NYSCEF Exhibit Filing Guide
NYSCEF (New York State Courts Electronic Filing) is the mandatory e-filing system for New York state courts. With a generous 100 MB file size limit and PDF/A format requirement, NYSCEF has the largest per-document limit among major jurisdictions.
NYSCEF Requirements
PDF/A Format
NYSCEF requires PDF/A specification. This archival format ensures long-term document preservation. Most PDF software can save as PDF/A.
22 NYCRR 202.5 Formatting
Documents must be 8.5x11 inches, 1-inch margins, 12-point minimum font. Foreign language exhibits require English translations with translator affidavits.
100 MB File Size Limit
NYSCEF has the largest file size limit among major jurisdictions at 100 MB per document. This accommodates large exhibit compilations.
Commercial Division Requirements
Commercial Division cases require electronic bookmarks and hyperlinks in exhibits per 22 NYCRR 202.70 Rule 28.
Accepted File Formats
- • PDF/A format required
- • 100 MB per document (largest limit)
- • 200 DPI minimum resolution
- • Text-searchable PDFs strongly recommended
Common NYSCEF Filing Issues
PDF/A Conversion Error
Save your PDF as PDF/A format before uploading. In Adobe Acrobat: File > Save As Other > Archivable PDF (PDF/A). Most PDF editors have this option.
Resolution Too Low
NYSCEF requires 200 DPI minimum. When scanning documents, set your scanner to 200 DPI or higher. ExhibitPrep preserves original document resolution.
Bookmarks Missing (Commercial Division)
Commercial Division requires PDF bookmarks for navigation. Add bookmarks using Adobe Acrobat or other PDF editing software before stamping.
File Still Too Large
Even with 100 MB limit, very large exhibits may need splitting. Compress images to reduce file size, or split into multiple exhibit files (e.g., Exhibit 1A, 1B).
🆕 New: Trial Binder Mode for Multi-Exhibit Filings
Filing multiple exhibits with NYSCEF? Use Trial Binder Mode to create court-ready exhibit books with alphabetic labels (A, B, C), per-exhibit page numbering (A1-A5), and auto-generated table of contents. Great for complex filings with numerous exhibits.
Learn about Trial Binder ModeWhy Use ExhibitPrep for NYSCEF?
ExhibitPrep ensures your exhibits meet all NYSCEF requirements before you upload.
PDF/A Compatible
ExhibitPrep exports maintain PDF/A compatibility. Your stamped exhibits remain NYSCEF-compliant.
High-Resolution Output
Preserve 200+ DPI resolution in all exports. ExhibitPrep never downsamples your original documents.
Large File Support
Process exhibits up to 100 MB without splitting. ExhibitPrep handles large files efficiently.
Commercial Division Ready
Maintains bookmarks and hyperlinks when stamping. Perfect for 22 NYCRR 202.70 compliance.
How to Prepare Exhibits for NYSCEF
Upload PDF/A exhibits to ExhibitPrep
Ensure documents are in PDF/A format before uploading. ExhibitPrep validates format compatibility.
Select New York court template
Choose plaintiff (numbers) or defendant (letters) marking per 22 NYCRR 202.34.
Add stamps and preview
Position exhibit stamps and preview. ExhibitPrep maintains PDF/A compliance and bookmarks.
Download stamped exhibits
Export PDF/A files ready for NYSCEF. Files maintain original resolution and metadata.
Upload to NYSCEF portal
Log in to NYSCEF, select your case, and upload exhibits. Each exhibit uploads as separate document.
Ready to File with NYSCEF?
Stamp your exhibits now and upload to NYSCEF in minutes.
NYSCEF Guides by Practice Area
Practice-specific filing requirements and exhibit tips for NYSCEF.
Frequently Asked Questions about NYSCEF
What is the NYSCEF file size limit?
NYSCEF allows 100 MB per document, the largest file size limit among major state court systems. This generous limit accommodates large exhibit compilations. For exhibits exceeding 100 MB, split into multiple files (Exhibit 1A, 1B, etc.).
What is PDF/A and why does NYSCEF require it?
PDF/A is an archival PDF format designed for long-term document preservation. NYSCEF requires PDF/A to ensure filed documents remain accessible for decades. Most PDF software can save as PDF/A format. ExhibitPrep maintains PDF/A compliance when exporting stamped exhibits.
Does the Commercial Division have special exhibit requirements?
Yes. Commercial Division cases under 22 NYCRR 202.70 Rule 28 require electronic bookmarks and hyperlinks in trial memoranda and exhibits. ExhibitPrep preserves existing bookmarks when adding exhibit stamps, ensuring Commercial Division compliance.
What resolution is required for NYSCEF exhibits?
NYSCEF requires 200 DPI (dots per inch) minimum resolution for all exhibits. When scanning documents, set your scanner to 200 DPI or higher. ExhibitPrep preserves the original resolution of your documents and never downsamples.
How do I mark exhibits in New York courts?
Per 22 NYCRR 202.34, plaintiffs use numbers (1, 2, 3) and defendants use letters (A, B, C). Exhibits must be pre-marked before trial, and counsel must consult to agree on exhibits offered without objection. ExhibitPrep offers templates for both marking conventions.
Official NYSCEF Portal
Access the official NYSCEF system to file your stamped exhibits.
Visit NYSCEF →