ECF can be used to file documents or to retrieve case information, including documents. To file using ECF, a filing login and password is required. The Court issues logins and passwords for filing.

Access to the Internet, Internet Explorer, Netscape or other internet browser, and Adobe Acrobat 3.9 or higher. If a modem is used to connect to the internet, it should have a speed of at least 56K. A DSL or cable modem line should be used in lieu of a standard telephone line. It is recommended that you not use America on Line (AOL).

Adobe Acrobat is commercial software from Adobe that allows a document to be saved in portable document format (PDF). All documents filed in ECF must be in PDF. Adobe also distributes Acrobat Reader which allows PDF documents to be viewed and printed (but not to create).

Yes. The system is a secure site.

Access to view the cases and documents in CM/ECF is available to anyone with a PACER login and password.

Each notification will have a link to the document for one "free" look.

Payment for filing fees may be made by credit card. The court currently accepts MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Diners Club and Discover.

Attorneys will receive an email receipt with case number. No other receipt or summary will be given.

In order to file electronically, an attorney must be admitted to practice before the court and must have previously registered to file electronically. In addition, the case must be one designated by the court for electronic filing.

The best way to learn to use the e-filing system is to complete the CM/ECF On-Line Tutorial. We will be offering a series of hands-on training classes in the immediate future. Further information will be disseminated as it becomes available.

Besides your e-filer login, a PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records) account is also required to retrieve documents from the e-filing system. If you do not already have a PACER account, you can contact PACER via e-mail, phone or on-line:
1. Email: PACER@psc.uscourts.gov 2. Phone: 1-800-676-6856 3. On-line registration at: http://pacer.psc.uscourts.gov
The PACER Service Center (PSC) can also provide phone support for e-filing users; specifically, the PSC staff can assist with browser issues, Adobe Acrobat installation and use, general navigation around a Judiciary e-filing site like ours, etc. The hours of the PSC are from 8 AM to 5 PM Central Time.
A separate ECF login is required to file documents. Only attorneys may register to become e-filers, but anyone can sign up for a PACER account. When you receive a Notice of Electronic Filing in your email, you’ll note that the case number and document number are both hyperlinks. You can click the document number to retrieve the pleading. That first retrieval when you have ben served is free. Subsequent retrievals, even of documents you have posted, you will be charged for when billing begins. Also, see our Pacer Guide for ECF users.

The best way to learn to use the e-filing system is to complete the CM/ECF On-Line Tutorial. We will be offering a series of hands-on training classes in the immediate future. Further information will be disseminated as it becomes available.