Whatley

discussion between the attorneys, parties, and the Magistrate Judge of every aspect of the 21 lawsuit in an effort to achieve an early resolution of the case. Counsel attending the MSC 22 are expected to have a command of the facts and applicable law. Counsel and the parties 23 must be prepared to engage in a detailed discussion of the merits of their respective cases 24 and engage in good faith settlement discussions. All discussions during the MSC are 25 informal, off the record, privileged and confidential. Counsel for any non-English 26 speaking party is responsible for arranging for the appearance of an interpreter at the 27 conference. 28 2. Full Settlement Authority Is Required: Pursuant to Local Rule 16.3.b., all parties, party representatives, including claims adjusters for insured parties, and the principal attorney(s) responsible for the litigation must participate in the MSC.1 This appearance must be made with full and unlimited authority to negotiate and enter into a binding settlement.2 In the case of a corporate entity, an authorized representative of the corporation who is not retained outside counsel must be …