Judge: Martha K. Gooding, Case: 2021-01184221, Date: 2022-10-31 Tentative Ruling

1) Motion for Reconsideration

2) Appellate Review Hearing

The Motion by Defendant Coast Community College District (“Defendant”) to Renew its Prior Motion for Protective Order is GRANTED.

In light of the ruling on Defendant’s Demurrer to Plaintiff Angela Bell’s (“Plaintiff”) First Amended Complaint, (ROA 157), the Court reconsiders its ruling denying Defendant’s prior motion for discovery protective orders, (ROA 149). (Code Civ. Proc. § 1008(b).)

Although the Court declines to find that the automatic stay bars discovery relating to Plaintiff’s remaining claims (i.e., the claims that are not on appeal), the Court nevertheless exercises its authority to grant a discretionary stay on discovery pending Plaintiff’s appeal. The Court finds it is in the interests of justice to preserve the status quo, pending Plaintiff’s appeal, given that Defendant has not been able to proceed with its demurrer. (Code Civ. Proc. §§ 923, 2019.020(b).)

The Court declines to impose monetary sanctions in connection with this motion, as they are not warranted under the circumstances.

Defendant is ordered to give notice of the ruling.