Chapter of the Federal Bar Association. And he continued to serve on the Executive Council of the Business Law Section of The Florida Bar. Judge Williamson is a Fellow in the American College of Bankruptcy. He was the first recipient of The Florida Bar Business Law Sections Distinguished Lifetime Service Award, and in October 2022, Judge Williamson received the Judge William L. Norton, Jr. Judicial Excellence Award, a national award presented annually by the American Bankruptcy Institute in recognition of a bankruptcy judges dedication to the insolvency community. Judge Williamson was also instrumental in developing the Rule of Law abroad. He has assessed commercial laws in Azerbaijan, Macedonia, Rwanda, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. And he has taught principles of insolvency law to lawyers and judges in Bosnia-Herzegovina, the Republic of Georgia, Bahrain, and Ukraine. But Judge Williamson is perhaps best known for his work in Afghanistan, where, over the course of a decade, he drafted a new bankruptcy law from scratch and oversaw its enactment into law. Judge Williamsons passing is a great loss to his wife, Linda, their family and friends, and to his colleagues and the attorneys who appeared before him. In his honor, the United States flags at the Middle Districts courthouses will be flown at half-staff this week.
Date Sent
10/27/2022 09:35:38 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: **UPDATED** CM/ECF PLANNED OUTAGE: MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR NOVEMBER 12, 2022
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Due to scheduled maintenance, the CM/ECF application will be offline and unavailable from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 12, 2022.
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10/21/2022 08:42:29 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF PLANNED OUTAGE: MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR NOVEMBER 5, 2022
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Due to scheduled maintenance, the CM/ECF application will be offline and unavailable from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 5, 2022.
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09/26/2022 03:02:29 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: DUE TO HURRICANE IAN, TAMPA COURTHOUSE AND THE BANKRUPTCY COURT'S TAMPA INTAKE WINDOW WILL BE CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC
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The Tampa division of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will be closed on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday due to Hurricane Ian. The path of the storm is being closely monitored and information will be forthcoming if the path of the storm will impact the other two divisions of our Court.
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08/15/2022 01:17:52 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: UPDATES TO THE COURTS ACCOMPANYING ORDERS LIST AND NEGATIVE NOTICE LIST
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1.The Court maintains an Accompanying Orders List of the types of motions or applications that do not require a hearing (a) for which the moving party may submit an order when the motion or application is filed, and (b) for which the Court will enter a form order. Effective August 15, 2022, the Court has approved the following revisions to Accompanying Orders List: Application for Compensation or Reimbursement of Expenses by any entity if the request does not exceed $1,000 [any chapter] Motion for Order Confirming Absence of the Automatic Stay under 11 U.S.C. § 362(c)(4) [if debtor had two or more pending cases in the prior year and a party in interest does not move to impose the automatic stay within 30 days after the filing of the current case] 2. The Court also maintains a Negative Notice List of the types of motions and applications that may be served using the negative notice procedure permitted by Local Rule 2002-4. Effective August 15, 2022, the Court has approved the following revision to the Negative Notice List: Chapter 12/13 Motion for Order Confirming the Automatic Stay is Terminated under 11 U.S.C. § 362(c)(3) Attorneys and their staff should frequently review the Accompanying Orders List and the Negative Notice List to ensure they are following the correct procedure. http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/proguide/documents/Procedure/Accompanying_Orders_List.pdf?id=1 http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/negativenotice/list.pdf?rnd=1
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08/03/2022 01:48:55 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: LOCAL RULES LAWYERS' ADVISORY COMMITTEE SOLICITS PROPOSALS FOR NEW OR REVISED LOCAL RULES
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The Local Rules Lawyers' Advisory Committee invites interested parties, including members of the Bar and Court employees, to submit their suggestions, comments, and proposals for proposed new Local Rules or revisions to our current Local Rules. Suggestions should be submitted no later than September 15, 2022. Copy/Paste the following in your browser: http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/localrules/comments-with-form.asp
Date Sent
05/31/2022 04:13:15 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: MENDMENTS TO LOCAL RULES EFFECTIVE - JULY 1, 2022
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The Bankruptcy Judges of the Middle District of Florida have approved new and amended Local Rules, effective July 1, 2022.
Please
Click HERE
to view a memorandum from Judge Lori V. Vaughan summarizing the changes.
Click HERE
to access the new and amended Local Rules.
Date Sent
05/04/2022 02:15:42 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Middle District of Florida Judges Return to In-Person Hearings
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With the worst of the pandemic appearing to be over, many of the Middle Districts bankruptcy judges are returning to pre-pandemic procedures for in-person hearings. Jacksonville and Orlando judges have posted Procedures Governing Court Appearances on their webpages located at www.flmb.uscourts.gov/judges. Court-generated Notices of Hearing will provide information regarding the presiding judges procedures regarding in-person, Zoom, and telephonic appearances. Effective immediately, Attorney-prepared Notices of Hearing must include the same information. A sample form Notice of Hearing by Attorney is available on the Courts website at www.flmb.uscourt.gov.
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05/02/2022 03:01:35 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Updates to the Court's Negative Notice List, Accompanying Orders List, and Procedure Manual
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The Court had posted its revised Negative Notice List and Accompanying Orders List, effective May 2, 2022. Updates to NN List: (a) Motions for Relief from Stay that include a request for prospective relief are no longer authorized to be filed on negative notice; and (b) only the Trustee may submit an order modifying a Chapter 12 or a Chapter 13 plan. Updates to the Accompanying Orders List include: (a) Application for Compensation that does not exceed $1,000 (for requests exceeding $1,000, the negative notice provisions of Local Rule 2002-4 and as set forth in the Court's Negative Notice List apply); and (b) Motion for Order Confirming Termination of Automatic Stay in Chapter 13 under Paragraph 9 of the Court's Administrative Order Governing Procedures for Chapter 13 Cases and Local Rule 4001-1(c)(2)(B). To view visit the External Procedure Manual, here: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/proguide/index.asp Negative Notice List. Accompanying Orders List. Telephonic Appearances Motion for Relief from Stay- Chapter 7 Motion for Relief from Co-debtor Stay
Date Sent
03/29/2022 03:37:08 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: AMENDMENTS TO LOCAL RULES AND COMMENT FORM
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The judges of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida are considering proposed amendments to the Local Rules. The proposals are posted below for public comment commencing on March 29, 2022. The public comment period ends on April 29, 2022. When promulgated by the judges, the amended and new Local Rules will become effective on July 1, 2022. Attorneys and parties who appear before the Court are encouraged to review the proposed amendments. The Court appreciates all comments and will consider them prior to the promulgation of the new and amended Local Rules. Copy/Paste the following in your browser: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/localrules/
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03/28/2022 03:42:13 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: JUDGE JASON A. BURGESS AND JUDGE TIFFANY GEYER SWORN IN AS MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA BANKRUPTCY JUDGES
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ORLANDO, FL - The Honorable Jason A. Burgess and the Honorable Tiffany Geyer were recently sworn in as the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida's newest bankruptcy judges Copy/Paste the following in your browser: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/announcements/documents/upload/139944502_File_1.pdf
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12/09/2021 12:02:22 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: JUDGE MCEWEN'S MENTORING PROGRAM FOR NEW BANKRUPTCY LAWYERS
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The next session of Judge McEwen's mentoring program for lawyers new to the practice of bankruptcy law is scheduled virtually for Wednesday, December 29, 2021, from Noon to 1:15 pm by Zoom. Login Information will be provided to the first 100 who RSVP. Judge McEwen's special guests for this program is: Christopher Emden, Attorney for the Department of Justice and the Program Moderator is: Charles Stohlman, Esquire. Program Title: TALKING TAX PART I: FROM THE IRS'S PERSPECTIVE Copy/Paste this link in your browser: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/announcements/documents/upload/259317059_File_1.pdf
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11/22/2021 12:18:25 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Next Generation of CM/ECF (NextGen) is Live!
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The Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida has completed the upgrade to NextGen CM/ECF and CM/ECF is now available for use. REQUIRED ACTION: Before you can access CM/ECF NextGen, you must link your CM/ECF account to your upgraded PACER account. You need to know your current CM/ECF login(s) and password(s) in order to link your account(s) for this one-time process Copy/Paste in your browser: "http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/nextgen/Linking_FilingAccount_to_PACER_BKDC.pdf" for instructions for linking your upgraded PACER account to your CM/ECF account. If you have a problem with linking your account or any other questions regarding your PACER account, please contact the PACER Service Center at: https://pacer.uscourts.gov/contact-us or 800-676-6856. Please direct other questions or issues to the Court's helpdesk at ecfhelp@flmb.uscourts.gov. Note: If you use case upload or case management software, you will need to update your CM/ECF login credentials with your PACER credentials in the software program.
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11/16/2021 08:20:48 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM CHIEF JUDGE DELANO
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Dear CM/ECF E-filers: As previously announced, starting at noon on Friday, November 19, 2021 the Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will begin the conversion of CM/ECF to NextGen. In order for CM/ECF E-filers to transition to NextGen and be able to electronically file papers with the Court on the November 22 GO LIVE date, they must upgrade their PACER accounts NOW so that on the November 22 GO LIVE date, they can link their upgraded PACER accounts to their current CM/ECF accounts. The PACER Service Center has advised us that the majority of the Courts CM/ECF Users have not yet upgraded their PACER accounts. In order to link an upgraded PACER account to a CM/ECF Filing account on the GO LIVE date, E-filers must know their login/usernames and passwords. Please see the attached NextGen Preparation E-filer Information form for use in recording your logins/usernames and passwords. Copy/Paste this link on your browser:
We anticipate a heavy volume of calls and requests to our Help Desk starting on the November 22 GO LIVE Date, and we cannot ensure that we will be able to assist you in accessing CM/ECF. If you have not already taken these two steps, please, immediately, (1) Upgrade your PACER Account; and (2) Complete a Preparation Form. If you have any questions, please contact our Help Desk at ecfhelp@flmb.uscourts.gov.
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11/15/2021 02:09:39 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: JUDGES GRACE E. ROBSON AND JACOB. A BROWN SWORN IN AS MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA BANKRUPTCY JUDGES
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JACKSONVILLE, FL - On November 3, 2021, the Honorable Grace E. Robson and the Honorable Jacob A. Brown were sworn in as the newest bankruptcy judges of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida
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11/12/2021 10:17:19 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: NEXTGEN UPGRADE, CM/ECF DOWNTIME ALERT, AND FILING INSTRUCTIONS
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** NEXTGEN UPGRADE, CM/ECF DOWNTIME ALERT, AND FILING INSTRUCTIONS ** Due to the upgrade to NextGen CM/ECF, the CM/ECF application will be off-line and unavailable from Noon on Friday, November 19, 2021, through 8:00 a.m. on Monday, November 22, 2021. Parties needing to file papers during this time may (a) utilize the filing procedures set forth in Administrative Order FLMB-2021-2 by emailing documents to the Court at the email address of the appropriate Division or (b) use the Court's After Hours Filing Procedure provided for in Local Rule 5001-1. Papers filed by email must be submitted in Portable Document Format (PDF). Jacksonville Division: flmb-intake-jacksonville@flmb.uscourts.gov Orlando Division: flmb-intake-orlando@flmb.uscourts.gov Tampa and Fort Myers Divisions: flmb-intake-tampa-ft-myers@flmb.uscourts.gov
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10/14/2021 12:33:31 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Preparing for CM/ECF Conversion to NextGen on November 22, 2021
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The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will upgrade its current CM/ECF system to NextGen CM/ECF on Monday, November 22, 2021. NextGen is the culmination of a multi-year project headed by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts to provide for current and future filing and case management needs of all CM/ECF users. The NextGen system will provide users the ability to maintain a Central Sign-On and password for electronic filing and PACER access in all federal courts (bankruptcy, district and appellate). This Central Sign-On feature allows access to all NextGen Courts and will permit filings in those courts in which the filer has filing privileges. For more information, copy/paste the following address below to your browser: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/nextgen/default.htm
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09/13/2021 03:40:44 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: REMINDER
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This is a reminder that the deadline to submit suggestions, comments, and proposals for new Local Rules or revisions to the current Local Rules is Wednesday, September 15, 2021. Interested parties, including members of the Bar and Court employees, may go HERE: http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/localRules/comments-with-form.asp to submit their recommendations to the Local Rules Lawyers' Advisory Committee.
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09/10/2021 08:46:58 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: JUDGE WILLIAMSON'S NEW PROCEDURES FOR COURT APPEARANCES - EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 13, 2021
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Judge Williamson has issued new Procedures for Court Appearances to be effective September 13, 2021. Copy/Paste link below to your browser: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/judges/tampa/williamson/ProceduresforCourtAppearancesbeforeJudgeWilliamson-COVID.pdf?id=3
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08/03/2021 02:53:26 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Local Rules Lawyers' Advisory Committee Solicits Proposals for New or Revised Local Rules (Posted: Tuesday, August 3, 2021)
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The Local Rules Lawyers' Advisory Committee invites interested parties, including members of the Bar and Court employees, to submit their suggestions, comments, and proposals for proposed new Local Rules or revisions to our current Local Rules. Suggestions should be submitted no later than September 15, 2021.
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07/27/2021 01:34:54 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: JUDGE MCEWEN'S MENTORING PROGRAM FOR NEW BANKRUPTCY LAWYERS (Posted: Tuesday, July 27, 2021)
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The next session of Judge McEwen's mentoring program for lawyers new to the practice of bankruptcy law is scheduled virtually for Tuesday, August 17, 2021, from Noon to 1:15 pm by Zoom. Login Information will be provided to the first 100 who RSVP. Judge McEwen's special guests for this program are: Brian Fitzgerald, Esquire (Counsel To Hillsborough County Tax Collector); Patrick Bryant, Esquire (Former Counsel To Manatee County Tax Collector); and Christine Herendeen, Esquire (Chapter 7 Trustee). Program Title: DEALING WITH AD VALOREM TAX CLAIMS IN BANKRUPTCY
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07/19/2021 02:24:46 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: AMENDMENTS TO LOCAL RULES EFFECTIVE - AUGUST 1, 2021 (Posted: Thursday, July 15, 2021)
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The Bankruptcy Judges of the Middle District of Florida have approved new and amended Local Rules, effective August 1, 2021. Follow this link: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/localrules/proposed.htm
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07/19/2021 02:23:16 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: IMPORTANT UPDATES TO THE COURT'S PROCEDURE MANUAL (Posted: Tuesday, June 29, 2021)
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The following procedures and forms have been updated in the Court's Procedure Manual. Attorneys and their staff members should review these updates and revise their own internal procedures and forms if necessary. Negative Notice Legend for Fee Applications. Motions to Determine Post-petition Fees, Expenses, or Charges under Fed. R. Bankr. P. 3002.1(e). Form Order Granting Debtor's Motion to Determine Secured Status of Claim and Void Junior Lien.
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07/19/2021 02:22:19 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: NOTICE REGARDING THE UNITED STATES TRUSTEE PROGRAM'S NEW CHAPTER 11 PERIODIC REPORTS (28 C.F.R. Section 58.8) - EFFECTIVE JUNE 21, 2021 (Posted: Wednesday, June 9, 2021)
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On December 21, 2020, the U.S. Trustee Program (USTP), as authorized by 28 U.S.C. Section 589b, promulgated "Procedures for Completing Uniform Periodic Reports in Non-Small Business Cases Filed Under Chapter 11 of Title 11 (the "Procedures"). Under the Procedures, Chapter 11 debtors in possession and trustees (other than small business debtors and subchapter V debtors) in every judicial district where the USTP operates are required to file monthly operating reports and post-confirmation reports using uniform, data-embedded forms
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04/29/2021 03:55:55 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Amended Administrative Order Regarding Interim Bankruptcy Filing Procedures for Parties Not Represented by an Attorney (Administrative Order No. FLMB-2021-2)
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The Courts staffed divisions (Jacksonville, Orlando, and Tampa) will reopen to the public on May 3, 2021. However, the Clerks Offices will operate with minimal staffing and most of our staff will continue to telework from home. To the extent possible, attorneys should continue to communicate with Clerks Office and judges chambers staff by telephone and email. Pro se parties may continue to file papers with the Court by mail, fax, email, and drop box. Review Amended Administrative Order Regarding Interim Bankruptcy Filing Procedures for Parties Not Represented by an Attorney (Administrative Order No. FLMB 2021-2).
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04/14/2021 02:31:11 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: AMENDMENTS TO LOCAL RULES AND COMMENT FORM
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This is a reminder that the public comment period for proposed amendments to the Local Rules ends on April 30, 2021. When promulgated by the judges, the amended and new Local Rules will become effective on July 1, 2021. Attorneys and parties who appear before the Court are encouraged to review the proposed amendments. The Court appreciates all comments and will consider them prior to the promulgation of the new and amended Local Rules.
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03/15/2021 08:33:10 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: AMENDMENTS TO LOCAL RULES AND COMMENT FORM
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The judges of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida are considering proposed amendments to the Local Rules. The proposals are posted below for public comment commencing on March 15, 2021. The public comment period ends on April 30, 2021. When promulgated by the judges, the amended and new Local Rules will become effective on July 1, 2021. Attorneys and parties who appear before the Court are encouraged to review the proposed amendments. The Court appreciates all comments and will consider them prior to the promulgation of the new and amended Local Rules.
Date Sent
03/05/2021 09:47:18 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF PLANNED OUTAGE: MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR MARCH 20-21, 2021(Posted: Friday, March 5, 2021)
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Due to scheduled maintenance, the CM/ECF application will be offline and unavailable from 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 20, 2021, to 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 21, 2021.
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03/05/2021 09:46:45 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER 2021-1 PRESCRIBING PROCEDURES FOR THE FILING, SERVICE, AND MANAGEMENT OF HIGHLY SENSITIVE DOCUMENTS (Posted: Monday, March 1, 2021)
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In response to the recent disclosures of widespread breaches of private sector and government computer systems, the Administrative Office of the United States Courts has directed federal courts to establish additional security procedures for the protection of certain highly sensitive documents. The AO's examples of highly sensitive documents include documents relating to applications for electronic surveillance under 18 U.S.C. Section § 2518, initial applications for search warrants, and intellectual property or trade secrets. Generally, the types of documents filed in bankruptcy cases, such as bank records, Social Security records, health records, settlement agreements, and valuation reports, do not meet the description of a highly sensitive document. When appropriate, those types of documents may be filed under seal under Local Rule 5005-4.
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02/19/2021 10:06:37 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: JUDGE COLTON'S REVISED CHAPTER 13 HEARING PROCEDURES (Posted: Friday, February 19, 2021)
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Effective March 1, 2021, Judge Colton will follow new Chapter 13 hearing procedures. These procedures only affect cases scheduled in front of Judge Colton and do not apply to any other Tampa division judge. A memorandum outlining these new procedures has been posted on Judge Colton's web page located under the Judges/Chambers tab.
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02/19/2021 10:05:41 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: JUDGE MCEWEN'S MENTORING PROGRAM FOR NEW BANKRUPTCY LAWYERS (Posted: Thursday, February 18, 2021)
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The next session of Judge McEwen's mentoring program for lawyers new to the practice of bankruptcy law is scheduled virtually for Thursday, March 18, 2021, from Noon to 1:15 pm by Zoom. Login Information will be provided to the first 100 who RSVP. Judge McEwen's special guests for this program are: The Honorable Michael G. Williamson, United States Bankruptcy Judge and Nathan Wheatley, Trial Attorney, Office of the United States Trustee. Program Title: HOW TO AVOID THE "MADNESS" (I) OF EMPLOYMENT/PAYMENT DISPUTES IN CONSUMER AND BUSINESS CASES AND (II) IN "STRATEGIC" CHAPTER 11 CASES
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02/09/2021 10:42:04 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF PLANNED OUTAGE: MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR FEBRUARY 20-21, 2021 (Posted: Monday, February 8, 2021)
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Due to scheduled maintenance, the CM/ECF application will be offline and unavailable from 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 20, 2021, to 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 21, 2021.
