Last revised (Transmittal 10-036) February 8, 2023

Guide to Judiciary Policy

Vol. 10: Public Access and Records

Ch. 6: Records Management

Appx. 6B: Records Disposition Schedule 2

This schedule covers the disposition of the records of the United States district courts, 

bankruptcy courts, territorial district courts, Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation, U.S. 

Court of Federal Claims and predecessor courts, U.S. Court of International Trade, and 

the Special Court, Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973.

This schedule has been approved by the Judicial Conference of the United States and 

the Archivist of the United States and is mandatory. It applies to existing records of 

these courts, councils, and conferences, except the personal files of judges. The 

Archivist of the United States retains the authority to accession, as part of the National 

Archives and Records Administration (NARA), any records having historical or other 

value upon the expiration of the retention period specified in this schedule. See: 

44 U.S.C. chapter 21. Selection criteria for historical preservation will be developed and 

revised by NARA in consultation with court officials and other historical and academic 

parties.

To the extent that the retention period specified in this schedule may vary from any 

statutory provision, the longer period of retention, whether in the statute or in the 

schedule, applies. Records of historical value are designated “Permanent” in this 

schedule. Court officials should also consult the General Records Schedule (GRS)

issued by NARA for the appropriate retention periods for general/other non-case file 

administrative records that are not addressed in the following schedule.

The Federal Records Centers (FRC) are facilities operated by NARA for the storage 

and servicing of records of federal agencies pending their disposal or permanent 

transfer to NARA. Court records stored in FRCs remain in the legal custody of the 

judiciary. Once court records are transferred to NARA, they are in the Archivist’s legal 

custody. Temporary records with a disposition of five years or less should be stored at 

the courthouse.

The term “correspondence” as used in this schedule includes email. Email whose 

retention is required for more than three years under this schedule must be stored in a 

system outside the email program that is subject to records management requirements 

for the mandated retention period. When the retention period is three years or less, 

email may be retained inside the email program. The email system only serves as a 

recordkeeping system for general correspondence and email records that must be 

retained for three years or less from the date of creation. Email records that do not 

meet this criterion should be retained outside the email system.
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 2

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

A. CASE RECORDS. All records resulting from the docketing 

and processing of a case in a court that relate to that 

particular case.

1. Expunged records. Temporary. Destroy upon entry 

of court order of expunction.

(N1-021-86-1, Item A1)

2. Sealed records. Those case records that have been 

sealed by court order while such court order is in effect.

a. Records sealed for protection of the defendant under 

18 U.S.C. § 5038 or 21 U.S.C. § 844(b) [repealed].

Temporary. Destroy as directed 

by the court. Do not transfer to 

an FRC.

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0001)

b. Other temporarily sealed records. Maintain and transfer to an FRC 

consistent with retention period 

for related case file. For sealed 

records later determined to be 

permanently sealed, FRCs will 

apply the instructions in Item c.

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0026)

c. Permanently sealed records. Maintain at the court location in 

a separate file from the related 

case file. When the order

sealing the records is vacated by 

the court, dispose of consistent

with the relevant provisions of 

this schedule for the related 

case file. Permanently sealed 

records belonging to a case 

classified as temporary may be 

disposed of when the parent 

case file is eligible for 

destruction, even if the seal has 

not been vacated.

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0026)

3. Docket sheets.

a. Dockets of U.S. commissioners in petty offense cases. Temporary. Cut off annually at 

end of calendar year in which 
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 3

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

case closes. Destroy 5 years 

after final action.

Note: U.S. Commissioners were 

replaced by U.S. Magistrates in 

1969-1970

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0013)

b. All other docket sheets. Permanent. Transfer to NARA 

when 25 years old. Machine 

readable tapes of dockets are to 

be transferred to NARA with 

complete documentation when 

cases are closed, and the 

records become inactive.

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0014)

4. Case indices. Permanent. Transfer to NARA 

when 25 years old. Machine 

readable tapes of indices are to 

be transferred to NARA with 

complete documentation when 

cases are closed, and the 

records become inactive.

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0015)

5. Judgment and order books. Permanent. Cut off annually at 

end of calendar year. Transfer to 

NARA 25 years after cutoff.

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0016)

6. Non-electronic criminal case files, including 

transcripts and minutes.

a. Case files dated 1969 or earlier. Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 15 years after close of 

case.

(N1-021-11-1, Item 6a)

b. Case files dated 1970 or later that were terminated 

during or after trial.

Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 15 years after close of 

case.
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 4

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

(N1-021-11-1, Item 6b)

c. Non-trial criminal cases relating to treason and national 

security, including the following offense codes: 9740, 

9751, 9752, 9753, 9754, 9755, 9770, 9780, 9790, 

9791; or to embezzlement, fraud, or bribery by a public 

official, including offense codes 4350 and 7100.

Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 15 years after close of 

case.

(N1-021-11-1, Item 6e1)

d. Non-trial cases resulting in death penalty. Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 30 years after close of 

case.

(DAA-0021-2013-0005-0004)

e. Any criminal case file determined by court officials or 

NARA to have historical value.

Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 15 years after close of 

case.

(N1-021-11-1, Item 6c)

f. Non-trial criminal cases that:

(1) Result in sentences of 15 years or less (other than 

those selected as permanent in sections a–d above).

Temporary. Destroy 15 years 

after close of case.

(DAA-0021-2013-0005-0006)

(2) Result in sentences between 15 and 30 years (other 

than those selected as permanent in sections a–d 

above).

Temporary. Destroy 30 years 

after close of case.

(DAA-0021-2013-0005-0007) 

(3) Result in life sentences (other than those selected as 

permanent in sections a–d above) or sentences 

longer than 30 years.

Temporary. Destroy 75 years 

after close of case.

(DAA-0021-2013-0005-0008) 

g. Misdemeanor and petty offense proceedings conducted 

by U.S. magistrate judges in cases not assigned a 

district court docket number. (Note: As used in this 

schedule, the term misdemeanor includes minor 

offenses before the Federal Magistrates Act of 1979.)

Temporary. Destroy 5 years 

after close of case.

(N1-021-11-1, Item 6d)

h. All other case files not included above. Temporary. Destroy 15 years 

after close of case.

(N1-021-11-1, Item 6g)

7. Non-electronic civil case files, including transcripts 

and minutes.
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 5

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

a. Domestic relations, adoption, mental incompetency, 

and probate files of the District of Columbia as defined 

in Pub. L. No. 91-358, and similar case files maintained 

by territorial district courts.

Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 15 years after close of 

case.

(DAA-021-2013-0007-0001)

b. Other civil case files.

(1) Case files dated 1969 or earlier. Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 15 years after close of 

case.

(N1-021-10-2, Item 7b (1))

(2) Case files dated 1970 or later that are multi-district 

litigations, class actions, or go to trial.

Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 15 years after close of 

case.

(N1-021-10-2, Item 7b (2))

(3) Civil cases with the following nature of suit codes:

192 (State Fair Trade Act); 210 (Land 

Condemnation); 310 (Airplane); 315 (Airplane 

Product Liability); 371 (Truth-in-Lending); 400 (State 

Reapportionment); 410 (Anti-Trust); 430 (Banks and 

Banking); 440 (Civil Rights – Other); 441 (Civil Rights 

Voting Cases); 460 (Deportation); 461 (Deportation 

Review); 463 (Habeas Corpus – Alien Detainee); 

470 (RICO); 535 (Prisoner Petition – Death Penalty);

710 (Fair Labor Standards Act); 730 (Labor 

Management Reporting and Disclosure Act);

740 (Railway Labor Act); 810 (Selective Service Act); 

830 (Patent Cases); 862 (Black Lung); 880 (Review 

of Enforcement); 890 (Other Statutory Act); n 

892 (Economic Stabilization Act); 

893 (Environmental Matters); 894 (Energy Allocation 

Act); 900 (Appeal Fee Determination); 910 (Domestic 

Relations); 930 (Probate); 950 (Constitutionally of 

State Statutes); 970 (Narcotic Addict Rehabilitation).

Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 15 years after close of 

case.

(N1-021-10-2, Item 7b (3)) 

(4) Civil cases that progress to or past the “issue joined” 

stage before closing with the following nature of suit 

codes:

160 (Stockholder Suits); 191 (Employee Relations); 

220 (Foreclosure); 240 (Torts to Land); 245 (Torts 

Product Liability – Real Property); 360 (Other 

Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 15 years after close of 

case.

