CM/ECF Attorney Users’ Guide

CM/ECF is the electronic case management and electronic case files system for the federal courts. It provides federal courts with enhanced docket management. It allows courts to maintain case documents in electronic format, and, it gives each court the option of permitting case documents — pleadings, motions, petitions — to be filed with the court over the Internet.

CM/ECF implementation has been underway in the bankruptcy courts since early 2001. District court implementation began in May, 2002, and appellate court implementation began in late 2004.

Judges and court staff have electronic access to docket information, case management data and legal research materials. With computer word processing, most documents generated are created first in electronic form, which allows the federal courts to further reduce the reliance on paper records by establishing electronic case file systems. These systems enhance the accuracy, management and security of records, reduce delays in the flow of information and achieve cost savings for the judiciary, the bar and litigants.

Benefits of the system include:

improved judge, court staff, and public access to case file information
cost savings and efficiencies through increased productivity
reduced physical handling, maintenance, and copying of file documents
improved docketing, scheduling, case management and statistical reporting; and
enhanced accuracy and efficiency in record maintenance

Capabilities of the system include:

Electronically file pleadings and documents to “live” cases
View official docket sheets and documents associated with cases
View various reports (e.g. Cases Filed Report, Judge’s Calendar) for electronically filed cases
Make electronic documents easily printable for users who require a paper copy
Train users on a training system comparable to the “live” (official) system

This guide provides instruction on how to use the Case Management/Electronic Case Filing system (CM/ECF) to file documents with the court, or to view and retrieve docket sheets and documents for all cases assigned to this system. It assumes a working knowledge of the web browser and Adobe Acrobat. For questions regarding the web browser or Adobe Acrobat, please refer to the appropriate provider’s instruction manual.

Access to CM/ECF
Add Additional Attorney
Add Party in An Existing Bankruptcy or Adversary Proceeding
Adversary Case Opening
Amended Pleadings
Attach a PDF Document
Bankruptcy Case Opening (Voluntary)
Bankruptcy Case Opening (Involuntary)
Bankruptcy Code
Batch Filings (Docketing the Same Event in Multiple Cases)
BOPS (Bankruptcy Orders Processing Solution)
Case Upload
Clear Internet Browser Cache
Document Preparation
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure
File a (Proof of) Claim
File a Document – Answer/Response
File a Document – Application for Compensation
File a Document – Motion/Application
File a Document – Notice of Hearing
Internet Credit Card Payment Guide
Local Rules
Notice of Electronic Filing (Receipt of Filing)
Software and Hardware Requirements
Statistical Report Requirement Necessitating Procedure Change
Transfer of a Claim
Transfer of a Claim – Claims Agent
Troubleshoot CM/ECF Filing Problems
Trustee/US Trustee
Trustee/US Trustee – Trustee’s 341 Filings
Trustee/US Trustee – Trustee’s Report of No Distribution
Turn Off Pop-up Blockers
Upload Creditor(s) to a Case

Access to CM/ECF

To become a CM/ECF registered user, click here to be re-directed to the CM/ECF – Getting Started page, on which the appropriate registration form may be found. Also found on the Getting Started page are the names of the contact persons for each divisional office, together with the telephone numbers, for scheduling training. Each attorney and/or member(s) of his/her support staff must complete either classroom training at the court, or on-line training provided by a court trainer. A single login is provided to the user for both the live and train systems. A separate password is provided to the user for each system. Upon completion of the training the user is given access to docket in the live system.

Registered users access the CM/ECF system through the court’s internet web site at http://www.vaeb.uscourts.gov:

STEP 1

Select Electronic Filing, then CM/ECF Live Database. If unable to access the web site at any time, CM/ECF may be accessed through the link, http://ecf.vaeb.uscourts.gov.

STEP 2

To docket to the CM/ECF system, on the CM/ECF Filer or PACER Login screen, key the Login and Password in the appropriate fields. Read the Important Notice of Redaction Responsibility, and select the checkbox, “I understand that, if I file, I must comply with the redaction rules. I have read the notice.” Failure to check the box results in the user being presented with the message “You must check the redaction rules checkbox to log in to CM/ECF.”
To retrieve information only from the CM/ECF system, key the login and password assigned by the PACER Service Center.
Failure to key a valid login and password combination, results in the presentation of the error message, “Your ECF or PACER login attempt failed. Either your login name or password is incorrect.”, together with the Back button to retry the login.
Entry of a valid login and password combination prompts the system to display the Main Menu.

