CM/ECF User's Manual - District of Massachusetts

How to Convert Documents to PDF FormatYou must convert all of your documents to PDF format before submitting them tothe Court’s Electronic Case Filing (ECF) system. The conversion processrequires special software such as Adobe Acrobat Writer or FinePrint pdfFactory.WordPerfect versions 9 and 10 have Acrobat Writer built-in and can also be usedto convert documents to PDF. However, converting a document to PDF throughWordPerfect generally produces a larger file size than through Adobe AcrobatWriter.Using any word processing program:• Install Acrobat Writer or FinePrint pdfFactory on your computer• Open the document to be converted• Select the [Print ] option (generally found in the File menu) and inthe dialog box select the option to change the current printer. Adrop down menu with a list of printer choices is displayed.• Select Adobe PDFWriter or FinePrint pdfFactory*• “Print” the file. The file should not actually print out; instead theoption to save the file as a PDF format file appears.• Make a note of the file location so you can find the document laterwhen you are ready to upload it. Change the location if necessaryby clicking in the “Save in” area of the window.• Please note that ECF will not accept PDF files that are passwordCM/ECF User’s Manual - October 20037District of Massachusetts

protected.• Name the file, giving it the extension .PDF and click the [Save]button. There are no specific requirements for the file name. Youcan name it anything that you will be able to find in order to attachit during the electronic filing process.Depending on the word processing program being used, it may be necessary to find theprinter selection option elsewhere. At that point, change the printer to AdobePDFWriter, and follow the directions above.*You must have either Adobe Acrobat Writer or FinePrint pdfFactory installed on yourcomputer to see these choices listed.BasicsUser InteractionsThere are three general types of user interactions allowed by the CM/ECF system:• Entering information in data fields• Using command buttons to direct system activities• Mouse-clicking on hyperlinksConventions Used in This Manual:• Data to be entered by the user is shown enclosed in angle brackets: .• Command buttons are represented in this manual in [bracketed boldfacetype].• Hyperlinks are represented in underlined boldface type.Documents Filed In ErrorA document incorrectly filed in a case may result from a) posting the wrong PDFfile to a docket entry; b) selecting the wrong document type from the menu; or c)entering the wrong case number and not discovering the error before completingthe transaction.To request a correction, telephone:CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 20038District of Massachusetts

Toll Free Help Desk 1-866-239-6233OrContact the clerk for the judge assigned to your case (See Attachment A)as soon as possible after an error is discovered. You will need to provide the caseand document numbers for the document requiring correction. If appropriate, thecourt will make an entry indicating that the document was filed in error. You willbe advised if you need to re-file the document. The ECF system does not permityou to change the misfiled document(s) or incorrect docket entry after thetransaction has been accepted.Imbedded URLsImbedded URLs (Internet addresses) are not permitted. These are viewed as apossible security threat and it is impossible to guarantee that the owner of theURL will maintain it in the future.Viewing Transaction LogThis feature, selected from the Utilities menu, allows you to review alltransactions ECF has processed with your login and password. If you believe orsuspect someone is using your login and password without your permission,change your password immediately, then telephone the Court’s Help Desk (see p.3) as soon as possible.User’s ManualYou can download or view the most recent version of the ECF User’s Manual (inPDF format) from the District Court’s web page at http://www.mad.uscourts.gov .When the court’s web page opens, click on the E-Filing-CM/ECF hyperlink.Case NumbersA case number is assigned to every case brought in the court. The number isassigned by office code, year filed, docket type, docket number and then judgeassignment. For example, 4:03CV40094-NMG is a civil action, filed in 2003,originally filed in the Central Division and assigned to Judge Nathaniel M.Gorton. It is currently pending in the Central Division.Criminal case numbers also include the defendant number as assigned by the casemanagement system. The defendant number is determined by the defendant orderlisted on the charging instrument (complaint, indictment, etc.) This order is notchanged by the filing of any superseding charges, unless directed by the Court.An example of a criminal case number is 1:03CR10234-WGY. A criminalnumber including a defendant number is 1:03CR10234-002-WGY.The docket number is divided into four sections: office number, case year, caseCM/ECF User’s Manual - October 20039District of Massachusetts

type, and case sequence:1: 03 cv 10002Office/Divisionnumber1 - Eastern3 - Western4 - CentralCase Year(assignedby yearcase is filed)Docket typecv - civilcr - criminalmc - miscellaneousmj - Magistrate JudgeCase numberassignedsequentially in eachofficeThe office number tells where a case is pending. If a case is originally filed in theWestern Section (Springfield), the case number would be 3:03cv30094. Shouldthe case be reassigned to the Eastern Section (Boston), the case number becomes1:03cv30094, or the Central Section (Worcester) where it becomes 4:03cv30094.ECF Login and PACER Screen ( Non-court Users)If you wish to electronically file a document or need to update your User Account(i.e., update an attorney mailing address or alter e-mail notification information),enter the system using your court-generated CM/ECF login and password.During your session, if you deviate from either electronically filing a document ormaintaining your user account by clicking on the query or report menus, thesystem will prompt for your PACER issued login and password. If you choose"Make this my default PACER login", the system will link your PACERinformation to your CM/ECF login and password. At that point, you will not berequired to enter your PACER information while working in CM/ECF.If you only wish to generate reports (i.e., view a docket sheet) or query caseinformation, initially enter the system using your PACER issued login andpassword. If you then need filing functionality or the ability to maintain youruser account, select the UTILITIES menu from the main blue menu bar. Fromthat menu, select ECF Login to enter your court issued CM/ECF login andpassword. An explanation of the login procedures is displayed above the promptboxes on the login screen.The client code field is an optional field provided on the login screens for trackingpurposes during PACER (report and query) functions. It can contain up to 32characters. If a client code is entered for a transaction, that client code will bepresented on the billing statement generated by the PACER Service Center. Aclient code will not appear on the bill unless it is entered at the time oftransaction. Because this code feature is optional, it must be enforced within auser's office."Back" And "Forward" ButtonsThe BACK and FORWARD buttons advance or reverse one screen at a time. IfCM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200310District of Massachusetts

