Q: Please advise on filing Federal complaint.
Please advise on formatting requirements for complaint with Federal court. I found local rules, but they refer to typewriting standards. Probably there are permissible variances, with some mandatory rules. Please advise.
A:
When filing a federal complaint, it's essential to follow the formatting guidelines outlined in the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and the local rules of the specific federal court. While local rules may refer to typewriting standards, there is some flexibility in modern electronic filings. However, certain mandatory rules must be adhered to.
Paper Size and Margins: Use standard 8.5 x 11-inch paper size for electronic filings. Margins should be at least 1 inch on all sides.
Font and Line Spacing: Use a readable font like Times New Roman or Arial, ideally in a 12-point size. The text should be double-spaced, but footnotes and quotations may be single-spaced.
Page Numbering: All pages should be consecutively numbered, typically at the bottom center or bottom right.
Captions and Titles: Ensure the first page contains the court name, title of the action, the case number (if known), and a title indicating the nature of the document (e.g., Complaint).
Signature Block: Include a signature block at the end of the document with your signature, printed name, address, phone number, and email address.
Redaction of Sensitive Information: Comply with privacy rules by redacting sensitive personal information.
Electronic Filing: Be prepared to file electronically, ensuring your document is compatible with the court's electronic filing system.
Exhibits and Attachments: Label and tab any exhibits or attachments for easy reference.
Local Rules and Standing Orders: Always consult the specific federal court’s local rules and any standing orders for additional or specific requirements.
Cover Page: A cover page is not mandatory but can help with organization.
Ensure that your complaint aligns with these guidelines, adapting as necessary to meet any specific requirements of the court where you are filing. Always reference the most current version of the local rules for the court where your case will be heard.
A: In addition to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (which are more about procedure than formatting) and resources of the court system, there are many examples of federal pleadings online, available through PACER, and other general sites that post the documents. Good luck
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