An efficient court filing system helps make the process of filing documents seamlessly. The files can be automatically sent to the appropriate place in the court system, reducing the risk of human error, mismanagement, and loss of files. It also makes access to court records easier. In addition, e-filing helps reduce human errors and the burden of lost files.

E-filing is mandatory in courts:

Electronic filing is now mandatory in courts, even if the parties aren’t represented by attorneys. All parties must file and serve their documents electronically unless the parties consent otherwise. The process is inexpensive and requires minimal setup. Parties may request training from the court or attend an e-filing class. The court’s help desk is available to assist attorneys who file their cases electronically, as well as non-e-filing parties.

If you want to file a case electronically, there are some specific requirements you need to follow. You must file the case in the correct format and upload the case file to the court’s e-filing portal. You will be required to submit the file in CPLR format. You can record consent to e-filing in NYSCEF before you file. If you file your case in the wrong format, you can’t expect the court to accept it.

It reduces dependence on couriers:

The court filing system allows attorneys to file documents electronically without the use of couriers or third-party delivery services. E-filing eliminates the need for last-minute filings and doesn’t depend on the availability of the court clerk. Moreover, electronic documents have a time stamp, so they can be filed at any time.

It improves access to court records:

The objective of the rule is to increase the public’s access to court records. This access can be limited, however, for public safety or privacy reasons. In some instances, unrestricted access to these records may increase the risk of harm to individual citizens. In other instances, denial of public access to court records could compromise the role of the judiciary in society and impair the public’s ability to hold officials accountable.

Access to court records is improved by the availability of electronic court filings. Many courts make dockets and court filings available on the Internet free of charge, but not all courts offer electronic copies. There are also some documents that may not be publically available, including unexecuted warrants and summonses. Additionally, some courts limit access to these documents to legal professionals only.