an error has been made or the user needs to verify entries on a previous screen,click the BACK button to the specific screen. The FORWARD button moves ascreen ahead to return to the target screen. However, if a change is made, use theNEXT button to progress.Please note that the system may log out a user if too many consecutive backbuttons are hit during one transaction. The system may assume there is a securityfailure or you may back out to the login screen.The user may always exit a CM/ECF transaction before it is committed by usingthe BACK key or clicking on another menu selection from the top of the frame.The "Tab" KeyCM/ECF screens are navigated by using the mouse, however the user may alsouse the TAB key and space bar to move through the data entry fields in mostscreens. Active or "focus" buttons have a faint dotted outline around them. Afocused button may be activated by hitting the space bar. The user can also usethe SHIFT key and the TAB key simultaneously to move back one field at a time.Menus And Event SelectionsNavigating and posting events in CM/ECF is by menu and sub-menu eventselections. The menus and events a particular user will see is predicated on theiruser type (i.e., Court User or Attorney User) and access level to the system.Selecting Multiple Parties Or EventsMost of CM/ECF's selections appear in alphabetical order in drop down lists.Multiple items may be selected from these lists by holding the CONTROL keyand clicking on selections in the same drop down list. To select a range of items,hold the SHIFT key and click on the top and bottom of the selection range.User Supplied TextUsers may supply additional text or augment the system-supplied text in the blankwindows provided. Any text supplied by a non-court user will be displayed onthe docket sheet in italic print.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200311District of Massachusetts

A Step-By-Step GuideBelow is a step-by-step guide for entering the system, preparing a document for filing,filing a motion or application, and displaying a docket sheet. We suggest that you gothrough the steps on the training data base before trying to actually file a document in thelive system.How to Access the SystemUsers can get into the system via the Internet by going tohttp://ecf.mad.uscourts.gov/Or, you may go to the District of Massachusetts’s Web site atwww.mad.uscourts.gov and click on the E-Filing-CM/ECF hyperlink to open thelogin screen and login to ECF.Users can access the Training Database by going tohttps://ecf-train.mad.uscourts.gov or by clicking on the hyperlink on theCourt’s web page for E-filing-CM/ECF and then click on Attorney TrainingDatabase. However, you will need to use one of the practice logins or contact thehelp desk for a login to the training database.Logging InThe next screen is the login screen.Enter your ECF Login and Password in the appropriate data entry fields. All ECFlogin names and passwords are case sensitive.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200312District of Massachusetts

Note: Use your ECF login and password if you are entering the system to file apleading or to maintain your account. If you only wish to enter ECF toquery the database for case information or to view a document, enter yourPACER login and password. You will be charged a fee to view ECF casedockets and documents of 7 cents per page up to a maximum of $2.10 perdocument.Verify that you have entered your ECF login and password correctly. If not, clickon the [Clear] button to erase the Login and Password entries and re-enter thecorrect information. After you enter the correct login and password information,click on the [Login] button to transmit your user information to the ECF system.$ If the ECF system does not recognize your login and password, it willdisplay the following error message on a new screen.Login failed either your login name or key is incorrect$ Click on the [Back] button in your browser and re-enter yourcorrect login and password.$ Once the Main Menu appears, choose from a list of hyperlinked optionson the top bar.Note: The date you last logged into the system appears at the bottom left corner of thisscreen. You should review this information each time you login for securityreasons. If you believe your last login date and time are incorrect, or suspect anunauthorized party is using your login and password, change your passwordimmediately. Please telephone the court’s Help Desk (see p. 3) as soon aspossible to advise them of the potential security breach.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200313District of Massachusetts

Selecting ECF FeaturesECF provides the following features that are accessible from the Blue menu bar at the topof the opening screen.Civil-Criminal-Query-Reports-Utilities-Logout-Select Civil to electronically file all civil case pleadings, motions, andother court documents.Select Criminal to electronically file all criminal case pleadings, motions,and other court documents.Query ECF by specific case number, party name, or nature of suit toretrieve documents that are relevant to the case. You must login toPACER before you can query ECF.Choose Reports to retrieve docket sheets and cases-filed reports. Youmust login to PACER before you can view an ECF report.View your personal ECF transaction log and maintain personal ECFaccount information in the Utilities area of ECF.Allows you to exit from ECF and prevents further filing with yourpassword until the next time you log in.Manipulating the ScreensEach screen has the following two buttons:• clears all characters entered in the box(es) on that screen.• or accepts the entry just made and displays the nextentry screen, if any.Correcting a Mistake:Use the button on the browser toolbar to go back and correct an entry made on aprevious screen. However, once the document is transmitted to the court, only the courtcan make changes or corrections.Signatures; Affidavits of ServiceDocuments which must contain original signatures or which require either verification oran unsworn declaration under any rule or statute, may be filed electronically withoriginally executed copies maintained by the filer. The pleadings or other documentselectronically filed shall indicate a signature, e.g., “s/Jane Doe.”In the case of a stipulation or other document to be signed by two or more persons, theCM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200314District of Massachusetts

following procedure should be used:(a) The filing party or attorney shall initially confirm that the content of thedocument is acceptable to all persons required to sign the document and shallobtain the physical signatures of all parties on the document.(b) The filing party or attorney then shall file the document electronically,indicating the signatories, e.g., “s/Jane Doe,” “s/John Doe,” etc.(c) The filing party or attorney shall retain the hard copy of the documentcontaining the original signatures until two (2) years after the conclusion of thecase, including any appeals.(d) A non-filing signatory or party who disputes the authenticity of anelectronically filed document containing multiple signatures or the authenticity ofthe signatures themselves must file an objection to the document within ten daysof receiving the Notice of Electronic Filing.Civil Events FeatureRegistered filers will use the Civil feature of ECF to electronically self-file and docket with theCourt a variety of pleadings and other documents for civil cases. This section of the manualdescribes the basic steps that you need to take in order to file a single motion with the Court.The process is consistent regardless of the event.Filing a Civil ComplaintThe Court will continue to accept complaints in the traditional manner, that is a hardcopy, sent by U. S. Mail or delivered in person to the Clerk's office. A 3.5” floppy diskwith the complaint, cover sheets and any other documents to be filed along with thecomplaint converted to PDF format may also be provided.Present the Clerk’s Office with a Civil Cover Sheet (JS-44), local category sheet, and thecomplaint which lists the case party information and the fee in the amount of $150.00.Customer Services staff will assign the case a number and judge and issue the requestedprocess. The complaint and all initiating documents will be scanned, unless a disk isprovided with the documents in PDF format, and electronically filed by the Clerk’sOffice.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200315District of Massachusetts