(DAA-0021-2019-0004-0001)
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 6

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

Personal Injury); 362 (Medical Malpractice); 

365 (Personal Injury – Product Liability); 367 (TortsPersonal Injury-Health Care/Pharmaceutical 

Personal Injury/Product Liability);368 (Asbestos); 

370 (Fraud); 442 (Civil Rights – Employment); 

443 (Civil Rights – Housing/Accommodations); 

444 (Civil Rights – Welfare); 445 (Americans with 

Disabilities Act – Employment); 446 (Americans with 

Disabilities Act – Other); 448 (Civil RightsEducation); 462 (Naturalization Application); 

465 (Other Immigration Action); 480 (Consumer 

Credit); 490 (Cable/Satellite TC); 510 (Motions to 

Vacate Sentence); 530 (Prisoner Habeas Corpus); 

540 (Prisoner Petitions – Mandamus); 550 (Civil 

Rights); 555 (Prison Conditions); 560 (Prisoner 

Petitions-Civil Detainee-Conditions of Confinement);

610 (Agricultural Penalty); 820 (Copyright); 

850 (Securities and Exchange Commission); 

891 (Agricultural Acts); 895 (FOIA); 899

(Administrative Procedure Act).

(5) Any civil case file determined by court officials or 

NARA to have historical value.

Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 15 years after close of 

case.

(N1-021-10-2, Item 7b (5))

(6) All other case files not included above.

100 (Admiralty); 110 (Insurance); 

120 (Marine (Contract); 130 (Miller Act);

140 (Negotiable Instrument); 150 (Recovery of 

Overpayment and Enforcement of Judgment); 

151 (Recovery of Overpayment of Medicare); 

152 (Student Loans); 153 (Veteran’s Benefits); 

190 (Other Contracts); 193 (Hospital Care Act); 

195 (Contract Product Liability); 196 (Franchise);

230 (Rent, Lease, Ejectment); 290 (All Other Real 

Property); 320 (Assault, Liable, and Slander); 

330 (Federal Employers Liability); 340 (Marine 

Personal Injury); 345 (Marine Products Liability); 

350 (Motor Vehicle); 355 (Motor Vehicle Product 

Liability); 361 (Workmen’s Compensation); 375

(False Claims Act); 380 (Other Personal Property 

Damage); 385 (Property Damage Product Liability);

420 (Bankruptcy Trustee); 421 (Bankruptcy 

Temporary. Destroy 15 years 

after close of case.

(N1-021-10-2, Item 7b (6))
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 7

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

Transfer); 422 (Bankruptcy Appeal); 423 (Bankruptcy 

Withdrawal); 450 (Commerce); 625 (Drug-Related 

Seizure of Property); 630 (Liquor Laws); 

640 (Railroad and Truck); 650 (Airline Regulations); 

660 (Occupational Safety and Health); 690 (Other 

Forfeiture and Penalty Act); 720 (Labor-Management 

Relations); 750 (Welfare Pension Plan Disclosure); 

751 (Family and Medical Leave Act); 790 (Other 

Labor Litigations); 791 (Employment Retirement 

Income Security Act); 840 (Trademark); 860 (Social 

Security); 861 (Social Security Health Insurance); 

863 (Social Security Disability Insurance); 

864 (Social Security Supplemental Security Income);

865 (Social Security Retirement and Survivors’ 

Benefits); 870 (Taxes); 871 (IRS Third Party); 

875 (Customer Challenge); 896 (Other StatutesArbitration); 920 (Insanity); 940 (Substitute Trustee); 

990 (Other); 992 (Local Jurisdictional Appeal).

8. Case files of the former Court of Claims. The Federal 

Courts Improvement Act of 1982 transferred jurisdiction 

of trial cases to the U.S. Claims Court (later renamed the 

U.S. Court of Federal Claims) and jurisdiction of appeal 

cases to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal 

Circuit.

Permanent. Transfer to NARA 

when 25 years old.

(N1-021-86-1, Item A8)

9. Case files of the United States Court of International 

Trade. (Having nationwide jurisdiction over civil actions 

arising out of the customs and international trade law of 

the United States under 28 U.S.C. §§ 251-258, 1581-

1585, and 2631-2647). Case files dealing with 

antidumping, countervailing duties, trade adjustment 

assistance, and other trade and customs-related civil 

actions. 

a. Case files with public versions of slip opinions, trial 

case files, or case files determined by court officials or 

NARA to have historical value.

Permanent. Cutoff when 

decision is issued. Transfer 

paper records to NARA 30 years 

after cutoff. 

(DAA-0321-2020-0001-0001)

b. Corporate or privately held confidential non-public

content embedded in slip opinions or in case files. 

Temporary. Destroy 30 years 

after date of decision or when no 

longer in active use by the court, 

whichever is later. FRC transfer 

is not authorized.
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 8

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

(DAA-0321-2020-0001-0002)

c. Test case files without slip opinions, non-trial cases, or

cases decided upon stipulation or agreement between 

the parties.

Temporary. Destroy 15 years 

after date of decision or when no 

longer in active use by the court, 

whichever is later. 

(DAA-0321-2020-0001-0003)

d. Cases not listed above where the matter was closed by

voluntary dismissal or lack of prosecution. 

Temporary. Destroy 5 years 

after date of decision.

(DAA-0321-2020-0001-0004)

10. Case files for the United States Court of Federal 

Claims (formerly known as the United States Claims 

Court).

The United States Court of Federal Claims was 

established by Congress in 1982, with nationwide 

jurisdiction over various money claims against the United 

States, in excess of $10,000 (28 U.S.C. § 1346 and 

§ 1491). The court hears suits involving government 

contracts, constitutional claims, tax refunds, Indian 

claims, civilian and military pay claims, patents and 

copyright matters, and vaccine injury claims. The court 

is also authorized to review agency decisions under 

various federal compensation programs.

For purposes of this schedule, “close of case” occurs on 

the date of entry of final judgment that is not appealable. 

See: 28 U.S.C. § 2412(d)(2)(G) (“final judgment . . . 

means a judgment that is final and not appealable and 

includes an order of settlement”).

a. Cases dealing with Indian claims. Records resulting 

from the docketing and processing of materials in court 

and case files relating to Indian claims.

Permanent. Transfer to NARA 

20 years after close of case.

(N1-502-11-1, Item 10a)

b. Vaccine case files.

(1) Historically significant vaccine case files. Any 

vaccine case file determined by a judge, special 

master, court official or NARA to have historical 

value.

Permanent. Transfer to NARA 

20 years after close of case.

(N1-502-11-1, Item 10b1)
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 9

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

(2) All other vaccine case files not deemed to have 

historic value.

Temporary. Destroy 10 years 

after close of case.

(N1-502-11-1, Item 10b2)

c. General jurisdiction case files. Records resulting from 

the docketing and processing of materials in court 

relating to general cases.

(1) Case files that went to trial and terminated during or 

after trial.

Permanent. Transfer to NARA 

20 years after close of case.

(N1-502-11-1, Item 10c1)

(2) Historically significant general jurisdiction case files. 

Any case file determined by a judge, court official or 

NARA to have historical value.

Permanent. Transfer to NARA 

20 years after close of case.

(N1-502-11-1, Item 10c2)

(3) All other general jurisdiction case files not deemed to 

have historic value.

Temporary. Destroy 10 years 

after close of case.

(N1-502-11-1, Item 10c3)

d. Congressional Reference Cases. Congressional bills 

referred to the chief judge of the United States Court of 

Federal Claims for investigation and report to the 

appropriate house of Congress, as authorized by 

28 U.S.C. § 1492 and § 2509.

(1) Congressional Reference Case Files. Records 

resulting from the docketing and processing of 

materials in court relating to investigation of bills, as 

requested by Congress.

Permanent. Transfer to NARA 

20 years after close of case.

(N1-502-11-1, Item 10d1)

(2) Congressional Reference Review Panel Reports. 

Copies of the chief judge’s memorandum 

transmitting the review panel’s final report of 

Congressional Reference cases.

Permanent. Transfer to NARA 

20 years after close of case.

(N1-502-11-1, Item 10d2)

e. Sealed Materials. Documents containing confidential

information, including personal identifiers.

Process according to the 

records disposition schedule for 

the corresponding case file. 

Sealed documents within 

permanent case files must be 

unsealed before legal transfer to 

NARA.
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 10

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

11. Case files of the Special Court, Regional Rail 

Reorganization Act of 1973.

Permanent.

(N1-021-86-1, Item A11)

12. Territorial district court case files. Superseded by

Item A(7) Non-Electronic Civil 

Case Files.

