BAKER VS. SMITH, ET AL.

Tentative Rulings and Resolution Review Hearings August 17, 2026 Department 63

This Court does not follow the procedures described in Rules of Court, Rule 3.1308(a). Tentative rulings are available online no less than 12 hours in advance of the time set for hearing. Tentative rulings may be found on the court’s website (www.shasta.courts.ca.gov) and are available by clicking on the “Tentative Rulings” link under the “Online Services” tab. A QR code that links to the tentative rulings is posted outside the courtroom. A party is not required to give notice to the Court or other parties of intent to appear to present argument.

****IMPORTANT: PLEASE NOTE THAT THE COURT NO LONGER USES COURTCALL. REMOTE APPEARANCES MAY NOW BE MADE THROUGH WEBEX.**** Remote appearances through WebEx are generally permitted on the Law & Motion and Resolution Review calendars and can be made without leave of Court.

To appear through WebEx, please follow these instructions:

Call 1-(844) 517-1271 at least 10 minutes before your hearing start time. The access code is 2482 635 4223. There is no attendee ID number, so just follow verbal instructions for prompt. Once you have gained access, wait for the court to start the calendar. Please follow these instructions once a calendar is called: 1. Please mute your telephone until your case is called.

2. Please do not place the call on hold.

3. Minimize all background noise during your call.

4. Please identify yourself, each time, prior to addressing the court.

5. Disconnect when the court has completed your case or cases.

6. The court prohibits the recording of these proceedings.

****************************************************************************************** 8:30 a.m. – Law & Motion ****************************************************************************************** BAKER VS. SMITH, ET AL. CASE NUMBER: 26CV-0209620 Tentative Ruling on Motion to be Relieved as Counsel: John Hardy of Wade Litigation, APC moves to be relieved as counsel for Defendant Master Blend, LLC. CRC Rule 3.1362 provides the requirements for a motion to be relieved as counsel. In particular, CRC 3.1362 requires the use of specific mandatory Judicial Council forms for the Notice and Motion (MC-051) and Supporting Declaration (MC-052).

Both forms and the proposed Order (MC-053) must be served on the client and all parties who have appeared in the case at either the current address or the last known address that has been confirmed within thirty days. CRC 3.1362(d). While the proof of service filed in this matter indicates service of the three necessary documents, service is untimely. Service by mail within California on July 23, 2026 does provide adequate notice for an August 17, 2026 hearing date. CCP § 1005(b). Without timely notice, the motion is DENIED without prejudice.

The Court is unable to modify the proposed Order submitted. Defendant Master Blend, LLC’s counsel is to provide an Order.

The Court notes that Substitutions of Attorney were recently filed for other Defendants/Cross-Complainants who 1