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02/09/2021 10:32:56 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Effective January 1, 2021 - Fort Myers Division Location Code Change - December 28, 2020
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In order to align the Middle District of Florida Bankruptcy Courts case numbering system with that used by the District Court, effective January 1, 2021, the location code for cases filed in the Fort Myers Division will be changed from 9 to 2 (e.g., Case No. 2:21-bk-xxxx and Adv. Pro. No. 2:21-ap-xxxx). This change will also apply to all pending Fort Myers cases. Beginning January 1, 2021, attorneys and parties should use the 2 location code in all filings in Fort Myers Division cases. However, the Clerks Office will not reject filings using the old location code. Please do not hesitate to contact the Help Desk, ecfhelp@flmb.uscourts.gov, should you have any questions.
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02/09/2021 10:32:39 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Effective January 1, 2021 - Fort Myers Division Location Code Change - December 16, 2020
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In order to align the Middle District of Florida Bankruptcy Courts case numbering system with that used by the District Court, effective January 1, 2021, the location code for cases filed in the Fort Myers Division will be changed from 9 to 2 (e.g., Case No. 2:21-bk-xxxx and Adv. Pro. No. 2:21-ap-xxxx). This change will also apply to all pending Fort Myers cases. Beginning January 1, 2021, attorneys and parties should use the 2 location code in all filings in Fort Myers Division cases. However, the Clerks Office will not reject filings using the old location code. Please do not hesitate to contact the Help Desk, ecfhelp@flmb.uscourts.gov, should you have any questions.
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12/02/2020 02:32:39 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: EFFECTIVE DECEMBER 1, 2020 - AMENDMENTS TO THE FEDERAL RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE
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Congress has taken no action on the proposed amendments to the Federal Rules of Appellate, Bankruptcy, and Civil Procedure, and the Federal Rules of Evidence, adopted by the Supreme Court and transmitted to Congress on April 27, 2020. Under the Rules Enabling Act, 28 U.S.C. §§ 2071-75, rules take effect today, December 1, 2020.
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12/02/2020 02:32:03 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: The Judicial Conference of the United States has approved inflationary adjustments to the fees on the Bankruptcy Court Miscellaneous Fee Schedule (28 U.S.C. § 1930), effective December 1, 2020. Click HERE for the updated Fee Schedule. An amendment to Fed. R. Bankr. P. 2002(h), effective December 1, 2020, authorizes bankruptcy courts to limit the mailing of notices required to be sent to creditors in voluntary Chapter 7 cases, Chapter 12 cases, and Chapter 13 cases, after 70 days following the order for relief or the date of the order converting the case to Chapter 12 or 13, to those creditors who have filed proofs of claim. In involuntary Chapter 7 cases, the court may limit the mailing of notices after 90 days following the order for relief to those creditors who have filed proofs of claims. These deadlines are consistent with the times for filing proof of claim under Fed. R. Bankr, P. 3002(c). The Bankruptcy Judges of the Middle District of Florida have approved an amendment to Local Rule 2002-1 Notice to Creditors and Other Interested Parties, effective December 1, 2020, that is consistent with the amendment to Rule 2002(h).
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The Judicial Conference of the United States has approved inflationary adjustments to the fees on the Bankruptcy Court Miscellaneous Fee Schedule (28 U.S.C. § 1930), effective December 1, 2020. Click HERE for the updated Fee Schedule. An amendment to Fed. R. Bankr. P. 2002(h), effective December 1, 2020, authorizes bankruptcy courts to limit the mailing of notices required to be sent to creditors in voluntary Chapter 7 cases, Chapter 12 cases, and Chapter 13 cases, after 70 days following the order for relief or the date of the order converting the case to Chapter 12 or 13, to those creditors who have filed proofs of claim. In involuntary Chapter 7 cases, the court may limit the mailing of notices after 90 days following the order for relief to those creditors who have filed proofs of claims. These deadlines are consistent with the times for filing proof of claim under Fed. R. Bankr, P. 3002(c). The Bankruptcy Judges of the Middle District of Florida have approved an amendment to Local Rule 2002-1 Notice to Creditors and Other Interested Parties, effective December 1, 2020, that is consistent with the amendment to Rule 2002(h).
Date Sent
08/27/2020 04:22:15 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Local Rules Lawyers' Advisory Committee Solicits Proposals for New or Revised Local Rules (Posted: Thursday, August 27, 2020)
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The Local Rules Lawyers' Advisory Committee invites interested parties, including members of the Bar and Court employees, to submit their suggestions, comments, and proposals for proposed new Local Rules or revisions to our current Local Rules. Suggestions should be submitted no later than October 15, 2020. You may click the link below to submit recommendations to the committee. http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/localrules/comments-with-form.asp
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08/21/2020 02:25:55 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF FEE PAYMENT PROCESS PLANNED OUTAGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 22, 2020
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Due to scheduled system maintenance, the fee payment process in CM/ECF will be unavailable from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 20, 2020. Please be aware that although the system maintenance is expected to last four hours it is possible it may be longer. During this time, users may file documents in CM/ECF but will be unable to pay filing fees.
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07/16/2020 02:58:06 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: AMENDMENTS TO LOCAL RULES EFFECTIVE - AUGUST 1, 2020
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The Bankruptcy Judges of the Middle District of Florida have approved new and amended Local Rules, effective August 1, 2020.
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07/15/2020 11:07:25 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: SECTION 341 MEETINGS TO BE CONDUCTED BY TELEPHONE FOR CASES FILED THROUGH OCTOBER 10, 2020
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The U.S. Trustee Program has announced that section 341 meetings will be conducted by telephone in all cases filed through October 10, 2020. However, if the U.S. Trustee or case trustee determines that an in-person examination of the debtor is appropriate, the U.S. Trustee may approve the continuation of the section 341 meeting to an in-person meeting in a manner that complies with local public health guidance
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07/09/2020 02:54:34 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER 2020-7 PRESCRIBING PROCEDURES FOR CHAPTER 13 CASES FILED ON OR AFTER AUGUST 1, 2020, AND REVISED MODEL CHAPTER 13 PLAN, EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1, 2020
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The Court has entered Administrative Order FLMB-2020-7 to clarify and revise several procedures in Chapter 13 cases filed on or after August 1, 2020. The Court has also revised the Model Chapter 13 Plan, effective August 1, 2020.
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07/08/2020 03:48:04 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: DECLARATIONS UNDER PENALTY OF PERJURY MAY BE FILED IN LIEU OF NOTARIZED AFFIDAVITS
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A message from Chief Judge Caryl E. Delano: For many years, the practice in the Middle District of Florida has been for counsel and parties to file notarized affidavits when a matter is required to be supported by a sworn declaration. However, a persons declaration under penalty of perjury, as authorized by 28 U.S.C. § 1746, is equally acceptable. In light of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the State of Florida, the need for social distancing, and to avoid unnecessary involvement by notaries public, the judges of the Middle District of Florida encourage parties and attorneys to file declarations under penalty of perjury instead of notarized affidavits. 28 U.S.C. § 1746 provides that whenever a matter if required or permitted to be supported by a sworn declaration or affidavit, the matter may be supported by a unsworn declaration or verification that is made under penalty of perjury, signed, and dated, in substantially the following form: I declare (or certify, verify, or state) under penalty of perjury [if executed outside the U.S., include under the law of the United States of America] that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed on (date). (Signature)
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06/29/2020 08:30:26 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: NEW PACER WEBSITE
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Check out PACER's newly redesigned, informational and resource website, https://pacer.uscourts.gov. The website provides information about how the public can access federal court records electronically and have easy access to PACER and PACER-related applications. New features include: Mobile friendly design; New tool to search for court-specific information; Interactive format to search frequently asked questions; Search engine has been optimized to improve content findability; JSON and XML feeds of court-specific information; and New accessibility tools. In addition, two PACER applications - Manage My Account and Registration - have new designs to create an improved user experience.
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06/19/2020 08:36:14 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: JUDGE MCEWENS MENTORING PROGRAM FOR NEW BANKRUPTCY LAWYERS
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The next session of Judge McEwen's mentoring program for lawyers new to the practice of bankruptcy law is scheduled virtually for Wednesday, July 1, 2020, from Noon to 1:30 p.m. by Cisco Meeting App [see attached CMA Quick Guide]. The link will be provided on the day of the program to all who RSVP [for instructions see Page 2 of Flyer]. Judge McEwen's special guests for this program are: Guy Van Baalen, United States Trustee; Denise Barnett, United States Trustee Trial Attorney; and Steve Pralle, United States Trustee Bankruptcy Auditor. Program Title - CAUTION: PITFALLS IN CHAPTER 11 CASES (Subchapter V Cases; More on MORS (and QORS); and Best Confirmation Order Practices)
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06/16/2020 03:55:43 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: AMENDMENTS TO LOCAL RULES AND COMMENT FORM
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The judges of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida are considering proposed amendments to the Local Rules. The proposals are posted below for public comment commencing on June 16, 2020. The public comment period ends on June 30, 2020. Attorneys and parties who appear before the Court are encouraged to review the proposed amendments. The Court appreciates all comments and will consider them prior to the promulgation of the amended rules.
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05/18/2020 04:21:03 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CLERKS OFFICE INTAKE WINDOWS REMAIN CLOSED THROUGH JUNE 30, 2020
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Clerks Office Intake Windows in all Divisions will remain closed until at least June 30, 2020, and until further notice. As directed in Administrative Order FLMB-2020-3, parties who are not represented by an attorney may continue to file bankruptcy petitions and other papers by email, fax, and U.S. Mail or other delivery. Go to The Source to find the Administrative Orders documents.
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05/18/2020 04:19:52 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: BANKRUPTCY COURT HEARING PROCEDURES EFFECTIVE MAY 18, 2020
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The bankruptcy judges of the Middle District of Florida continue to monitor reports regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and the CDCs recommendations. Until at least June 30, 2020, and until further notice, judges will conduct all non-evidentiary hearings by telephone or by video. On a case-by-case basis, with the input of counsel for the parties, individual judges will determine whether a scheduled evidentiary hearing or trial will be continued, or whether the Court will conduct the hearing or trial in person or by video. Any party who has a valid basis for requesting the continuance of an evidentiary or non-evidentiary hearing may file a motion to continue. Motions to continue shall include a statement that the movant has conferred with counsel for opposing parties concerning the requested continuance, and the position of the other parties concerning the request.
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05/01/2020 05:10:22 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Additions to the Accompanying Orders List
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Effective May 1, 2020, the Accompanying Orders List includes two additions: Motions for Extension of Time to File Tax Return and Motions for Approval of Forbearance Agreement.
Filers of a Motion for Approval of Forbearance Agreement should use the new CM/ECF docket event "Motion for Approval of Forbearance Agreement."
If the debtor enters into a forbearance agreement during a pending Chapter 11, 12, or 13 case, an amendment or modification to the plan may be required. In confirmed Chapter 12 and 13 cases, debtors and their attorneys should consult with the Standing Chapter 13 Trustee regarding whether the debtor must file a motion to modify the confirmed plan. Copy and Paste in your browser: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/proguide/documents/Procedure/Accompanying_Orders.pdf?id=1
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04/22/2020 11:54:46 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER REGARDING ADOPTION OF INTERIM RULE 1020
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The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act ("CARES Act") signed into law on March 27, 2020, includes temporary amendments to the definitions of "small business debtor" in 11 U.S.C. § 101(51D) and "debtor" in § 1182 (applicable to cases under Subchapter V of Chapter 11), including the increase of the debt limit to $7,500,000. The amendment to § 1182 requires a revision to Interim Rule 1020. The Court has entered Administrative Order FLMB-2020-6 to adopt revised Interim Rule 1020.
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04/21/2020 03:18:01 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: PUBLIC NOTICE REGARDING THE CARES ACT AND AMENDMENTS TO OFFICIAL FORMS (Posted: Thursday, April 9, 2020)
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On March 27, Congress passed and the President signed into law the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act ("CARES Act"). Section 1113 of that legislation made several changes to the Bankruptcy Code, most of them temporary, to provide financial assistance during the coronavirus crisis. The enactment of the CARES Act requires one-year amendments to five official forms to account for a new definition of "debtor" applicable to subchapter V of chapter 11 and a new exclusion from the definitions of "current monthly income" and "disposable income" Because the Act took effect immediately upon enactment and its bankruptcy provisions are of limited duration, the Advisory Committee on Bankruptcy Rules has exercised the authority delegated to it by the Judicial Conference to make conforming technical changes to five bankruptcy forms (Official Forms 101, 122A-1, 122B, 122C-1, and 201). The amended forms are available for immediate use and the link has been added to the Forms section of The Source.
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04/21/2020 03:16:05 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER REGARDING MODIFICATION OF THE AUTOMATIC STAY IN CONNECTION WITH FORBEARANCE AGREEMENTS
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The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in financial hardship for many debtors in pending bankruptcy cases. In order to facilitate communications between debtors and creditors regarding possible forbearance agreements, the Court has entered Administrative Order FLMB-2020-5. The Administrative Order modifies the automatic stay to permit creditors to communicate with pro se debtors if the debtor has initiated a request for a forbearance agreement and to communicate with debtors counsel if the debtor is represented by an attorney.
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04/03/2020 12:17:04 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: OFFICE OF THE U.S. TRUSTEE ANNOUNCES TELEPHONIC SECTION 341 MEETINGS IN ALL BANKRUPTCY CASES AND TELEPHONIC CHAPTER 11 INITIAL DEBTOR INTERVIEWS
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In light of the recommendations of the CDC regarding the spread of the COVID-19 virus, effectively immediately and until further notice, the United States Trustee for Region 21 has directed that all Meetings of Creditors under 11 U.S.C. § 341 in all bankruptcy cases, and all Initial Debtor Interviews in Chapter 11 and Subchapter V cases, be conducted by telephone conference. For cases in which the initial § 341 meeting was postponed (generally, cases in which the initial § 341 meeting was scheduled between March 17, 2020 and April 10, 2020) and until further notice in all newly filed cases, the Court will issue Notices of Case Filing that include information regarding the telephonic § 341 Meeting. The Notices of Case Filing will include the "dial in" telephone number for the appointed trustee or the U.S. Trustee's Office, a participant passcode, and the time of the telephonic meeting. This information will also be provided in notices of the Initial Debtor Interview in Chapter 11 and Subchapter V cases. The U.S. Trustee's Office requests that all attorneys and their clients cooperate in making this process work as smoothly as possible under these difficult and unprecedented circumstances.
Date Sent
03/31/2020 12:00:59 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: UPDATED DISTRICT-WIDE TELEPHONIC APPEARANCES PROCEDURE
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Effective March 31, 2020, the Middle District of Florida has updated its Telephonic Appearances Procedure, applicable in all Divisions. Parties appearing before the Court are urged to review the updated procedure. The following are important highlights: If possible, parties appearing telephonically should use a landline rather than a cell phone. Parties shall not use cell phones while in public spaces or while driving or riding in an automobile. If a cell phone is used, parties shall ensure that they have a strong cellular phone system or use the Wi-Fi calling option on their phones. Counsel shall not connect their clients to the telephonic hearing by "conference call." If the client wishes to listen in, the client must separately call into the hearing. When not addressing the Court, parties shall place their calls on "mute". When addressing the Court, parties shall not use the speakerphone or the "hands-free" feature of their phones. If the Court cannot understand an attorney attending a hearing by telephone, the Court may, in its discretion, continue the hearing, request the attorney to file a written argument, or rule on the matter before it without consideration of the attorney's statements.
Date Sent
03/25/2020 03:31:28 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Message from the Jacksonville Division of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court: NEW REQUIREMENTS FOR TELEPHONIC APPEARANCES BEFORE JUDGES FUNK AND JACKSON
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Due to the sound quality in the Jacksonville courtrooms, paragraph 2(a) of the Telephonic Appearances procedure has been updated to add this text: NOTE: FOR JUDGES FUNK AND JACKSON, TO ENSURE THE QUALITY OF THE RECORD, THE USE OF SPEAKERPHONES, BLUETOOTH DEVICES, AND CELL PHONES ARE PROHIBITED.
Date Sent
03/23/2020 04:27:40 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Temporary Suspension of Attorneys' Obligation to Obtain Original Client Signatures Prior to Filing Signed Papers
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The Bankruptcy Court has entered Administrative Order FLMB-2020-4. Effective March 23, 2020, attorneys may, under certain circumstances, file papers, including bankruptcy petitions and schedules, that are signed by their clients without first having obtained possession of the clients original signature.
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03/23/2020 11:04:38 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CLERKS OFFICE INTAKE WINDOWS CLOSED EFFECTIVE MARCH 23, 2020; FILING PROCEDURES FOR PRO SE PARTIES
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Due to the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on our local communities, effective March 23, 2020, the Bankruptcy Court has closed the Intake Windows in all Divisions. The Court has entered Administrative Order FLMB-2020-3 to authorize pro se filers to file bankruptcy petitions and other papers by email, fax, and U.S. Mail or other delivery
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03/23/2020 10:31:37 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY - ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE REQUIREMENT FOR ALL NOTICES OF HEARING
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Effective immediately, all attorney prepared notices of hearing must include telephonic access information and the following language: Telephonic Appearance Requirement. Effective March 16, 2020, and continuing until further notice, Judges in all Divisions will conduct all preliminary and non-evidentiary hearings by telephone. For Judges Colton and Williamson, parties should arrange a telephonic appearance through Court Solutions (www.court-solutions.com). For Judges Delano, Funk, Jackson, Jennemann, McEwen, and Vaughan, parties should arrange a telephonic appearance through Court Call (866-582-6878). Sample notices of hearing are located in the Attorney Notices of Hearing procedure located in the Procedure Manual and Forms section of The Source.
Date Sent
03/18/2020 12:33:46 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: EXTENSIONS OF CERTAIN DEADLINES
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In light of the Office of the United States Trustees having postponed all Sec. 341 meetings of creditors scheduled through April 10, 2020, the Court has entered Administrative Order FLMB-2020-2 to extend certain deadlines that relate to the date first set for the Sec. 341 meeting.
Date Sent
03/16/2020 04:51:28 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: OFFICE OF THE U.S. TRUSTEE ANNOUNCES CONTINUANCE OF ALL SECTION 341 MEETINGS (Posted: Monday, March 16, 2020)
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Effective immediately, all in-person chapter 7, 12, and 13 section 341 meetings scheduled through April 10, 2020, in the Middle District of Florida are hereby continued until a later date to be determined. Absent special circumstances, section 341 meetings may not proceed during this period except through telephonic or other alternative means not requiring personal appearance by debtors. Appropriate notice will be provided to parties in accordance with bankruptcy law and rules. Meetings already noticed as telephonic meetings may proceed as scheduled.
Date Sent
03/16/2020 08:37:32 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: BANKRUPTCY COURT HEARING PROCEDURES EFFECTIVE MARCH 16, 2020 (Posted: Friday, March 13, 2020)
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A message from Chief Judge Caryl E. Delano: The bankruptcy judges of the Middle District of Florida are monitoring reports regarding the Coronavirus Disease known as COVID-19. In light of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control's recommendation that everyone avoid crowds and exercise "social distancing," effective Monday, March 16, 2020, and continuing until further notice, the Court has implemented the following policies: Judges in all Divisions will conduct all non-evidentiary hearings by telephone. Attorneys should arrange to appear via CourtCall or CourtSolutions as indicated on each judge's webpage (www.flmb.uscourts.gov). Both CourtCall and CourtSolutions have agreed to waive their charges for pro se parties. A party who is not represented by counsel and is unable to coordinate with CourtCall or CourtSolutions should contact the judge's courtroom deputy. Contact information is listed on each judge's webpage. Individual judges may determine to continue evidentiary hearings and trials that are not time-sensitive. In that event, Court staff will contact counsel for the parties and an order continuing the hearing or trial will be entered. Any party who has a valid basis for requesting the continuance of an evidentiary or non-evidentiary hearing may file a motion to continue. Motions to continue shall include a statement that the movant has conferred with counsel for opposing parties concerning the requested continuance, and the position of other parties concerning the request.
