United States District Court for the District of Utah

• Welcome to ECF Attorney Training.

• Please make sure you have picked up all materials located at the front of the room.

• Choose a computer and get comfortable.

• We will begin shortly.

This seminar provides attorneys and their staff with the knowledge needed to file on the electronic filing

system. Topics we will cover today include:

• How to prepare documents for electronic filing• How to file documents electronically• How to retrieve electronically filed documents• How to receive electronic notice of filings• What to do with material that can not be filed

electronically• What to do if you have difficulties filing electronically• Legal issues including: electronic signatures, noticing

and retention of original documents and system requirements

What is CM/ECF?• Internet-based document filing system• User-friendly• Allows attorneys to electronically file pleadings

with the Court• Electronic filings are immediately placed on the

Court’s official docket sheet• Electronic notification of all filings• Any modern PC with Internet access and web

browser software can access CM/ECF

What are the benefits of CM/ECF?

• Electronic access to case files via the Internet 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

• Automatic e-mail notification of case activity.

• Reduction in mail, courier and copy fees.

• Fewer “last minute” trips to the Court.

Review of Packet Contents (brought with you)

• Administrative Procedures Civil and Criminal– Log-in and password are the first part of the attorney

signature. (pg 3 #1)– Documents signed with an “/s/attorney name” or electronic

image of the attorney’s signature is considered an original for purposes of FRCP 11.

– When filing in paper courtesy copies must be provided (pg. 7 #2&3)

– Courtesy copies must be provided when filing dispositive motions and memoranda with exhibits more than 10 pages or when requested by the judge.

– Please note there are many documents required to be filed on paper.

Review of Packet Contents (brought with you)

– Page 9 - Chambers e-mail addresses

– Page 10 - The Court will continue to docket pleadings that add parties. E-mail in PDF format to Utdecf_clerk@utd.uscourts.gov

– Page 11 - The three day mailing rule will apply whenever a document or pleading is served electronically

Review of Packet Contents (brought with you)

• User Manual– Help Desk contact information (p. 4)– System requirements (p. 5)– What is a PDF and why are we using them?

• PDF stands for Portable Document Format

• It is an easily viewable and shareable document that preserves the appearance and formatting of the original document

PACER - you must have a PACER account to access any case dockets or documents

Review of Packet Contents (brought with you)

– E-mail addresses for new civil cases (p. 17)• E-mail Complaint and Civil Cover Sheet and

summons in PDF format. Remember to include phone number.

• Clerk will call for credit card number

• You will receive e-mail notice when case is open

• Summons will be printed, issued and mailed to you

Review of Packet Contents (we provided)

• CM/ECF Assistance Quick List

• Civil and Criminal Events Lists

• Attorney Issues– Notice of Appeal

– No combination documents

– Docket pleadings in proper order

– Docket in correct case - or main case in consolidated

– Terming Deadlines

– Extra text

– Filing paper documents with the Court

– Sealed Motion vs. Motion to Seal - Make sure wording is clear on document as to whether it is sealed or is requesting to seal another document

Review of Packet Contents (we provided)

• Privacy Policy - Attorney is responsible for redacting - No minors names, financial account numbers, home addresses or SSN - file motion to seal if necessary. Also use caution when filing any documents listed on second page.

• Top 10 E-Filer Problems

• Documents Not E-Filed

• Scanning Tips - DO NOT USE OCR OR TEXTBRIDGE

• CM/ECF E-Filers Checklist

• Registration Form

Registration Process• Must be active and paid member of the Utah federal

court

• Must meet training requirements - this class is one of those

• Submit Registration Form with original signature to the Court

• Court will mail user name and password to you

• Password is randomly generated and can be changed by contacting the Court

• By registering you are consenting to only receive notice via e-mail (see first bullet point on registration form.)