Case Caption
The caption must match the court docket exactly, showing party names, judge designation, and docket number. Errors can lead to misallocation by the clerk or rejection of electronic filing by the CM/ECF system.
Accurate filings reduce the risk of clerical rejection, sanctions, or delay and support evidentiary weight. Compliance with ESIGN (15 U.S.C. ch. 96) and UETA preserves electronic signature validity and helps protect client interests during litigation.
Use this guidance alongside local rules and specific court orders; consult counsel for case-specific strategy.
The caption must match the court docket exactly, showing party names, judge designation, and docket number. Errors can lead to misallocation by the clerk or rejection of electronic filing by the CM/ECF system.
Clearly state the requested relief or defense. Include statutory or rule citations and concise factual support to help the court identify the legal nexus without requiring excessive supplemental filings.
Affidavits or declarations must be signed under penalty of perjury, state the declarant’s basis of knowledge, and include factual exhibits. Unsigned declarations will be disregarded by courts.
Number exhibits sequentially, reference them in the main filing, and ensure each is legible and indexed. For electronic filing, use searchable PDF or embed a text layer to facilitate review.
Include printed name, bar number for attorneys, firm name, address, email, telephone, and date. For counsel of record, ensure the filing reflects authorized signatory and retained counsel status.
State the exact method of service, list recipients with addresses or CM/ECF usernames, and date of service. Failure to include this certificate can result in sanctions or rejection.
| Field | Configuration options for e-filing and signing |
|---|---|
| File Format | PDF/A preferred; include searchable text layer |
| Signer Auth | Email plus SMS OTP or KBA for higher assurance |
| Notarization | Attach notary acknowledgement or RON certificate when required |
| Certificate | Enable certificate of completion with audit trail attached |
Recommended technical prerequisites and integrations for secure e-signing and reliable court submissions, including PDF/A output and identity verification.
| 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; no credit card required | Check vendor for trial details | Check vendor for trial details | Check vendor for trial details | Check vendor for trial details |
| Bulk Send | Yes (Business Premium) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Varies by plan |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Envelope Cap | No cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |