Rule 8 Electronic Filing of Documents; Exceptions

When you file something with the court, you now need to submit it electronically through the court's e-filing system. This applies to almost every type of court document in a case. The only exception is if a specific rule or law says you can't file that document electronically.

There's one practical exception built into this rule. If you have an exhibit or physical object that can't be scanned or converted into a readable electronic file, you don't have to force it into the e-filing system. Things like large physical evidence, items that don't scan clearly, or other unusual materials can still be filed, stored, and served the old-fashioned way, by hand or through regular mail or delivery.

In short, electronic filing is now the standard way to submit documents to the court. Paper filing is only allowed when the document truly can't work in electronic form.