Preliminary scheduling order (tensip minutes)

The preliminary scheduling order is drawn up by the court on the file after a case is opened, laying out the plan of the proceedings. It covers initial steps such as acceptance of the petition, verification of fees and cost advances, service of the pleadings on the opponent and reminders of deadlines.

The order may also fix the date of the preliminary examination hearing, list documents requested from the parties and contain interim rulings on evidence advances. Since it is accessible through electronic service and the national judiciary network, reviewing its content shows the parties exactly which step must be taken within which period.

It is not a document separately regulated by statute but a settled practice in the conduct of proceedings, so its level of detail varies among courts. Failing to observe the strict deadlines it contains can forfeit rights such as the submission of evidence.