Date Sent
03/16/2020 08:36:59 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Notice from the Orlando Division of the United States Bankruptcy Court (Posted: Wednesday, March 11, 2020)
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To limit exposure to the COVID-19 virus while maintaining our mission to the keep the U.S. Bankruptcy Court up and running, please follow all guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including staying home if you are ill. The Orlando Division of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court will immediately implement two changes: (1) All 341 Meetings will occur on the 6th floor in Courtrooms B and D; and (2) Attorneys appearing in the Orlando Division are encouraged to appear by telephone when appropriate, even if you are resident in the Orlando Division.
Date Sent
03/16/2020 08:36:19 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: JUDGE LORI V. VAUGHAN SWORN IN AS MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA BANKRUPTCY JUDGE (Posted: Tuesday, March 3, 2020)
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ORLANDO, FL - On February 25, 2020, the Honorable Lori V. Vaughan was sworn in as the newest bankruptcy judge of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida. Prior to her appointment, Judge Vaughan was a partner at Trenam Law in Tampa, Florida. Judge Vaughan will preside in the Orlando Division and conduct hearings in Courtroom 6C of the George C. Young United States Courthouse.
Date Sent
02/13/2020 03:29:44 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: **AMENDED DATE** CM/ECF Planned Outage: Maintenance Scheduled for February 17, 2020
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Due to a maintenance release of CM/ECF, the CM/ECF Application will be unavailable from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Monday, February 17, 2020.
Date Sent
02/10/2020 12:33:44 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF Planned Outage: Maintenance Scheduled for February 22, 2020
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Due to a maintenance release of CM/ECF, the CM/ECF Application will be unavailable from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 22, 2020.
Date Sent
01/27/2020 04:05:37 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Judge McEwen's Mentoring Program for New Bankruptcy Lawyers
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The next session of Judge McEwen's mentoring program for lawyers new to the practice of bankruptcy law is scheduled for Wednesday, February 12, 2020, from Noon to 1:30 p.m. in the bankruptcy court's training room on the 5th floor, Sam M. Gibbons U.S. Courthouse in Tampa. The program is open to all new and experienced lawyers. Judge McEwen's special guest for this program is: Betsy C. Cox, Esquire. Program Description: The Do's and Don'ts of Discovery
Date Sent
11/19/2019 03:38:33 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Judge McEwen's Mentoring Program for New Bankruptcy Lawyers
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The next session of Judge McEwen's mentoring program for lawyers new to the practice of bankruptcy law is scheduled for Tuesday, December 17, 2019, from Noon to 1:30 p.m. in the bankruptcy court's training room on the 5th floor, Sam M. Gibbons U.S. Courthouse in Tampa. The program is open to all new and experienced lawyers. Judge McEwens special guest for this program is: John Lesko, Florida Lawyers Assistance Outreach Representative Program Description: The Features of a Legal Practice How and Why Lawyers Are So Often Impacted by the Stressors Inherent to the Profession
Date Sent
10/11/2019 01:07:48 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF Planned Outage - Maintenance Scheduled (October 12 - 14, 2019) - POSTPONED (Posted: Friday, October 11, 2019)
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Due to technical reasons beyond our control the CM/ECF maintenance that was scheduled has been postponed. The system will be available the Columbus day weekend October 12-14, 2019.
Date Sent
10/02/2019 01:54:35 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF Planned Outage - Maintenance Scheduled (October 12 - 14, 2019)
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Due to a maintenance release of CM/ECF, the CM/ECF Application will be unavailable from 8:00 a.m. Saturday, October 12, 2019, through 9:00 p.m. Monday, October 14, 2019.
Date Sent
09/24/2019 01:38:48 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Bankruptcy Judge Caryl E. Delano appointed Chief Bankruptcy Judge
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The United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida has appointed Judge Caryl E. Delano as the Middle District's chief bankruptcy judge for a four-year term commencing October 1, 2019. Judge Delano succeeds Judge Michael G. Williamson, whose term as chief judge ends on September 30, 2019.
Date Sent
09/20/2019 01:12:02 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Third Amended Administrative Order Prescribing Procedures for Student Loan Management Program, FLMB-2019-5
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The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida posted an updated Administrative Order: FLMB-2019-5, Third Amended Order Prescribing Procedures for Student Loan Management Program. The amended order clarifies the procedures set forth in the Amended Administrative Order Prescribing Procedures for Student Loan Modification (Admin. Order. No. FLMB-2019-2) and the Second Amended Administrative Order Prescribing Procedures for Student Loan Modification (Admin. Order. No. FLMB-2019-4). Go here: http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/administrativeorders/DataFileOrder.asp?FileID=88
Date Sent
09/03/2019 11:15:37 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CLOSING OF UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA JACKSONVILLE DIVISION - DUE TO HURRICANE DORIAN
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The United States Bankruptcy Court's Jacksonville Division will remain CLOSED on Wednesday, September 4, 2019. All court hearings scheduled during this period are cancelled. Attorneys and the public will NOT be able to conduct routine business in person at the United States Bankruptcy Court's Jacksonville division. The Jacksonville division of the court is expected to resume normal business operations on Thursday, September 5, 2019. The Orlando division of the court will resume normal business operations on Wednesday, September 4, 2019. The public is advised to continue to check the court's website at www.flmb.uscourts.gov and listen to all local news broadcasts for information on the status of federal court operations in each division
Date Sent
09/02/2019 12:13:28 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CLOSING OF UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA - ORLANDO and JACKSONVILLE DIVISIONS - DUE TO HURRICANE DORIAN
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The United States Bankruptcy Court Orlando and Jacksonville Divisions will be CLOSED on Tuesday, September 3, 2019.
All court hearings scheduled during this period are cancelled. Attorneys and the public will NOT be able to conduct routine business in person at the United States Bankruptcy Court Orlando of Jacksonville Divisions.
Additionally, the Office of the United States Trustee has cancelled ALL Section 341 meetings of creditors scheduled for Tuesday, September 3, 2019 in Orlando.
The Orlando and Jacksonville divisions of the court are expected to resume normal business operations on Wednesday, September 4, 2019. The public is advised to continue to check the court's website at www.flmb.uscourts.gov and listen to all local news broadcasts for information on the status of federal court operations in each Division.
Date Sent
09/01/2019 04:38:17 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CLOSING OF UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA - ORLANDO - DUE TO HURRICANE DORIAN
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The United States Bankruptcy Court Orlando Division will be CLOSED on Tuesday, September 3, 2019. All court hearings scheduled during this period are cancelled. Attorneys and the public will NOT be able to conduct routine business in person at the United States Bankruptcy Court Orlando Division. Additionally, the Office of the United States Trustee has cancelled ALL Section 341 meetings of creditors scheduled for Tuesday, September 3, 2019 in Orlando. The Orlando division of the court is expected to resume normal business operations on Wednesday, September 4, 2019. The public is advised to continue to check the court's website at www.flmb.uscourts.gov and listen to all local news broadcasts for information on the status of federal court operations in each Division.
Date Sent
08/30/2019 02:33:53 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Due to Hurricane Dorian, All September 3, 2019 Hearings in Fort Myers Division Are Cancelled
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Please see the attached Memorandum from the Hon. Caryl E. Delano, Presiding Judge of the Fort Myers Division regarding Rescheduling of September 3, 2019 Hearings and meetings of creditors under § 341 of the Bankruptcy Code. The Memorandum may be viewed by Going Here: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/announcements/documents/judge/Memo_Fort_Myers_Division_Hurricane_Dorian.pdf.
Date Sent
08/28/2019 04:15:51 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Second Amended Administrative Order FLMB-2019-4, Prescribing Procedures for Student Loan Management Program
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The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida posted an updated Administrative Order: FLMB-2019-4, Second Amended Order Prescribing Procedures for Student Loan Management Program. This amended order changes the effective date from September 1, 2019, to October 1, 2019. Copy/Paste the following address in your browser: http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/administrativeorders/DataFileOrder.asp?FileID=84
Date Sent
08/23/2019 09:35:32 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Revised Chapter 13 Model Plan Effective September 1, 2019
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The Middle District of Floridas Model Chapter 13 Plan has been revised, effective September 1, 2019. The revised Model Plan more clearly informs debtors that if they elect certain plan treatments of secured claims, they will not receive a discharge of those claims. See Sections C.(5)(a), (b), (c), (h), (i), and (k), and Sections 6.(a) and (b). In addition, Sections 5.(a) and (b) clarify that debtors may cure arrearages on homeowners and condominium assessments and may, but need not, include the payment of post-petition assessments in their plan payments. The revised Model Plan also includes several non-substantive revisions. The revised Model Plan, both fillable and non-fillable, is available in the Procedure Manual located on The Source page of the Courts website. http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/proguide/index.asp
Date Sent
08/23/2019 09:34:14 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Revised Negative Notice List and Accompanying Orders List Effective August 22, 2019
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Negative Notice List updates: New: Application for Compensation for Special Counsel to the Chapter 7 Trustee for FDCPA/FCCPA Cases and Adversary Proceedings. Revised: Motion for Relief from Co-Debtor Stay revised to provide for 21-day objection period. http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/negativenotice/list.pdf?rnd=1 Accompanying Orders List update: New: Motion to Reimpose Stay (After Debtor has filed an amended Chapter 13 plan that includes payments to secured creditor(s) in plan payments). http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/proguide/documents/Procedure/Accompanying_Orders_List.pdf?id=1
Date Sent
08/01/2019 12:00:00 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Administrative Order Governing Retention of Special Counsel in Consumer Protection Cases, FLMB-2019-3
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The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida has established procedures for the retention of special counsel in Consumer Protection Cases. These procedures will assist the Court in administering the large number of Consumer Protection cases filed with the Court.
Date Sent
07/31/2019 12:00:00 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Amended Administrative Order Prescribing Procedures for Student Loan Modification Program, FLMB-2019-2
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The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida posted an updated Administrative Order: FLMB-2019-2, Amended Order Prescribing Procedures for Student Loan Modification Program. This amended order changes the effective date from August 1, 2019, to September 1, 2019.
Date Sent
07/09/2019 01:13:49 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Memorial Tribute to the Honorable Paul M. Glenn, United States Bankruptcy Judge (November 24, 1993- July 7, 2019)
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The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida is saddened to announce the Honorable Paul M. Glenn passed away on July 7, 2019. Judge Glenn was a true gentleman who was as wise as he was kind. He served the Middle District of Florida with honor and distinction and he will be greatly missed by his colleagues in this District and his extended court family in Tampa and Jacksonville. A memorial service for Judge Glenn will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2019, at 11:00 a.m., at Southside United Methodist Church, 3120 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville, Florida 32207. Copy and Paste the following link below in your browser to see Judge Glenn Memorial tribute. http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/announcements/documents/judge/tributepmg.pdf
Date Sent
06/27/2019 03:49:43 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Revised Negative Notice and Accompanying Orders Lists Posted
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Please be aware of the following revisions to the Court's Negative Notice List and Accompanying Orders List with the effective date of July 1, 2019. Negative Notice List updates include: * Added for all Chapter sections: Motion to Transfer Case or Change Venue (14-day Notice); and * Revised Adversary Proceeding section: Revised in accordance with updated Local Rule 7001-1, also effective July 1, 2019, to list specific motions where negative notice is required rather than listing motions which are excepted from the negative notice requirement for Adversary Proceedings. Accompanying Orders List update: * Added: Motion to Approve Insurance Premium Financing and Motion to Approve Insurance Premium Financing; and * Removed: Motion to Transfer Case or Change Venue. Copy this link to your browser: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/negativenotice/default.htm?rnd=1
Date Sent
06/18/2019 04:47:05 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Availability of a Bankruptcy Judge Position In The Middle District of Florida at Orlando
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The United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit seeks applications from all highly qualified candidates for a fourteen-year appointment as United States Bankruptcy Judge for the Middle District of Florida at Orlando. Please note all applications must be submitted by potential nominees to the Circuit Executive's Office and must be received by August 1, 2019. Click HERE to view the full notice. Click HERE to access the application.
Date Sent
06/17/2019 11:17:31 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: The following announcement was posted on the Court's website today: Reminder of Requirement to Maintain Email and Other Address Information in CM/ECF
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The Courts CM/ECF system sends emails regarding case activity to primary and any additional email addresses that registered attorney users have entered in their CM/ECF user accounts. Often the Court receives returned or bounced-back emails primarily as a result of email addresses being entered incorrectly or email accounts being full or closed. Please be advised that the Courts Local Rule 1001-2(h) states Registration as an Electronic User constitutes: (1) waiver of the right to receive notice by first-class mail and consent to receive notice electronically; and (2) waiver of the right to service by personal service or first-class mail and consent to electronic service, except with regard to summons and complaint under Fed. R. Bankr. P. 7004 It is your responsibility to properly maintain your CM/ECF user account with up-to-date email addresses in order to receive all electronic notices timely in order to receive case activity emails in to monitor case activity. To update email addresses, log into CM/ECF, select Utilities and Maintain Your ECF Account and then select email. You may update and add email addresses but may not delete your primary email address. Updates to your name, firm name, and mailing address information cannot be made through Maintain Your ECF Account under Utilities. If your user account requires these types of updates, please go to the "Help Desk" on the Court's external website and select "Access to CM/ECF (Including Log-in and Account information). Please also be reminded that it is very important that mailing and email addresses also remain updated with the Florida Bar and the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. Failure to do so may result in not receiving important renewal information. Go to the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida's Attorney Admissions contact to update your information.
Date Sent
06/14/2019 08:56:33 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: The Retirement of the Honorable Paul M. Glenn, United States Bankruptcy Judge
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Yesterday, June 12, 2019, Bankruptcy Judge Paul M. Glenn submitted a letter announcing his retirement effective upon the appointment of a successor. Judge Glenn has been a beloved member of the Bankruptcy bench in the Middle District of Florida since his appointment in 1993 where he initially served in the Tampa division of the court. In June 2008, Judge Glenn transferred from the Tampa division to the Jacksonville division. From March 2003 to September 2011, Judge Glenn served as the Chief Bankruptcy Judge for the Middle District of Florida. During Judge Glenns distinguished career with the court, he presided over a number of notable cases, which include the Celotex Corporation, the Amelia Island Plantation, and the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa. He also served on the Committee on the Budget of the Judicial Conference of the United States from 20132017. Judge Glenn will be greatly missed by the court and by the legal communities in the Middle District of Florida. Bankruptcy Judge Cynthia Jackson plans to request a change in her duty station to relocate from the Orlando division to the Jacksonville division to fill the vacancy created by Judge Glenns retirement. The Circuit Court of Appeals is expected to commence promptly a recruitment for a successor judge for the Orlando division.
Date Sent
06/12/2019 04:15:45 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Orlando Division Closure at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 18, 2019
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In the interest of public safety due to area road congestion and accessibility issues, the Orlando Division of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will close no later than 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 18, 2019. During this closure all parties needing immediate court services should contact the Clerks Office in either Jacksonville (904-301-6490) or Tampa Division (813-301-5162).
Date Sent
06/10/2019 02:12:34 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Administrative Order Prescribing Procedures for Student Loan Modification Program, FLMB-2019-1
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The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida has established procedures for individual debtors to seek options for the repayment of student loans under the administrative oversight of the Bankruptcy Court. The new procedures utilize an online portal for secure communications between debtors and student loan lenders and will facilitate the parties in reaching mutually beneficial agreements for the payment of student loans. The Court's Administrative Order Prescribing Procedures for Student Loan Modification Program, FLMB-2019-1, becomes effective on August 1, 2019.
Date Sent
06/07/2019 10:12:15 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Telephonic Appearances Procedure Update
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Effective immediately, the Orlando Division will allow telephonic appearances in all non-evidentiary Chapter 13 hearings, similar to the existing practice in all other Divisions. The Telephonic Appearance procedure has been updated to reflect this change. Copy & Paste the following link in your browser: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/proguide/documents/Procedure/Telephonic_Appearances.pdf
Date Sent
05/31/2019 06:16:27 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: The Bankruptcy Judges of the Middle District of Florida have approved new and amended Local Rules, effective July 1, 2019.
Email Text
The Bankruptcy Judges of the Middle District of Florida have approved new and amended Local Rules, effective July 1, 2019. (Posted: Friday, May 31, 2019) Please click here to view a memorandum from Hon. Caryl E. Delano summarizing the changes. Click here to access the new and amended Local Rules.
Date Sent
05/24/2019 09:13:10 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: REMINDER - Survey About Procedure Manual
Email Text
The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida is evaluating The Source and Procedure Manual on the Court's website. We value your input and want to ensure we meet your needs. Please take a few minutes to give us your opinions and suggestions by completing a quick six question survey. The survey will close on May 30, 2019. The Court thanks you for your participation in this anonymous survey. Here is a link to the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/T3MWK3K
Date Sent
05/17/2019 11:35:06 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Judge McEwens Mentoring Program for New Bankruptcy Lawyers
Email Text
The next session of Judge McEwens mentoring program for lawyers new to the practice of bankruptcy law is scheduled for Thursday, June 20, 2019, from Noon to 1:30 p.m. in the bankruptcy courts training room on the 5th floor, Sam M. Gibbons U.S. Courthouse in Tampa. Judge McEwens special guests for this program are: J. Steven Wilkes, Trial Attorney, U.S. Trustees Office; Nathan Wheatley, Trial Attorney, U.S. Trustees Office; Jonathan A. Semach, Law Office of Buddy D. Ford, P.A.; and Steven W. Pralle, Bankruptcy Auditor, U.S. Trustees Office.
Program Title: A REFRESHER ON TRICKS AND TRAPS OF MORs, QORs, AND HOW TO GET A FINAL DECREE
Date Sent
05/13/2019 08:53:58 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED: Saturday, May 18, 2019, between 5:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
Email Text
CM/ECF will undergo maintenance on Saturday, May 18, 2019, between 5:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. You may continue to access CM/ECF during this time, however, intermittent disruption may occur.
Date Sent
05/02/2019 11:30:31 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Survey About Procedure Manual Open
Email Text
The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida is evaluating The Source and Procedure Manual on the Court's website. We value your input and want to ensure we meet your needs. Please take a few minutes to give us your opinions and suggestions by completing a quick six question survey. The survey will close on May 30, 2019. The Court thanks you for your participation in this anonymous survey. Here is a link to the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/T3MWK3K
Date Sent
03/19/2019 02:34:28 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: AMENDMENTS TO LOCAL RULES AND COMMENT FORM (Posted: Friday, March 15, 2019)
Email Text
The judges of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida are considering proposed amendments to the Local Rules. The proposals are posted below for public comment commencing on March 15, 2019. The public comment period ends on April 30, 2019. When promulgated by the judges, the amended and new Local Rules will become effective on July 1, 2019. Attorneys and parties who appear before the Court are encouraged to review the proposed amendments. The Court appreciates all comments and will consider them prior to the promulgation of the amended rules. Go to "http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/localrules/" to review the proposed new and amended rules.