Filing Documents for Civil CasesThere are nine basic steps involved in filing a document:1) Select the type of document to file (see Attorney Event Menu);2) Select appropriate document or motion type from drop down list3) Enter the case number in which the document is to be filed;4) Designate the party(s) filing the document;5) Specify the PDF file name and location for the document to be filed.6) Add attachments, if any, to the document being filed.7) Modify docket text as necessary8) Submit the pleading to ECF9) Receive notification of electronic filingAfter successfully logging into ECF, follow these steps to file a pleading.1. Select the type of document to fileSelect Civil from the blue menu bar at the top of the ECF screen. The CivilEvent window opens displaying all of the events from which you may choose foryour filing. This section of the User's Manual describes the process for filing aMotion in ECF. The process is similar for filing other pleadings in ECF.Click on Motions, under Motions and Related Filings2. Select the appropriate document or motion type from drop downlistThe Motions screen appears and displays a motion selection field with a scrollbar next to it. Scroll through the menu until you find the type of motion orapplication you wish to file.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200316District of Massachusetts

For demonstration purposes, highlight Preliminary Injunction and click on [Next].Note: To select more than one motion, press and hold down the Ctrl key, and clickon each of the desired multiple forms of relief.3. Enter the case number in which the document is to be filed.A new screen opens with a Case Number field. Enter the number of the case forwhich you are filing a motion and click on [Next].• If the number is entered incorrectly, click to re-enter. If the computerprompts that you entered an invalid case number, click on to re-enter.• When the case number is correct, click on .CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200317District of Massachusetts

4. Designate the party(s) filing the documentHighlight the name of the party or parties for whom you are filing the motion. If yourepresent all defendants or all plaintiffs you may select the entire group by holdingdown the control key while pointing and clicking on each party of the groupAfter highlighting the parties to the motion, click on the [Next] button.Note: If your party does not appear and should, contact the help desk, or the docketclerk for the Judicial Officer assigned to your case. If this is a new party to the casesee the section of this manual titled Add/Create New Party.5. Specify the PDF file name and location for the document to befiled.ECF accepts the party or parties you selected and refreshes the screen to display anew screen depicted below. ECF displays a field for locating and entering the PDFfile of the document (pleading) you are filing in ECF.Note:You must attach an electronic copy of the actual pleading whenprompted by the system. All documents that you intend to file in ECFMUST reside in PDF format. Otherwise, ECF will not accept thedocument and you will not be able to complete the transaction. Also notethat ECF will not accept PDF files that are password protected.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200318District of Massachusetts

• Click on the [Browse] button. ECF opens the following screen.• You may need to change the Files of type from:to:• Navigate to the appropriate directory and file name to select the PDFdocument you wish to file.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200319District of Massachusetts

• Highlight the file to upload to ECF.Note: In order to verify that you have selected the correct document, rightmouse click on the highlighted file name to open a quick menu andleft mouse click on [open]. Adobe Acrobat or Acrobat Reader willlaunch and open the PDF document that you selected. You shouldview it to verify that it is the correct document.• Once you have verified the document is correct, close Adobe Acrobat andclick on the [Open] button. ECF closes the File Upload screen and insertsthe PDF file name and location in the Filename text window.• If there are no attachments to the motion, click on [Next]. A new windowopens. Go to Section 7, “Modifying Docket Text,” to proceed with yourfiling.• Please note that memoranda in support of a motion should be filed as aseparate document and not as an attachment to the motion.• If you have Attachments to your motion, you will select [Yes] on the screendepicted above. Click on [Next] and proceed to the first step in Section 6,“Adding Attachments to Documents Being Filed”.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200320District of Massachusetts

In the event you selected and highlighted a file that is not in PDF format, ECF willdisplay the following error message after you click on the [Next] button.• ECF will not permit you to select a file for your pleading that is not in PDFformat.• Click on the [Back] button and ECF will return to the previous screen.Select and highlight the PDF file of your pleading and proceed as before.Failure to Select A Document to FileIf you fail to select a document to file with your pleading, ECF will display the errormessage depicted below.• If you click [OK] from the screen depicted above ECF will return you to theprevious screen. You cannot proceed without attaching a PDF document.6. Adding attachments to documents being filedAttachments in the CM/ECF system are any documents you would file as an exhibitor attachment to a paper document. Examples might be affidavits, proposeddocuments, etc. If you acknowledged the need to attach documents to your motionduring the previous step, a new screen appears for you to select the attachments.If the document you wish to file requires leave of court, such as an amendedcomplaint or a document to be filed out of time, the proposed document shall beattached as an exhibit to the motion. If your motion is granted, the order willdirect you to electronically file your document with the court.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200321District of Massachusetts

• Click on [Browse] to search for the document file name of theattachment.• Next to the field for attachment Type, click on the arrow and ECF opens apulldown screen. Highlight the type of attachment from the displayed selection.• To describe the attachment more fully, click in the Description box and type aclear and concise description of the attachment. Note: if you choose a type fromthe drop down list, such as Exhibit, you do not type Exhibit in the Descriptionbox.• Click on [Add to List].ECF adds the selected document as an attachment to the pleading. A new screenopens to display the file name of the newly attached document.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200322District of Massachusetts

