E-Filing General Questions

  • The Proposed Order link is not working. How can I send the Word/WordPerfect proposed document to the Judge?

    Please double-click on “Utilities” (do not use the drop down box). The window will populate with four columns – click on the “Proposed Order” link on the right side.

  • What are the benefits and features of using CM/ECF?

    There are a number of significant benefits and features:

    • Courts can allow registered attorneys to file documents 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
    • Full case information is available immediately to attorneys, parties, and the general public through the Internet. This includes the ability to view the full text of filed documents.
    • Attorneys on the system will receive email notices electronically in CM/ECF cases. This greatly speeds delivery and eliminates the costs to both the court and attorneys of handling and mailing paper notices.
    • Multiple parties can view the same case files simultaneously.
    • Since CM/ECF uses Internet standard software, the out-of-pocket cost of participation for attorneys is typically very low.
  • Why Electronic Case Files?

    Judges, court staff, and public have the capability to access electronic docket information, case management data and legal research materials. As most documents are initially created in electronic form, the federal courts can further reduce the reliance on paper records by establishing electronic case file systems. These systems should enhance the accuracy, management and security of records, and reduce delays in the flow of information.

  • What is CM/ECF?

    In January 1996, the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts began development of the Case Management/Electronic Case Filing (CM/ECF) system. CM/ECF is a comprehensive case management system that will allow courts to maintain electronic case files and offer electronic filing over the Internet.

  • Who is responsible for redacting documents?

    The responsibility for redaction of documents rests solely with the filer of the documents, not the Court. Please refer to Local Rule 5.2-1 and Local Criminal Rule 49.1-1

  • How can I get a copy of the events dictionary?

    We apologize, but the events list is no longer available. Please utilize the CM/ECF "Search" function, which is automatically updated in real time when a new event is added or an existing event is terminated, to identify the most appropriate event.

  • Are proofs of service needed on electronically filed documents?

    Please refer to Local Rule 5-3.3. At the conclusion of the electronic filing process you will receive a screen referred to as the NEF (Notice of Electronic Filing). At the bottom of this screen the parties to the case will be listed, with a designation of which were served electronically with the NEF. Any party not served electronically with the NEF will need to be served in the traditional manner (see Local Rule 5-3.1), and proof of service on those individuals is required (see Local Rule 5-3.2).

  • Which personal data identifiers should be redacted?

    Social Security Numbers, Taxpayer identification numbers, names of minors, dates of birth, financial account numbers, home address. Please refer to the E-Government Act of 2002 with amendments in 2004 for identified personal identifiers.

  • Who developed CM/ECF?

    All software for the project was developed by the Administrative Office of The United States Courts.

  • What is the cost for using CM/ECF?

    There are no additional Court costs associated with the filing aspect of the CM/ECF system.

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