Date Sent
03/19/2019 02:10:13 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Automatic Adjustments of Certain Dollar Amounts in Bankruptcy Code and Official and Director's Bankruptcy Forms (Posted: Monday, March 11, 2019)
Email Text
On April 1, 2019, automatic adjustments to the dollar amounts stated in various provisions of the Bankruptcy Code, and one provision in Title 28 of the United States Code will go into effect. The adjusted dollar amounts will apply to cases filed on or after April 1, 2019. The adjustments reflect the change in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers published by the U.S. Department of Labor for the three-year period ending December 31, 2018, and are rounded to the nearest $25. The adjusted dollar amounts will affect: the eligibility of a debtor to file under chapters 12 and 13 of the Bankruptcy Code the definition of a small business debtor; certain maximum values of property that a debtor may claim as exempt; the maximum amount of certain claims entitled to priority; the calculation of the "means test" for chapter 7 debtors; the duration of a chapter 13 plan; the minimum aggregate value of claims needed to commence an involuntary bankruptcy case; the minimum value for trustee avoidance actions; and the value of "luxury goods and services" deemed to be nondischargeable where the trustee may commence certain proceedings to recover a money judgment or property. Additionally, the following Official Bankruptcy Forms and Director's Forms contain references to several of the affected dollar amounts: Official Form 106C, Schedule C: The Property You Claim as Exempt; Official Form 107, Statement of Financial Affairs for Individuals Filing for Bankruptcy; Official Form 122A-2, Chapter 7 Means Test Calculation; Official Form 122C-2, Chapter 13 Calculation of Your Disposable Income; Official Form 201, Voluntary Petition for Non-Individuals Filing for Bankruptcy; Official Form 207, Statement of Financial Affairs for Non-Individuals Filing for Bankruptcy; Official Form 410, Proof of Claim; Director's Form 2000, Required Lists, Schedules, Statements, and Fees; and Director's Form 2830, Chapter 13 Debtor's Certification Regarding Domestic Support Obligations and Section 522(q). The revised forms will be effective on April 1, 2019, and will apply to cases filed on or after that date. The revised forms incorporating the dollar amount changes have been posted to Pending Changes in the Bankruptcy Forms page. Once effective, the revised forms will be available via the Official Forms link in the Court's Procedure Manual and Forms page.
Date Sent
03/19/2019 02:08:14 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Updated Middle District of Florida Model Chapter 13 Plan (Posted: Thursday, February 28, 2019)
Email Text
The Middle District of Florida's Model Chapter 13 Plan has been revised, effective March 1, 2019. The revised Model Plan informs the debtor that the automatic stay does not apply to secured creditors if the debtor elects to surrender collateral to the secured creditor, to make payments directly to the secured creditor, or to not make payments to the secured creditor. The revised Model Plan informs the debtor that, under certain plan treatments, there is no discharge of personal liability for claims. See Sections C, 5(a), (b), (c), (h), (i) and (k) and Sections 6(a) and (b). The revised Model Plan, both fillable and non-fillable, is available on The Source page of the Court website.
Date Sent
01/08/2019 01:50:52 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED: Saturday, January 19, 2019, between 5:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.:
Email Text
CM/ECF will undergo maintenance on Saturday, January 19, 2019, between 5:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. You may continue to access CM/ECF during this time, however, intermittent disruption may occur.
Date Sent
12/28/2018 03:23:05 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Administrative Order FLMB-2018-4 - Order Concerning Federal Government Shutdown
Email Text
Please be aware of the Court's new administrative order entered today concerning the federal government shutdown. This order enlarges the time for any federal agency affected by the current federal government shutdown to take record action within seven days following the day after the shutdown ceases. The full administrative order is available to view on the Court's website or by clicking
here
Date Sent
12/19/2018 03:16:24 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Update to eOrders Permits Upload of Competing Form of Order
Email Text
The "eOrders" proposed order submission process in CM/ECF has been updated to permit the submission of a competing form of order. Proposed competing orders shall be uploaded as a PDF and as a Word version that is redlined to reflect the suggested revisions to the order. Competing orders may be submitted using the "Order Upload" option in CM/ECF's Bankruptcy and Adversary Menus. The submitter then selects the "Single Order Upload" option, and checks the box on the submission screen indicating Dispute as to Form. The submitter will then be directed to upload the PDF and Word versions of the order. There is no limit to the number of parties who may upload a competing form of order. An attorney or party who was directed by the Court to submit a proposed order but knows that the opposing party disputes the form of the order should also use this procedure and upload both PDF and Word (not redlined) versions of the proposed order. The PDF and Word versions of the competing orders will be marked as "disputed form of order" and directed to the appropriate judge's chambers. Questions regarding this process may be submitted to the Court's Help desk at ecfhelp@flmb.uscourts.gov.
Date Sent
12/04/2018 03:26:35 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Court to remain open on December 5, 2018
Email Text
The U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida joins in mourning the loss of President George H. W. Bush but will be remain open on December 5, 2018. Please note, the Offices of the U.S. Trustee will be closed on December 5 and 341 meetings of creditors scheduled for that day will be rescheduled. Unless you are otherwise notified, the Bankruptcy Judges of the Middle District will conduct hearings as scheduled.
Date Sent
12/04/2018 03:15:45 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Court to remain open on December 5, 2018
Email Text
The U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida joins in mourning of the loss of President George H. W. Bush but will be remain open on December 5, 2018. Please note, the Offices of the U.S. Trustee will be closed on December 5 and 341 meetings of creditors scheduled for that day will be rescheduled. Unless you are otherwise notified, the Bankruptcy Judges of the Middle District will conduct hearings as scheduled.
Date Sent
10/30/2018 12:51:23 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: The following announcement was posted on the Court's website today: Compliance with Service Requirements
Email Text
This email is being to sent to remind filers of the Local Rule requirement in 9013-1(e) which states: Service on Mailing Matrix. Where a reference is made to service on a group such as to all creditors on the matrix, the proof of service shall attach a copy of the mailing matrix obtained from CM/ECF at the time of service. This requirement along with any other service requirements must be reviewed by staff in the Bankruptcy Court. Deficiencies in service may be addressed by orders abating, striking or other action as the Court deems appropriate. Filers are encouraged to review all requirements included in Local Rule 9013-1 - Proof of Service in Bankruptcy Cases Adversary Proceedings, and Contested matters, in addition to other rules related to service to ensure compliance.
Date Sent
10/30/2018 12:50:57 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: The following announcement was posted on the Court's website today: View from the Bench Seminar - LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER! 10/29/2018 04:30 PM
Email Text
LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER for the Bankruptcy Law & Practice: View from the Bench seminar -- November 8 in Tampa or November 9 in Miami. Please do not rely on on-site registration as seating is limited. Note also that there is a surcharge for on-site registration. Do not respond to this email. Instead, to register, just copy and paste the link into your web browser: TAMPA -- https://member.floridabar.org/s/lt-event?site=a0a36000003SDujAAG&id=a1R3600000512X5EAI MIAMI -- https://member.floridabar.org/s/lt-event?site=a0a36000003SDujAAG&id=a1R3600000512hUEAQ In addition, dont forget to sign up for the Tampa reception the evening of November 7. To register, just copy and paste the following link into your web browser: https://www.tbbba.com/calendar/#!event/register/2018/11/7/view-from-the-bench-reception Information about the reception and dinner in Miami on November 8 is available at www.bbasdfl.org.
Date Sent
10/30/2018 12:50:00 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: The following announcement was posted on the Court's website today: View from the Bench-Registration is Open! 10/29/2018 8:30 AM
Email Text
Remember to register for the Bankruptcy Law & Practice: View from the Bench seminar -- November 8 in Tampa or November 9 in Miami. Please do not rely on on-site registration as seating is limited. Note also that there is a surcharge for on-site registration. Do not respond to this email. Instead, to register, just copy and paste the link into your web browser: TAMPA -- https://member.floridabar.org/s/lt-event?site=a0a36000003SDujAAG&id=a1R3600000512X5EAI MIAMI -- https://member.floridabar.org/s/lt-event?site=a0a36000003SDujAAG&id=a1R3600000512hUEAQ In addition, dont forget to sign up for the Tampa reception the evening of November 7. To register, just copy and paste the following link into your web browser: https://www.tbbba.com/calendar/#!event/register/2018/11/7/view-from-the-bench-reception Information about the reception and dinner in Miami on November 8 is available at www.bbasdfl.org.
Date Sent
10/30/2018 12:49:12 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: The following announcement was posted on the Court's website today: View from the Bench-Registration is Open! 10/23/2018
Email Text
Remember to register for the Bankruptcy Law & Practice: View from the Bench seminar -- November 8 in Tampa or November 9 in Miami. Please do not rely on on-site registration as seating is limited. Note also that there is a surcharge for on-site registration. Do not respond to this email. Instead, to register, just copy and paste the link into your web browser: TAMPA -- https://member.floridabar.org/s/lt-event?site=a0a36000003SDujAAG&id=a1R3600000512X5EAI MIAMI -- https://member.floridabar.org/s/lt-event?site=a0a36000003SDujAAG&id=a1R3600000512hUEAQ In addition, dont forget to sign up for the Tampa reception the evening of November 7. To register, just copy and paste the following link into your web browser: https://www.tbbba.com/calendar/#!event/register/2018/11/7/view-from-the-bench-reception Information about the reception and dinner in Miami on November 8 is available at www.bbasdfl.org.
Date Sent
10/30/2018 12:48:27 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: The following announcement was posted on the Court's website today: Negative Notice Legend 10/02/2018
Email Text
Please be reminded when filing papers with negative notice, the legend must comply with the negative notice legend in the Court's Local Rule 2002-4. This includes providing an up-to-date and complete address, including a suite number, for the division to which the case is assigned. Failure to provide a complete address or use the correct negative notice legend may result in abatement or denial of the filed paper. To view the negative notice legend as prescribed in the local rule, click here. For papers filed with negative notice in the Jacksonville Division, the address to use is: 300 N. Hogan Street Suite 3-150 Jacksonville, FL 32202 For papers filed with negative notice in the Orlando Division, the address to use is: 400 W. Washington Street Suite 5100 Orlando, FL 32801 For papers filed with negative notice in the Tampa and Fort Myers divisions, the address to use is: 801 N. Florida Avenue Suite 555 Tampa, FL 33602
Date Sent
10/30/2018 12:47:37 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: The following announcement was posted on the Court's website today: Local Rules Lawyers' Advisory Committee Solicits Proposals for New or Revised Local Rules 08/01/2018
Email Text
The Local Rules Lawyers Advisory Committee invites interested parties, including members of the Bar and Court employees, to submit their suggestions, comments, and proposals for proposed new Local Rules or revisions to our current Local Rules. Suggestions should be submitted no later than September 15, 2018. Please click this link to submit recommendations to the committee: http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/localrules/comments-with-form-LocalRules.asp Generally, the Judges of the Middle District of Florida promulgate new or revised Local Rules to be effective as of July 1 of each year. Suggestions that were received in 2017 have been carried over for additional consideration and a proposed effective date of July 1, 2019. These suggestions include: Local Rule 1002-1 1002-1 Petition Filing on Debtors Behalf by a Court-Appointed Representative, Holder of Power of Attorney, Proposed Next Friend, or Guardian Ad Litem: proposed revision to streamline the procedures and to provide that if a case is filed by a person other than the debtor, the Court will automatically schedule a "Status Conference Regarding Authority to File Bankruptcy Case." Local Rule 2002-4 Negative Notice Procedure: proposed revision to conform the local rule to Amended Federal Rule of Bankruptcy Procedure 3007 regarding objections to claims. Local Rule 3022-1(b) Final Report/Decree (Chapter 11) Individual Debtor: proposed revision to update procedures for reopening the case and obtaining a discharge to include an affidavit or declaration that all required payments have been made with an attached spreadsheet. Proposed new Local Rule governing motions to incorporate the negative notice rule (LBR 2002-4) and refer to the negative notice list and accompanying orders list; provide mechanism for moving party to request that a response date be set; and include migrate emergency hearing procedures now described in Local Rule 9004-1. If you have comments on the above proposals or additional proposals for new or revised Local Rules, please be sure to submit your recommendations.
Date Sent
10/30/2018 12:46:47 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: The following announcement was posted on the Court's website today: Proposed Chapter 11 Confirmation Orders and Local Rule 3020-1 06/26/2018
Email Text
The Court would like to remind Chapter 11 practitioners of Local Rule 3020-1 which addresses Chapter 11 Confirmation. Specifically the Court draws your attention to paragraph (c)(1), which is as follows: (1) Contents. The confirmation order shall include the following if applicable: a schedule summarizing the timing and amount of payments to be made to each class of creditors under the plan; notice of any scheduled post-confirmation status conference; and the form of Post-Confirmation Avoidance & Claim Litigation Report to be filed in connection with post-confirmation status conferences conducted in the case. The form is available on the Courts website in the forms section of the Procedures Manual. Proposed Chapter 11 Confirmation Orders that do not comply with the requirements of the Court's Local Rule may be returned for non-compliance.
Date Sent
10/30/2018 12:44:53 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: The following announcement was posted on the Court's website today: Changes to the Court's Administrative Orders on Chapter 13 Cases and Mortgage Modification Mediation
Email Text
The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida recently posted two updated Administrative Orders: FLMB-2018-2 Fifth Amended Administrative Order Prescribing Procedures for Chapter 13 Cases and FLMB-2018-3 Fifth Amended Administrative Order Prescribing Procedures for Mortgage Modification Mediation. The substantive changes to the orders relate to how Chapter 13 Trustees disburse adequate protection payments made during mortgage modification mediation. Previously, parties were required to ask for disbursement of adequate protection payments. Now, the Chapter 13 Trustee will disburse the adequate protection payments pre-confirmation, unless the Court orders or the parties agree otherwise. Paragraph 6(e) in FLMB-2018-2 and Paragraph 13 in FLMB-2018-3 were edited to implement this change. The Procedure Manual and the Order Directing Mortgage Modification Mediation will also be updated consistent with this change. If you have any questions, concerns, or comments, please email flmb_procedures@flmb.uscourts.gov.
Date Sent
10/30/2018 12:44:07 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: The following announcement was posted on the Court's website today: Model Chapter 13 Plan - Fillable PDF Form and Instructions
Email Text
The Clerk's Office has developed a fillable PDF version of the Model Plan for use by filers. Click
HERE
for the PDF of the Model Plan and HERE for instructions for its use.
Date Sent
10/30/2018 12:42:04 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: The following announcement was posted on the Court's website today: Negative Notice List, Accompanying Orders List and CM/ECF Filing Event Updates
Email Text
Please be aware of the following revisions to Court's Negative Notice List and Accompanying Orders List and a new CM/ECF filing event. Negative Notice List updates include: 1. The response period for Debtor's Motion to Reopen Administratively Closed Individual Chapter 11 Case to Obtain Discharge and Final Decree is now 21 days. The Court also posted a revised sample Debtor's Motion to Reopen Administratively Closed Individual Chapter 11 Case to Obtain Discharge and Final Decree, which is located in the Procedures Manual on the Courts website on the "Source" page. 2. Added, Motion to Declare Secured Claim Satisfied and Lien Released to the Chapter 12 and 13 section of the list. 3. Negative Notice continues to be required in Adversary Proceedings however; the Court expanded the list to include: Motions to redact Motions for writ of garnishment Accompanying Orders List updates include: 1. Added, Motion for Writ of Garnishment. 2. Added, Motion to Allow Witness to Testify by Video to the Court Prepared orders section of the list. 3. Application to Employ/Retain now includes direction to refrain from submitting the corresponding proposed orders in a Chapter 11 case until 21 days after the file date of the case. To view the Court's revised lists, use the following links: Negative Notice List Accompanying Orders List You may also view these lists on the Court's website on the "Source" page. New CM/ECF Event The Court added Motion to Declare Secured Claim Satisfied and Lien Released as a new CM/ECF filing event under the Bankruptcy Motions/Applications/Objections filing event category because of the recently implemented amendment to Fed. R. Bankr. P. 5009(d).
Date Sent
02/24/2017 02:25:37 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Clerk of Court, Lee Ann Bennett, appointed Deputy Director of the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts
Email Text
On February 23, 2017, Supreme Court Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr.,
announced
the appointment of Lee Ann Bennett, the Clerk of the Bankruptcy Court of the Middle District of Florida, as the new Deputy Director of the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts. Lee Ann will serve as Deputy to AO Director James C. Duff. Lee Ann has served as the Clerk of Florida Middle Bankruptcy Court for the past 10 years and was the Deputy Clerk for three years. She has held various positions in the Middle District of Florida since 1991. She received the
Directors Award for Outstanding Leadership
from the AO in 2015. For more information
Click here
Date Sent
02/15/2017 12:47:17 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Email Blast Notifications
Email Text
It has come to our attention that some trustees may not have received all of the Court's email blasts. We have reviewed our process and corrected the problem. Please be advised that all Court email blasts are stored on the "Email Blast Notifications" page located on the Court's website. You may wish to review that page by going to the Court's website or by clicking
here
Email blast notifications are sent to email addresses entered in your CM/ECF user's account - both primary and secondary email addresses. Another option available to you is to subscribe to receive email blast notifications. This option provides an additional opportunity to subscribe to receive email blast notifications at an email address of your choosing. Some indicate this is very helpful with separating their standard CM/ECF activity emails from email blast notifications. Additionally, it may be beneficial to anyone in your office who is not an CM/ECF registered user to subscribe to receive email blast notifications. To subscribe, go to the Court's website, and select the "click to subscribe" link located at the top margin of the homepage of the Court's website or click
here
Date Sent
09/06/2016 04:48:01 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Reminder: External Procedures Manual Survey
Email Text
The Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida is currently evaluating our External Procedure Manual located on the Court's website at http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/proguide/index.htm. We value your input and want to ensure this procedure manual meet your needs. If you haven't already done so, please take a few minutes to give us your opinions and suggestions by completing the quick seven question survey below. We hope to begin compiling the survey results after this Friday, September 9th. The Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida would like to thank you, in advance, for your participation in this anonymous survey.
ExternalProceduresManualSurvey
Date Sent
08/22/2016 04:39:52 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: External Procedures Manual Survey
Email Text
The Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida is currently evaluating our External Procedure Manual located on the Court's website at
We value your input and want to ensure this procedure manual meet your needs. Please take a few minutes to give us your opinions and suggestions by completing the quick seven question survey below. We hope to begin compiling the survey results after September 9th. The Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida would like to thank you, in advance, for your participation in this anonymous survey.
ExternalProceduresManualSurvey
Date Sent
08/09/2016 10:37:23 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF Planned Outage - Weekends of August 20 and 27
Email Text
During the weekends of August 20 and August 27, upgrades to core IT infrastructure will occur. These upgrades are expected to take place between the hours of 10:00 p.m. on Saturday to 8:00 a.m. on Sunday. The CM/ECF systems will be off line during this maintenance window.
Date Sent
05/02/2016 04:23:33 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Temporary Closure of the George C. Young Federal Courthouse (Orlando)
Email Text
The George C. Young Federal Courthouse has been closed, due to a power outage. Please visit our website, www.flmb.uscourts.gov, for updates as to the status of the building.
Date Sent
03/23/2016 02:05:40 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Property Descriptions in Reports and Notices of Intent to Sell Property of the Estate
Email Text
Local Rule 6004-1 provides that a trustee may file a report and notice of intention to sell property of he estate. Please be advised that a property description, including a legal description for real property and a vehicle identification number (VIN) for a vehicle is required to be included. Any Report and Notice of Intent to Sell Property of the Estate for real property that does not include a legal description for real property or a VIN for a vehicle will be abated. This requirement is the same regardless of the type of sale, whether or not the debtor is the purchaser and also whether or not the property is encumbered by a lien.
Date Sent
03/23/2016 12:49:35 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Dismissal Orders for Uncured Case Opening Deficiencies
Email Text
The Clerk's office issues deficiency notices addressing deficiencies on newly filed voluntary petitions, schedules and statements. Trustees assigned to Jacksonville division cases currently submit the resulting dismissal orders for some of the uncured deficiencies while Clerk's office staff in the Orlando and Tampa divisions prepare the dismissal order for all uncured deficiencies. Trustees in the Jacksonville division no longer will be requested to prepare these orders for cases filed
on or after March 23, 2016
. Clerk's office staff in all divisions will prepare dismissal orders on the uncured deficiencies.