STEP 3

Select from the menu bar (blue) options on the Main Menu:

Bankruptcy – displays the Bankruptcy Events menu from which the user makes selections to open bankruptcy cases or docket pleadings in a bankruptcy case.
Adversary – displays the Adversary Events menu from which the user makes selections to open an adversary proceeding or docket pleadings in an adversary proceeding.
Query – displays the Query screen, allowing retrieval of a variety of information regarding a specific case.
Reports – displays the Reports menu from which a user may access various reports for single or multiple cases.
Utilities – displays the Utilities menu, allowing the user’s account, notifications, etc.
Logout – returns the user to the Login screen.
? – displays a help file for the screen that the user is viewing.

Add Additional Attorney

As a registered user, an attorney docketing/filing a pleading logs into CM/ECF using his/her CM/ECF login and password. When opening a bankruptcy case, the attorney is linked with the debtor(s) whom he represents. When opening an adversary proceeding, the attorney is linked to the plaintiff. If an attorney is filing a pleading for a party in a case, and it is the initial pleading for that attorney on behalf of the party, the system does not detect an association between the attorney and the party, and a warning displays, stating, “The following attorney/party associations do not exist for this case. Please check which associations should be created for this case:”. The attorney must select the checkbox, “[Creditor Name][party type] represented by [Attorney Name] (aty)” and click Next, to be associated with the party and to receive notices of electronic filings (NEFs) in the specific case.

During the opening of an adversary proceeding, the filing attorney may associate an additional attorney for the plaintiff:

STEP 1

Click Add Additional Attorney

STEP 2

On the Search for an attorney screen, key the Last name of the attorney
Click Search

STEP 3

If the attorney is listed in the results returned in the Attorney search results, click , to highlight. A pop-up window displays the attorney information for verification. If the attorney is not listed, proceed to STEP 4
After verification of the attorney, click Select name from list
Verify that all information is correct on the Attorney Information screen. Information may be updated for this filing only
After verification of the information, click Add attorney, to associate the attorney with the party, or Cancel attorney, to return to the Party screen

STEP 4

If the attorney is not listed in the results returned in the Attorney search results, click Create new attorney
Complete all applicable fields
Click Add attorney, to associate the attorney with the party, or Cancel attorney to return to the Party screen

Add Party in An Existing Bankruptcy or Adversary Proceeding

When filing a pleading in an existing Bankruptcy case or Adversary Proceeding, if the party is not listed on the Select the Party screen, it must be added to the case:

STEP 1

Verify that the party is not listed on the Select the Party screen
Click Add/Create New Party

STEP 2

On the Search for a party screen, key either the SSN/ITIN (for individual), Tax ID/EIN (for business), or Last/Business name
Click Search

STEP 3

If the party is listed in the results returned in the Party search results, click, to highlight. A pop-up window displays the party information for verification. If the party is not listed, proceed to STEP 4
After verification of the party, click Select name from list
Verify that all information is correct on the Party Information screen. Information may be updated for this filing only
Select the role of the party to be added, by clicking the Role field and making a selection. The Role field is a required field and must be completed
After verification of the information, click Submit, to add the party, or Cancel , to abort the addition, and return to the Select the Party screen

STEP 4

If the party is not listed in the results returned in the Party search results, click Create new party
Complete all applicable fields. Note: The Role field is a required field and must be completed
Click Submit, to add the party, or Cancel , to abort the addition, and return to the Select the Party screen

Adversary Case Opening

An adversary proceeding is commenced by the filing of a complaint. To file a complaint you must Open An AP Case.

STEP 1

After logging into CM/ECF with a CM/ECF login and password, click Adversary from the menu bar (blue)
Click Open an AP Case from the Adversary Events menu, to display the Open a New Adversary Case screen

STEP 2

On the Open a New Adversary Case screen, the Case type field defaults to “ap” and the Date filed field defaults to the current date. These fields are not editable by the user
Select “y” in the Complaint field, if the complaint is for determination of dischargeability of debt, an objection to or for revocation of discharge, recovery of money/property, to determine the validity, priority or extent of a lien or other interest in property, for approval of the sale of property of the estate and of a co-owner, revocation of confirmation or for injunctive relief; select “n” in the Complaint field, if filing a Notice of Removal
Click Next

STEP 3

In the Lead case number field, key the associated bankruptcy case number
In the Association type field, retain the association type “associated”
Click Next. NOTE: If the user fails to key the associated bankruptcy case number, a warning is displayed, “Warning: related case not entered.” Click OK. The system will allow the user to proceed, without properly creating an association to the lead bankruptcy case