13. Miscellaneous case files. Ancillary and supplementary 

proceedings not defined as civil actions including but not 

restricted to papers relating to foreign depositions, denial 

of prisoner in forma pauperis, grand jury witness 

immunity proceedings, and actions to enforce 

administrative subpoenas, filed separately from civil and 

criminal files.

a. Any miscellaneous case file that NARA has determined 

in consultation with court officials to have historical 

value.

Permanent.

(N1-021-86-1, Item A13a)

b. Grand jury proceedings. Note: The recordings or 

reporters’ notes, or any transcript prepared from them, 

remain in the custody or control of the attorney for the 

government unless otherwise ordered by the court in a 

particular case. Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 

6(e)(1).

Temporary. Destroy as directed 

by the court.

(N1-021-86-1, Item A13b)

c. Records concerning registration of documents to be 

used in foreign legal proceedings that have been 

assigned a miscellaneous case number.

Disposition not authorized. A 

legal authority allowing 

disposition of this record has not 

yet been approved. These 

records must be retained 

(cannot be disposed of) until an 

authority is approved.

d. Attorney disbarment proceedings. Records may be 

reciprocal or original. Records may consist of orders 

from another state or federal court, correspondence, 

orders, motions, notices to the attorney, notices of 

hearings, and briefs.

Permanent. Cut off annually 

when proceeding is complete. 

Transfer to an FRC 5 years after 

cutoff. Transfer to NARA 25 

years after cutoff.

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0006)

e. All other miscellaneous case files not specifically 

mentioned in 13 a-d.

Temporary. Destroy 10 years 

after date of last action.

(N1-021-86-1, Item A13d)

14. Non-electronic bankruptcy case files.
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 11

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

a. Cases dated 1940 or earlier. Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 15 years after close of 

case.

(N1-578-11-1, Item 14(1)a)

b. Cases filed under the Bankruptcy Acts of 1800, 1841, 

and 1867.

Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 15 years after close of 

case.

(N1-578-11-1, Item 14(1)b)

c. Cases filed under the following chapters or subchapters 

of the Bankruptcy Acts of 1898 and 1978:

• Chapter VIII, Section 75 (Agricultural)

• Chapter VIII, Section 77 (Railroad Reorganization)

• Chapter IX (Political Subdivisions)

• Chapter X (Corporate Reorganizations)

• Chapter XV (Railroad Adjustments)

• Chapter 7, Subchapter III (Stockbroker) and IV 

(Commodity Broker)

• Chapter 9 (Municipality)

• Chapter 11, Subchapter IV (Railroad 

Reorganization)

• Case files containing orders issued by a court under

Chapter XIV of the Act of 1898 or Section 908 of 

Title IX of the Merchant Marine Act.

Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 15 years after close of 

case.

(N1-578-11-1, Item 14(1)c)

d. Cases filed under Chapter 12 of the Congressional Act 

of 1986, covering family farms and family fishermen.

Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 15 years after close of 

case.

(N1-578-11-1, Item 14(1)d)

e. Any bankruptcy case determined by court officials or 

NARA to have historical value.

Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 15 years after close of 

case.

(N1-578-11-1, Item 14(1)e)

f. All other case files.

(1) 2.5% of non-trial case files retired by each district 

each year.

Permanent. Sampling will be 

done at the box level. Transfer 

records to NARA 15 years after 

close of case.

(N1-578-11-1, Item 14(1)f(1))
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 12

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

(2) Case files exclusive of 14 a–e, and not selected per 

14f (1).

Temporary. Destroy 15 years 

after close of case.

(N1-578-11-1, Item 14(1)f(2))

g. Adversary proceedings files.

(1) Proceedings terminated during or after trial. Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 15 years after close of 

case.

(N1-578-11-1, Item 14(1)g(1)) 

(2) Proceedings files determined by court officials or 

NARA to have historical value.

Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 15 years after close of 

case.

(N1-578-11-1, Item 14(1)g(2)) 

(3) Proceedings files containing orders or judgments 

affecting title to or lien on real property entered 

before August 1, 1983, not included under items 

retention g(1) or g(2), above.

Temporary. Destroy 40 years 

after transfer to an FRC unless 

the court directs a longer 

retention period for a specific 

file.

(N1-578-11-1, Item 14(1)g(3))

(4) All other proceedings files.

(a) 2.5% of non-trial case files retired by each district 

each year.

Permanent. Sampling will be 

done at the box level. Transfer 

records to NARA 15 years after 

close of case.

(N1-578-11-1, Item 14(1)g(4)(a))

(b) Proceedings files exclusive of g (1)– (3), and not 

selected in the sample taken per g(4)(a).

Temporary. Destroy 15 years 

after close of case.

(N1-578-11-1, Item 14(1)g(4)(b))

15. Other bankruptcy records.

a. Bankruptcy claims registers, if maintained separately. Temporary. Destroy 20 years 

after transfer to an FRC.

(N1-021-86-1, Item A15a)

b. Records of the operations of trustees under Chapter 

XIII of the Bankruptcy Act of 1898 and Chapter 13 of 

Temporary. Destroy 20 years 

after transfer to an FRC.
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 13

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

the Bankruptcy Act of 1978 generated by computer 

whether or not maintained separately from the case file. (N1-021-86-1, Item A15b) 

c. Judgment and order records, if kept separately. Permanent. Transfer to NARA 

when 25 years old.

(N1-021-86-1, Item A15c)

d. Orders of court directing deposit of monies in the 

Treasury of the United States under 28 U.S.C. § 2042, 

together with lists of the names and addresses of 

persons entitled to such monies.

Disposition not authorized. A 

legal authority allowing 

disposition of this record has not 

yet been approved. These 

records must be retained 

(cannot be disposed of) until an 

authority is approved.

e. Bankruptcy miscellaneous proceedings and records. 

Content includes a variety of bankruptcy miscellaneous 

proceedings, administrative actions, or court record 

transactions not specifically part of, or filed in, a 

bankruptcy case or adversary proceeding. These 

contain, but are not limited to:

• Requests to register a judgment in another district;

• Motions for protective order or to quash a subpoena 

for a case pending in another district;

• Requests to perpetuate testimony concerning a 

potential adversary proceeding under Fed. R. 

Bankr. P. 7027;

• Requests to register a discharge order under Fed. 

R. Bankr. P. 4004(f);

• Applications for writ of habeas corpus;

• Case Management/Electronic Case File (CM/ECF) 

exemption and revocation privileges;

• PACER-related access requests;

• Cases transferred for limited purposes;

• Any other miscellaneous court filing, proceeding, 

notice, or request not part of a bankruptcy case or 

an adversary proceedings file, or not identified by 

the court as ineligible for destruction, or not a 

record covered by another bankruptcy records 

disposition schedule authority.

Temporary. Destroy 15 years 

after date of issuance or 15 

years after date of last action, 

whichever is later.

(DAA-0578-2013-0001-0001)

f. Attorney disbarment proceedings. Records may be 

reciprocal or original. Records may consist of orders 

from another state or federal court, correspondence, 

orders, motions, notices to the attorney, notices of 

hearings, and briefs.

Permanent. Transfer to an FRC 

when 5 years old. Transfer to 

NARA when 25 years old.

(DAA-0578-2013-0001-0002) 
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 14

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

16. Violation notices. Temporary. Cut off after 

forfeiture or dismissal. Destroy 

90 days after posting and 

forfeiture of collateral or 

dismissal.

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0017)

17. Probation and pretrial files.

a. Supervision case files including investigation and 

supervision data.

Temporary. Cut off upon 

termination of supervision. 

Destroy 20 years after cutoff.

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0018)

b. Investigation files on individuals not under supervision 

of probation office, including files of pretrial services 

agencies.

Temporary. Cut off after 

completion of investigation. 

Destroy 20 years cutoff. 

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0019)

c. Pretrial diversion case files. Temporary. Cut off on 

termination of supervision. 

Destroy 20 years after cutoff.

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0025)

18. Records of hearings.

a. Original court reporters’ notes of proceedings, 

28 U.S.C. § 753(b).

(1) Electronic sound recordings of arraignments, pleas, 

and proceedings in connection with the imposition of 

sentence in non-death penalty criminal cases 

assigned district court docket numbers and filed with 

the clerk of court in lieu of transcript.

Note: When several types of cases or proceedings 

are included on a single tape, the recording should 

be retained for the longest period prescribed for any 

case or proceeding on the tape.

Temporary. Destroy 20 years 

after close of case.

(DAA-0021-2013-0004-0001) 

(2) Notes or electronic sound recordings covering 

criminal death penalty cases or civil capital habeas 

trial cases assigned district court docket numbers 

and filed with the clerk of court in lieu of transcript.