Date Sent
03/11/2016 12:00:17 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Procedures Update
Email Text
Please be advised of the following procedures updates: 1)
Motions to Modify Confirmed Chapter 13 Plan
- Effective immediately, proposed orders on motions to modify confirmed chapter 13 plan will be prepared and submitted by the Chapter 13 Trustees throughout the district. They will also serve the orders after entry on the docket. Orders on motions to modify confirmed chapter 13 plan submitted by someone other than the Chapter 13 Trustee will be rejected. 2)
Motions to Sever
- The Court's
Accompanying Orders List
was updated to remove motions to sever for all chapters. Effective immediately, motions to sever will be scheduled for hearing. Also be advised that orders on motions to sever a chapter 13 case will be prepare and submitted by the Chapter 13 Trustee.
Date Sent
03/07/2016 07:09:03 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Refund of Filing Fees
Email Text
Judicial Conference policy allows for refunding fees in very limited circumstances. If a party wishes to request a refund of fee due to an erroneous filing, duplicate payment, or some other unusual circumstance, a motion requesting the refund, and providing the specific reason for the request, must be filed in the case in which the fee was paid. An order must be submitted by the requestor and must be substantially in compliance with the
sample order
posted on the Court's website.
Date Sent
03/07/2016 05:36:28 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: External Procedures Manual now Available
Email Text
The Court is pleased to announce that the first edition of our External Procedures Manual is now available on the Court's website from the Procedures page, and both the Attorneys and Filing Without an Attorney drop down menus. The manual may also be viewed by clicking
here
. The manual generally explains procedures uniformed district-wide, provides links to relevant parts of the Bankruptcy Code and Rules, and contains check lists for items to review before filing papers with the Court. Also available are sample form motions, orders and other papers. Parties and their attorneys should use this as a reference guide. Also of note is that the sample forms are generic suggestions. Parties and their attorneys should revise them to address the unique circumstances of each case. As we move forward the manual will continue to be expanded and enhanced.. We hope this new tool will prove to be helpful to all our filers.
Date Sent
03/07/2016 08:37:20 AM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Report and Notice of Intention to Sell pursuant to Local Rule 6004-1(b)
Email Text
Local Rule 6004-1(b)
- Report and Notice of Intention to Sell provides that a trustee may file a report and notice of intention to sell property of the estate without further notice of hearing. A review of events in CM/ECF indicates that there are two similar events used to file these reports and notices; Notice of Intent to Sell and Report and Notice of Intention to Sell Property of the Estate. Beginning Monday, March 14, 2016, the Notice of Intent to Sell event will be discontinued. All notices or reports and notices filed pursuant to Local Rule 6004-1(b) should be docketed using the Report and Notice of Intention to Sell Property of the Estate event which matches the language used in the Local Rule. Please share this information with anyone who files these items on your behalf in CM/ECF.
Date Sent
10/22/2015 04:23:30 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: New District-Wide Chapter 11 Order Authorizing Debtor in Possession to Operate Business
Email Text
Please be advised that the District has implemented a new Chapter 11 Order Authorizing Debtor in Possession to Operate Business which will be entered in all new Chapter 11 cases throughout the District. This order will replace orders previously being entered in each Division. For your convenience, a copy of the new order is attached.
Order Authorizing Debtor in Possession to Operate Business
Date Sent
09/29/2015 03:20:49 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Revised Permissive Use of Negative Notice List effective September 25, 2015
Email Text
The Court has revised its Permissive Use of Negative Notice List effective September 25, 2015. The revised list was updated to indicate that all divisions now permit the use of negative notice in Chapter 13 cases for motions to modify confirmed Chapter 13 plans. Further it was updated to add to the Chapter 13 section, Motion to Retain Federal Tax Refunds. The revised list may be viewed on the Court's website or by
clicking here
Date Sent
09/18/2015 03:49:59 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Official Forms Update and Petition Preparation Software
Email Text
The Court has received information that, as a result of the large scale updates to the Official Forms, effective December 1, 2015, at least two software companies (EZ-Filing Software and New Hope Software, Inc.) have decided to discontinue their products as of December 1, 2015. We would like to encourage those who use petition preparation software to contact their software providers to ensure they will be updated to comply with the form updates by December 1, 2015 and if not, to consider alternatives to be prepared to begin using the updated forms beginning with all cases filed on and after December 1, 2015. For your convenience, the updated forms can be found on the U.S. Court's website at: http://www.uscourts.gov/rules-policies/pending-rules-amendments/pending-changes-bankruptcy-forms.
Date Sent
09/09/2015 03:38:50 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Revised Official Bankruptcy Forms
Email Text
Please be advised that most Official Bankruptcy Forms are scheduled to be replaced with substantially revised, reformatted, and renumbered versions effective December 1, 2015, if approved by the Judicial Conference of the United States in September 2015. Attorneys should be prepared to use the revised Official Forms beginning on December 1, 2015. Attorneys should contact their software vendors for more information. The revised forms and other related information can be found on the U.S. Courts website at http://www.uscourts.gov/rules-policies/pending-rules-amendments/pending-changes-bankruptcy-forms
Date Sent
08/25/2015 03:00:58 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Chapter 13 Uniformity
Email Text
After much work by the District's four Chapter 13 Trustees, the District's Steering Committee and the Judges of the Middle District of Florida, Administrative Order FLMB-2015-8 Prescribing Procedures for Chapter 13 Cases was entered on August 10, 2015. This order is posted on the Court's website and may also be view by clicking
here
. The following is a list of changes occurring as a result of the new Administrative Order. 1.Orders Establishing Duties of Trustee and Debtor currently entered on all new Orlando, Tampa, and Fort Myers Chapter 13 cases will no longer be entered beginning with cases filed on September 1, 2015. 2.The Court will transition to using a new uniform District-wide Chapter 13 Confirmation Order over the next few weeks. A sample of the new order is attached
here
for your review. 3.Orders Allowing and Disallowing Claims and Ordering Disbursements currently entered in Tampa and Fort Myers Chapter 13 cases, will no longer be entered upon the implementation of the new District-wide Chapter 13 Confirmation Order. 4.A new District-wide Chapter 13 Model Plan is being implemented as of September 1, 2015. This is a required usage form. The new District-wide Model Chapter 13 Plan is posted on the Court's website and may also be viewed by clicking
here
. 5.The Model Chapter 13 plan currently in use for Tampa and Fort Myers Chapter 13 cases will no longer be in use beginning with cases filed on September 1, 2015. The Court very much appreciates the efforts by the Chapter 13 Trustees and the members of the District Steering Committee.
Date Sent
08/24/2015 10:20:56 AM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Chapter 13 Trustee eOrders Follow-Up Information
Email Text
The Court completed its transition to eOrders in CM/ECF on Monday, May 18, 2015. Since the transition, Clerks Office staff has been monitoring order submissions and maintaining a list of questions and concerns brought by electronic filers. The following are matters that are specific to Chapter 13 Trustee processes.
Chapter 13 Confirmation Orders
It is unnecessary to notify the Court when duplicate confirmation orders are submitted. ONLY the last order is entered. If you realize an error has been made during the submission of a confirmation order, prior to its entry on the docket, you may simply submit a new order. If you submit an order in error, and no additional orders will be submitted, please contact the Help Desk, immediately, so we can ensure the order is not entered.
Chapter 13 Confirmation Orders (Alternate Judge)
If a Judge, other than the Judge assigned to the case, approves confirmation at the Confirmation Hearing, proposed confirmation orders must be submitted individually, through Sua Sponte Order Upload and not Chapter 13 Order Confirming Plan.
Orders on Motions to Dismiss
There is confusion on when to use Single Order Upload as opposed to Sua Sponte Order Upload. Orders that initially rule on the motion should always be submitted using Single Order Upload. In instances where there is a subsequent order, and the order is directly ruling on the initial motion, it should be submitted using the Single Order Upload (such may be the case where the first order reserved ruling on the motion to dismiss and the second order grants the motion). Alternatively, any order submitted that does not make a ruling on a pending motion would be submitted through the Sua Sponte Order Upload event (this may occur when an order denying a motion to dismiss was originally entered and later, an order dismissing case is submitted). In this instance, the first order ruled on a pending motion, therefore, the second order was a stand-alone order and should be submitted through Sua Sponte Order Upload
Orders relating to multiple Motions
When submitting an order that relates to multiple motions, eOrders only allows the submitter to refer the proposed order to one motion. Once the order has been signed, the staff in the Clerks Office can refer it back to each underlying motion during entry of the order.
Date Sent
08/18/2015 12:15:38 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Corrected Notice Regarding Tampa Division - Electronic Exhibit Portal Presentation
Email Text
The Court recently entered Administrative Order FLMB-2015-6 - Amended Administrative Order Supplementing Local Rule 9070-1 to Provide for Submission of Exhibits in Electronically Stored Format. The Order is available on the Court's website and can be viewed by clicking
here
. The Order went into effect on August 3, 2015. To coincide with the effective date of the Order, the Court implemented its new Electronically Stored Exhibit Upload feature available on both the Bankruptcy and Adversary Menus in CM/ECF. The Court is providing a presentation on the new "CM/ECF Electronic Exhibit Upload Portal" on
Monday, August 24, 2015
at 3:00 p.m. It will be held at the Sam M. Gibbons U.S. Courthouse, 801 N. Florida Avenue, Courtroom 8A, Tampa. Florida. 1 hour of CLE credit is available for this presentation.
Date Sent
08/17/2015 05:39:12 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Tampa Division - Electronic Exhibit Portal Presentation
Email Text
The Court recently entered Administrative Order FLMB-2015-6 - Amended Administrative Order Supplementing Local Rule 9070-1 to Provide for Submission of Exhibits in Electronically Stored Format. The Order is available on the Court's website and can be viewed by clicking
here
. The Order went into effect on August 3, 2015. To coincide with the effective date of the Order, the Court implemented its new Electronically Stored Exhibit Upload feature available on both the Bankruptcy and Adversary Menus in CM/ECF. The Court is providing a presentation on the new "CM/ECF Electronic Exhibit Upload Portal" on Thursday, August 24, 2015 at 3:00 p.m. It will be held at the Sam M. Gibbons U.S. Courthouse, 801 N. Florida Avenue, Courtroom 8A, Tampa. Florida. 1 hour of CLE credit is available for this presentation.
Date Sent
07/23/2015 11:10:48 AM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: test
Email Text
test
Date Sent
06/26/2015 03:03:08 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Debtor Electronic Bankruptcy Noticing- DeBN
Email Text
Effective Monday, June 29, 2015, the Court will begin implementation of a new beneficial and free program titled, Debtor Electronic Bankruptcy Noticing, also known as DeBN. Debtor's wishing to receive electronic notification of court generated notices and orders the same day they are entered on the docket, will be able to do so by simply filing out a request form. Attorney's may file the request form electronically for their debtor's. DeBN is a voluntary service, which does not require the debtor to have a PACER login and does not require an enrollment fee. Click
here
for more specific information on the DeBN program, or visit the Court's website at
www.flmb.uscourts.gov/DeBN
Click
here
to review the Debtor Electronic Bankruptcy Noticing Request Form. Click
here
for simple steps to docket the request form.
Date Sent
06/15/2015 03:08:09 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Chief Judge Appointment
Email Text
The United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida has appointed Judge Michael G. Williamson as the next chief judge for the Bankruptcy Court effective October 1 2015, after Chief Judge Karen S. Jennemann decided not to request an extension of her current term which expires September 30, 2015. In announcing the change to the staff, Judge Jennemann stated: "Judge Williamson brings years of experience, management skills, and a deep and abiding love of this Court that will take us further along our way to excellence. I am so thankful that he has agreed to serve."
Date Sent
06/01/2015 05:18:39 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Amendments to Local Rules Effective July 1, 2015
Email Text
The Bankruptcy Judges of the Middle District of Florida have approved new and amended Local Rules, effective July 1, 2015. A complete list of the new and amended Local Rules and a brief summary of the revisions are available by clicking one of the links below. Click
here
to access the amended Local Rules Click
here
to view a brief summary of the revisions.
Date Sent
05/27/2015 09:56:01 AM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Amended Administrative Order FLMB-2015-4
Email Text
The Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida issued Amended Administrative Order FLMB-2015-4 effective June 1, 2015. In addition to the existing requirement that every unrepresented party, including debtors wishing to file a voluntary bankruptcy petition and petitioning creditors wishing to file an involuntary petition, provide acceptable photo identification those filers must include the required signatures on the petition at the time of filing. Additionally any individual filing a petition on behalf of an unrepresented party also must provide acceptable photo identification at the time of filing. Failure to supply acceptable photo identification or the required signatures will result in an immediate hearing before the Court to determine whether the Clerk should accept the papers. To view the New Amended Administrative Order, click
HERE
Date Sent
05/01/2015 03:44:30 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Court Connection Newsletter Survey
Email Text
The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida is remodeling its quarterly newsletter, the Court Connection. The new eNewsletter (e-mail newsletter) format will be more concise, user-friendly, and contain more practical content. We would like your feedback to ensure the Court Connection will meet your needs. Please answer the following seven short questions on the anonymous survey. We would like to compile the survey results after May 15, 2015. Thank you. Please click the link below to complete the survey. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FZPMSTJ
Date Sent
05/01/2015 09:30:17 AM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Jacksonville Division Clerk's Office Phone List
Email Text
Effective Monday, May 4, 2015, the Clerk's office of the Jacksonville Division will have a new telephone system in operation. Please note that some of the telephone numbers have changed. For a list of the updated telephone numbers, please refer to our Court's
website
, or to the attached directory provided for your convenience. Thank you.
Jacksonville Division Clerk's Office Phone List
Date Sent
04/23/2015 10:18:54 AM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: E-Order Training Modules and Related information
Email Text
As previously announced, the Court is transitioning to E-Orders in CM/ECF. Implementation dates are as follows: Tampa and Fort Myers cases - Monday, May 4, 2015 Jacksonville cases - Monday, May 11, 2015 Orlando cases - Monday, May 18, 2015 Existing E-Orders portals on the Court's website will be unavailable upon the implementation of CM/ECF E-Orders in each division. The court has prepared an electronic learning module for your review. Please ensure that anyone who submits orders views the electronic learning module in advance of the implementation dates. The module may be viewed using the following link:
Learning Module
Any CM/ECF user who has designated filing agents, will need to make adjustments within CM/ECF to provide your filing agent with access to submit orders on your behalf. To assist you with this process, please follow the steps outlined in the attached document.
CMECF eOrders Process for External Users
Finally, an updated Style Guide providing revised order formatting for CM/ECF E-Orders is now posted on the Court's website. You may view the Style Guide by clicking
Here
Date Sent
04/21/2015 05:53:11 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Summons Procedures Effective April 27, 2015
Email Text
Please see the attached memorandum regarding updated summons procedures effective April 27, 2015.
Memorandum Regarding Updated Summons Procedures
Date Sent
04/17/2015 02:54:41 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: April 2015 Edition of The Court Connection
Email Text
April 2015 Edition of The Court Connection
Date Sent
04/14/2015 12:15:04 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Availability of a Bankruptcy Judge Position In The Middle District of Florida at Orlando
Email Text
The United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit seeks applications from highly qualified candidates for a fourteen-year appointment as United States Bankruptcy Judge for the District of South Dakota. The position will have its duty station in Orlando, Florida, for the first five years of the term and thereafter as determined by the Eighth and Eleventh Circuits under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Bankruptcy Judge Vacancy Pilot Program. For further details see the
Public Notice of Appointment of U.S. Bankruptcy Judge
, the
Application for United States Bankruptcy Judgeship
and the
Memorandum of Understanding regarding the Bankruptcy Judge Vacancy Pilot Program
Date Sent
04/06/2015 03:49:45 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF E-Orders Implementation Information
Email Text
We are very excited to announce the Court's transition to using CM/ECF E-Orders (E-Orders). This transition will provide a district-wide uniform way to submit proposed orders. In addition, it allows for better order tracking in CM/ECF for external and internal users, and provides a more efficient processing of orders internally. An electronic learning module is being finalized and will be shared with all CM/ECF users soon. CM/ECF e-Orders will be implemented according to the following schedule: Tampa and Fort Myers Division - May 4, 2015 Jacksonville Division - May 11, 2015 Orlando Division - May 18, 2015 Upon implementation of E-Orders, all CM/ECF users who submit proposed orders must submit proposed orders in a new format. Please mark your calendars for the implementation dates for each division and be prepared to submit proposed orders with the revised format on and after the implementation date for each division. Please update any order templates you have to be prepared for this transition. New order formatting is as follows: A three inch top margin on page one, with all other margins remaining one inch. The elimination of the date and signature lines. Except for consent orders, proposed orders should be saved to a PDF format directly from a word processing program such as Word or Word Perfect rather than scanning a printed copy of the document. Section II of the Style Guide available on the Court's website is being modified to reflect the new formatting requirements and will be posted on the Court's website at the appropriate time. Stay tuned for future email blasts providing links to the new E-Orders learning module.
Date Sent
03/10/2015 09:00:43 AM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Filing Proofs of Service
Email Text
The Court wishes to advise you that proofs of service may appear on or be affixed to the paper served or may be filed separately. It is highly advisable that when filing your proof of service separately, that the proof of service be filed directly after the paper being served to avoid the paper being denied or abated. Delays in filing the proof of service may cause the underlying paper to be reviewed and addressed absent the proof of service. Those who employ a third party service company, should consider having the underlying paper served prior to filing so that the proof of service may be filed either with, or directly after the paper being served.
Date Sent
03/09/2015 06:02:04 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Proposed Upated and New Local Rules
Email Text
The judges of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida are considering proposed amendments to the Local Rules. The proposals are posted below for public comment commencing on March 9, 2015. The public comment period ends on April 24, 2015. When promulgated by the judges, the amended and new Local Rules will become effective on July 1, 2015. Click
here
to review the proposed amendments. Click
here
to provide comments regarding the proposed amendments
Date Sent
02/20/2015 12:21:44 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF Server Maintenance
Email Text
Server maintenance on the CM/ECF server will occur on the morning of Saturday, February 21, 2015 beginning at 8 a.m. As a result, CM/ECF will be unavailable to both internal and external users from 8 a.m. until about 12 noon.
Date Sent
02/17/2015 08:48:48 AM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Reappointment of Margaret H. Murphy, U.S. Bankruptcy Judge, Nothern District of Georgia
Email Text
Please see the attached
notice concerning the reappointment of Margaret H. Murphy
, Bankruptcy Judge in the Northern District of Georgia at Atlanta.
Date Sent
02/13/2015 05:23:51 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF Event update regarding Motions to Approve a Compromise or a Settlement Agreement
Email Text
Please be advised of the following CM/ECF event change. Previously there were several variations of events to docket a Motion to Approve a Compromise or a Settlement Agreement. Those events are being consolidated into one event titled: Motion to Approve Compromise of Controversy or Settlement Agreement. It is located in both the Bankruptcy - Motions and Adversary - Motions events categories. Since this motion is on the Court's Permissive Negative Notice List the event will prompt the filer to indicate whether negative notice is included. Those filed without negative notice may be scheduled for hearing. Existing events "Motion and Notice of Compromise of Controversy" Notice of Compromise of Controversy will be disabled by close of business, Friday, March 6, 2015.
Date Sent
02/12/2015 02:07:51 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Administrative Orders Regarding Adversary Proceedings and Exhibits
Email Text
Please be reminded of the following two District Wide Administrative Orders:
Administrative Order FLMB-2014-10
Prescribing Procedures for Adversary Proceedings filed in this district after February 1, 2015
Administrative Order FLMB-2014-6
Supplementing Local Rule 9070-1 to Provide for Exhibits in Electronically Stored Format These orders may be viewed by clicking on the links above. Additionally all administrative orders, including district wide and division specific order, are available on the Court's Website.