STEP 4

Verify the assignment of the case to the proper divisional office. This is based upon the assignment of the lead bankruptcy case. ( If the user fails to key the associated bankruptcy case number and proceeds, the screen displays “No valid Lead Case entered,” and the user is asked to manually assign the Divisional Office – this is NOT recommended)
Click Next

STEP 5

On the Search for a plaintiff screen, key the Last/Business name of the plaintiff
Click Search
If the party is listed in the results returned in the Party search results, click , to highlight. A pop-up window displays the party information for verification. If the party is not listed, proceed to STEP 6
After verification of the party, click Select name from list
Verify that all information is correct on the Plaintiff Information screen. Information may be updated for this filing only
Select the role of the party to be added, by clicking the Role in Bankruptcy Case field and making a selection. The Role in Bankruptcy Case field is a required field and must be completed
If there are additional attorneys to be added, click Add additional attorney and follow the instructions under Add Additional Attorney
After verification of the information, click Submit, to add the party, or Cancel , to abort the addition and return to the Search for a Plaintiff screen
Repeat instructions in STEP 5 until all plaintiffs are added to the case. Click End plaintiff selection

STEP 6

If the party is not listed in the results returned in the Party search results, click Create new party
Complete all applicable fields. Note: The Role in Bankruptcy Case field is a required field and must be completed
Click Submit, to add the party, or Cancel , to abort the addition, and return to the Search for a plaintiff screen

STEP 7

On the Search for a defendant screen, key the Last/Business name of the defendant
Click Search
If the party is listed in the results returned in the Party search results, click , to highlight. A pop-up window displays the party information for verification. If the party is not listed, proceed to STEP 8
After verification of the party, click Select name from list
Verify that all information is correct on the Defendant Information screen. Information may be updated for this filing only
Select the role of the party to be added, by clicking the Role in Bankruptcy Case field and making a selection. The Role in Bankruptcy Case field is a required field and must be completed
If there are additional attorneys to be added, click Add additional attorney and follow the instructions under Add Additional Attorney
After verification of the information, click Submit, to add the party, or Cancel , to abort the addition, and return to the Search for a Defendant screen
Repeat instructions in STEP 7 until all defendants are added to the case. Click End defendant selection

STEP 8

If the party is not listed in the results returned in the Party search results, click Create new party
Complete all applicable fields. Note: The Role in Bankruptcy Case field is a required field and must be completed
Click Submit, to add the party, or Cancel , to abort the addition, and return to the Search for a defendant screen

STEP 9

On the adversary statistical screen, select the appropriate Party code, Nature of suit(s), Rule 23(class action), Jury demand, and State law status. Key any Demand ($000) by rounding to the nearest thousand (for example, the numeral 5 would be inserted for a demand of $5000)
Click Next

STEP 10

Select ‘y’ or ‘n’ to the question, “Is the fee EXEMPT because the Plaintiff is the United States, Debtor, Child Support Creditor or its Representative?[y/n]:“
Click Next

STEP 11

Select ‘y’ or ‘n’ to the question, “Is the fee DEFERRED because the Plaintiff is the Trustee or Debtor in Possession?[y/n]:”
Click Next

STEP 12

Attach the Complaint or Notice of Removal, in PDF format. Click Browse, to search for the file, or key the pathname/filename of the document
Select ‘No’ or ‘Yes’ to Attachments to Document. If there are additional documents to attach, select ‘Yes’, and proceed to STEP 13
If “No”, click Next, and proceed to STEP 14

STEP 13

On the Select one or more attachments screen, in the Filename field, click Browse, to search for the file, or key the pathname/filename of the document
Select the type of PDF attachment. Click Category, to select from a predetermined type or key a Description of the type of document
Click Add to List
Repeat the instructions in STEP 13 until all attachments have been added to the list. If an attachment is made in error, highlight the file in the list, and click Remove from List
Click Next

STEP 14

The Fee information screen displays the current filing fee for an adversary proceeding. This is not editable by the user
Click Next
Click Next on a second screen

STEP 15

Verify the docket text for accuracy, on the Docket Text: Final Text screen
Click Next, to complete the filing. Clicking Next commits the transaction, and the user has no further opportunity to modify the submission

STEP 16

The Notice of Electronic Filing displays, providing confirmation to the user that the document/transaction has been committed to the CM/ECF system, and has been made a part of the court record

Amended Pleadings

Effective November 1, 2011, the clerk must collect $30.00 for each amendment to the debtor’s schedules (Schedules D or E/F) or lists of creditors, matrix or mailing lists, when the debtor is adding a creditor, deleting a creditor, changing the amount of debt, or changing the classification of debt. The event code for use in this instance is Amended Schedule(s) and/or Statement(s), List(s).

