Self Registration Instructions for Special Mailing Groups

These instructions are for members of the press and public who would like to receive Notifications of Electronic Filing (NEFs) in a particular case as part of a Special Mailing Group (SMG).  These instructions are not for attorneys of record or for pro se (self-represented) parties in a case.

Step One

1. In order to receive NEFs as part of a Special Mailing Group, you must have a PACER account.​  Go to https://pacer.uscourts.gov/ to sign up.
2. Keep these instructions open and launch PACER on a separate browser tab.  You will toggle between these instructions and PACER to join the special mailing group.
3. On the PACER tab, click “Log in to…” in the top right corner, select Manage PACER Account, and complete the login process.

Step Two

1. Following login, you should see tabs below your account information.
2. Select Maintenance > Non-Attorney E-File Registration.

Step Three

1. Court type = U.S. District Courts.
2. Court = California Northern District Court.
3. Role in Court = Party.
4. Check the acknowledgment box.
5. Review your information for accuracy.

Step Four

1. Under Additional Filer Information > Other Names Used, type "SMG" (without quotation marks).
2. Choose your preferred delivery method and format of filing notices.
3. Click Next.
4. Review the information on the following screen, then click Next.
5. Review the information on the following screen, click the acknowledgment boxes, then click submit.

Step Five

Await confirmation from the ECF Helpdesk that your application has been processed.