• Repeat the sequence for each additional attachment.• After adding all of the desired PDF documents as attachments, click on[Next].When attachments and exhibits are in paper formatAttachments and exhibits that cannot be created and filed electronicallyand when scanned are greater than 2MB in size, must be submitted inpaper format. Present the entire pleading with attachments to the clerk'soffice for handling. Electronically file a Notice of Filing in the Clerk’sOffice in the form attached (Attachment 2) and submit the Notice alongwith the paper document to the Clerk’s Office for filing within 24 hours.Note: For moderate length paper attachments, consider dividing them intotwo or more smaller attachments, scanning, and filing them electronically.7. Modify docket textCM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200323District of Massachusetts

Click on the button shown here to open a modifier drop-down list. Select amodifier if appropriate.Click in the open text area to type additional text for the description of thepleading. Users may supply additional text or augment the system-supplied textin the blank windows provided. Any text supplied by a non-court user will bedisplayed on the docket sheet in italic print.8. Submit the pleading.• Click on the [Next] button. A new window appears with the complete text forthe docket report.• Review the docket text and correct any errors. If you need to modify data on aprevious screen, click thescreen you wish to alter.button on the browser toolbar to find theCM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200324District of Massachusetts

• Click on the [Next] button to file and docket the pleading.Note: The screen depicted above contains the following warning.Pressing the NEXT button on this screen commits this transaction. You willhave no further opportunity to modify this transaction if you continue.At any time prior to this step, you can abort the ECF filing or return to previousscreens by:• clicking on any hyperlink on the Blue ECF menu bar to abort the currenttransaction. ECF will reset to the beginning of the process you just selected.• clicking on the Web Browser [Back] button until you return to the desiredscreen.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200325District of Massachusetts

9. Notice of Electronic Filing (NEF)ECF opens a new Motions window displaying an ECF filing receipt.• The screen depicted above provides confirmation that ECF has registered yourtransaction and the pleading is now an official court document. It also displaysthe date and time of your transaction and the number that was assigned to yourdocument. You should note this number on the document’s PDF file.• Select [Print] on the browser toolbar to print the document receipt.• Select [File] on the browser menu bar, and choose Save Frame As…from thedrop-down window to save the receipt to a file on the hard drive of yourcomputer.Note: The Notice of Electronic Filing represents your Certificate of Service.The Court strongly urges you to copy it to a file on your computer hard-drive,print it, and retain a hard copy in your personal files.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200326District of Massachusetts

E-Mail Notification of Documents That Were FiledAfter a pleading is electronically filed, the ECF System sends a Notice ofElectronic Filing (NEF) to the designated attorneys and parties who haveregistered for ECF and supplied their E-mail addresses to the Court.Individuals who receive electronic notification of the filing are permittedone "free look” at the document by clicking on the associated hyperlinkeddocument number embedded in the Notice of Electronic Filing. The fileris permitted one free look at the document and the Docket Sheet to verifythat the pleading was properly docketed. The system virtually marks orrecords the viewing of the docket sheet and document when the userinserts his PACER login following the click on the hyperlinks. The Courtstrongly urges you to copy the Notice of Electronic Filing and pleadingdocuments to your hard-drive for future access. Subsequent retrieval ofthe case docket sheet and pleading from CM/ECF must be made throughyour PACER account and is subject to regular PACER fees.Note: It is the responsibility of filers to send hard copies of the pleading andNotice of Electronic Filing to attorneys and pro se parties who haveindicated they do not have E-mail accounts.Notifications In Regular Civil CasesYou will be asked to insert your PACER login and password whenclicking on hyperlinks within e-mail notifications. In this scenario, thesystem is virtually marking or recording that the recipient is receiving thefirst free look.Notifications In Social Security CasesNotifications of activity in Social Security cases, however, are unique inthat it is necessary for the system to identify the reader as counsel ofrecord in a Social Security case having authorization to view a documentelectronically. When an e-mail notification is received and the subject lineindicates that it is for a Social Security case, the recipient must open asecond window and enter the CM/ECF system using the attorney'sCM/ECF login & password BEFORE clicking on any of the e-mailhyperlinks. The recipient may then go back to the e-mail notificationwindow and click on the hyperlinks (using their PACER login &password) to view the electronically filed document.Notifications Of Electronic Orders Or Clerk NotesTraditionally, this Court has entered some orders in the margin of themotion filed. In the future, the Court may enter an ‘electronic order.’ Anelectronic order is an order that exists only in an electronic format - therewill be no paper or PDF order. E-mail notifications of electronic orderswill contain just a hyperlink to the docket sheet for the case and not to theCM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200327District of Massachusetts

document filed. There is no PDF file uploaded during this courttransaction and therefore the record of the entire order is solely the dockettext which is created and viewable on the Notice of Electronic Filing.The same will be true of clerk’s notes. Traditionally, the courtroom clerkprepared a handwritten report/summary of court proceedings which havebeen docketed and placed in the file. In the future, the courtroom clerkmay enter this information directly into the CM/ECF system withoutcreating a paper record. As with “Electronic Orders”, there is no PDF fileuploaded during this court transaction for “Electronic Clerk’s Notes” andtherefore the record of the entire order is solely the docket text which iscreated and viewable on the Notice of Electronic Filing.Criminal Events FeatureFiling Documents for Criminal CasesThere are ten basic steps involved in filing a criminal document and the same GeneralRules and manipulations used for electronically filing civil documents apply todocuments filed in criminal cases.1) Select the type of document to file (see Attorney Event Menu);2) Enter the case number in which the document is to be filed;3) Designate the defendant that the filing relates to;4) Select the appropriate document or motion type from the drop down list5) Designate the party(s) filing the document;6) Specify the PDF file name and location for the document to be filed.7) Add attachments, if any, to the document being filed.8) Modify docket text as necessary9) Submit the pleading to ECF10) Receive notification of electronic filingAfter successfully logging into ECF, follow these steps to file a pleading.1. Select the type of document to fileSelect Criminal from the blue menu bar at the top of the ECF screen. The CriminalEvent window opens displaying all of the events from which you may choose foryour filing. This section of the User's Manual describes the process for filing aMotion in ECF. The process is similar for filing other pleadings in ECF.Click on Motions, under Motions and Related FilingsCM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200328District of Massachusetts