The Fee is Assessed Per Filing – If an amendment contains more than one change to the list of creditors, the clerk may charge only one $30.00 fee. The clerk must charge a fee to add creditors, delete creditors, change the amount of a debt, or change the classification of a debt.
No Fee to Change Address – No fee is due to change the address of a listed creditor. FRBP 2002(g) provides that creditors may designate the address to which notices must be sent occasionally causing a change to the original schedule. The clerk must amend only the mailing matrix in such circumstances; schedules need no amendments if the only change is an updated address.
No Fee Charged to Add Attorney – No fee is due to add the name and address of an attorney for a creditor already listed on the original schedules, so that the attorney can receive copies of notices. The attorney is added as an agent for a creditor already included on the schedule.
Waivers for Good Cause – The Bankruptcy Court Miscellaneous Fee Schedule permits the judge “for good cause [to] waive the charge in any case.” This provision requires an individual finding in each case…
Exception for Converted Cases – LBR 1017-1 requires the filing of a Schedule of Unpaid Debts incurred after commencement of the original bankruptcy case OR certification that no unpaid debts have been incurred since the commencement of the case. No fee is due when a debtor files a schedule of post-petition debts after conversion

There is no fee collected for an amendment to schedules D or E/F, where there are no creditors being added/deleted and/or the amount or classification of debtor is not being changed. An event code was created for use in this instance. The event code is Amended Schedule(s) and/or Statement(s), List(s) – NO FEE.

General Requirements of Amended Petition, Lists, Schedules, Statements (Local Bankruptcy Rule 1009-1)

Amendments may be filed at any time before the case is closed. NOTE: The Statement of Intention must be amended before expiration of the 45-day period after the filing of the statement of intention
Social Security number or tax identification number changes or corrections require the filing of an amended petition and should not be submitted in letter format
Debtor address changes do not require an amendment
Creditor address changes do not require an amendment if the debtor uses the Change of Address form
A Pleading must be amended in its entirety; substitution of pages or partial pleading is not appropriate, (e.g., you cannot submit page 2 of Statement of Financial Affairs to correct question 4, but you must file an entire Amended Statement of Financial Affairs. Individual schedules may be filed without submitting A through J)
An amendment coversheet is required
Amended petition(s), list(s), schedule(s), statement(s), must be accompanied by a declaration signed by debtor(s) under penalty of perjury
A Notice to Creditor(s) Re: Amendment is required if adding additional or deleting creditors.

Events for Amended Petition, Schedules, Statements, Lists*

Amended Pleading	Category	Event	Function
Amended Voluntary Petition (Official Form 101)	Miscellaneous	Amended Voluntary Petition	Use text box to add additional descriptive text, if appropriate (ex.: to correct social security number)
Amended Involuntary Petition	Miscellaneous	Use appropriate code for chapter: Amended Involuntary Petition under Chapter 11; or, Amended Involuntary Petition under Chapter 7	Use prefix box, if appropriate
Amended Schedules, Amended Statement of Financial Affairs, and/or Amended Statement of Intention	Miscellaneous	Amended Schedule(s) and/or Statement(s), List(s); or, Amended Schedule(s and/or Statement(s), List(s) – NO FEE	Select all documents being filed from checkbox display. Selection of Schedule D, E or F to add/delete creditors and/or change the amount or classification of debt will require payment of $30 fee. If creditors are not being added/deleted and/or the amount or classification of debt is not being changed, no fee is due
Amended Attorney Fee Disclosure	Miscellaneous	Attorney Fee Disclosure	Use prefix box to select Amended
Amended List of Creditors Holding 20 Largest Unsecured Claims	Miscellaneous	List of Creditors Holding 20 Largest Unsecured Claims	Use prefix box to select Amended
Amended List of Equity Security Holders	Miscellaneous	List of Equity Security Holders (Filed)	Use prefix box to select Amended

*The Amendment Cover Sheet and/or Notice to Creditor(s) Re: Amendment need to be separate entries. You may do any of the following:

Include, as an Attachment to document, with the event, Amended Schedule(s) and/or Statement(s), List(s)
Select the event(s), Amendment Cover Sheet and/or Notice to Creditor(s) Re: Amendment, at the same time as the event, Amended Schedule(s) and/or Statement(s), List(s)
Docket, as separate entries from the event, Amended Schedule(s) and/or Statement(s), List(s)