Date Sent
02/09/2015 12:58:52 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Announcing Judgeship Position in the Southern District of Alabama- Includes the Assignment ofSubstantial Work in the Northern District of Florida
Email Text
Due to the impending retiement of United States Bankruptcy Judge William S. Shulman, the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit seeks applications from all highly qualified candidates for a fourteen-year appointment as United States Bankruptcy Judge for the Southern District of Alabama at Mobile. Although the formal duty station for this position will be Mobile, Alabama, the person appointed to fill this position should anticipate being assigned substantial work in the Northern District of Florida. Please review the announcement located at http://www.flnb.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/employment/bj_als_mobile_announcement_2015.pdf
Date Sent
01/29/2015 09:31:57 AM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Sam M. Gibbons Federal Courthouse - Power Fully Restored
Email Text
Please be advised that the power issues at the Sam M. Gibbons Federal Courthouse in Tampa have been rectified. All systems are operating as normal. We thank you for your patience.
Date Sent
01/28/2015 12:44:55 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Power Outage in the Sam M. Gibbons United States Courthouse
Email Text
Please be advised that the Sam M. Gibbons United States Courthouse in Tampa is currently experiencing a power outage to the south side of the building. Because this is affecting elevators in the building, travel between floors is very slow. If you have hearings scheduled in the Sam M. Gibbons United States Courthouse this afternoon, please allow an additional 20 to 30 minutes . Efforts are being made to remedy the issue. We will alert you with more information when it is available.
Date Sent
12/23/2014 01:42:39 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Court Closure
Email Text
Pursuant to District Wide Administrative Orders FLMB-2014-7 and FLMB 2014-8, in addition to the regularly scheduled closure on the Federal Holidays of December 25, 2014 and January 1, 2015, all Divisions of the United States Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida, will also be closed for regular business on Friday, December 26, 2014 and Friday, January 2, 2015. You may view the referenced Administrative Orders using the following link: http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/administrativeorders/search.asp
Date Sent
12/10/2014 03:47:37 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Orlando, Tampa and Fort Myers Change in Procedure on Objections to Exemptions
Email Text
This email is to alert you to a change in procedure for the Orlando, Tampa and Fort Myers divisions effective December 17, 2014. The Tampa, Orlando and Fort Myers divisions currently enter an internal form order, without a hearing, sustaining Objection to Exemptions that relates solely to the value of personal property claimed exempt. Beginning with objections filed on December 17, 2014, the Court will cease entering this internal form order. Filers of Objections to Exemptions may continue to use negative notice as provided for in the Court's Permissive Negative Notice List and should be prepared to submit proposed orders on these exemptions at the appropriate time. This change will result in uniform procedures on Objections to Exemptions throughout the district.
Date Sent
11/18/2014 12:27:06 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Bankruptcy Rules, Forms, And Fee Amendments Effective December 1, 2014
Email Text
On April 25, 2014, the Supreme Court approved amendments to the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure which will take effect on December 1, 2014. The amended rules are located at:
Several official forms will be updated to address the amended rules. A complete list of the revised forms and instructions is posted at:
At its September 2014 session, the Judicial Conference approved several changes to the appellate, district, and bankruptcy court miscellaneous fee schedules, effective December 1, 2014.
Miscellaneous Fee Schedule
Direct Appeal (Item 14): Increases the fee when a direct appeal or direct cross-appeal has been authorized from $157.00 to $207.00. Redaction (Item 21): New $25 per case fee to file a motion to redact a record. The Conference also endorsed a new exception to the reopening fee for a closed bankruptcy case (Item 11) to clarify that the reopening fee does not apply if redaction is the only purpose for reopening the case.
Date Sent
11/04/2014 12:29:56 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: e-Order Submission Process and Guidelines
Email Text
In an effort to establish a more streamlined and consistent district wide e-Order submission process, the Court is diligently working on a method for all users to upload proposed orders directly through the CM/ECF system for all Judges in the US Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida. We envision the new process to encompass uploading of proposed orders, tracking and routing mechanisms, as well as an electronic signing and docketing of orders practice. As a first step in the process, the Courts website was recently updated with revised order submission guidelines that reflect the current process and requirements. We encourage anyone who submits orders to review the updated information which is available on the Courts website and also via the following url: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/proposed_orders/ The current order submission portal is available via the Courts website and also via the following url: https://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/orders/login.asp .
Date Sent
11/03/2014 09:36:33 AM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Mortgage Modification Mediation Web Page Update
Email Text
The Court has updated its Mortgage Modification Mediation Web Page to include a sample Motion for Referral to Mortgage Modification Mediation, a sample Motion to Amend Mortgage Modification Mediation Order and the corresponding Order Granting the Motion to Amend Mortgage Modification Mediation order. The Mortgage Modification Mediation Web Page is located under Procedures on the Court's Web Page or through the following link: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/mortgage_modification/ We would like to also request that when filing motions for approval of a mortgage modification mediation agreement, that the text of the motion clearly indicate whether you are seeking approval of a temporary/trial or a permanent mortgage modification mediation agreement.
Date Sent
10/31/2014 12:12:49 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: October 2014 Edition of The Court Connection
Email Text
October 2014 Edition of The Court Connection
Date Sent
10/28/2014 08:48:29 AM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Filing Fee History Table available on the Court's Website
Email Text
Please be advised that a Filing Fee History Table was recently posted on the Court's External website. This table provides historical information on filing fees for various items from 1998 through the present. The table may also be viewed using the following link: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/court_resources/Fees/FeesTable.pdf We hope this new tool will be beneficial to you in your work.
Date Sent
10/23/2014 01:17:26 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: New Uniform Reaffirmation Agreement Procedures
Email Text
Please review the attached memorandum outlining new uniform procedures regarding
Reaffirmation Agreements
Date Sent
10/22/2014 10:35:50 AM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: View from the Bench--Registration Reminder!
Email Text
Remember to register for the Bankruptcy Law & Practice: View from the Bench seminar -- November 6 in Tampa or November 7 in Miami! Please do not rely on on-site registration as seating is limited. Note also that there is a surcharge for on-site registration. Do not respond to this email. Instead, members of The Florida Bar can register on-line at www.flabar.org. To register, you will need to: 1. Log in using your bar number and password 2. Click on the "Member Services" tab, and select the CLE link 3. Under "Upcoming Live Courses," click on "Search Calendar/Register Online" 4. Type in the city name (Tampa or Miami) 5. Select Bankruptcy Law & Practice: View from the Bench 2014 (Course Number 1801R) The seminar brochure is attached for those who prefer to register for the seminar by mail or by fax to 850-561-9413. IN ADDITION, DON'T FORGET TO SIGN UP FOR THE SOCIAL EVENTS ON THE EVENINGS BEFORE THE PRESENTATIONS! A reservation form is attached for the Tampa reception on the evening of Wednesday, November 5. NOTE THAT THE RESERVATION CUTOFF HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO MONDAY, OCTOBER 27. To register for the Miami Reception and Dinner on the evening of Thursday, November 6, go to the website for the The Bankruptcy Bar Association for the Southern District of Florida: http://www.bbasdfl.org/. Under "Upcoming Events..." select: "View From the Bench 2014."
View from the Bench Registration
VFB Reception Registration
Date Sent
10/09/2014 04:25:37 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF DOWNTIME SCHEDULED: Friday, October 10, 2014 - Monday, October 13, 2014
Email Text
Beginning this Friday, October 10, 2014 at 8:00 p.m., the CM/ECF application and all related systems will be unavailable as our court performs a necessary server migration. The system will be unavailable for filing and document viewing during the upgrade. CM/ECF is anticipated to be available again by 8:00 a.m. Monday, October 13, 2014. Every effort will be made to ensure the systems are available sooner, if possible.
Date Sent
09/22/2014 09:28:18 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Cross-Document Hyperlink Information Posted on the Court's Website
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Documents filed in CM/ECF may include hyperlinks to the text of cited authorities or to documents within the Court's CM/ECF system. To assist CM/ECF users with creating hyperlinks to documents within the CM/ECF system, a Cross-Document Hyperlink information manual is now posted on the Court's website under the Electronic Filing menu. It can also be viewed by using the following link: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/cmecf/documents/crossdoc.pdf. This document is meant to provide guidance on how to create hyperlinks to documents within the CM/ECF system only. For information on how to create hyperlinks to documents outside of the CM/ECF system, consult your word processing software's (i.e. Word or WordPerfect) help features. Please be aware that CM/ECF users who use hyperlinks within documents must continue to also use the traditional citation method for the citing authorities in addition to the hyperlink. Filers are encouraged to consult the Court's Style Guide, which is also posted on the Courts external website for further guidance on appropriate citation methods. Disclaimer: Although hyperlinks to the text of cited authorities are allowed within documents filed in the CM/ECF system, the judiciary neither endorses the product or organization at the destination, nor does the court exercise any responsibility over the content at the destination. Any and all hyperlink references to sources outside of CM/ECF are extraneous to any filed document and are not part of the Court's record. The court accepts no responsibility for the availability or functionality of any hyperlink.
Date Sent
08/25/2014 12:54:35 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Local Rules Lawyers' Advisory Committee Solicits Proposals for New or Revised Local Rules
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The Local Rules Lawyers' Advisory Committee invites interested parties, including members of the Bar and court employees, to submit their suggestions, comments, and proposals for proposed new Local Rules or revisions to our current Local Rules. Suggestions should be submitted no later than September 30, 2014. You may click the link below to submit recommendations to the committee. http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/localrules/comments-with-form.asp
Date Sent
08/13/2014 05:51:36 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: District-Wide Mortgage Modification Mediation Procedures effective August 15, 2014
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The Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida is adopting a uniform Mortgage Modification Mediation (MMM) process district-wide effective August 15, 2014. With the implementation of these procedures, MMM will be available for individual debtors in all chapters for any type of real property. Details of the MMM procedures along with the Court's new order directing MMM will be available on the Court's website and also may be viewed by clicking
here
Date Sent
08/06/2014 05:28:30 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: New Accompanying Order List and CM/ECF Event Changes
Email Text
Please review the attached
Memorandum regarding a New Accompanying Order List posted on the Court's external website and CM/ECF event updates.
Date Sent
08/06/2014 12:14:11 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: PACER - Unavailable on Sunday, August 10, 2014, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Email Text
Please be advised that PACER will be unavailable on Sunday, August 10, 2014 between the hours 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. due to system maintenance. After 1 p.m., PACER users may also experience intermittent service disruptions as any remaining issues are being resolved.
Date Sent
08/01/2014 11:14:38 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: New CM/ECF event - Notice of 2004 Examination
Email Text
In light of revised Local Rule 2004, effective July 1, 2014, a Notice of 2004 Examination event was created for use by external filers. Trustees can locate the new event in the Trustee/US Trustee event category on the Bankruptcy menu. All others can access the new event in the Notice event category, also located on the Bankruptcy menu. For your convenience, here is a link to Local Rule 2004-1 http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/localrules/rules/2004-1.pdf
Date Sent
07/21/2014 12:28:37 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: July 2014 Edition of The Court Connection
Email Text
July 2014 Edition of The Court Connection
Date Sent
07/21/2014 08:56:22 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Mortgage Modification Mediation Portal Training
Email Text
DMM, an approved portal for Mortgage Modification Mediation, will provide training via a webinar on the following dates and times (select the date and time that works best for you): July 28 at 10:00 am to 12:00 pm July 30 at 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm July 31 at 10 am to 12:00 pm Below is the link to the DMM Portal Webinar training registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/156276146458390273
Date Sent
07/07/2014 02:48:18 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Discontinued Procedure Setting Additional Time for filing Complaints Objecting to Discharge or Dischargeability and Proofs of Claim for Newly Added Creditors
Email Text
In some of our Divisions, when an amendment to schedules adding creditors was filed after or within 30 days of the deadlines for filing proofs of claim and complaints objecting to discharge or dischargeability, a notice was issued extending those deadlines 30 days from the date of the notice. To further our Court's uniformity objective and after consideration of the Code and Rules, the Court decided to no longer issue notices providing extended deadlines for newly added creditors to file proofs of claim or complaints objecting to discharge or dischargeability absent a motion by a party. Although no notice will be issued, closing of a case where a discharge was entered will not occur until 30 days after the filling of any amendment adding creditors.
Date Sent
06/27/2014 01:42:31 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Revised Permissive Use of Negative Notice List effective July 1, 2014
Email Text
Effective July 1, 2014, the Court has revised the Permissive Use of Negative Notice List. The revisions are as follows:
Added items
Applications/Motions to Pay - All chapters Motions to Reclassify Claims under - Chapter 7 Motion to Declare Debtor Current and Reinstated on Secured Claim - Chapter 7 Motion for Turnover - Chapter 11
Expanded items
Motion to Dismiss - Chapter 12 & 13 is expanded to include any Motion to Dismiss by a Chapter 12 or 13 Trustee. Motion for Turnover for Chapters 7, 12 & 13 is expanded to any Motion for Turnover as opposed to only Motions for Turnover of Property by a Trustee. The revised list will be posted on our website and may also be viewed by clicking on the following link -
Permissive Use of Negative Notice List
Date Sent
06/10/2014 05:49:38 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Papers filed on an Incorrect Case via CM/ECF
Email Text
Please be advised of a change in the Court's Corrective Entry process effective Monday, June 23, 2014. Corrective Entries are placed on court dockets to inform electronic filers and PACER users of filing or docketing errors. Some of the entries indicate when corrective action is required by the filer of the paper while others indicate when a Clerk's office correction to a docket entry occurred. Beginning on Monday, June 23, 2014, in situations where a paper is filed in an incorrect case, the Clerk's office will no longer file that paper in the correct case. It will be the responsibility of the filing party to file the paper in the correct case and no further action will be taken by the Court until the paper is filed in the correct case. The corrective entry will reflect the error and indicate that corrective action is required by the filer. Therefore is it important that you view the corrective entries received in individual activity emails. Additionally, the CM/ECF users convenience, these corrective entries are also displayed upon logging into the CM/ECF system. The attached image provides a
sample Corrective Action Required entry.
Date Sent
06/04/2014 05:11:51 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Change in Assignment of Volusia County from Jacksonville Division to Orlando Division
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The Judges of the Middle District of Florida have approved a revision to Local Rule 1071-1 Bankruptcy Court Divisions. The revision moves Volusia County from the Jacksonville Division to the Orlando Division. Amended Local Rule 1071-1 takes effect on August 1, 2014.
Click Here
to view the Amended Local Rule.
Date Sent
06/04/2014 12:34:47 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Amended Local Rules
Email Text
The Bankruptcy Judges of the Middle District of Florida have approved the following new and amended Local Rules, effective July 1, 2014. A brief summary of the revisions is set forth by clicking on the
Memorandum
link or by visiting the Court's web site at: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/localrules/amendments.htm
Date Sent
06/02/2014 06:52:26 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Attorney Noticing of Hearings - Effective June 9, 2014
Email Text
The Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will transition to attorney noticing of hearings on June 9, 2014. Under this new process, movant's attorneys will be directed in a text only docket entry to prepare, serve and docket notices of hearing within three days. The specific details on how this process will work is included in a training module which can be viewed using the following link http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/atyntc/NoticingMattersforHearingbytheAttorney-CC.swf Hearings that are not properly noticed as directed will be canceled. Therefore we strongly encourage you and your staff to view the learning module. Monitoring activity emails received from the Court's CM/ECF system will be imperative to ensure compliance with noticing directions. As an electronic filer, it is your responsibility to make sure your CM/ECF account is updated with all the email addresses to which CM/ECF activity emails should be sent. Attached is also a sample Notice of Hearing that should be used when preparing notices of hearing. This form is also posted on the Court's Website.
Sample Notice of Hearing
Date Sent
05/23/2014 10:10:34 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Announcement regarding Implementation of Attorney Noticing of Hearings
Email Text
Please be advised that beginning June 9, 2014, the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will transition to attorneys preparing, docketing and serving notices of hearing. Additional details and an Electronic Learning Module will be transmitted via email blast on June 2, 2014.
Date Sent
05/22/2014 10:06:44 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Trustee Noticing of Hearing Training Module
Email Text
Trustees, Effective May 5, 2014, the Orlando Division Clerk's office for the Middle District of Florida Bankruptcy Court transitioned to trustee noticing of hearings. Due to the high volume of inquiries, we are sending an additional eBlast and including the previously sent training module. There will be a question and answer session at the upcoming Trustee Panel Training Session on May 30, 2014. http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/trnoticing/Noticing%20Matters%20for%20Hearing%20by%20the%20Trustee%20-%20CC.swf
Date Sent
05/14/2014 03:46:54 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Invitation to Attend Meeting: Bankruptcy Judicial Liaison Committee of the Business Law Section of the Florida Bar
Email Text
Dear Electronic Filer: As you are probably aware, I am the co-chair of the Bankruptcy Judicial Liaison Committee of the Business Law Section of the Florida Bar. The Committee provides a unique forum in which to share ideas and/or comments among the bar and bench. All comments made during the Committees meetings are off the record. The Committee also fosters informal communication and sharing of ideas between the three Federal Districts within Florida. In the past, ideas proposed in the Committee have resulted in the adoption of new procedures by the bench and/or the adoption of new local rules. The reason for this e-mail is to invite you to attend the Committees next meeting on June 25, 2014 at 4:00 P.M. at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee, Florida in conjunction with the Florida Bars annual meeting. In addition, the Committee is planning a dinner following the meeting. If you wish to attend the dinner, please complete the registration form at: http://www.flabizlaw.org/images/pdf/judicialliaisondinner0614.pdf and either send it to JoAnn Shearer at the address listed therein or e-mail it to her at JShearer@flabar.org. (Please do not RSVP me for the dinner or the meeting.). Unfortunately, you will not be able to attend the dinner unless you register prior to the dinner. Finally, e-mail me at paul_hyman@flsb.uscourts.gov any matter you would like placed on our agenda prior to June 18, 2014. Please note, you must attend the meeting if you request a matter be placed on the agenda. I look forward to seeing you at the meeting. Chief Judge Paul G. Hyman, Jr. United States Bankruptcy Judge Southern District of Florida
Date Sent
05/02/2014 05:11:48 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Fort Myers and Tampa Divisions - Revised Model Plan
Email Text
As of May 1, 2014, the judges of the Tampa and Ft. Myers Divisions have approved revisions to the Chapter 13 Model Plan. The revised Model Plan must be used by all Chapter 13 debtors in cases filed on or after June 1, 2014. Paragraph 5 of the revised Model Plan provides that secured creditors who have filed proofs of claim prior to the claims bar date or within 14 days from the date of an order converting or dismissing the case, whichever date is earlier, shall have an administrative lien on plan payments paid by the debtor to the Chapter 13 Trustee prior to confirmation. The subsections of Paragraph 5 designate the treatment of secured creditors. In particular, please note Paragraph 5(G), (H) and (I) of the Model Plan. In 5(G), the debtor may elect to pay secured claims/leased claims direct to the creditor. The automatic stay and any codebtor stay are terminated in rem upon the filing of the Plan and the debtors state law contract rights are not abrogated. In 5(H), the debtor may designate secured claims that are not provided for under the plan. The automatic stay and any codebtor stay are terminated, the debtors liability to the creditor is not discharged under the plan, and the debtors state law contract rights are not abrogated. In 5(I), the debtor may elect to surrender secured/leased property. The automatic stay is terminated in rem as to the secured creditor. Revisions have also been made to the following form orders to make them consistent with the revised Model Plan: Order Establishing Duties of Debtor, etc., the Order Granting Trustees Motion to Dismiss, and the Order Governing Procedures After Conversion to Chapter 7 Click here to view the
Revised Chapter 13 Model Plan
Date Sent
04/28/2014 01:28:27 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Orlando Trustee Noticing of Hearing Discussion on April 30, 2014 Cancelled
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Trustees, The question and answer session re: Orlando Trustee Noticing that was scheduled for April 30, 2014 at 9:30 a.m. in the Clerk's Office's training room has been cancelled. Should you have any questions regarding the noticing process, please feel free to send an e-mail to trusteenoticing@flmb.uscourts.gov. Attached please find a Quick Reference Guide for your information. Thank you
Quick Reference Guide
Date Sent
04/25/2014 04:30:15 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Tampa/Fort Myers Division- Trustee Noticing of Hearings
Email Text
Trustees, Effective May 14, 2014, the Tampa and Fort Myers Division Clerk's office for the Middle District of Florida Bankruptcy Court will begin transitioning to trustee noticing of hearings. A training module (http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/trnoticing/Noticing%20Matters%20for%20Hearing%20by%20the%20Trustee%20-%20CC.swf) has been developed for your use and we encourage you to view and share with your staff and any attorneys who may file documents on your behalf. The Tampa and Fort Myers Division would like to invite you, your staff and any attorney who may file papers on your behalf to come to the Clerk's Office's training room located on the 5th floor for a question and answer session on this new process, if needed, on May 12, 2014 at 9:30 a.m. If you would like to attend this May 12th discussion, we ask that you R.S.V.P. no later than May 7, 2014 by sending an e-mail to trusteenoticing@flmb.uscourts.gov. Please include the number of attendees in your reply. In the event questions arise during the viewing of the training module, we encourage you to submit them in advance to the mentioned e-mail address. The discussion will be cancelled should there be no response.
