# Presentation: 100436

## 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.)