Permanent. Transfer to NARA 

20 years after close of case or 

when no longer needed by the 

court, whichever is later.
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 15

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

Note: When several types of cases or proceedings 

are included on a single tape, the recording should 

be retained for the longest period prescribed for any 

case or proceeding on the tape.

(DAA-0021-2013-0004-0002)

(3) All other original notes or recordings.

Note: When several types of cases or proceedings 

are included on a single tape, the recording should 

be retained for the longest period prescribed for any 

case or proceeding on the tape.

Temporary. Destroy when 10 

years old.

(DAA-0021-2013-0004-0003)

b. Tape logs.

Note: When several types of cases or proceedings are 

included on a single tape, the recording should be 

retained for the longest period prescribed for any case 

or proceeding on the tape.

Temporary. File with original 

tape recordings of the 

proceedings and destroy the 

logs when the tapes are 

destroyed.

(N1-021-86-1, Item A18b) 

c. Electronic sound recordings of magistrate judge 

proceedings in:

(1) Misdemeanor cases (above the level of petty 

offenses) not assigned district court docket numbers.

Note: When several types of cases or proceedings 

are included on a single tape, the recording should 

be retained for the longest period prescribed for any 

case or proceeding on the tape.

Temporary. Destroy when 5 

years old (tapes may be erased 

and reused).

(N1-021-86-1, Item A18c (1))

(2) Petty offense cases not assigned district court docket 

numbers.

Note: When several types of cases or proceedings 

are included on a single tape, the recording should 

be retained for the longest period prescribed for any 

case or proceeding on the tape.

Temporary. Destroy when 1 

year old (tapes may be erased 

and reused).

(N1-021-86-1, Item A18c (2)) 

(3) Civil cases.

Note: When several types of cases or proceedings 

are included on a single tape, the recording should 

be retained for the longest period prescribed for any 

case or proceeding on the tape.

Temporary. Destroy when 10 

years old.

(N1-021-86-1, Item A18c (3))

d. Sound recordings and supporting records of audio 

bankruptcy recordings. (Note: Previous versions of 

this schedule required courts to retain electronic sound 
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 16

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

recordings of first meeting of creditors, but that item 

was removed based on a determination that they were 

not court records and should instead be maintained by 

United States trustees, who are required under 

11 U.S.C. § 341 to convene and preside at these 

meetings.)

(1) Inventory, indices, spreadsheet, database, or other 

form of register used to locate bankruptcy 

proceeding sound recordings.

Temporary. Destroy when the 

corresponding collection of 

sound recordings is destroyed or 

when no longer needed for 

reference purposes, whichever 

is later.

(GRS 4.1, Item 010)

(2) Digital sound recording files (e.g., MP3, WAV) and 

the corresponding digital log notes, when applicable, 

of bankruptcy hearings maintained in portable 

computer storage media (e.g., USB drives, flash 

drives, DVD, CD-ROM), a network storage location, 

cloud storage, SharePoint storage, or computer 

system other than CM/ECF.

Temporary. Destroy 30 years 

after creation, or when no longer 

needed for reference purposes, 

whichever is later.

(DAA-0578-2022-0001-0002)

(3) Digital sound recording files (e.g., MP3, WAV) of 

bankruptcy hearings stored in CM/ECF.

Maintain consistent with the 

retention period of the electronic 

case that includes the docketed

audio file. See: Items A14 and 

A15.

19. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML). The 

JPML was established in 1968 under 28 U.S.C. § 1407, 

which authorizes the Panel to transfer civil actions 

involving one or more common questions of fact in 

different districts to a single district for coordinated or 

consolidated pretrial proceedings. Also, under 28 U.S.C. 

§ 2112, the Panel is authorized to consolidate multicircuit petitions for review in a single circuit.

a. JPML case files and related materials.

(1) JPML case files. Case files related to motions for 

coordinated or consolidated pretrial proceedings 

regarding two or more civil actions filed in different 

judicial districts and concerned with one or more 

common questions of fact. The files include official 

pleadings, correspondence, orders of the JPML, 

transcripts, and other required documentation related 

Temporary. Cut off case file at 

the end of the calendar year 

when case is closed. Destroy 

15 years after the cutoff year.

(N1-482-11-1, Item 19a1)
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 17

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Type of Record Disposition

to JPML hearings.

(2) Docket sheets. Permanent. Transfer to NARA 

20 years after close of case.

(N1-482-11-1, Item 19a2)

(3) Historically significant JPML case files. Any JPML 

case file determined by the Clerk of the Panel for the 

JPML, or NARA, to have historical value.

Permanent. Cut off case file at 

the end of the calendar year 

when closed. Transfer to NARA 

20 years after the cut off year.

(N1-482-11-1, Item 19a3)

(4) Sealed records. Copies of sealed materials originally 

received by the district courts and also provided to 

the JPML for temporary use and reference purposes.

Temporary. Destroy, or return to 

the district court, when no longer 

needed for reference purposes.

(N1-482-11-1, Item 19a4)

(5) Orders files. Duplicate judges’ orders, where the 

official record copy is filed with the corresponding 

JPML case file. This separate paper collection was 

used for reference purposes and contains materials 

from 1967 through 2010, organized by year and 

month of issuance. It is a closed series. JPML staff 

no longer use or require these reference files.

Temporary. The records are 

available for immediate 

destruction.

(N1-482-11-1, Item 19a5)

b. JPML administrative and operational files.

(1) General inquiries, handled by JPML Executive or 

Clerk, regarding procedures, class actions, and 

multi-district litigation in general. Consist mostly of 

responses to prison inmates, and/or members of the 

public (pro se litigants), whose inquiries are outside 

the scope, procedures, and/or jurisdiction of the 

JPML.

Temporary. Cut off at the end of 

the calendar year when the 

response to the inquiry was 

issued. Destroy 1 year after 

cutoff, or when no longer 

needed for reference purposes, 

whichever is later.

(N1-482-11-1, Item 19b1)

(2) General procurement and financial files, including 

related correspondence regarding the acquisition of 

goods and services required by the JPML.

Temporary. Cut off at the end of 

the fiscal year. Destroy 7 years 

after the cutoff year.

(N1-482-11-1, Item 19b2)

(3) Attorney bench memoranda. Internal attorney work 

products, including background and case analyses 

and recommendations for the dispensation of JPML 

Temporary. Destroy 3 years 

after issuance, or when no 
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Type of Record Disposition

petitions. longer needed for reference 

purposes, whichever is later.

(N1-482-11-1, Item 19b3)

(4) JPML (transferee) judges’ conference content files. 

Planning documents, itineraries, travel information, 

hotel, air and ground transportation, and other 

logistical materials created for the annual JPML 

Transferee Judges’ Conference.

Temporary. Destroy 2 years 

after issuance, or when no 

longer needed for reference 

purposes, whichever is later.

(N1-482-11-1, Item 19b4)

(5) Panel hearing correspondence files. Schedules and 

agenda for the hearing sessions, copies of orders, 

notices of presentation of waiver of oral argument, 

and correspondence regarding the security 

coverage for the panel.

Temporary. Destroy 2 years 

after issuance, or when no 

longer needed for reference 

purposes, whichever is later.

(N1-482-11-1, Item 19b5)

(6) Rules, policies, and procedures. Records and 

documentation describing JPML’s local rules and 

internal policies and procedures.

Permanent. Transfer to NARA 

when superseded or no longer 

needed for reference purposes.

(N1-482-11-1, Item 19b6)

(7) Master docket reading files. Reference copies of 

letters, memoranda, publications, and other JPML 

documents that are maintained on-site as a reading 

file.

Temporary. Destroy when no 

longer needed for reference 

purposes.

(N1-482-11-1, Item 19b7) 

B. MISCELLANEOUS RECORDS OF PROCEEDINGS.

1. Minute sheets. Courts are encouraged to file minute 

sheets in the case file.

Permanent, if maintained 

outside the case file. Cut off 

annually at end of calendar year. 

Transfer to NARA 25 years after 

cutoff.

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0020)

2. Juror selection records. Jury Management 

System/eJuror. Standardized, fully integrated automated 

jury management system to serve the Federal district 

courts. The master wheel includes source data from 

voter lists, drivers’ licenses, and other source lists as 

dictated by the Jury Plan. Update cycle depends on 

local Jury Plan for Master Wheel Refill (1 to 4 years).

Temporary. Destroy 4 years 

after the master jury wheel has 

been emptied and refilled and all 

persons selected have 

completed jury service, unless 

extended by the court. 

28 U.S.C. § 1868. Do not 

transfer to an FRC. 
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 19

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Type of Record Disposition

(N1-021-86-1, Item B2)

3. Attorney admission records.

a. Rolls of attorneys admitted to practice. Records may 

consist of application letters, admission cards or 

computer listings, background materials, and records of 

court proceedings.

