Drop Box Filing Procedures

The public, including couriers, may use the drop boxes during any hours the courthouse buildings are open to the public (see schedule below). Federal employees with after-hours access to the courthouse may use the drop boxes at any time. Under-seal documents may be filed by drop box.

Courtesy copies are no longer required by our local rules. Submit a courtesy copy only if a judge requires one by order or standing order.

Drop Box Filing Instructions

1. Date-stamp documents

Electronic date stamp machines are located next to the drop boxes. Turn each original document face-down and stamp the back of the last page. The stamp will record the date and time the court “received” the document.

The “filed” date will be the same as the “received” date, unless the document is placed in the drop box on a weekend/federal holiday, in which case the “filed” date will be the first court day following the weekend/holiday. Documents placed in drop boxes without a “received” stamp will be filed as of the date court staff retrieve the documents from the box.

2. Place documents in pouch or folder

Clip each original document to any copies you are required to submit. Place documents in one of the pouches/folders provided by the court.

3. Complete filing information card(s)

Complete the filing information card and place it in the transparent window of the appropriate pouch/folder.

4. Enclose filing fee (if required)

Include a check or money order payable to “Clerk, United States District Court” in the exact amount of the filing fee, if a fee is required. Please do not enclose cash.

5. If requesting file-stamped copy, enclose a return envelope

If you would like to have a file-stamped (“conformed”) copy of your document mailed to you, enclose self-addressed, stamped envelope(s) of appropriate size with adequate return postage.

6. Place documents in drop box

Documents will be retrieved by court staff at 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. each day the court is open. Documents placed in the drop-box after 12:00 p.m. may or may not be picked up that day, but will be deemed filed as described in Instruction #1, above.

7. Location and availability of drop boxes