The Pathway Case Management consists of Zoom hearings with the Judicial Case Manager. The idea behind these is to try and help resolve cases quicker and more efficiently, particularly, for self-represented litigants. Originally, it started for my practice more in Plymouth County, I believe it also was in Barnstable. Now it is in Bristol County and most Counties as well.
It is a recorded Zoom meeting. It is to try and see if the parties can resolve any matters completely and if they can, then a Stipulation can be written up and the Judge can administratively allow that Stipulation. Other times, it is to work to narrow down some issues or to get a period about scheduling a Pretrial, other matters, or a Partial Stipulation. Some of the time it can be brief and not effective; other times even in cases that seem to be litigious the parties can resolve the matter. The Assistant Judicial Case Manager has the authority to draft the Stipulation for signatures and approve the Stipulation administratively. Usually, the parties would not have to appear before the court. Further, if the parties cannot reach an agreement, the Assistant Judicial Case Manager may issue an Order for either a further Pathways Hearing or schedule it for a Pretrial Conference with the assigned Judge.
Usually, the parties need to have updated financial statements and a Case Management Report provided to the Assistant Judicial Case Manager and the other party ahead of that court date.