2. Enter the case number in which the document is to be filed.A new screen opens with a Case Number field. Enter the number of the case forwhich you are filing a motion and click on [Next].Note: If the case number you are working on is 8:00cr101, you could enter the casenumber in any of the following formats:02-10002cr1008:02-cr-1008-02-cr-1008:02cr100• If the number is entered incorrectly, click [Clear] to re-enter. If the computerprompts that you entered an invalid case number, click on [Back] to re-enter.• When the case number is correct, click on [Next]CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200329District of Massachusetts

3. Designate the defendant(s) that the filing relates to.Click in the boxes to place a check next to each defendant’s name that this filingrelates to. If it relates to all defendants in the case, check the box for “AllDefendants” and leave the other boxes unchecked. When finished selectingdefendants click on [Next].4. Select the appropriate document or motion type from the drop downlistA new screen appears and displays a motion selection field with a scroll bar nextto it. Scroll through the menu until you find the type of motion or application youwish to file.For demonstration purposes, highlight Suppress and click on [Next].Note: To select more than one motion, press and hold down the Ctrl key, and clickon each of the desired multiple forms of relief.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200330District of Massachusetts

5. Designate the party(s) filing the documentHighlight the name of the party or parties filing the motion. Click on the [Next]button.6. Specify the PDF file name and location for the document to befiled.ECF accepts the party or parties you selected and refreshes the screen to display anew screen depicted below. ECF displays a field for locating and entering the PDFfile of the document (pleading) you are filing in ECF.Note: It is imperative that you attach an electronic copy of the actual pleading whenprompted by the system. All documents that you intend to file in ECFMUST reside in PDF format. Otherwise, ECF will not accept the documentand you will not be able to complete the transaction. Also note that ECF willnot accept PDF files that are password protected.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200331District of Massachusetts

• Click on the [Browse] button. ECF opens the following screen.• You may have to change the Files of type from:to:• Navigate to the appropriate directory and file name to select the PDFdocument you wish to file.• Highlight the file to upload to ECF.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200332District of Massachusetts

Note: In order to verify that you have selected the correct document, rightmouse click on the highlighted file name to open a quick menu and leftmouse click on [open]. Adobe Acrobat or Acrobat Reader will launchand open the PDF document that you selected. You should view it toverify that it is the correct document.• Once you have verified the document is correct, close Adobe Acrobat andclick on the [Open] button in the lower right corner of the File Uploadwindow. ECF closes the File Upload screen and inserts the PDF file nameand location as depicted in the screen below.• If there are no attachments to the motion, click on [Next]. A new windowopens. Go to Section 8, “Modifying Docket Text,” to proceed with yourfiling.• If you have Attachments to your motion, you will select [Yes] on the screendepicted above. Click on [Next] and proceed to the first step in Section 7,“Adding Attachments to Documents Being Filed”.In the event you selected and highlighted a file that is not in PDF format,ECF will display the following error message after you click on the [Next]button.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200333District of Massachusetts

• ECF will not permit you to select a file for your pleading that is not in PDFformat.• Click on the [Back] button and ECF will return to the previous screen fordocument selection. Select and highlight the PDF file of your pleading andproceed as before.Failure to Select A Document to FileIf you fail to select a document to file with your pleading, ECF will display theerror message depicted below.• If you click [OK] from the screen depicted above ECF will return you to theMotions screen. You cannot proceed without attaching a PDF document.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200334District of Massachusetts

7. Add attachments to documents being filedIf you acknowledged the need to attach documents to your motion during theprevious step, a new screen appears.• Click on [Browse] to search for the document file name of theattachment.• Next to the field for attachment Type, click on the arrow and ECF opens apulldown screen. Highlight the type of attachment from the displayed selection.• To describe the attachment more fully, click in the Description box and type aclear and concise description of the attachment.• Click on [Add to List].ECF adds the selected document as an attachment to the pleading. A new screenopens to display the file name of the newly attached document.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200335District of Massachusetts

• Repeat the sequence for each additional attachment.• After adding all of the desired PDF documents as attachments, click on [Next].When attachments and exhibits are in paper formatAttachments and exhibits that cannot be created and filed electronically andwhen scanned are greater than 2MB in size, can be submitted in paper format.Present the entire pleading with attachments to the clerk's office for handling.. Electronically file a Notice of Filing in the Clerk’s Office in the formattached and submit the Notice along with the paper document to the Clerk’sOffice for filing within 24 hours.Note: For moderate length paper attachments, consider dividing them intotwo or more smaller attachments, scanning, and filing them electronically.8. Modify docket textClick on the button shown here to open a modifier drop-down list. Select amodifier if appropriate.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200336District of Massachusetts

Click in the open text area to type additional text for the description of thepleading. Users may supply additional text or augment the system-supplied textin the blank windows provided. Any text supplied by a non-court user will bedisplayed on the docket sheet in italic print.9. Submit the pleading.• Click on the [Next] button. A new window appears with the complete text forthe docket report.• Review the docket text and correct any errors. If you need to modify data on aprevious screen, click thescreen you wish to alter.button on the browser toolbar to find the• Click on the [Next] button to file and docket the pleading.Note: The screen depicted above contains the following warning.Pressing the NEXT button on this screen commits this transaction. You willhave no further opportunity to modify this transaction if you continue.At any time prior to this step, you can abort the ECF filing or return to previousscreens by:• clicking on any hyperlink on the Blue ECF menu bar to abort the currenttransaction. ECF will reset to the beginning of the process you just selected.• clicking on the Web Browser [Back] button until you return to the desiredscreen.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200337District of Massachusetts

10. Notice of Electronic Filing (NEF)ECF opens a new Motions window displaying an ECF filing receipt.• The screen depicted above provides confirmation that ECF has registered yourtransaction and the pleading is now an official court document. It also displaysthe date and time of your transaction and the number that was assigned to yourdocument. You should note this number on the document’s PDF file.• Select [Print] on the browser toolbar to print the document receipt.• Select [File] on the browser menu bar, and choose Save Frame As…from thedrop-down window to save the receipt to a file on the hard drive of yourcomputer.Note: The Notice of Electronic Filing represents your Certificate of Service.The Court strongly urges you to copy it to a file on your computer hard-drive,print it, and retain a hard copy in your personal files.• ECF will electronically transmit the Notice of Electronic Filing to theattorneys and parties to the case who have supplied their E-mail addresses tothe Court. The ECF filing report also displays the names and addresses ofindividuals who will not be electronically notified of the filing. It is thefiler’s responsibility to serve hard copies of the pleading and the Notice ofElectronic Filing to attorneys and parties who are not set up for electronicnotification.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200338District of Massachusetts

