A court filing system is designed to expedite the process of filing, receiving, and reviewing documents and orders in court. Electronic filing has many benefits, including reduced costs, less waste, and enhanced accuracy. Electronic filing is also beneficial to the environment because it eliminates the need to print and distribute documents. However, transitioning to an electronic filing system presents many technical and financial challenges. These obstacles can be minimized by following some basic guidelines.
“Document” is defined in the Rules of Civil Procedure as any written matter filed with the court. This includes pleadings, motions, briefs, applications, and exhibits. Conventionally, the term means providing paper copies of the documents to parties and witnesses. However, several courts have implemented mandatory e-filing, which means that all attorneys and self-represented litigants must file their papers electronically.
In addition to eliminating paper, e-filing saves space. E-filing is most commonly used in criminal cases and Tax Division cases. An e-filing system allows multiple documents to be submitted once in one case. However, since e-filing is not required for other case types, you will still need to print and file copies of your documents.
For example, when filing a petition for judicial review, the court may require a working copy of the document. Therefore, unless otherwise specified by the court, all documents filed with a court should be in PDF format. You can create PDF documents using a word processing program or a free online tool. Moreover, you can scan exhibits separately and submit them as a PDF.
The National Center for State Courts published Standards for Electronic Filing Processes. XML-based standards are not legally binding, but they support electronic court filing system. Additionally, XML-based standards are not a definitive guide to electronic filing. Instead, they define standards and best practices and are a key source of documentation for the courts.
A Confirmation Notice is a type of electronic notice that indicates that a document was e-filed. Generally, it is sent to the e-mail address of the registered user. It also allows the court personnel to confirm that the document was e-filed. The E-Filing System will notify the Registered User if the document is not accepted. When a document is successfully transmitted, the e-mail will contain a hyperlink to the document.
Although the e-filing process is not necessarily the most accurate way to submit a document to a court, it is important. Several states have introduced e-filing, and more are on the way. In addition, some courts have mandated e-filing, while others have taken a permissive approach.