§ 200.3 Papers filed in a criminal court; form

Here's what this rule means for anyone filing paperwork in a criminal court case.

If you're submitting documents to the court (other than exhibits or printed forms), you need to follow some basic formatting rules. First, only write or type on one side of the paper. Second, if the document is typed, leave at least double space between each line. The only exceptions are quotations and the names and addresses of attorneys, which can be single-spaced. Third, keep at least a one-inch margin around all sides of the page.

These formatting rules exist alongside other requirements found in CPLR 2101, a different set of rules about court paperwork. So you'll need to follow both sets of rules together when preparing documents for filing.

The main point is to keep court documents easy to read. Double spacing and proper margins make it simpler for judges, clerks, and attorneys to review paperwork, add notes, or make copies without text running off the page.