The Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, which have been adopted by most states in one form or another.
Rule 16 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure provides in part as follows:
(a) Purposes of a Pretrial Conference. In any action, the court may order the attorneys and any unrepresented parties to appear for one or more pretrial conferences for such purposes as:
(1) expediting disposition of the action;
(2) establishing early and continuing control so that the case will not be protracted because of lack of management;
(3) discouraging wasteful pretrial activities;
(4) improving the quality of the trial through more thorough preparation, and;
(5) facilitating settlement.
The Oklahoma General Form of Pretrial Order is a legal document that outlines the key details and procedures to be followed in a pretrial hearing in Oklahoma. This order serves as a comprehensive guide for the parties involved, including attorneys, judges, and litigants, to ensure an organized and fair pretrial process. The General Form of Pretrial Order in Oklahoma typically includes various essential aspects of the case, such as the identification of the parties involved in the litigation, a concise statement of the facts, legal issues disputed, and the claims and defenses presented. It also elucidates the contentions raised by each party, their relevant exhibits, and outlines the evidence to be presented during trial. Additionally, the order may detail any stipulations or agreements made by the parties, ensuring that all parties are aware of the boundaries and expectations set forth before proceeding to trial. It may also include provisions regarding the disclosure of expert witnesses and their respective reports. Furthermore, the Oklahoma General Form of Pretrial Order addresses crucial procedural matters, including deadlines for the completion of certain tasks, such as discovery, motions, and further pretrial conferences. The order may also establish guidelines for the presentation of evidence, witness testimony, and any restrictions on or requirements for the use of technology or demonstrative exhibits during trial. It is important to note that there might be different types or variations of the Oklahoma General Form of Pretrial Order, depending on the court or jurisdiction. However, these variations generally serve the same purpose of organizing and streamlining the pretrial process, ensuring that all parties have a clear understanding of the case's progression and the expectations to be met. In summary, the Oklahoma General Form of Pretrial Order is an integral part of the legal proceedings in Oklahoma. It aids in the efficient management of cases, helps parties prepare for trial, and promotes fairness and transparency in the legal system. Legal professionals and litigants should carefully review and comply with the specific requirements outlined in the General Form of Pretrial Order relevant to their case to ensure a smooth pretrial and trial experience.