Permanent. Cut off annually 

upon admission. Transfer to an 

FRC when 5 years old. Transfer 

to NARA 25 years after cutoff.

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0003)

b. Records relative to disciplinary actions. Records may 

consist of orders from another state or federal court, 

correspondence, orders, motions, notices to the 

attorney, notices of hearings, and briefs.

Temporary. Cut off annually 

when action is complete. 

Transfer to an FRC 5 years after 

cutoff. Destroy 50 years after 

cutoff.

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0004)

c. Other records, including applications not approved for 

admission and applications for routine actions such as 

access to PACER or fee waivers.

Temporary. Cut off annually 

when action is complete. 

Destroy 5 years after cutoff.

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0005)

4. Naturalization records. Records contain materials such 

as: petitions for naturalization, monthly naturalization 

reports and correspondence, petitions for name changes, 

orders granting petitions for name changes, declarations 

of intentions, naturalization certificates, and indexes to 

certificates, 8 U.S.C. § 1450.

Permanent. Cut off annually at 

end of calendar year. Transfer to 

NARA 25 years after cutoff.

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0021)

5. Notice of federal tax liens. Temporary. Destroy 6 years 

and 30 days after the date of 

assessment indicated on the 

notice.

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0022)

6. Appointment of process agents by surety 

companies.

Temporary. Destroy 7 years 

after the resident agent is 

terminated by reason of 

resignation, death, disability, 

removal, or other cause, or 15 

years after the power of attorney 

is filed when the filer does not 

object to the destruction within 

30 days of written notice being 
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 20

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Type of Record Disposition

sent to the filer, whichever 

occurs first.

(DAA-0021-2020-0002-0001)

7. Security copies of Certificates of Electors Voting for 

President and Vice President deposited with the judge 

of the district in which the electors assembled under

3 U.S.C. §§ 11 and 13.

Temporary. Destroy when 6 

months old.

(DAA-0021-2019-0003-0024)

8. Judicial Conduct and Disability Records. Complaints 

filed under the Judicial Conduct and Disability Act 

(28 U.S.C. §§ 351-364), alleging that a judge committed 

misconduct or is disabled. Items B.8.a. and B.8.b. 

relating to proceedings under the Judicial Conduct and 

Disability Act are confidential, and therefore disclosurerestricted, to the extent required by 28 U.S.C. § 360 and 

by Rules 23 and 24 of the Judicial Conference Rules for 

Judicial-Conduct and Judicial-Disability Proceedings.

a. Orders, memoranda of decision, and any reports or 

other items included with them, issued by a Chief 

Judge, a circuit judicial council, the United States 

Judicial Conference Committee on Judicial Conduct 

and Disability and its predecessors and successors, or 

the Judicial Conference of the United States, in any 

proceeding under the Judicial Conduct and Disability 

Act (as codified in 28 U.S.C. §§ 351-364 or elsewhere), 

the Judicial Conference Rules for Judicial-Conduct and 

Judicial-Disability Proceedings, and any other 

associated rules. 

Permanent. Transfer records to 

NARA 10 years after final 

decision or action or when no 

longer needed for reference 

purposes, whichever is later.

(DAA-0021-2013-0003-0001)

b. Interim and miscellaneous materials not listed in 

Item (a) nor attached to a document listed in Item (a), 

that are created or received in any proceedings under 

the Judicial Conduct and Disability Act (as codified in 

28 U.S.C. §§ 351-364 or elsewhere), the Judicial 

Conference Rules for Judicial-Conduct and JudicialDisability Proceedings, and any other associated rules. 

These materials may include but are not limited to: 

complaints, petitions for review and associated 

responses, special committee reports, notes, 

correspondence, and other items created or received 

during an inquiry or investigation.

Temporary. Destroy 5 years 

after final disposition of 

complaint or when no longer 

needed for reference purposes, 

whichever is later.

(DAA-0021-2013-0003-0002) 

9. Local Rules. Records relating to the issuance of rules 

for the conduct of court business under 28 U.S.C. 

Permanent. Cut off when rule is 

approved. Transfer to the 
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 21

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

§ 2071. Records include final external notices, public

comments, final orders, and official publications.

National Archives 15 years after 

cutoff.

(DAA-0021-2019-0005-0001)

C. ADMINISTRATIVE RECORDS.

1. Local unofficial personnel/supervisor files. Local 

personnel files include correspondence, forms, and other 

records relating to positions, authorizations, pending 

actions, position descriptions, requests for personnel 

action; fingerprint and background check records; and 

other records on individual employees duplicated in or 

not appropriate for the Official Personnel File (OPF).

Note: Records that become part of a grievance file, an 

appeal or discrimination complaint file, a performancebased reduction-in-grade or removal action, or an 

adverse action are covered under RDS 2, Item C.3.b.

Note: This item excludes employee medical documents 

unless they are part of the employee’s initial request for 

reasonable accommodation. Following approval, the 

agency’s reasonable accommodation decision replaces 

medical documentation and becomes the record. 

Reasonable accommodation employee case files are 

covered under RDS 1, Item C.6.a.

Temporary. Destroy 7 years

after employee separation or 

transfer.

(GRS 2.2, Item 080)

2. Employee Dispute Resolution

a. Employment Dispute Resolution (EDR) Administrative 

records. Includes:

• Prior EDR Plans

• Prior EEO Plans

• Orders or memoranda adopting EDR Plans or 

appointing EDR Coordinators

• Statistical records of Informal Advice contacts

Temporary. Destroy when 3 

years old, but longer retention is 

authorized if required for 

business use.

(GRS 2.3, Item 110)

b. EDR Assisted Resolution files. Includes:

• Request for Assisted Resolution

• Any agreement to mediate

• Records of process 

• Documentation of settlement or discontinuance of 

the Assisted Resolution process

Also includes:

• Request for counseling under prior EDR Plans

Temporary. Destroy 7 years 

after case is closed, but longer 

disposition is authorized if 

required for business use.

(GRS 2.3, Item 110)
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Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

• Request for mediation under prior EDR Plans

• Notice of designation of mediator

• Documentation of settlement

• Notice of conclusion of counseling period

• Notice of conclusion of mediation 

c. EDR Formal Complaint Files. Includes:

• Formal Complaint (including complaint filed under 

prior EDR Plans)

• Response to Formal Complaint (including response 

to complaint filed under prior EDR Plans)

• Scheduling orders and notices of hearings

• Motions, filings, and responses

• Orders of chief judge and Presiding Judicial Officer

• Records of process

• Documents exchanged in discovery

• Investigation reports

• Documents presented at hearing

• Transcripts of hearing

• Written decision

• Petition for Review of decision

• Resolution of Petition for Review

Temporary. Destroy 7 years 

after case is closed, but longer 

disposition is authorized if 

required for business use.

(GRS 2.3, Item 111)

3. Administrative grievance, disciplinary, and adverse 

action files.

a. Local adverse action and/or grievance plan or 

procedure maintained by the court.

Temporary. Destroy 7 years

when superseded or obsolete,

but longer retention is authorized 

at the discretion of the principal 

records custodian.

(GRS 5.7, Item 030) 

b. Documents, memoranda, or other records related to an 

adverse action, disciplinary action, or grievance 

maintained by the court.

Temporary. Destroy 7 years 

after case is closed.

(GRS 2.3, Item 060)

4. Performance management files.

a. Performance management plan, if applicable, including 

compensation strategy and appraisal tool with rating 

levels or tiers, and payout date for discretionary step 

increases.

Temporary. Destroy 7 years 

after superseded or obsolete,

but longer retention is authorized 

at the discretion of the principal 

records custodian.
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 23

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Type of Record Disposition

(GRS 5.7, Item 030)

b. Individual records of employee performance including 

performance evaluation, performance plan upon which 

it is based, and rating, among other performance 

related materials.

Temporary. Destroy when 7

years old or after AO audit, 

whichever is later. Longer 

retention is authorized at the 

discretion of the principal 

records custodian.

(DAA-0021-2014-0001-0001)

5. Awards and bonuses files.

a. Employee recognition and/or bonus plans, as 

applicable maintained by the court.

Temporary. Destroy when 7

years old but longer retention is 

authorized at the discretion of 

the principal records custodian.

(DAA-0021-2014-0001-0002)

b. For each employee recognition award recipient, 

documentation that includes name or ID, amount or 

cost of award, category or criteria, supporting 

justification, aggregate amount or cost of all awards 

received by the employee per year, and other related 

court-maintained documentation.