Date Sent
04/24/2014 02:16:35 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - April 2014 Edition of The Court Connection
Email Text
April 2014 Edition of The Court Connection
Date Sent
04/21/2014 09:59:11 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: JACKSONVILLE DIVISION- Reminders for Proposed Orders
Email Text
FOR YOUR INFORMATION US BANKRUPTCY COURT BROADCAST SUMMARY Attached is a memorandum providing details of Reminders for Proposed Orders for the Jacksonville Division.
Proposed Orders
Date Sent
04/18/2014 12:45:37 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Trustee Noticing of Hearing, Training Module, and Discussion
Email Text
Trustees, Effective May 5, 2014, the Orlando Division Clerk's office for the Middle District of Florida Bankruptcy Court will begin transitioning to trustee noticing of hearings. A training module (http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/trnoticing/Noticing%20Matters%20for%20Hearing%20by%20the%20Trustee%20-%20CC.swf) has been developed for your use and we encourage you to view and share with your staff and any attorneys who may file documents on your behalf. The Orlando Division would like to invite you and your staff to come to the Clerk's Office's training room located on the 5th floor for a question and answer session on this new process, if needed, on April 30, 2014 at 9:30 a.m. If you would like to attend this April 30th discussion, we ask that you R.S.V.P. no later than April 25, 2014 by sending an e-mail to trusteenoticing@flmb.uscourts.gov. Please include the number of attendees in your reply. In the event questions arise during the viewing of the training module, we encourage you to submit them in advance to the mentioned e-mail address. The discussion will be cancelled should there be no response. Thank you.
Date Sent
04/11/2014 03:28:34 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Trustee Noticing of Hearings
Email Text
Effective April 23, 2014, the Clerk's office for the Middle District of Florida Bankruptcy Court will begin transitioning to trustee noticing of hearings. Implementation will begin in the Jacksonville Division with projected start in the Orlando Division May 5, 2014 and for the Tampa and Fort Myers Divisions, May 14, 2014. An Electronic Learning Module will be available in the near future. Additionally, training will also be conducted for Trustees and their staff in the training rooms of each division as follows: Jacksonville - April 16, 2014, at 11 a.m. Orlando -April 30, 2014 - at 9:30 a.m. Tampa - May 12, 2014 at 9:30 a.m. Further information will be sent divisionally regarding the in-house training.
Date Sent
04/10/2014 04:27:08 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Trustee Menu & Docket Text Update
Email Text
Trustees, A small adjustment has been made to the Trustee/US Trustee category events that we wish to bring to your attention. Please view
the linked PDF image here
for more information, including screenshots. Thank you.
Date Sent
04/02/2014 03:21:50 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Sample Motions and Orders to Administratively Close Individual Chapter 11 Case or to Reopen an Administratively Closed Individual Chapter 11 Case
Email Text
The Court has posted the following motions and related orders on the Procedures page of its website for use district-wide. Motions to Administratively Close Individual Chapter 11 Case Motion to Administratively Reopen Closed Individual Chapter 11 Case When filing these motions, we encourage the use of the sample motions. When submitting the related proposed orders, please ensure you use the sample orders. The Court will reject any proposed orders on Motions to Administratively Close Chapter 11 Individual Case and on Motions to Administratively Reopen Closed Chapter 11 Individual Case that are not in substantial compliance with the posted sample orders. For your convenience, here is a link to the Procedures page of the Court's website. http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/procedures/
Date Sent
03/20/2014 10:16:45 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Bankruptcy Filing Fee Increases Effective June 1, 2014
Email Text
The Judicial Conference of the United States met on March 11, 2014, and approved changes to the Bankruptcy Court Miscellaneous Fee Schedule effective June 1, 2014. A summary of those changes follow: The fee for filing a complaint increases to
$350.00
. The following administrative fees are increased to the totals noted: - For the filing of a petition under Chapter 7, 12, or 13,
$75.00
. - For the filing of a petition under Chapter 9, 11, or 15,
$550.00
. - When a motion to divide a joint case under Chapter 7, 12, or 13 is filed,
$75.00
. - When a motion to divide a joint case under Chapter 11 is filed,
$550.00
. As a consequence the increases effective June 1, 2014, the full fee for filing a - Chapter 7 will be
$335.00
Chapter 9 will be
$1,717.00
Chapter 11 will be
$1,717.00
Chapter 12 will be
$275.00
Chapter 13 will be
$310.00
Chapter 15 will be
$1,717.00
Date Sent
03/07/2014 01:45:18 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Local Rules Amendments
Email Text
The judges of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida are considering proposed amendments to the Local Rules. The proposals are posted for public comment commencing on March 5, 2014. The public comment period ends on April 18, 2014. When promulgated by the judges, the amended and new Local Rules will become effective on July 1, 2014. Click the link for more information and to view the comments submission form: http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/localrules/comments.asp An identical email was distributed yesterday, but users may have encountered issues using the link. The link in this email is fully functional. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Date Sent
03/06/2014 12:50:42 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Local Rules Amendments
Email Text
The judges of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida are considering proposed amendments to the Local Rules. The proposals are posted for public comment commencing on March 5, 2014. The public comment period ends on April 18, 2014. When promulgated by the judges, the amended and new Local Rules will become effective on July 1, 2014. Click the link for more information and to view the comments submission form:
Date Sent
03/03/2014 03:27:11 PM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Corrective Entries and the Summary of ECF Activity
Email Text
On February 3, 2014, filers accessing the CM/ECF system for the Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida began seeing a listing of corrective entries that were associated with filings made with their login since last accessing CM/ECF. As an electronic filer, you should be aware that Corrective Entries are placed on the court docket to inform electronic filers and PACER users of filing or docketing errors and, as a result, changes made to the original docket entry or pdf image. In addition to alerting you to the changes that might have occurred on the court docket, these entries are also important because they alert you to the fact that additional action may be required by your office. These entries must be acknowledged on the screen before access is provided to CM/ECF. Additionally, you will continue to see this listing so long as the items go unacknowledged. In order to better alert parties in a case when Corrective Action occurs, the Clerk's Office will begin sending individual Notices to all Electronic Noticed parties as soon as Corrective Action has been added to the case docket. Electronic parties who have requested daily summary email will continue to receive a summary email without change. This will begin Monday March 10, 2014.
Date Sent
02/19/2014 09:07:19 AM
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: RMMM Summit
Email Text
The Residential Mortgage Modification Summit will be held next Thursday, February 27, 2014, in the jury assembly room of the Federal Courthouse in Orlando. Even if you are unable to attend, you can participate in the discussion by visiting and commenting at www.mortgagemodsummit.com.
Date Sent
01/30/2014 02:21:11 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Notification of Corrective Action Entries
Email Text
Beginning Monday, February 3, 2014, filers accessing the CM/ECF system for the Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida may see a listing of corrective entries that were associated with filings made with their login since last accessing CM/ECF. If no corrective entries have been performed on documents you have filed since your last login, no listing will display. Corrective entries are placed on the court docket to inform electronic filers and PACER users of filing or docketing errors and, as a result, any changes made to the original docket entry or pdf image. There are two categories of corrective entries. The first is CORRECTIVE ACTION REQUIRED BY FILER. These entries denote specific follow-up action required by you, the filer. The second is CORRECTIVE ACTION TAKEN. These entries indicate the Clerk's Office has made the necessary corrections, however, the entry should still be reviewed for understanding of the error and changes made, in order to reduce or prevent receipt of any future corrective entries. These entries must be acknowledged on the screen before access is provided to CM/ECF. Prior to acknowledging an entry, you should review the entry to determine what corrective action was taken on the entry and to determine if further action is required on your part. To clear an entry and acknowledge the corrective action needed or taken, click on the box next to the entry and then, after acknowledging each entry, left-click the OK button in the pop-up window confirming your acknowledgment has been received. Once this process has been completed, entry into CM/ECF will proceed as normal. Filers who have questions, should contact Sara Mason at 813-301-5079 or Sara_Mason@flmb.uscourts.gov.
Date Sent
01/27/2014 11:13:06 AM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: January 2014 Edition of The Court Connection
Email Text
January 2014 Edition of The Court Connection
Date Sent
01/24/2014 10:23:21 AM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: New Court Web Site
Email Text
On Sunday, January 26, 2014, the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will proudly release a new version of the Court's web site. The web site will have a new look, design and feel. Information will be organized in a more logical manner and new categories have been added that will make it easier to navigate. If you have not already done so, please bookmark
www.flmb.uscourts.gov
on your web browser.
Date Sent
01/13/2014 04:07:13 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Trustee / US Trustee Use of Batch Filings
Email Text
On December 20, 2013, the Court issued an email blast indicating that Trustees who are assigned a login for use in their role as Trustee, or filing agents for a trustee, must only use the Trustee/US Trustee event menu in the CM/ECF System to avoid data errors. This email blast is to further clarify that
Trustees or filing agents for trustee may also use the event category "Batch Filings".
When using events in the "Batch Filings" event category, please be sure to only use those events with the leading indicator "TRUSTEE".
If you find you need an event that is not currently available, please contact the Court's HelpDesk, District_Training@flmb.uscourts.gov.
Date Sent
01/09/2014 02:12:03 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Invitation to Attend Meeting: Bankruptcy Judicial Liaison Committee of the Business Law Section of the Florida Bar
Email Text
Dear Electronic Filer: As you are probably aware, I am the co-chair of the Bankruptcy Judicial Liaison Committee of the Business Law Section of the Florida Bar. The Committee provides a unique forum in which to share ideas and/or comments among the bar and bench. All comments made during the Committees meetings are off the record. The Committee also fosters informal communication and sharing of ideas between the three Federal Districts within Florida. In the past, ideas proposed in the Committee have resulted in the adoption of new procedures by the bench and/or the adoption of new local rules. The reason for this e-mail is to invite you to attend the Committees next meeting on January 22, 2014 at 4:15 PM at the Reunion Resort & Club in Reunion, Florida. In addition, the Committee is planning a dinner following the meeting. You may find information on the dinner and how to register on the Florida Business Law Sections web site. (Please do not RSVP me for the dinner or meeting.). Unfortunately, you will not be able to attend the dinner if you do not register prior to the dinner. Finally, e-mail me at paul_hyman@flsb.uscourts.gov any matter you would like placed on the agenda prior to January 14, 2014. Please note, you must attend the meeting if you request a matter be placed on the agenda. I look forward to seeing you at the meeting. Chief Judge Paul G. Hyman, Jr.
Date Sent
01/06/2014 03:46:31 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: District-wide Procedure Consent Motions for Relief from Stay in Chapter 13 Cases
Email Text
FOR YOUR INFORMATION REVISED US BANKRUPTCY COURT BROADCAST SUMMARY Please review the attached
Memorandum Regarding Consent Motions for Relief from Stay in Chapter 13 Cases
Date Sent
01/06/2014 03:05:40 PM
Subject
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From: U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: Prematurely Submitted Orders and Rule 9006(f) Additional Time after Service by Mail
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FOR YOUR INFORMATION REVISED US BANKRUPTCY COURT BROADCAST SUMMARY Please review the attached
memorandum regarding prematurely submitted orders and rule 9006(f) additional time after service by mail
Date Sent
11/21/2013 02:59:41 PM
Subject
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From: United States Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Subject: CM/ECF HelpDesk Web Tool
Email Text
On September 25, 2013, the Court introduced a new CM/ECF HelpDesk web tool. This tool was designed to streamline the process of locating CM/ECF related information on the Court's website and ensuring requests for assistance are routed to the members of the Clerk's Office most qualified to answer.
Click here
to view the Captivate module (ELM) that covers the new HelpDesk web tool.
Date Sent
11/20/2013 05:50:58 PM
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Information from the US Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida on Amendment to Fed R Bankr P 1007(b)(7)
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Effective December 1, 2013, the amendment to Fed. R. Bankr. P 1007(b)(7) provides an individual debtor the option of having an approved personal financial management course provider notify the court directly that the debtor has completed a post-petition instructional course concerning personal financial management. The U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will allow, and encourages, approved financial management course providers to file certificates electronically through CM/ECF. Approved course provider applicants will need to submit a limited filer registration form on-line to receive a login. If agencies need multiple filing logins, each individual course provider should submit a registration form. Please visit the Court's website at: www.flmb.uscourts.gov, under News and Announcements for more information. To register, please see the CM/ECF registration link on the Court's website. Below please find information provided by the Administrative Office of the US Courts-DTS-Office of Systems Deployment and Support- October 2013
Information regarding the filing of personal financial management certificates
Date Sent
11/20/2013 02:00:07 PM
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Information from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle Florida on Filing Fee Increases and Changes effective December 1, 2013
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The content below is being resent due to formatting changes. Information from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle Florida on Filing Fee Increases and Changes effective December 1, 2013 The following actions have been taken by the Judicial Conference regarding filing fee increases and changes effective December 1, 2013. - Under the Bankruptcy Miscellaneous Fee Schedule a new fee of $176.00 has been established for the filing of motions for the sale of property free and clear of liens under 11 U.S.C. § 363(f). - The Judicial Conference increased the records retrieval fee in all federal courts by $11.00 (from $53.00 to $64.00) for the first box requested from a Federal Records Center, and created a new fee of $39.00 for each additional box requested. - Also, under the Court of Appeals Miscellaneous Fee Schedule the Conference increased the appellate filing fee (referred to as the "docketing fee" in the schedule) from $450.00 to $500.00. - Finally, the Conference amended the fee language for checks returned for insufficient funds, noting that the prior fee language - which applied only to "checks" - was outdated, as check payments have now largely been superseded by electronic payments. Please note that there is no change to the amount of this fee.
Date Sent
11/20/2013 10:25:35 AM
Subject
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Information from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle Florida on Filing Fee Increases and Changes effective December 1, 2013
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Information from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle Florida on Filing Fee Increases and Changes effective December 1, 2013
The following actions have been taken by the Judicial Conference regarding filing fee increases and changes effective December 1, 2013. - Under the Bankruptcy Miscellaneous Fee Schedule a new fee of $176.00 has been established for the filing of motions for the sale of property free and clear of liens under 11 U.S.C. § 363(f). - The Judicial Conference increased the records retrieval fee in all federal courts by $11.00 (from $53.00 to $64.00) for the first box requested from a Federal Records Center, and created a new fee of $39.00 for each additional box requested. - Also, under the Court of Appeals Miscellaneous Fee Schedule the Conference increased the appellate filing fee (referred to as the "docketing fee" in the schedule) from $450.00 to $500.00. - Finally, the Conference amended the fee language for checks returned for insufficient funds, noting that the prior fee language - which applied only to "checks" - was outdated, as check payments have now largely been superseded by electronic payments. Please note that there is no change to the amount of this fee.
Date Sent
11/12/2013 09:36:26 AM
Subject
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Email from the U.S. Bankrutpcy Court, Middle District of Florida - Orlando Division
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FOR YOUR INFORMATION US BANKRUPTCY COURT BROADCAST SUMMARY The attached notice provides information for the upcoming November 15, 2013, Brown Bag Luncheon
Reminder of the Brown Bag Luncheon on November 15, 2013, 12:00 Noon - 1:00 pm; Opening Remarks by the Honorable Arthur B. Briskman
Date Sent
11/07/2013 11:21:28 AM
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Announcement from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court Middle District of Florida
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Reminder: Invitation to Participate in Court Survey on Mortgage Modification Mediation program.
There's still time to respond to the survey on the mortgage modification programs offered by the U.S. Bankruptcy Courts in Florida. The survey will be open for your responses until December 2, 2013. If you have yet to complete the survey, please click on the link below:
In order for your response to be counted, please click
"DONE"
at the end of the survey. Reminder: The survey is anonymous and will be used to determine the effectiveness of the three Florida bankruptcy court programs and provide feedback to the respective judges and working groups in each district on what is working well and what is not, whether the court should consider adopting some provisions of another court's program and if there is a desire to have a uniform program in Florida.
Date Sent
10/31/2013 11:24:23 AM
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Email from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle Florida
Email Text
Two new Continuing Learning Education videos have been posted to the Court's web site. They are located in the CLE Attorney Credits section. >The Duties & Responsibilities of Debtor's Counsel (9/13/2013) >Professionalism at Hearings & Trials (8/27/2013) https://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/cle/index.asp
Date Sent
10/23/2013 01:33:52 PM
Subject
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US Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida- October 2013 Edition of The Court Connection
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October 2013 Edition of The Court Connection
Date Sent
10/22/2013 04:09:27 PM
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US Bankruptcy Court - Middle District of Florida - New CM/ECF event for Pro Bono Representation of the Debtor
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FOR YOUR INFORMATION US BANKRUPTCY COURT BROADCAST SUMMARY Attached is a memorandum providing details of a new CM/ECF event for Pro Bono Representation of the Debtor
Memorandum regarding CM/ECF Event for Pro Bono Representation of Debtor
Date Sent
10/18/2013 01:33:15 PM
Subject
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View from the Bench--Registration Reminder!
Email Text
Remember to register for the Bankruptcy Law & Practice: View from the Bench seminar -- November 7th in Tampa or November 8th in Miami! Please do not rely on on-site registration as seating is limited. Note also that there is a surcharge for on-site registration. Do not respond to this email. Instead, members of The Florida Bar can register on-line at www.flabar.org To register, you will need to: 1. Log in using your bar number and password 2. Click on the "CLE" link on the top menu 3. Under "Upcoming Live Courses," click on "Search Calendar/Register Online" 4. Type in the city name (Tampa or Miami) 5. Select Bankruptcy Law & Practice: View from the Bench 2013 (Course Number 1637R). The seminar brochure is attached for those who prefer to register for the seminar by mail or by fax to 850-561-9413. In addition, dont forget to sign up for the Tampa reception and the Miami reception & dinner the evenings before the presentations! A reservation form is attached for the Tampa reception on the evening of Wednesday, November 6, 2013. Note that the deadline to sign up is October 18! To register for the Miami Reception and Dinner on the evening of Thursday, November 7, 2013, go to the website for The Bankruptcy Bar Association for the Southern District of Florida: http://www.bbasdfl.org/. Under "Upcoming Events..." select: "View From the Bench 2013-Judges Dinner and Seminar."