E-Mail Notification of Documents That Were FiledAfter a pleading is electronically filed, the ECF System sends a Notice ofElectronic Filing to the designated attorneys and parties who have suppliedtheir E-mail addresses to the Court. Individuals who receive electronicnotification of the filing are permitted one "free look” at the document byclicking on the associated hyperlinked document number embedded in theNotice of Electronic Filing. The filer is permitted one free look at thedocument. The Court strongly urges you to copy the Notice of ElectronicFiling and pleading documents to your hard-drive for future access.Subsequent retrieval of the case docket sheet and pleading from CM/ECFmust be made through your PACER account and is subject to regular PACERfees.Note: It is the responsibility of filers to send hard copies of the pleading andNotice of Electronic Filing to attorneys and pro se parties who haveindicated they do not have E-mail accounts.Add/Create a New PartyIn some instances you may need to add a party to the ECF system. This may generallyoccur when filing amended complaints, third party complaints, etc. If the party you areadding is not listed in the “Select a Party” screen, click on Add/Create New Party. Thescreen depicted below will appear. However, if you believe the party should alreadyappear on the docket for the case contact the docket clerk for the Judicial Officerassigned to your case.You must first perform a search to see if your party is already entered on the ECF system.Type the first few letters of the party’s last name for an individual, or the first few lettersof the company name. Click [Search].If a match is found, ECF will display a list of party names. If the name of the party youare adding appears in the list, click on it and then click [Select name from list]. Reviewthe party information and select the party’s role in this filing. Click [Submit].CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200339District of Massachusetts

If a match is not found, or the party does not appear in the list, click [Create new party]ECF displays the following screen.• For a company, enter the entire company name in the Last Name field. Choose theappropriate Role from the drop down list. Click [Submit].• For an individual, fill out the Last Name, First Name, Middle Name, Generationand Title fields as appropriate. Choose the appropriate Role from the drop down list.Click [Submit].• If there is additional text that will further describe the party, such as: “as next bestfriend…”, “as executor of the estate…”, “as successor to…”, etc. add this informationin the “Party Text” field and then Click [Submit].• Leave all other fields blank.Linking Documents (Refer to existing event)Some pleadings such as Responses, Briefs and Indexes should be “linked” to their relateddocuments in the case. When filing these and certain other types of documents you willbe presented with the following screen.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200340District of Massachusetts

An “event” in CM/ECF is anything that has been filed in a case. To link the documentyou are currently filing to a previously filed document, check the box in front of “Referto existing event(s)?” and click [Next].Once you click [Next] you are presented with a list of documents that match your searchcriteria. For this example we have selected documents filed on May 1, 2003. However,you may leave the date range blank to retrieve all documents in the case.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200341District of Massachusetts

Click the checkbox for the document you wish to link to and click [Next]. When filingresponses to motions, make sure the response is linked to the proper motion or motions.Query FeatureRegistered participants should use this feature to query the Electronic Case Filing (ECF) system forspecific case information. To enter the Query mode, click on Query from the Blue menu bar ofECF.ECF opens the PACER Login screen. You must enter your PACER login and password beforeECF permits you to query the ECF database.Note: Your PACER login and password are different from your ECF login and password. Youmust have a PACER account in order to retrieve, view, and print certain documents. Youwill be charged a fee of $.07 per page to access documents, docket sheets, etc. from ECF.After you enter your PACER login and password, ECF opens a Query data entry screen as depictedbelow. If you know the number that the Court has assigned to the case, enter it in the Case Numberfield and click on the [Run Query] button. ECF opens the query screen depicted in Figure B on thenext page.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200342District of Massachusetts

You may query the ECF database by the name of a party or an attorney to the case. Enter the lastname of the party in the appropriate field. If more than one person with that name is in the database,ECF returns a screen from which to select the correct name (Figure A). If you click on the name ofthe party, ECF will open the query screen depicted in Figure B. If the individual is a party to morethan one case, ECF will open a screen listing all of the party’s cases. Click on the case numberhyperlink and ECF opens the query screen depicted in Figure B.Figure AAfter querying the database by case number, name, or nature of suit, ECF opens theQuery window for the specific case you selected. See Figure B.You may also query a case by the nature of suit. You must enter a range for either thefiled date or the last entry date in order for the query to run. To search for all cases of acertain type, use the date 1/1/1970 as the "beginning of time." When you run the query,if there is more than one case that meet those criteria, you will get a screen similar to theone in Figure A, but listing multiple case numbers.QueryAliasAssociated CasesAttorneyCase SummaryDeadline/HearingDocket ReportFilersHistory/DocumentsPartyRelated TransactionsStatusFigure B1-01-01465-JR HARRELL V. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIAJames Robertson, presidingDate filed: 07/02/2001 Date of last filing: 08/20/2001At the top of the window, ECF displays the case number, parties to the case, presiding Judge, datethat the initial claim was filed, and date of last filing for the case. You may choose specific caseinformation from a large list of query options by clicking on the appropriate hyperlinked name onthe screen. The following paragraphs describe several of the available case-specific query options.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200343District of Massachusetts

