A grouping of formal or informal rules or regulations, adopted and implemented at a local level, that govern the practical or procedural affairs of a local court. These rules detail various procedures such as how to file and format complaints or other documents, serve process, and conduct trials. Also encompassed in the terms ‘court rules’ or ‘rules of court.’ Contrast with federal rules such as the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure or the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure. Additionally, FRCP 83 describes how federal district courts may also adopt and amend local rules.
[Last updated in June of 2020 by the Wex Definitions Team]