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Case Processing FAQs

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General ECF Questions
Civil Case Processing
Criminal Case Processing

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General ECF Questions

 

Is there a size limit for PDF documents filed on CM/ECF?

  • The size limit for a PDF filed on CM/ECF is 50.0 MB per file. A document over 50.0 MB must be divided into separate files.

 

How can I get a copy of the events dictionary in CM/ECF?

  • The events list is located here. 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. Limit your search to one word such as disclosure or response, otherwise CM/ECF will not return any search results.

 

How do I file a Sealed Document?

  • If any party intends to file a document under seal, the document should be submitted only in PDF format to ECF_Documents@paed.uscourts.gov. Both the document and the email should be clearly marked with the notation “Filed Under Seal”. Please Note: All criminal sealed filings require a proposed sealing order or motion.

 

Civil Case Processing

 

What do I do if I filed the wrong document?

  • If a document is filed in error you may re-file the corrected document as soon as possible. You can make a courtesy phone call to Quality Control, https://www.paed.uscourts.gov/case-processing-questions, or send an e-mail to the Case Administration department: paed_clerksoffice@paed.uscourts.gov. The department will make a notation in the entry of the incorrect filling and direct viewers to the corrected filing.
    If the document you filed in error should be removed from CM/ECF or replaced, the filing party needs to speak to chambers to obtain their approval for the removal or replacement. Please contact chambers in this instance, and when you receive approval for removal or replacement you should then contact the Quality Control clerk assigned to your case. You may send them an e-mail detailing the situation and confirming that chambers is okay with removal/replacement. Please include the replacement .pdf if you are replacing instead of removing. The Quality Control clerk will complete the change.

 

I was bounced out of CM/ECF before paying for my complaint or notice of removal. What do I do?

  • Since you have already opened a case by this point, log back into CM/ECF and go to Complaints and Other Initiating Documents. Choose Complaint (Attorney) or Notice of Removal (Attorney), enter the case number you were given and proceed from there.

 

What if I forgot to attach state court pleadings to my notice of removal when I docketed the lead event?

  • You should immediately file the state court pleadings using the Notice (Other) event.

 

How can I get a copy of the list of events in CM/ECF?

  • 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. Limit your search to one word such as disclosure or response, otherwise CM/ECF will not return any search results.

 

Is there a fee to file an Amended Complaint or an Amended Notice of Removal?

  • There are no fees to amend.

 

How do I know if my electronic filing was successful?

  • The last screen you see when you electronically file a document is a copy of the Notice of Electronic Filing (NEF). If you see the NEF, you know that your filing was successful. Another way to verify your filing is to view a copy of the case docket. However, if you do this, PACER fees may be incurred.

 

Why can’t I view the .pdf for a Minute Entry?

  • Minute Entries are restricted events. It’s an internal document only viewable by the court.

 

How do I view other restricted documents?

  • Most other restricted documents are viewable by case participants only. When you receive a Notice of Electronic Filing for a restricted document you should first log into PACER in your browser, then click on the document number hyperlink in the Notice of Electronic Filing. PACER and CM/ECF will sync and verify you are authorized to view the document, then you will be given regular access to view the .pdf.

 

How do I file a Sealed Document in a Civil case?

  • If any party intends to file a document under seal, the document should be submitted only in PDF format to ECF_Documents@paed.uscourts.gov. Both the document and the email should be clearly marked with the notation “Filed Under Seal”.

 

How do I get a summons issued?

  • The Clerk’s Office will prepare and issue summons. An electronic version of the document will be emailed to counsel or a pro se litigant. To obtain a second summons if the first attempt at service was unsuccessful, file a Praecipe to Issue Alias Summons, naming the defendants.

 

Criminal Case Processing

 

How do I file a Sealed Document in a Criminal case?

  • If any party intends to file a document under seal, the document should be submitted only in PDF format to ECF_Documents@paed.uscourts.gov. Both the document and the email should be clearly marked with the notation “Filed Under Seal”. All criminal sealed filings require a proposed sealing order or motion.