Caption Accuracy
Use the exact case caption for each related matter, including party names and style of the case, to avoid ambiguity and to enable easy docket lookup.
Filing an accurate Statement of Related Cases clarifies procedural relationships, reduces the risk of conflicting orders, and supports efficient case management by the court and chambers staff.
The form is most often prepared by litigators, bankruptcy practitioners, and self-represented debtors who are aware of overlapping matters.
Proper completion reduces administrative delays and helps the judge evaluate motions concerning consolidation, venue, or conflicts of interest.
Use the exact case caption for each related matter, including party names and style of the case, to avoid ambiguity and to enable easy docket lookup.
Provide complete docket or case numbers for every related matter so court staff can cross-reference files without manual search or follow-up.
Identify the tribunal and division (e.g., district, bankruptcy court, appellate court) for each related matter to clarify venue and jurisdictional overlaps.
Summarize in one to three sentences why the cases are related, focusing on overlapping parties, claims, or factual issues relevant to judicial administration.
List lead counsel for each related matter with firm name and contact email to facilitate notice and coordination between courts or chambers.
Signatory should attest to the form's accuracy, include date signed, and provide counsel bar number if applicable for verification and recordkeeping.
| Authentication Level | Email link with optional SMS OTP for signer verification |
|---|---|
| Document Format | Use PDF/A or PDF for stable rendering and court acceptance |
| Attachments Allowed | Permit PDF attachments for orders, complaints, and exhibits |
| Routing Order | Set required signer sequence: filer, opposing counsel, chambers as needed |
| Audit Trail Enabled | Capture timestamps, IP, and signer actions for compliance |
Confirm the court's accepted file formats, maximum file sizes, and any local e-filing conventions before uploading.
Keep a local copy of the signed PDF and audit report in counsel files for service, recordkeeping, and potential disputes over authenticity.
File when initiating the bankruptcy case if related matters exist
File at first pleading or appearance that reveals a related matter
Provide disclosure ahead of any status or scheduling conference
Amend or supplement the statement within the court's required timeframe
Comply with any judge-directed deadlines for supplemental disclosures
| Criteria | Statement of Related Cases | Motion to Consolidate |
|---|---|---|
| When used | notice only | requests judicial consolidation |
| Court action | none | requires motion hearing |
| Form required | yes under local rule | no, requires supporting motion |
| Typical effect | administrative clarity | possible case merger |
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Bulk Send | Yes (Business Premium) | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
A small legal team standardized related-case disclosures to avoid docketing errors.
A real-estate operator consolidated related bankruptcy notices across portfolios.