Temporary. Destroy when 7

years old but longer retention is 

authorized at the discretion of 

the principal records custodian.

(DAA-0021-2014-0001-0003)

c. For each recruitment, retention, or relocation bonus 

documentation that includes name or ID, amount of 

bonus, service agreement, authorization, and other 

related court-maintained documentation.

Temporary. Destroy when 7 

years old but longer retention is 

authorized at the discretion of 

the principal records custodian.

(DAA-0021-2014-0001-0004)

6. Employee Medical Folder (EMF).

a. Any court-maintained medical records related to Family 

and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), serious health 

condition for sick leave, medical emergency for 

Voluntary Leave Transfer Program donated leave, 

reasonable accommodation for disability, workplace 

injury not reported as, or related to, an Office of 

Workers Compensation Programs (OWCP) claim, 

fitness-for-duty or counseling records related to alcohol 

or drug treatment programs.

Temporary. Destroy 7 years

after employee separation or 

transfer.

(GRS 2.7, Item 061)

b. Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) medical examination 

record. Includes any medical records related to a LEO 

pre-employment suitability or fitness-for-duty evaluation 

Temporary. Destroy 1 year after 

employee separation or transfer.
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 24

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

that are in the possession of the court pending a 

suitability or fitness-for-duty determination.

(GRS 2.7, Item 061)

c. OWCP claim. Court-maintained documents related to 

an OWCP claim. Including medical reports, copies of 

letters and decisions, and any other material that is part 

of the case file, regardless of its source. These 

documents are considered an alternate location for 

OWCP claim records, and under the jurisdiction of 

OWCP.

See: Guide, Vol. 12, § 750.30 

(Workers' Compensation).

7. TELEWORK FILES.

a. Telework Worksite Program Files. Records generated 

by the designated court telework coordinators and other 

related staff. Includes:

• Correspondence

• Notes

• Policy implementation documents

• Form development files

• Planning records

• Program evaluation documentation/data

• Other related records generated by the agency or 

participating employees

Temporary. Destroy when 3 

years old, but longer retention is 

authorized at the discretion of 

the principal records custodian.

(GRS 2.3, Item 010)

b. Telework agreement for each employee who is eligible 

for telework, and duty station documentation, if 

applicable.

Temporary. Destroy 3 years

after end of employee’s 

participation in the program, but 

longer retention is authorized at 

the discretion of the principal 

records custodian.

(GRS 2.3, Item 040)

8. Administrative training records. 

a. Individual employee training records. Records 

documenting training required by all or most Federal 

agencies, such as information system security and 

training to develop job skills. Records may include:

• Completion certificates or verification documents for 

mandatory training 

• Mentoring or coaching agreements

Note: This excludes academic transcripts, professional 

licenses, civil service exams, or documentation of 

mission-related training.

Temporary. Destroy when 3 

years old, but longer retention is 

authorized at the discretion of 

the records custodian.

(GRS 2.6, Item 030)
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b. Non-mission employee training program records. 

Records about planning, assessing, managing, and 

evaluating an agency’s training program:

• Plans, reports, and program evaluations

• Employee skills assessments

• Organizational and occupational needs 

assessments

• Notices about training opportunities schedules, or 

courses

• Employee training statistics

• Mandatory training tracking and reporting files

• Logistics and coordination documents

• Authorization and similar records

• Registration forms, employee attendance records

• Syllabi, presentations, instructor guides, 

handbooks, lesson plans

• Reference and working files on course content

• Other course materials, such as presentations and 

videos

• Student, class, or instructor evaluations

Note: Financial records related to purchase of training 

or related travel are retained under RDS 2, Item E.1.

Temporary. Destroy when 3 

years old, but longer retention is 

authorized at the discretion of 

the records custodian. 

(GRS 2.6, Item 010)

9. Position classification files. Court copies of 

• Position Description and Position Classification 

Certification Form (AO 194)

• Organization chart at the time of position approval 

for supervisory or managerial positions, and

• Other classification related documentation

Temporary. Destroy 3 years 

after position is abolished, but 

longer retention is authorized at

the discretion of the principal 

records custodian.

(GRS 2.1, Item 021)

10. Job vacancy files. Court recruitment files consisting of:

• Copy of the vacancy announcement, job analysis, if 

applicable

• Copy of newspaper advertisements (or other forms 

of advertising)

• List of recruitment sources

• Application materials with date of receipt 

• Ranking or rating criteria, if applicable (to include 

rating/scoring definitions and/or methodology)

• List of applicants with designation or not qualified, 

qualified, and best qualified

• List of applicants interviewed

• List of interview questions used

Temporary. Destroy 3 years 

after appointment.

(GRS 2.1, Item 051)
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 26

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Type of Record Disposition

• New Appointment Applicants and Interviewees 

Worksheet (Part D of the AO 78A), and

• Other relevant recruitment documentation

11. Drug testing files. Includes records based on 

reasonable suspicion.

Temporary. Destroy when 

employee leaves the agency or 

when 3 years old, whichever is 

later.

(GRS 2.7, Item 130)

12. Employee Drug Test Acknowledgement of Notice 

Forms. Forms completed by employees whose 

positions are designated sensitive for drug testing 

purposes, acknowledging they have received notice and 

they may be tested.

Temporary. Destroy 3 years 

after separation from drug 

testing position.

(GRS 2.7, Item 110)

D. PAYROLL, PAY AND BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION RECORDS.

1. Time and attendance files. Sign-in/sign-out records, 

timecards, leave applications and approval of all types 

(annual, sick, family medical, military service, jury duty, 

leave donations, etc.); overtime, compensatory, and 

credit time requests and approval; premium pay 

authorizations; and other records documenting 

employees’ presence at or absence from work.

Temporary. Destroy when 7 

years old or after AO audit, 

whichever is later.

(GRS 2.4, Item 030)

2. Voluntary Separation Incentive Program. Voluntary 

Separation Incentive Payment (VSIP) and Voluntary 

Early Retirement Authority (VERA) Files. VSIP or VERA 

Restructuring plans, including target universe and 

selection criteria, organizational charts, offer notices, 

acceptance notices, VSIP payment calculations and 

documentation of how selection criteria was applied (if 

applicable). Retention is based on 5-year repayment 

requirements.

Temporary. Destroy when 3 

years old, but longer retention is 

authorized at the discretion of 

the principal records custodian. 

(GRS 2.2, Item 020)

3. Leave files. Leave records. Leave balances and 

documentation of accrual and use.

Temporary. Destroy upon

separation or transfer of

employee.

(GRS 2.2, Item 041)

4. Benefits files.

a. Request for health benefits under spouse equity –

Denied applications.

Temporary. Destroy 3 years 

after original denial, denial of 

appeal, or final court order, 

whichever is appropriate.
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 27

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Type of Record Disposition

(GRS 2.4, Item 111)

b. Documentation related to retirement assistance that 

includes correspondence, memoranda, annuity 

estimates, and other records used to assist retiring 

employees.

Temporary. Destroy 3 years 

after date of separation or 

transfer, but longer retention is 

authorized at the discretion of 

the principal records custodian.

(GRS 2.5, Item 020)

c. Requests for health benefit under spouse equity –

Successful applications, including those successfully 

appealed.

Transfer to appropriate 

retirement system after 

enrollment is cancelled or 

terminated, or annuity payment 

begins.

(GRS 2.4, Item 110)

5. Reasonable accommodation files. Documentation for 

an employee with a disability. Includes information 

created while receiving, coordinating, reviewing, 

processing, approving, and reporting requests for 

reasonable accommodation including request for 

personal assistance under 5 U.S.C. § 3102.

Temporary. Destroy 3 years 

after separation.

(GRS 2.3, Item 020)

E. PROCUREMENT, FINANCE, AND SUPPLY RECORDS.

1. Procurement and Financial records. Records relating 

to the procurement of goods and services (contracts, 

requisitions, purchase orders, etc.), payment of bills, 

collection debts, accounting, and processing travel 

vouchers/authorizations.

Temporary. Destroy 7 years 

after final payment or 

cancellation, but longer retention 

is authorized at the discretion of 

the principal records custodian.

(GRS 1.1, Item 010)

2. Personal property records. Includes documents 

relating to the acquisition and disposition of property.

Temporary. Destroy 7 years 

after date of final transaction.

(N1-021-86-1, Item C3)

F. BUDGET FILES.

1. Budget background records. Contains cost 

statements, financial system data, financial projections 

and similar materials accumulated in the preparation of 

annual budget estimates, including duplicates of budget 

estimates and justifications and related appropriation 

Temporary. Destroy when 3

years old, but longer retention is 

authorized at the discretion of 

the principal records custodian.