AttorneyDisplays the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of the attorneys who representeach of the parties to the case.Case SummaryProvides a summary of current case-specific information as represented below.1-01-01465-JR HARRELL V. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIAJames Robertson, presidingDate filed: 07/02/2001 Date of last filing: 08/20/2001Case SummaryOffice: Washington, DC Filed: 07/02/2001Jury Demand: Both Demand:Nature of Suit: 442 Jurisdiction: Federal QuestionCause: 28:1983 Civil Rights Disposition:County:Terminated:Origin: 1 Reopened:Lead Case:NoneRelated Case(s): NoneFlags: JURY, TYPE-HParty 1: WAYNE HARRELL (pla)Party 2: DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA (DFT)Atty: Ruth Ann Lowery Represents Party 1: pla Phone: (202) 789-6064Fax: (202) 789-6190E-mail: rlowery@bdlaw.comAtty: David A. Jackson Represents Party 2: dft Phone: (202) 724-6618Deadlines/HearingsProduces a screen that allows you to query the database by various means to obtain hearingand other schedule deadlines. If you query as illustrated below, ECF opens theDeadline/Hearings screen depicted on the next page.After the window opens, if you click on a document number with a hyperlink, ECF willdisplay the actual document that created the scheduled conference, hearing or trial.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200344District of Massachusetts

If you click on the round button to the left of the Deadline/Hearing title, ECF will displaythe docket information and related docketing entries for the hearing that you selected.Docket ReportWhen you select Docket Report, ECF opens the Docket Sheet screen as depicted below.You may select a date range for your docket report as well as a range of document numbers.If you leave the range fields blank, ECF will default to print the entire docket report. Place aCM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200345District of Massachusetts

checkmark in the box to Include links to Notice of Electronic Filing if you wish to viewthem from the docket sheet. After you have selected the parameters for your report, click onthe [Run Report] button. ECF will run your custom docket report and display it in awindow as depicted.The underlined document numbers are hyperlinks to PDF files of the actual documents.Place your pointer on the button next to the document number and click to display theElectronic Notification Report for the document.History/DocumentsThis selection queries the database for case event history and documents associated with thecase. After you click on the History/Documents hyperlink, ECF opens the screen depictedbelow. You may select the sort order for the query report and choose to exhibit all events oronly those with documents attached. ECF also offers you the option to display the dockettext in the report.After making your selections, click on the [Run Query] button. ECF queries the databaseand builds your report. The following figure depicts a portion of a History/Documentsreport. This particular report lists all of the events and documents associated with the case inreverse chronological order. It also displays the docketing text for all docketed events.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200346District of Massachusetts

You may view a PDF file of actual documents by clicking on the document number in thefar-left column of the onscreen report.Other QueriesThe process for selecting and running other queries in the Query feature of ECF is similar towhat has been described above.Reports FeatureThe Reports feature of ECF provides the user with several report options. After selecting theReports feature from the Blue menu bar, ECF opens the Reports screen depicted below.Calendar EventsCases FiledDocket SheetIf you select Cases Filed or Docket Sheet from the screen depicted above, ECF will ask you tologin to PACER. You may view Court Calendar Events for a case without logging into PACER.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200347District of Massachusetts

Docket SheetClick on the Docket Sheet hyperlink and ECF opens the PACER login screen.Enter your PACER login and password. Click on the [Login] button and ECF will openthe Docket Sheet report query window depicted below.This is the same query window that ECF displayed when you selected Docket Report fromthe Query feature (Page 43). Enter the case number for your docket sheet in the CaseNumber field. Select parameters for the remainder of the data entry fields and click on the[Run Report] button. ECF will display a full docket sheet for the case you selected. Seethe Query feature section of this manual for a depiction of a partial docket sheet report. Ifyou do not need a complete docket sheet, you can narrow the query using the datefiled/entered fields. ECF also offers various sorting options from the Docket Sheet queryscreen.Civil Cases ReportThe Civil Cases report provides you with the flexibility to query the ECF database to locatecases electronically filed within a specific date range, or by Nature of Suit and Cause Code.When you click on the Civil Cases hyperlink, ECF displays a query screen as depicted here.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200348District of Massachusetts

Note: If you are not logged into PACER, ECF will display the PACER login screen.Login to PACER and ECF will open the Civil Cases Report screen.Enter the range of case filing dates for your report and select a Nature of Suit or Cause Code, ifyou wish to narrow your search. If you leave all fields blank, ECF will display a report for allcases opened in ECF. This picture depicts part of a report of all cases filed in ECF at the U.S.District Court from 7/7/03 through 7/14/03.The far-left column of the Cases Filed report contains hyperlinked case numbers. If youclick on a particular case number, ECF opens the Docket Sheet report window fromwhich you can retrieve the docket sheet for the selected case. Follow the instructions inthe previous section for a Docket Sheet report.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200349District of Massachusetts

Utilities FeatureThe Utilities feature provides the means for registered users to maintain their account in ECF and toview all of their ECF transactions.Your AccountThis section of the Utilities feature provides you the capability to maintain certain aspects ofyour ECF account with the Court and to view a log of all your transactions within ECF.Maintain Your AccountClick on the Maintain Your Account hyperlink to open the Maintain UserAccount information screen.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200350District of Massachusetts

This screen displays all of the registration information that is contained within theECF database for your account with the Court. This includes Bar Identificationand Bar status. YOU WILL BE REQUIRED TO UPDATE USERINFORMATION, INCLUDING MAILING ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBERAND E-MAIL ADDRESS WHENEVER THERE IS A CHANGE.Clicking on the [E-mail information] button opens the following screen.ECF will E-mail to parties their Notices of Electronic Filing based upon theinformation entered in this screen. Perform the following steps to enter additional e-mail addresses for individuals that you wish ECF to notify regarding new casepleadings and documents.• From the screen depicted in below, enter a check mark by clicking on the box tothe left of the line, which reads “to these additional addresses”.• Enter the e-mail addresses of those individuals you wish to notify concerningECF activity. This data entry field has a capacity of 250 characters forapproximately ten E-mail addresses.• Stipulate the format of the ECF notices by selecting your choice from the bottomof the screen.• If you wish to enter completely new information about your account, use the[Clear] button to clear the fields on this screen.After updating your account information, click on the [Return to Account screen]button to return to your Maintain User Account screen.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200351District of Massachusetts

