Rule 6.012 - SETTLEMENT CONFERENCE(1) Cases on the trial calendar assigned a time and a place for trial may be calendared for a settlement conference approximately 40 days before trial. The purpose of the settlement conference is to provide a forum to resolve disputes before trial through the active participation of counsel and the court.(2) At the settlement conference, the court requires the attendance of all parties and their trial attorneys. When a party is insured, a representative of the insurance company who has full authority to settle the case shall be in attendance or readily available by telephone. An out-of-state party may apply to be excused from appearing at the settlement conference by initiating a conference call to the Presiding Judge in advance of the scheduled settlement conference. The Presiding Judge or designee shall rule on the request.(3) Settlement conferences shall be held informally before a judge at a time and place provided by the Presiding Judge. The conference may be continued by the judge as part if a continuing settlement conference to another day before trial. Each case on the settlement conference calendar shall retain its place on the trial calendar. If the case does not settle at such conference, no reference shall thereafter be made to any settlement discussion had under this rule, except in subsequent settlement proceedings.(4) In the event that a settlement is not reached at the settlement conference, a judge other that the one who participated in the settlement proceeding shall be assigned to try the case.(5) In the event settlement negotiations are not successful, counsel should expect and be prepared to proceed to trial on the scheduled date. Every effort will be made by the court to insure that the case proceeds to trial as scheduled. This court will deny all request for continuance except in the case of emergency or highly unusual circumstances.(6) Unless a settlement agreement signed by all parties is filed before the time set for trial, all parties are required to appear for trial. If settled, appearance may be in person or by telephone. The terms of the settlement agreement shall be read into the record and the parties will announce their agreement with the terms of settlement.Amended effective 2/1/2024.