(GRS 1.3, Item 041)
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 28

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Type of Record Disposition

language sheets, narrative statements and related 

schedules.

2. Budget execution records. Records that offices create 

and receive in the course of implementing and tracking 

appropriations.

Temporary. Destroy 7 years 

after close of fiscal year, but 

longer retention is authorized at 

the discretion of the principal 

records custodian.

(GRS 1.3, Item 020)

G. Space, Facilities and Maintenance Records. Facility, 

space, and equipment inspection, maintenance, and 

service records. Records documenting inspection, 

maintenance, service, and repair activities relating to 

buildings, grounds, Federally owned and operated 

housing, equipment, and personal property. Includes 

repair and maintenance orders, requisitions, and related 

papers; maintenance and inspection logs and reports; 

job orders, service call records, action sheets, and repair 

logs; and work, shop, or job schedules.

1. Records documenting facility structure and longterm maintenance.Temporary. Destroy when 3 

years old, but longer retention is 

authorized at the discretion of 

the principal records custodian.

(GRS 5.4, Item 70)

2. Records tracking completion of custodial and minor 

repair work.

Temporary. Destroy when 90

days old, at the discretion of the

principal records custodian.

(GRS 5.4, Item 71)

3. Facility, space, vehicle, equipment, stock, and 

supply administrative and operational records. 

Records relating to administering and operating facilities, 

space, Federally owned and operated housing, land 

vehicles, water vessels, equipment, stocks, and 

supplies. Includes: 

• Statistical and narrative reports

• Studies

• Requests for space using Standard Form-81 or 

equivalent

• Space assignments and directories

Temporary. Destroy when 3 

years old, but longer retention is 

authorized at the discretion of 

the principal records custodian.

(GRS 5.4, Item 010 and 70)
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 29

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

• Inventories of property, equipment, furnishings, 

stock and supplies

• Reports of survey regarding lost, damaged, 

missing, or destroyed property

• Requisitions for supplies and equipment

• Records tracking supply and procurement 

requirements

• Records scheduling and dispatching vehicles, 

monitoring use, and reporting use

• Related correspondence

Note: This excludes records of supply and property 

procurement.

H. ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGEMENT RECORDS.

1. Internal administrative accountability and 

operational management control records. Internal 

evaluations of accounting and administrative controls. 

Includes:

• Copies of internal and external directives outlining 

management control policy

• Management control plans and records of the 

planning process

• Records of management reviews

• Risk analyses and risk profiles

• Internal control over reports

• Records tracking assignments, tasks, and 

responsivities

• Administrative correspondence

Note: This excludes reports related to agency mission 

activities.

Temporary. Destroy 3 years

after submission but longer 

retention is authorized at the 

discretion of the principal 

records custodian.

(GRS 5.7, Item 010)

2. Internal control review, response and mitigation 

management records. Includes copies of reports and 

audits identifying internal administrative program 

weaknesses, mitigation action plans, corrective actions, 

tracking records, correspondence, and other records 

held by the office responsible for coordinating internal 

control functions.

Note: This excludes records held by offices contributing 

to internal control review response and mitigation, but 

not responsible for overseeing it.

Temporary. Destroy 7 years 

after no further corrective action 

is needed, but longer retention is 

authorized at the discretion of 

the principal records custodian.

(GRS 5.7, Item 020)
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 30

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

I. ORGANIZATIONAL/GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE FILES.

1. Files on internal administration and housekeeping 

activities. In general, these are records accumulated by 

individual offices that relate to office organization, 

staffing, procedures and communications and the 

expenditure of funds. Includes budget; day-to-day 

administration of office personnel such as travel and 

training; supplies, requests and receipts; and the use of 

office space. These papers do not serve as official 

documentation of the programs of the office.

Note: This excludes records that relate only to the 

functions for which the office exists. 

Temporary. Destroy when 

business use ceases. 

(GRS 5.1, item 010)

2. Transitory Records. Records required only for a short 

time (generally less than 180 days) and that are not 

required to meet legal or fiscal obligations, or to provide 

evidence of decision-making. Records include but are 

not limited to:

• messages coordinating schedules, appointments, 

and events 

• transmittal documents such as e-mail, letters, cover 

memos, and facsimile cover sheets, including 

inquiries about hours of operations, requests for 

copies of local rules, etc. Transmittal documents do 

not include items that provide evidence of approval, 

concurrence, or decision-making, or include 

substantive comments

• copies of circulated internal information such as 

agency instructions, notifications, circulars, 

newsletters, and email blasts to employees 

• messages from agency distribution lists or listservs 

• “to-do” or task lists and assignments

Temporary. Destroy when

business use ceases. Email 

retained under this category may 

be kept within the email system. 

See note regarding 

“correspondence” at the 

beginning of this schedule.

(GRS 5.2 Item 010)

J. RECORDS TRANSMITTAL AND RECEIPT FORM (SF 135). Temporary. Maintain for 50 

years. Do not transfer to an 

FRC.

(N1-021-86-1, Item C7)

K. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS AND 

MANAGEMENT RECORDS.

1. System and data security records. Records relate to 

maintaining the security of information technology (IT) 

systems and data. Records outline official procedures for 

Temporary. Destroy 3 year(s) 

after system is superseded by a 

new iteration or when no longer 
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 31

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

securing and maintaining IT infrastructure and relate to 

the specific systems for which they were written. This 

series also includes analysis of security policies, 

processes, and guidelines as well as system risk 

management and vulnerability analyses. Includes 

records such as: 

• System Security Plans

• Disaster Recovery Plans

• Continuity of Operations Plans

• Published computer technical manuals and guides

• Example and references used to produce 

guidelines covering security issues related to 

specific systems and equipment

• Records on disaster exercise and resulting 

evaluations

• Risk surveys

• Service test plans

• Test files and data

needed for agency/IT 

administrative purposes to 

ensure a continuity of security 

controls throughout the life of the 

system.

(GRS 3.2, Item 010)

2. IT customer service files. Technical and administrative 

help desk operational records. Includes:

• Records of incoming requests (and responses) 

made by phone, email, web portal, etc.

• Trouble tickets and tracking logs

• Quick guides and “Frequently Asked Questions” 

(FAQs)

• Evaluations and feedback about help desk services

• Analysis and reports generated from customer 

management data

• Customer/client feedback and satisfaction surveys, 

including survey instruments, data, background 

materials, and reports

Temporary. Destroy 3 years

after resolved, or when no 

longer needed for business use, 

whichever is appropriate.

(GRS 5.8, item 010)

3. IT asset and configuration management files. 

a. Inventories of IT assets, network circuits, and building 

or circuitry diagrams. Includes equipment control 

systems such as databases of barcodes affixed to IT 

physical assets.

Temporary. Destroy 3 years 

after agreement, control 

measures, procedures, project, 

activity, or transaction is 

obsolete, completed, terminated 

or superseded, but longer 

retention is authorized at the 

discretion of the principal 

records custodian.

(GRS 3.1, Item 020)
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 32

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

b. Records created and retained for asset management, 

performance and capacity management, system 

management, configuration and change management, 

and planning, follow-up, and impact assessment of 

operational networks and systems. Includes, but is not 

limited to:

(1) Data and detailed reports on implementation of 

systems, applications and modifications; application 

sizing, resource and demand management; 

documents identifying, requesting, and analyzing 

possible changes, authorizing changes, and 

documenting implementation of changes; 

documentation of software distribution and release or 

version management.

Temporary. Destroy 7 years 

after system is superseded by a 

new iteration, or is terminated, 

defunded, or no longer needed 

for agency/IT administrative 

purposes, but longer retention is 

authorized at the discretion of 

the principal records custodian.

(GRS 3.1, Item 051)

(2) Records of routine IT maintenance on the network 

infrastructure documenting preventative, corrective, 

adaptive and perfective (enhancement) maintenance 

actions, including requests for service, work orders, 

service histories, and related records.

Temporary. Destroy 3 years 

after agreement, control 

measures, procedures, project, 

activity, or transaction is 

obsolete, completed, terminated 

or superseded, but longer 

retention is authorized at the 

discretion of the principal 

records custodian.

(GRS 3.1, Item 020)

4. User identification, profiles, authorizations, and 

password files. Excludes records relating to electronic 

signatures.

a. Systems requiring special accountability for access 

(e.g., those containing information that may be needed 

for audit or investigative purposes and those that 

contain classified records).

Temporary. Destroy 7 years 

after password is altered or user 

account is terminated, but longer 

retention is authorized at the 

discretion of the principal 

records custodian.

