Benefits

ECF - How It Works

Requirements

About Electronic Case Filing (ECF)

The Case Management/Electronic Case Files initiative (CM/ECF) is a project of the federal courts for the development of the next generation of case management software. Case management software enables a clerk's office to keep track of filed documents and to automate such functions as noticing, setting hearings, managing deadlines and tracking fees. CM/ECF software permits members of the public, using standard Internet technology, to view and copy pleadings and other documents in cases filed in the CM/ECF system.

What does ECF offer?

Electronic Access:
A key feature of the CM/ECF system is that it provides unprecedented access to up-to-the-second docket sheets as well as to the documents themselves over the Internet through the Court’s electronic filing web site.

Electronic Filing:
Another key feature of the CM/ECF system is that it accepts documents filed electronically over the Internet. While it is not necessary that documents be filed electronically to have them entered into the CM/ECF system, electronic filing is strongly encouraged by the Court.

Electronic Noticing:
A third key feature of the CM/ECF system is that it provides immediate e-mail notices to all counsel involved in a case whenever a document is filed. To receive electronic notice of filings, attorneys must be registered to file electronically and must have the e-mail noticing feature of their Court account turned on.

What are the Benefits?

Savings in time and expenditure for attorney, reducing costly courier services and postage.

Registered attorneys are able to file documents with the court 24 hours per day, 7 days per week

Full case information is available immediately to attorneys, parties, and the   general public through the Internet, including the ability to view the full text   of all filed documents

No waiting in line or unavailable files at courthouse.

Ease of use - based on standard Internet technology.

Substantially reduces paper handling and document processing time.

Case management information and notice of filing is transmitted to   designated case participants via email.

Requirements - What hardware and software will I need to use ECF?

Access to documents filed in the CM/ECF system you will need;

A personal computer running a standard platform such as Windows or Macintosh.

Internet access

National Registration with PACERNET

Internet Explorer 5.5 or higher browser

Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0 or higher

Filing documents into the CM/ECF system requires the following hardware & software;

A personal computer running a standard platform such as Windows or Macintosh.

Word Processor software.

PDF-conversion software such as Adobe Acrobat Standard or Professional.

Internet access.

Internet Explorer 5.5 or higher browser.

Adobe Acrobat Reader (free) to view PDF documents.

A scanner may be necessary to create electronic images of documents not on your computer.

National Registration with PACERNET for access to electronically filed cases.

Local court assigned account and password assignment to open and file cases.

 

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Training & Certification

Reference Materials