Attach a PDF Document

To attach a PDF document to an entry in CM/ECF:

Click Browse, at the filename field
In the Choose File to Upload (or File Upload, depending upon the browser) window, navigate to the directory in which the document was saved
Single-click the filename, to highlight
Right-click the filename
Click Open with Acrobat [version]
Review the document to ensure the attachment of the correct file
Click the red ‘x’, in the upper right corner of the PDF document, to close
In the Choose File to Upload (or File Upload, depending upon the browser) window, double-click the filename, or, single-click and click Open, to populate the Filename field

Bankruptcy Case Opening (Voluntary)

To file a bankruptcy petition in CM/ECF, the attorney must Open a Voluntary BK Case. During this process the attorney enters the required information about the debtor and statistical information. The attorney uses the information from the official forms for the voluntary petition, lists, schedules and statements. To open a bankruptcy case, follow the steps outlined below:

STEP 1

After logging into CM/ECF with a CM/ECF login and password, click Bankruptcy from the Menu bar (blue)
Click Open a Voluntary BK Case from the Bankruptcy Events menu, to display the Open Voluntary Bankruptcy Case screen

STEP 2

On the Open Voluntary Bankruptcy Case screen, the Case type defaults to “bk” and the Date filed defaults to the current date. These fields are not editable by the user
Select the Chapter of the case being filed from the drop-down box
Select the Joint Petition designation: ‘n’, if a single debtor, or, ‘y’, if a husband and wife
Select ‘n’ in the Deficiencies field; this field should ALWAYS be set to ‘n’
Click Next

STEP 3

On the Search for a debtor screen, key the SSN/ITIN , Tax ID/EIN or Last/Business name of the debtor
Click Search
If the debtor is listed in the results returned in the Party search results, click, to highlight. A pop-up window displays the party information for verification. If the party is not listed, proceed to STEP 4
After verification of the party, click Select name from list
Verify that all of the information is correct on the Debtor Information screen. Information may be updated for this filing only
If there is additional information regarding the debtor that should be included on the docket, but is not part of the debtor’s name, key this in the Party text field (ex.: ” a wholly owned subsidiary of [name of corporation]” )
If the debtor is/has been known by any other names within the past 8 years, click Alias. On the Alias Information screen, key information in the appropriate name and generation fields and select the alias Role from the drop-down box. The user may add up to five (5) aliases on this screen. After all aliases have been keyed, click Add aliases, and return to the Debtor Information screen
If the debtor has a corporate parent or affiliate, click Corporate parent/affiliate to display the Search for a corporate parent / affiliate screen. Key the Business name and click Search. If the business is listed in the results returned in the Corporate parent/affiliate search results, click to highlight and click Select name from list. On the Corporate parent/affiliate information screen, select the Type from the drop-down box, either corporate parent, or affiliate. The Entity checkbox is selected by default. Click Add corporate parent/affiliate, to add the entity, or Cancel corporate parent/affiliate, and return to the Debtor Information screen. If the business is not listed in the results returned, click Create new corporate parent/affiliate. On the Corporate parent / affiliate information screen, the name of the business to create is displayed. select the Type from the drop-down box, either corporate parent, or affiliate. The Entity checkbox is selected by default. Click Add corporate parent/affiliate, to add the entity, or Cancel corporate parent/affiliate, and return to the Debtor Information screen
Click Submit to add the debtor

STEP 4

If the debtor is not listed in the results returned in the Party search results, click Create new party
The Last name field is populated from the debtor search. Key information in the appropriate fields. Note that First name, SSN/ITIN (or Tax ID/EIN for a business), Address 1, City, State, Zip, and County fields are required fields, and the user may not proceed with completing
Follow instruction in STEP 3, for Party text, Alias and Corporate parent/affiliate addition
Click Submit to add the debtor

STEP 5

Repeat the steps in STEP 3 (and STEP 4, if applicable) if the case is a joint case, to add the joint debtor to the case
If the joint debtor’s address is the same as the debtor, select the checkbox, Copy previous party’s address, on the Search for joint debtor screen, below the Party search results
After all applicable steps have been completed, click Submit to add the joint debtor

STEP 6

The divisional office is assigned to the case, based on the county of the debtor. This is displayed on the screen and is not editable
Click Next