View Your Transaction LogFrom the Utilities screen, click on the [View your Transaction Log] button. ECFopens a screen with two fields for entering the Date Selection Criteria for aTransaction Log Report. Enter the date range for your report and click on the[Submit] button. ECF displays a report of all your transactions in ECF within thedate range you specified for Date Selection Criteria. See the figure below for asample transaction log report.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200352District of Massachusetts

Use this feature of ECF to review your transactions and to verify that:• all of the transactions you entered are reflected in the Transaction Log• no unauthorized individuals have entered transactions into ECF using yourlogin name and password.MiscellaneousECF provides three Miscellaneous functions within the Utilities feature of the system.• Legal Research• Mailings• Verify a DocumentWhen you click on the Legal Research hyperlink from the Miscellaneous screen, ECFopens a new screen that contains hyperlinks to a Law Dictionary, a Medical Dictionary,and Westlaw via the Internet. Select the Verify a Document hyperlink to open a queryscreen and enter data in the screen fields to locate a particular document attached to aspecific case number. There is also a Mailings hyperlink that opens a new screen formaking or requesting mailings from ECF.LogoutAfter you have completed all of your transactions for a particular session in ECF, you shouldexit from the system.Click on the Logout hyperlink from the ECF Blue menu bar. ECF will log you out of the systemand return you to the ECF login screen.Additional Information Regarding ECFSealed DocumentsContinue to file sealed documents at the District Court Clerk’s office in accordance with theexisting practices and procedures for conventional filing.Documents in cases referred to Alternative Dispute ResolutionContinue to file documents in accordance with the existing practices and procedures forconventional filing as determined by the ADR Coordinator. Any questions on filing ADRdocuments in a case assigned to a Judicial Officer should be directed to the deputy clerkassigned to that Judge.Ex parte motionsEx parte motions should be filed in the Clerk’s Office in the conventional manner. Please besure the motion is clearly labeled as ‘ex parte’.CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200353District of Massachusetts

APPENDIX AGENERAL INFORMATION RE: JUDGES - BOSTON OFFICEJOHN JOSEPH MOAKLEY UNITED STATES COURTHOUSE1 COURTHOUSE WAY - SUITE 2300BOSTON, MA 02210(617) 748-9152www.mad.uscourts.govDISTRICT JUDGES INITIALS COURT CLERK PHONENO. (617)748-DOCKETCLERKPHONENO. (617)748-WILLIAM G. YOUNG WGY Elizabeth Smith 9156 Marie Bell 9157JOSEPH L. TAURO JLT Zita Lovett 9183 Sherry Spencer 9113RYA W. ZOBEL RWZ Lisa Urso 9187 Jay Johnson 9085MARK L. WOLF MLW Dennis O’leary 9159 Kathleen Boyce 9155DOUGLAS P. WOODLOCK DPW Rebecca Greenberg 9170 Michelle Rynne 9171RICHARD G. STEARNS RGS Mary Johnson 9162 Elaine Flaherty 9112REGINALD C. LINDSAY RCL Lisa Hourihan 9177 Susan Tebo 9041PATTI B. SARIS PBS Robert Alba 9175 Maria Simeone 9178NANCY GERTNER NG Maryellen Molloy 4870 Jennifer Filo 4871GEORGE A. O'TOOLE, JR. GAO Paul Lyness 9181 Gina Edge 9182SENIOR DISTRICT JUDGES INITIALS COURT CLERK PHONENO. (617)748-WALTER JAY SKINNER WJS Philip Lyons 9184A. DAVID MAZZONE ADM Philip Lyons 9184DOCKETCLERKPHONENO. (617)748-ROBERT E. KEETON REK Craig Nicewicz 9158 Karen Folan 9172EDWARD F. HARRINGTON EFH Philip Lyons 4231 Sandra Holahan 4232MORRIS E. LASKER MEL George Howarth 9127 Sandra Holahan 4232MAGISTRATE JUDGES INITIALS COURT CLERK PHONE NO.LAWRENCE P. COHEN LPC Ellen Hayes (617) 748-9240JOYCE L. ALEXANDER JLA Rex Brown (617) 748- 9238ROBERT B. COLLINGS RBC Gina Affsa (617) 748- 9233MARIANNE B. BOWLER MBB Dianalynn Saccoccio (617) 748- 9222CHARLES B. SWARTWOOD III CBS Lisa Roland (617) 748- 4446JUDITH G. DEIN JGD Thomas Quinn (617) 748- 9040CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200354District of Massachusetts

GENERAL INFORMATION RE: JUDGES - WORCESTER OFFICEDONOHUE FEDERAL BUILDING595 MAIN STREETWORCESTER, MA 01608(508) 929-9900DISTRICT JUDGES INITIALS COURT CLERK PHONENO. (508)929 -DOCKETCLERKPHONENO. (508)929 -NATHANIEL M. GORTON NMG Martin Castles 9904 Sherry Jones 9901KathleenHassett9902MAGISTRATE JUDGE INITIALS COURT CLERK PHONENO.CHARLES B. SWARTWOOD, III CBS Lisa Roland 9905GENERAL INFORMATION RE: JUDGES - SPRINGFIELD OFFICEFEDERAL BUILDING & COURTHOUSE1550 MAIN STREETSPRINGFIELD, MA 01103(413) 785-0015DISTRICTJUDGESINITIALSCOURTCLERKPHONENO. (413)785-DOCKETCLERKPHONENO. (413)785-MICHAEL A. PONSOR MAP Elizabeth French 0240 Mary Finn 0215Maurice Lindsay 0214MAGISTRATEJUDGEINITIALSCOURTCLERKPHONENO.KENNETH P. NEIMAN KPN Bethaney Healey 0244(ECFManual-MAtest.doc - 10/16/03)CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200355District of Massachusetts

APPENDIX BUNITED STATES DISTRICT COURTDISTRICT OF MASSACHUSETTSV. CASE NO.NOTICE OF FILING WITH CLERK’S OFFICENotice is hereby given that the documents, exhibits or attachments listed belowhave been manually filed with the Court and are available in paper form only:The original documents are maintained in the case file in the Clerk’s Office.DateAttorney for(ECFManual-MAtest.doc - 7/03)CM/ECF User’s Manual - October 200356District of Massachusetts