When you are ready to file your paperwork in court, the following general principles apply: Take the original as well as at least two copies of your documents. The original will be kept by the court. Your copies will be stamped "Filed" by the clerk and returned to you. You must keep your copies for reference if you need to re-file them in the future. There are three main types of filings in court: motions, petitions, and complaints. A motion asks the court to take some action; for example, to change a previous ruling or order. A petition asks the court to decide a case or issue. Complaints are used by lawyers to inform the court that their client has been wronged and is seeking justice. Any type of filing with the court must be made in writing and signed by you or your lawyer as authorized to do so. However, some filings can be made orally in open court or before a judge during other proceedings. These include motions, petitions, and complaints. All filings must state exactly what you want the court to do. For example, a motion for new trial must describe what error was committed at the last trial and why this new trial is needed. The court may grant a new trial if it believes that there was a mistake made at the previous trial. If your motion is denied, then you can appeal that decision by filing a notice of appeal.