(GRS 3.2, Item 031)

b. Systems not requiring special accountability for access. 

These are user identification records generated 

according to preset requirements, typically system 

generated. A system may, for example, prompt users 

for new passwords every 90 days for all users.

Temporary. Destroy when 

business use ceases. 

(GRS 3.2, Item 030) 
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 33

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

5. Computer security incident handling, reporting and 

follow-up records.

Temporary. Destroy 3 years 

after all necessary follow-up 

actions have been completed, 

but longer retention is authorized 

at the discretion of the principal 

records custodian.

(GRS 3.2, Item 020) 

6. System backups and tape library records.

a. Backup tapes maintained for potential system 

restoration in the event of a system failure or other 

unintentional loss of data.

(1) Incremental backup tapes. Temporary. Destroy when 

superseded by a full backup, or 

when no longer needed for 

system restoration, whichever is 

later.

(GRS 3.2, Item 040) 

(2) Full backup tapes. Temporary. Destroy when 

second subsequent backup is 

verified as successful or when 

no longer needed for system 

restoration, whichever is later.

(GRS 3.2, Item 041) 

b. Tape library records including automated files and 

manual records used to control the location, 

maintenance, and disposition of magnetic media in tape 

library. Also included list of holdings and control logs.

Temporary. Destroy when 

superseded by a full backup, or 

when no longer needed for 

system restoration, whichever is 

later.

(GRS 3.2, Item 040) 

7. IT Operations and Maintenance Records. Records 

relate to the activities associated with the operation and 

maintenance of the basic systems and services used to 

supply the agency and its staff with access to computer 

and data telecommunications. Includes the activities 

associated with IT equipment, IT systems, and storage 

media, IT system performance testing, asset and 

configuration management, change management, and 

Temporary. Destroy 3 years 

after agreement, control 

measures, procedures, project, 

activity, or transaction is 

obsolete, completed, terminated, 

or superseded, but longer 

retention is authorized at the 

discretion of the principal 

records custodian.
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 34

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

maintenance on network infrastructure. Includes records 

such as:

• Files identifying IT facilities and sites

• Files concerning implementation of IT facility and 

site management

• Equipment support services provided to specific 

sites

• Inventories of IT assets, network circuits, and 

building and circuitry diagrams

• Equipment control systems such as database of 

barcodes affixed to IT physical assets, and tracking 

of approved personally owned devices

• Requests for service

• Work orders

• Service histories

• Workload schedules

• Run reports

• Schedules of maintenance and support activities

• Reports on operations

• Website administration

• Records to allocate charges and track payment for 

software and services

Note: Records needed to support contracts should be in 

procurement files.

Note: If any maintenance activities have a major impact 

on a system or lead to a significant change, those 

records should be maintained according to item 8.

(GRS 3.1, Item 020)

8. Configuration and Change Management Records. 

Records created and retained for asset management, 

performance and capacity management, system 

management, configuration and change management, 

and planning, follow-up, and impact assessment of 

operation networks and systems. Includes records such 

as:

• Data and detailed reports on implementation of 

systems, applications, and modifications

• Application sizing, resource and demand 

management records

• Documents identifying, requesting, analyzing, 

authorizing and documenting the implementation of 

possible changes and actual changes

Temporary. Destroy 7 years 

after system is superseded by a 

new iteration, or is terminated, 

defunded, or no longer needed 

for agency/IT administrative 

purposes, but longer retention is 

authorized at the discretion of 

the principal records custodian.

(GRS 3.1, Item 030)
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 35

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

• Documentation of software distribution (including 

COTS software license management files) and 

release or version management

Note: If any maintenance activities have a major impact 

on a system or lead to a significant change, those 

records should be maintained according to this item.

Note: Per NARA practice, documentation for electronic 

records should be transferred with the related records 

using the disposition authority for the related electronic 

records rather than the GRS disposition authority.

Note: Judiciary units may retain a copy of 

documentation related to permanent electronic records. 

This copy may be destroyed at any time after the transfer 

request has been signed by the National Archives.

9. Surveillance records.

a. Routine. Records consist of courtroom security 

surveillance video or film of transmissions of courtroom 

proceedings.

Temporary. Maintain video at 

court location for not less than 

14 days nor more than 30 days. 

Media may be reused after 

expiration of retention period.

(N1-021-10-1, Item 1A)

b. Security incident Temporary. Maintain video until 

conclusion of investigation or 

such time as determined by 

order of the chief judge of the 

court. Media may be reused.

(N1-021-10-1, Item 1B)

L. OTHER JUDICIARY COMPONENTS.

1. Bankruptcy Administrator Program Records. Section 

302(d)(3)(I) of the Bankruptcy Judges, United States 

Trustees, and Family Farmer Bankruptcy Act of 1986, 

Pub. L. 99-554, 100 Stat. 3119, 3123, provides the 

statutory authority for the Judicial Conference of the 

United States to establish the bankruptcy administrator 

program.

a. General Administrative Records
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 36

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

(1) [Reserved]

(2) General ledger. Temporary. Destroy 7 years 

after the end of the fiscal year of 

the ledger.

(DAA-0578-2013-0002-0002)

(3) Bank records, monthly statements, monthly bank 

reconciliations, cancelled checks, and deposit slips.

Temporary. Destroy 7 years 

following date they were issued.

(DAA-0578-2013-0002-0003)

(4) [Reserved]

b. Bankruptcy Administration Management Files

(1) Chapter 7 asset, Chapter 9, Chapter 11, Chapter 12, 

and Chapter 15 bankruptcy files. Records include: 

work papers, correspondence, hearing, trial, or other 

notes, financial statements, inventories, and other 

documents created or edited in preparation for a 

hearing, meeting of creditors, deposition, inspection, 

or other case-related event, whether held or not.

Temporary. Destroy 5 years 

after the case is closed.

(DAA-0578-2013-0002-0005)

(2) Chapter 7 no-asset bankruptcy files. Records 

include: work papers, correspondence, hearing, trial, 

or other notes, financial statements, inventories, and 

other documents created or edited in preparation for 

a hearing, meeting of creditors, deposition, 

inspection, or other case-related event, whether held 

or not.

Temporary. Destroy 90 days 

after reviewing the trustee’s noasset report or when no longer 

needed for reference purposes, 

whichever is later.

(DAA-0578-2013-0002-0006)

(3) Chapter 13 bankruptcy files. Records include: work 

papers, correspondence, hearing, trial, or other 

notes, financial statements, inventories, and other 

documents created or edited in preparation for a 

hearing, meeting of creditors, deposition, inspection, 

or other case-related event, whether held or not.

Temporary. Destroy 2 years 

after the date the trustee is 

discharged.

(DAA-0578-2013-0002-0007)

(4) Trustees semi-annual or annual reports and budgets. Temporary. Destroy when 10 

years old.

(DAA-0578-2013-0002-0008)

(5) Audits of trustees or bankruptcy administrators 

debtor audits.

Temporary. Destroy when 10 

years old.

(DAA-0578-2013-0002-0009)
Guide to Judiciary Policy, Vol. 10, Appx. 6B Page 37

Records Disposition Schedule 2

Type of Record Disposition

(6) Audio recordings or transcripts of meetings of 

creditors and equity security holders held under 

11 U.S.C. § 341(a).

(a) Cases filed under Chapters 7, 9, 11, 12 13, and 

15 of Title 11, U.S.C..

Temporary. Except as provided 

in section (b) below, 

destroy/delete the audio 

recordings 2 years after the date 

of the conclusion of the meeting 

of creditors.

(DAA-0578-2013-0002-0010)

(b) All cases under Title 11, U.S.C., where audio 

recordings may require an extended period of 

retention for one or more of the following pending 

matters:

• collecting assets of the estate;

• determining the appropriateness of 

discharge;

• obtaining relevant information about the 

affairs of the debtor;

• investigating the organization structure of the 

debtor;

• fixing compensation of professional persons;

• investigating or prosecuting criminal conduct, 

including but not limited to perjury.

Temporary. Destroy/delete

2 years after the conclusion of 

the applicable pending matter(s).

(DAA-0578-2013-0002-0011)

(7) Bankruptcy criminal referral files. Records include 

referral documentation and all supporting 

documentation, whether or not part of the referral.

Temporary. Destroy 10 years 

after the date of referral or when 

case is closed, whichever is 

later.

(DAA-0578-2013-0002-0012)

(8) Credit counseling and debtor education provider 

files. Records include applications, tax returns, and 

government certifications.

Temporary. Destroy 10 years 

after the end of the fiscal year of 

the application.

(DAA-0578-2013-0002-0013)