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Setting a date for trial is typically done at the Case Management Conference, but may done "at any other proceeding at which the case is set for trial." California Rule of Court 3.729 specifies the factors to be considered in setting the trial date.
Resolving discovery issues, and setting a discovery schedule, are usually done when parties meet and confer no later than 30 days before the case management conference. Parties can meet and confer in person or by telephone. See California Rule of Court 3.724 for specific details regarding the duty to meet and confer.
An informal discovery request may be made by either party, or the court's own motion, to discuss discovery disputes not resolved during the Discovery Conference. See California Code of Civil Procedure §2016.080.
San Diego County Superior Court Rule 2.1.15 states, "A trial readiness conference generally will be scheduled for four weeks before the trial date." The trial readiness conference is an opportunity for the parties to attempt to resolve the case, or at least limit the issues for trial. If the case cannot be completely resolved, all parties must prepare and sign a Joint Trial Readiness Conference Report. The report must be in the format specified by San Diego County Superior Court form CIV-252. Be sure to read the entire rule for other important requirements and consequences for failure to follow the instructions.
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In addition to the lawsuit conferences discussed here, there are other conferences parties to a lawsuit may be required, or asked, to participate in. These conferences can include: