Although law school prepares us for daily legal practice, the specifics of filing court documents is not necessarily taught in law school and certainly not tested on the bar exam. Properly filing court documents is an essential skill that practicing attorneys must master. It is extremely important to be aware of the nuances of and comfortable with the e-filing system because virtually all notices, motions, and briefs in a matter are required to be filed through the court’s Case Management/Electronic Case Files (CM/ECF) system. E-filing has obvious benefits-no more rushing to the courthouse to file an emergency motion-but it comes with its own challenges and learning curve. Understanding the e-filing process and rules can help you file documents with confidence and ensure that your filings are always correct and timely.
Hear step-by-step instructions on how to manage and navigate the e-filing system. Learn how to set up an ECF account, how to use the ECF interface, and how to address specific situations, such as filing documents under seal or physical exhibits.
Hear step-by-step instructions on how to manage and navigate the e-filing system. Learn how to set up an ECF account, how to use the ECF interface, and how to address specific situations, such as filing documents under seal or physical exhibits.
Course Content
3:00pm - 3:05pmE-Filing in Federal Court: Getting Started: System Requirements and Setting up an Account
Richard K. Chung, Esq.,
Sidley Austin LLP, Boston
Doreen M. Rachal, Esq.,
Sidley Austin LLP, Boston
3:05pm - 3:10pm
E-Filing in Federal Court: Key Administrative Procedures and Rules for E-Filing in the District of Massachusetts and the First Circuit
Panel
3:10pm - 3:30pm
E-Filing in Federal Court: Using the ECF Interface to File Notices, Pleadings, Motions, Briefs, and Exhibits
Panel
3:30pm - 3:40pm
E-Filing in Federal Court: Frequently Asked Questions
What if my document does not fit within the list of categories?
What if I need to file a document under seal or with redactions?
What if I need to file a physical exhibit?
What if I made a mistake in my filing?
Panel
3:40pm - 3:45pm
E-Filing in Federal Court: Troubleshooting Problems and Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Panel
3:45pm - 3:50pm
E-Filing in Federal Court: Using PACER and ECF Alerts
Panel
3:50pm - 4:00pm
“Ask the Experts” Q&A Session
Panel
Please Note
This webcast is delivered completely online, underscoring their convenience and appeal.
There are no published print materials. All written materials are available electronically only.
They are posted 24 hours prior to the program and can be accessed, downloaded, or printed from your computer.
Speakers
FacultyRichard K. Chung, Esq.,
Sidley Austin LLP, Boston
Doreen M. Rachal, Esq.,
Sidley Austin LLP, Boston