Brochure-Final-1637-BL-13
Reception Registration Form-Tampa
Date Sent
10/16/2013 04:58:37 PM
Subject
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US Bankruptcy Court - Middle Florida - Updated Permissive Use of Negative Notice List
Email Text
Effective October 15, 2013, the Court has revised the Permissive Use of Negative Notice List to include Applications for Final Compensation in Chapter 11 cases. The updated list is available on the Court's website and may be viewed via the hyperlink below. Note that all fee applications in Chapter 11 cases must be accompanied by the Chapter 11 Fee Application Cover Page, available on the Courts website.
Permissive Use of Negative Notice List
Date Sent
10/15/2013 09:45:47 AM
Subject
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Update from Florida Middle Bankruptcy Court concerning the continuing government shutdown.
Email Text
Attached please find a memo concerning operations during the continuing shutdown. Click
here
to view the attachment in pdf format. Thank you.
Date Sent
10/10/2013 12:26:58 PM
Subject
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October Update
Email Text
Effective immediately, when a complaint is filed electronically, thus opening an adversary proceeding, the Plaintiff is responsible for inputting the name and address of the Defendant(s) so the information is reflected on the case docket. If and when an answer or other responsive pleading is filed, the Clerk's Office will update this information, if necessary. If you or your staff have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact the Clerk's Office. In April 2013, the "Chapter 13 Debtor's Certifications Regarding Domestic Support Obligations and Section 522(q)" (Official Form B283) was revised, and is available to print under the Forms link on the court's website at www.flmb.uscourts.gov. Please ensure you are using the current official form. Certifications filed on any other form will prompt a deficiency notice requiring the certification to be filed on the current official form. Thank you.
Date Sent
09/27/2013 03:28:53 PM
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Notice Regarding Possible Government Shutdown
Email Text
All, Please see the attached memo regarding Court operations, for the United States Bankruptcy Court Middle District of Florida, in the event of a government shutdown.
Notice Regarding Possible Government Shutdown
Date Sent
09/26/2013 01:21:23 PM
Subject
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Middle District of Florida United States Bankruptcy Court- Announcement Re: Update to the Court's Website Help Resources for Electronic Filers
Email Text
Effective September 25, 2013 a new online CM/ECF web help tool will replace the existing HelpDesk link available on the Court's website. This new tool was developed to streamline the resources available to our electronic filers. These automated resources consist of information compiled from several sections of the Court's website and include electronic learning modules from the Court's online training program, frequently asked questions and other CM/ECF online resources. Although an Electronic Learning Module providing detailed information on this new web tool will be available soon, we encourage you to familiarize yourself with this new feature. http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/cmecf/helpdesk/
Date Sent
09/21/2013 09:30:09 AM
Subject
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CM/ECF unavailable Sunday September 22, 2013 from 7:30am - 10:30am
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Important CM/ECF Downtime Notification:
Please be advised that CM/ECF will be unavailable on
Sunday, September 22, 2013 from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
CM/ECF will be operational for electronic filing and query access at 10:30 a.m. Thank you. FLMB
Date Sent
09/20/2013 01:51:32 PM
Subject
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Invitation to Participate in Court Survey on Mortgage Modification Mediation program
Email Text
This email is being sent again to ensure you are in receipt of the following announcement:
On behalf of the Court, I am inviting all CM/ECF registered users in the Middle District of Florida Bankruptcy Court to participate in a survey being conducted jointly by the Bankruptcy Courts of the Southern, Middle and Northern Districts, regarding each court's mortgage mitigation mediation program. The survey will be open for your responses from September 16 - December 2, 2013. We welcome your participation in the survey even if you have not yet been a participant in a mortgage mitigation mediation proceeding in this court. The survey is anonymous and will be used to determine the effectiveness of the three Florida bankruptcy court programs and provide feedback to the respective judges and working groups in each district on what is working well and what is not, whether the court should consider adopting some provisions of another court's program and if there is a desire to have a uniform program in Florida. You may access the survey from the following link:
In addition, a link to the survey has been posted on the court website: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/announcements/documents/invitation_survey.pdf Please complete the survey only once and only for one court, even if you have experience with the programs of the other two courts. The questions will allow you to provide input on your experiences in all the programs you have participated in. Thank you in advance for taking the time to complete this survey and provide valuable information to the courts to improve case administration. If you have any questions, please contact: Lee Ann Bennett Clerk of Court
Date Sent
09/16/2013 04:25:50 PM
Subject
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Invitation to Participate in Court Survey on Mortgage Modification Mediation program
Email Text
On behalf of the Court, I am inviting all CM/ECF registered users in the Middle District of Florida Bankruptcy Court to participate in a survey being conducted jointly by the Bankruptcy Courts of the Southern, Middle and Northern Districts, regarding each court's mortgage mitigation mediation program. The survey will be open for your responses from September 16 - December 2, 2013. We welcome your participation in the survey even if you have not yet been a participant in a mortgage mitigation mediation proceeding in this court. The survey is anonymous and will be used to determine the effectiveness of the three Florida bankruptcy court programs and provide feedback to the respective judges and working groups in each district on what is working well and what is not, whether the court should consider adopting some provisions of another court's program and if there is a desire to have a uniform program in Florida. You may access the survey from the following link:
In addition a link to the survey has been posted on the court website: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/announcements/documents/invitation_survey.pdf Please complete the survey only once and only for one court, even if you have experience with the programs of the other two courts. The questions will allow you to provide input on your experiences in all the programs you have participated in. Thank you in advance for taking the time to complete this survey and provide valuable information to the courts to improve case administration. If you have any questions, please contact: Lee Ann Bennett Clerk of Court
Date Sent
09/10/2013 10:46:12 AM
Subject
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US Bankruptcy Court - Middle District of Florida - District-Wide Chapter 11 Final Decree form - Effective September 1, 2013
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FOR YOUR INFORMATION REVISED US BANKRUPTCY COURT BROADCAST SUMMARY Revised to correct the link to the attached memorandum which provides information on a new District-Wide Chapter 11 Final Decree
Memorandum Regarding District-Wide Chapter 11 Final Decree
Date Sent
09/10/2013 09:09:39 AM
Subject
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US Bankruptcy Court - Middle District of Florida - District-Wide Chaper 11 Final Decree form - Effective September 1, 2013.
Email Text
FOR YOUR INFORMATION US BANKRUPTCY COURT BROADCAST SUMMARY The attached memorandum provides information on a new District-Wide Chapter 11 Final Decree Memorandum Regarding District-Wide Chapter 11 Final Decree
Date Sent
09/06/2013 01:23:45 PM
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US Bankruptcy Court - Middle District of Florida - Revised Permissive Use of Negative Notice list effective September 5, 2013
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FOR YOUR INFORMATION US BANKRUPTCY COURT BROADCAST SUMMARY Attached is the the US Bankruptcy Court - Middle District of Florida's Revised Permissive Use of Negative Notice List effective September 5, 2013. The list was revised to add Motion by Chapter 7 Trustee to Authorize Interim Distribution to Creditors and to Pay Administrative Expenses under Chapter 7 and to add Motion Objecting to Discharge pursuant to Rule 4004(a) under both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13.
Permissive Use of Negative Notice List effective September 5, 2013
Date Sent
09/04/2013 03:05:53 PM
Subject
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US Bankruptcy Court - Middle District of Florida - Orlando Division - Rule 9006(f) Additional time after service by mail - change effective September 16, 2013
Email Text
FOR YOUR INFORMATION US BANKRUPTCY COURT BROADCAST SUMMARY The attached memorandum provides information on allowing additional time for submission of Orders on Negative Notice items.
Memorandum regarding additional time for submission of Orders on Negative Notice items
Date Sent
09/04/2013 10:15:41 AM
Subject
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US Bankruptcy Court - Middle District of Florida - Tampa/Fort Myers Division Notice of Initial Confirmation Hearing Dates - change effective September 16, 2013
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FOR YOUR INFORMATION US BANKRUPTCY COURT BROADCAST SUMMARY The attached memorandum provides information on the discontinued use of a separate Notice of Initial Confirmation Hearing for Tampa / Fort Myers Chapter 13 cases.
Memorandum regarding Discontinued use of a separate Notice of Initial Confirmation Hearing
Date Sent
09/04/2013 09:40:02 AM
Subject
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US Bankruptcy Court - Middle District of Florida - District-Wide Procedure on Service of the Chapter 13 Plan Effective September 16, 2013
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FOR YOUR INFORMATION US BANKRUPTCY COURT BROADCAST SUMMARY The attached memorandum provides information on a new district-wide procedure regarding service of Chapter 13 Plans
Memorandum Regarding Service of the Chapter 13 Plan
Date Sent
08/29/2013 03:59:44 PM
Subject
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US Bankruptcy Court - Middle District of Florida - Service of Orders Issues
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FOR YOUR INFORMATION US BANKRUPTCY COURT BROADCAST SUMMARY The attached memorandum addresses service of orders issues
Service of Order Matters
Date Sent
08/26/2013 04:02:48 PM
Subject
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US Bankruptcy Court - Middle District of Florida - Revised Certificate of Notice Format
Email Text
FOR YOUR INFORMATION US BANKRUPTCY COURT BROADCAST SUMMARY The attached memorandum contains information on the revised format of the Bankruptcy Noticing Center's (BNC) Certificate of Notice format effective September 6, 2013
Memorandum regarding Revised BNC Certificate of Notice format
Date Sent
08/19/2013 12:55:53 PM
Subject
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Proposed Rule Amendments Published for Public Comment - August 15, 2013
Email Text
The Judicial Conference Advisory Committees on Bankruptcy and Civil Rules have proposed amendments to their respective rules and forms, and requested that the proposals be circulated to the bench, bar and public for comment. The proposed rules and related information are posted on the Judiciary's website at: http://www.uscourts.gov/RulesAndPoliceies/rules/proposed-amendments.aspx
Date Sent
08/15/2013 11:37:47 AM
Subject
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Invitation to Attend Meeting: Bankruptcy Judicial Liaison Committee of the Business Law Section of the Florida Bar
Email Text
Dear Electronic Filer: As you are probably aware, I am the co-chair of the Bankruptcy Judicial Liaison Committee of the Business Law Section of the Florida Bar. The Committee provides a unique forum in which to share ideas and/or comments among the bar and bench. All comments made during the Committees meetings are off the record. The Committee also fosters informal communication and sharing of ideas between the three Federal Districts within Florida. In the past, ideas proposed in the Committee have resulted in the adoption of new procedures by the bench and/or the adoption of new local rules. The reason for this e-mail is to invite you to attend the Committees next meeting on August 30, 2013 at 4:00 PM at the Boca Raton Resort in Boca Raton, Florida. E-mail me at paul_hyman@flsb.uscourts.gov any matter you would like placed on the Committees agenda prior to August 23, 2013. Please note, you must attend the meeting if you request a matter be placed on the agenda. I look forward to seeing you at the meeting. Chief Judge Paul G. Hyman, Jr.
Date Sent
08/02/2013 04:56:18 PM
Subject
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Updated website page and procedure for Transcript/ Digital Audio
Email Text
On August 1, 2013 the Florida Middle Bankruptcy Court website was updated to reflect a new procedure for requesting audio files. Please see the attached announcement.
Click here
Date Sent
07/30/2013 04:24:47 PM
Subject
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U.S. Bankruptcy Court Web Site Survey Questionaire
Email Text
The U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida is in the process of revising its web site in an effort to make it more beneficial to the viewers. All electronic filers are encouraged to take part in our brief website survey so we may make improvements to benefit our users. The received feedback is anonymous and will only be used for the purpose of making improvements to the Court web site.
Click here for the survey
Date Sent
07/22/2013 03:29:52 PM
Subject
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USBC Middle District of Florida - Filing Agent Implementation August 1, 2013
Email Text
Effective August 1, 2013, the Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will implement the filing agent tool in CM/ECF. The filing agent user was created to assist attorneys, trustees and the Office of the U.S. Trustee with input into the CM/ECF system. Some facts about the filing agent user are as follows and are further described in the attached handout: The filing agent files on behalf of an attorney or trustee. The filing agent uses his or her own login and password. The filing agent may be linked to multiple attorneys and trustees. Filing agents are not standard user types therefore; the notice of electronic filing (NEF) and docket text will only display the attorney or trustee's name as the filer, not the filing agents. Important to note is the attorney or trustee accepts full responsibility for any and all cases, documents and/or pleadings filed by the filing agent. Only the attorney or trustee has the ability to create a filing agent, edit permissions or deactivate a filing agent. An electronic learning module (ELM) was created to further demonstrate the features of the filing agent tool and is available for your use using the following link. http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/cmecf/training/filing_agents_attorneys_trustees.swf Note: Please be advised that not all functionality discussed in the ELM will mirror what you see in the Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida's database. Should you have any questions, please contact a member of the Help Desk (http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/cmecf/helpdesk.asp)
FLMB Filing Agent Guide
Date Sent
06/26/2013 02:13:12 PM
Subject
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Expense Reimbursement Guidelines | U.S. Bankruptcy Court Middle District of Florida
Email Text
To view the Expense Reimbursement Guidelines, click the link below. http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/information/documents/expense_reimbursement_guidelines.pdf
Date Sent
05/23/2013 04:54:50 PM
Subject
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Updated Form Orders
Email Text
A reminder of the updated form orders. This will help to reduce the number of rejected orders. Please review Judges' webpage for sample orders at the following link: Chief Judge Jennemann - www.flmb.uscourts.gov/orlando/jennemann/ Judge Briskman - www.flmb.uscourts.gov/orlando/briskman/ Judge Jackson - www.flmb.uscourts.gov/orlando/jackson/
Date Sent
05/23/2013 04:11:53 PM
Subject
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Updated Permissive Use of Negative Notice List
Email Text
The Court has revised the Permissive Use of Negative Notice List to include Motion to Determine Secured Status/Value Property and Motion to Determine Secured Status/Strip Lien in Chapter 11 cases and Motion to Offset Funds Filed by Trustee in Chapter 13 Cases. An updated copy of the Permissive Use of Negative Notice List may be viewed by clicking on the following link: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/negativenotice/list.pdf
Date Sent
05/23/2013 11:49:13 AM
Subject
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Service of Orders - Additional Information
Email Text
Please find below additional information regarding service of orders by attorneys and trustees.
Time frame for Service of Orders and Filing of a Proof of Service
- When directed to serve an order, service of the order and the filing of a Proof of Service should be completed within three days. This is the general rule that applies in every instance unless there is language in the order that directs otherwise. An example is a Chapter 11 Order Approving Disclosure Statement and directing the service of the Solicitation Package.
Parties who received an order via CM/ECF's Electronic Notification
- When preparing a Proof of Service, many have asked if individuals or parties who received the order via CM/ECF's electronic notification need to be listed. We suggest including those individuals but adding a notation next to their name that states: served via Electronic Delivery by Court upon the entry of the Order. Occasionally thare are situations where all recipients receive the order through CM/ECF's electronic notification. This happens most commonly in and Adversary Proceeding. In these situations, we created a new event that may be used in place of preparing an actual Proof of Service. This new event should
only
be used in situations where every recipient receives the order via CM/ECF. This new event is titled:
Electronic Service Text Entry (Text only)
It is located under the
Bankruptcy - Miscellaneous Menu
and the
Adversary - Miscellaneous Menu
Name of Attorney or Trusteee Directed to Serve an Order
- Some attorneys or submitting orders that have service language stating an attorney other than the one who filed the underlying paper is to serve the order. The problem with this is that the attorney may not be listed on the cse and we may not know who the attorney is. When preparing the order please
always
use the name of the attorney or trustee who filed the underlying paper. If someone else in your office completes the service and files the proof of service, that is acceptable.
Certificate of Service -vs- Proof of Service - Does it Matter?
- Proof of service is the preferred language to use so a non-attorney can prepare a proof of service is needed. The appropriate docket event to use is Proof of Service located in CM/ECF in the Miscellaneous cagegory under both Bankruptcy and Adversary. It is also available to Trustees in the Trustee/US Trustee event category under Bankruptcy.
Learning Modules on Service of Orders and Generating a Matrix
- There are now two learning modules available to assist with service of orders. They are 1) Generating a Mailing Matrix and 2) Service of Orders Process. Both are available on the Court's website under CM/ECF - eLearning or by clicking on the following link: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/cmecf/elearning/
Date Sent
05/14/2013 04:33:33 PM
Subject
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Proposed Amended Local Rule 9019-2 (ADR); Mediation
Email Text
The judges of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida are considering significant amendments to Local Rule 9019-2 (ADR); Mediation. The
proposed amended local rule is posted below for public comment commencing May 14, 2013. The public comment period ends on May 28, 2013. Upon final approval
by the judges, the amended local rule will be posted on June 1, 2013, with an effective date of July 1, 2013.
View the proposed amended local rule: http://www.flmb.uscourts.gov/localrules/amendments/9019-2.pdf
Access the comment submission form: http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/localrules/comments.asp
Date Sent
04/26/2013 12:51:53 PM
Subject
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NOTICE OF CHANGE IN SERVICE PROCEDURES - REMINDER
Email Text
REMINDER
NOTICE OF CHANGE IN SERVICE PROCEDURES
Effective May 1, 2013 the Clerks office of the Middle District of Florida Bankruptcy Court will no longer serve copies of orders to interested parties in a case. With very few exceptions it will be the responsibility of the Movant, the prevailing party or other party as directed by the Court ( Responsible Party) to serve copies of signed orders to interested parties and file a proof of service in compliance with Local Rules 7005-1, 7005-3, 9014-1 and 9072-1 and F.R.B.P. 2002, 5005, 7004 and 7005. Proposed Orders must include the statement Attorney [Name of submitting attorney] is directed to serve a copy of this order on interested parties and file a proof of service within 3 days of entry of the order. The docketing of the order by the Clerks office will generate a Notice of Electronic filing (NEF). Once entered on the CM/ECF docket, the Responsible Party must promptly serve a copy of the order to interested parties and file a proof of service of the order within 3 days of the entry of the order. The proof of service should be filed using the CM/ECF docket event Proof of Service and be properly related to the served order. Additional information is available by reviewing the CM/ECF Online eTraining module Service of Orders located at http://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/cmecf/training/service_of_orders_by_attorneys_and_trustees.swf
Date Sent
04/22/2013 12:32:00 PM
Subject
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The Court Connection
Email Text
Please click the link below for a copy of The Court Connection
Click here
Date Sent
04/19/2013 03:39:05 PM
Subject
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PREMATURELY SUBMITTED ORDERS
Email Text
Effective Monday, April 29, 2013, all the divisions in the Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida will no longer accept orders prior to the expiration of any response period. Previously some divisions were accepting and holding a large volume of orders prior to the expiration of the response time causing additional steps for the Clerk's office in tracking orders and disposing of unneeded orders when responses are filed. Any orders currently being held by the Clerk's office awaiting expiration of the response time will be processed. All other orders received on or after April 29, 2013 that are submitted prior to the expiration of the response time, will be rejected as premature.
Date Sent
03/28/2013 04:40:24 PM
Subject
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Revised Permissive Use of Negative Notice List
Email Text
All, The Permissive Use of Negative Notice List has been revised as of March 25, 2013 to edit the language for Objection to Exemptions and to add two new items as follows:
*Interim Applications for Compensation (Chapter 11)
*Motions to Confirm Priority of Modified Mortgage (Chapters 7 and 13)
The revised list may be viewed on our website or by clicking on the following link:
Date Sent
03/22/2013 03:48:27 PM
Subject
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Updated eOrders Submission Page
Email Text
Separate eOrders Submission Page for each judge has been replaced with one submission page for Orlando judges. Please note filers must select appropriate judge in the drop down box. Orlando eOrders Submission Page can be found at the following link: https://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/orders/login.asp
Date Sent
03/21/2013 02:49:43 PM
Subject
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Updated eOrders Submission Page
Email Text
Separate eOrders Submission Page for each judge has been replaced with one submission page for Orlando judges. Please note filers must select appropriate judge in the drop down box. Orlando eOrders Submission Page can be found at the following link: https://pacer.flmb.uscourts.gov/orders/login.asp