Ma v. United Rentals, Inc.

Background

Chen Chao Ma brought this case against United Rentals (North America), Inc., and Troy Rankins. On April 11, 2023, the parties appeared for an initial case-management conference. After reviewing the pleadings and consulting with the parties, Judge Katharine H. Parker entered a scheduling order under Rule 16 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.

Scheduling Order

The parties could amend the pleadings or add parties through April 28, 2023. After that date, further amendments or additions were not allowed absent good cause.

The deadline to complete fact discovery was October 1, 2023. Each side was limited to five depositions. The parties were directed to follow the court’s individual procedures for resolving discovery disputes.

The order required counsel to comply with Rules 1 and 26(b)(1) during discovery. It also addressed document requests and objections, emphasizing that broad requests for all documents on a general topic are presumptively improper and that objections must explain their grounds and identify whether responsive material is being withheld. The order noted that failing to comply with these requirements can result in serious consequences, including waiver of objections other than privilege objections.

The parties had to file a joint status letter about their discovery progress by June 12, 2023.

Disposition

Judge Katharine H. Parker entered a scheduling order governing the case. The opinion does not decide the parties’ underlying claims or defenses.