a. Consolidating Cases: When two or more cases are consolidated, the clerk shall regard the earlier or lower numerical case number as the controlling primary number of the consolidated cases for all purposes, and all further pleadings and papers shall be filed and docketed under that number only. A copy of the minute entry or order of consolidation shall be placed in each of the consolidated cases.b. Hearing: Unless otherwise assigned by the Presiding Judge, motions to consolidate shall be heard by the judge assigned the case with the earlier or lower numerical case number.c. Assignment of Same Defendant: All cases pertaining to the same defendant shall be assigned to one division whenever possible.Adopted Aug. 30, 2017, effective 1/2/2018.