E-Filing Exhibits: Complete FAQ Guide
Electronic filing has specific requirements for exhibit format, size, and organization. This guide covers common questions about preparing exhibits for e-filing across different court systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What PDF format is required for e-filing exhibits?
Most courts require PDF/A format (archival PDF) with text-searchable content via OCR. Documents must be non-password-protected. The PDF version should be compatible with Adobe Acrobat 7.0 or higher. Avoid scanned images when possible; use native PDF conversion for better quality.
What are the file size limits for e-filed exhibits?
Limits vary by system: Federal CM/ECF allows 50MB per document, Texas eFileTexas allows 25MB per document (50MB per submission), Florida Courts E-Filing Portal allows 25MB, New York NYSCEF varies by document type. Large exhibits may need to be split into volumes.
How should I name exhibit files for e-filing?
Use clear, descriptive names without special characters. A good format is: "Exhibit_01_Contract_Agreement.pdf" or "ExA_Medical_Records.pdf". Avoid spaces and special characters (&, %, #) which can cause upload errors. Some courts have specific naming requirements in their e-filing guides.
Do I need to include bookmarks in e-filed exhibits?
California requires bookmarks per CRC 2.256(b). Many federal and state courts strongly recommend or require bookmarks for multi-page exhibits. Bookmarks help judges navigate directly to specific exhibits in large combined documents. ExhibitPrep automatically generates bookmarks when combining PDFs.
Can I e-file exhibits separately or must they be combined?
Both approaches are used. Some courts prefer combined exhibit binders with table of contents and bookmarks. Others prefer separate files for each exhibit. Check your court's e-filing guide. Combined files reduce the number of uploads; separate files allow easier individual reference.
What if my e-filed exhibit is rejected?
Common rejection reasons include: file too large, wrong PDF format, password protection, corrupted file, or improper naming. Review the rejection notice for specific issues. Fix the problem and refile promptly. Keep track of filing deadlines—rejections may require expedited corrections.
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