Q: Filing federal complaint- question.
Please advise on formatting requirements of Central District Court.
A:
When filing a federal complaint in the Central District Court, it's important to adhere to specific formatting requirements to ensure that your document is accepted by the court. Here are some general guidelines:
Document Size and Margins: Use standard 8.5 x 11-inch paper size. Margins should be at least one inch on all sides.
Font and Spacing: Use a clear, readable font, typically Times New Roman or Arial, in a 12-point size. The text should be double-spaced, with single-spaced footnotes.
Page Numbering: Number all pages consecutively at the bottom center or bottom right of each page.
Captions and Titles: The case caption must be on the first page, including the name of the court, the title of the action, the case number, and a title that identifies the filing party and the nature of the document.
Signature Block: Include a signature block at the end of the document with the attorney’s or plaintiff’s signature, printed name, address, phone number, and email address.
Exhibits and Attachments: If exhibits or attachments are included, they should be labeled and tabbed for easy reference.
Electronic Filing: Be prepared to file electronically unless an exemption applies. Electronic documents must comply with the same formatting rules as paper documents.
Local Rules and Standing Orders: Always check the Central District Court's local rules and any standing orders from the specific judge handling your case, as there may be additional or specific requirements to follow.
Redaction and Privacy: Ensure compliance with privacy rules by redacting sensitive personal information from your filing.
Cover Page: A cover page is not mandatory but can be included for organizational purposes, listing the title of the document, the case number, and the parties involved.
Remember, these guidelines are general and can be subject to changes or specific requirements depending on the nature of your case or updates in court procedures. Always refer to the latest version of the Central District Court's local rules for the most accurate information.
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