E-Filing
Electronic submission of legal documents to courts through online portals. Often requires specific file formats and exhibit naming conventions.
What You Need to Know
E-filing systems allow attorneys to submit pleadings, motions, and exhibits electronically 24/7, receiving instant confirmation and docket entries. Federal courts use CM/ECF (Case Management/Electronic Case Files). State courts use various vendors like Tyler Technologies and File & ServeXpress. E-filing rules require: PDF format for all documents, text-searchable PDFs (OCR), exhibits filed as attachments, bookmarks for documents over 50 pages, /s/ typed signatures, and redaction of confidential information.
Legal References
- Federal Rules of Civil Procedure 5.2 - Privacy protection for filings
- Federal Rules of Civil Procedure 5(d)(3) - Electronic filing
Relevant Practice Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I e-file exhibits with my motion?
E-filing exhibits: (1) save each exhibit as a separate PDF file named "Exhibit A.pdf," (2) ensure OCR text-searchability, (3) add bookmarks if over 50 pages, (4) attach exhibits in order to the main document during upload, (5) select appropriate filing code (e.g., "Motion with Exhibits"), and (6) verify attachments uploaded correctly. Some courts limit total file size to 25-35 MB; split large filings if needed.
Are e-filed documents considered timely if filed before midnight?
Generally yes. Federal courts allow e-filing until 11:59 PM local time of the court where the case is pending. State court rules vary—some use 11:59 PM court time, others use 5:00 PM business hours cutoff. Check local rules. If the e-filing system is down, most courts allow paper filing the next business day with proof of attempted e-filing.
Do I need to redact confidential information before e-filing?
Yes. You must redact per Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 5.2: Social Security numbers (show last 4 digits only), tax ID numbers, dates of birth (show year only), financial account numbers, names of minor children (use initials), and other sensitive personal information. Failure to redact may result in public disclosure of private information and potential sanctions.
When It's Used
Mandatory in many state and federal courts
Example
"Uploading a motion and exhibits through the court's case management system with files named "Exhibit_A.pdf", "Exhibit_B.pdf"."
Related Terms
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