ORDER Regarding Procedures for Follow-Up Settlement Conference - The Court has scheduled this case for a follow-up settlement conference on March 25, 2026 at 9:30 A.M. At that time, the parties and their counsel shall report to the chambers of Magistrate Judge Mark R. Colombell. The following shall govern the progress of the follow-up settlement conference. In addition to counsel, each party must have a representative physically present with the full authority to settle this action. SEE ORDER

The court set a follow-up settlement conference for March 25, 2026, at 9:30 A.M. The parties and their counsel must appear in Magistrate Judge Mark R. Colombell's chambers.

Each party must bring a representative with full authority to settle the case. This requirement aims to ensure that settlement discussions can proceed without delay or need for further authorization. The order, signed on February 24, 2026, outlines procedures to govern the conference's progress.

It emphasizes the physical presence of authorized representatives alongside counsel to help meaningful negotiations. The case remains active, but the docket and filing details are not publicly available. Judge Colombell's involvement signals the court's intent to push the parties toward resolution through direct engagement.

The court also authorized the use of electronic devices during the conference, as noted in the attached request for authorization. This procedural step suggests the court anticipates a detailed, possibly document-intensive discussion.

The follow-up settlement conference follows earlier efforts to resolve the dispute, although those prior steps are not detailed in the public record. The court's order reflects a common practice in complex litigation where judges seek to narrow issues or end cases through settlement before trial.

The case's next phase hinges on the parties' willingness to negotiate in good faith with decision-makers present. The outcome of this conference could significantly affect the case's trajectory, potentially avoiding further litigation or trial costs.