Defendant Citizens of Humanity’s motion to bifurcate discovery is DENIED.

On March 22, 2019, Plaintiff Erika Plascencia (“Plaintiff”) filed the instant employment/PAGA action against Defendant Citizens of Humanity (“Defendant”). The Complaint states nine causes of action for violations of various Labor Code provisions.

On November 18, 2019, Defendant filed the instant motion to bifurcate discovery. On January 15, 2020, Plaintiff filed an opposition. On January 22, 2020, Defendant filed a reply.

Legal Standard

CCP section 598 allows the court to order the trial of any issue before all other issues in a case where doing so would promote convenience of witnesses, the ends of justice, or the economy and efficiency of handling the litigation. Motions to bifurcate must be noticed and set for hearing so that an order for bifurcation is obtained no later than 30 days before trial. (CCP § 598.)

Discussion

Defendant requests that the Court “bifurcate” discovery per CCP section 598. This se