STEP 7

The Statistical information screen displays.
Select Prior filing within the last 8 years from the drop-down box, ‘yes’ or ‘no’
Select Fee status from the drop-down box, ‘paid’, ‘installment’, or ‘fee not paid’
Select Nature of debt from the drop-down box, ‘consumer’, ‘business’ or ‘other’
Select Asset notice from the drop-down box, ‘yes’ only for Ch. 13 or 11, and ‘no’ only for chapter 7
Select Estimated number of creditors from drop-down box
Select Estimated assets from drop-down box
Select Estimated debts from drop-down box
Select Type of debtor by clicking the radio button for individual, corporation, partnership or other
If the debtor is a business, select the Nature of business by clicking the appropriate radio button
Enter first 4 digits of the NAICS code
Click Next

STEP 8

Attach the Voluntary Petition, in PDF format. Click Browse, to search for the file, or by key the pathname/filename of the document
Select ‘No’ or ‘Yes’ to Attachments to Document. If there are additional documents to attach, select ‘Yes’, and proceed to STEP 9
If “No”, click Next, and proceed to STEP 10

STEP 9

On the Select one or more attachments screen, in the Filename field, click Browse, to search for the file, or key the pathname/filename of the document
Select the type of PDF attachment. Click Category, to select from a predetermined type or key a Description of the type of document
Click Add to List
Repeat the instructions in STEP 9 until all attachments have been added to the list. If an attachment is made in error, highlight the file in the list, and click Remove from List
Click Next

STEP 10

The Fee information screen displays the current filing fee for the specific chapter of the bankruptcy case being filed. This is not editable by the user
Click Next
Click Next on a second screen

STEP 11

Key Totals From Schedule A/B, D, E/F, I, J, Current Monthly Income from Form 122A-1, 122B or 122C-1 and total Unsecured Claims. The information can be found on Official Form 106Sum
Click Next

STEP 12

Key the appropriate information in the required fields from the Schedules and Form 122A-1
Click Next

STEP 13

On the Presumption Arises screen, select ‘yes’ or ‘no’ from the list box
Click Next
Click Next, on a second screen

STEP 14

Verify the docket text for accuracy, on the Docket Text: Final Text screen
Click Next, to complete the filing. Clicking Next commits the transaction, and the user has no further opportunity to modify the submission

STEP 15

The Notice of Electronic Filing displays, providing confirmation to the user that the document/transaction has been committed to the CM/ECF system, and has been made a part of the court record

Bankruptcy Case Opening (Involuntary)

To file an involuntary bankruptcy petition in CM/ECF, the attorney must Open an Involuntary BK Case. During this process the attorney enters the required information about the petitioning creditors, the debtor and statistical information. The attorney uses the information from the official form for an involuntary petition.

STEP 1

Click Bankruptcy from the menu bar (blue)
Click Open an Involuntary BK Case from the Bankruptcy Events menu, to display the Open an Involuntary Bk Case screen

STEP 2

On the Open an Involuntary Bk Case screen, the Case type defaults to ‘bk’, the Date filed defaults to the current date and Joint Petition defaults to ‘n’. These fields are not editable by the user
Select the appropriate Chapter, either Chapter 7 or Chapter 11, from the drop-down box. These are the only chapters authorized for the filing of an involuntary petition. Chapters 9, 12, 13 and 15 are not authorized
Click Next

STEP 3

On the Search for a debtor screen, key the SSN/ITIN , Tax ID/EIN or Last/Business name of the debtor
Click Search
If the debtor is listed in the results returned in the Party search results, click, to highlight. A pop-up window displays the party information for verification. If the party is not listed, proceed to STEP 4
After verification of the party, click Select name from list
Verify that all of the information is correct on the Debtor Information screen. Information may be updated for this filing only
If there is additional information regarding the debtor that should be included on the docket, but is not part of the debtor’s name, key this in the Party text field (ex.: ” a wholly owned subsidiary of [name of corporation]” )
If the debtor is/has been known by any other names within the past 8 years, click Alias. On the Alias Information screen, key information in the appropriate name and generation fields and select the alias Role from the drop-down box. The user may add up to five (5) aliases on this screen. After all aliases have been keyed, click Add aliases, and return to the Debtor Information screen
If the debtor has a corporate parent or affiliate, click Corporate parent/affiliate to display the Search for a corporate parent / affiliate screen. Key the Business name and click Search. If the business is listed in the results returned in the Corporate parent/affiliate search results, click to highlight and click Select name from list. On the Corporate parent/affiliate information screen, select the Type from the drop-down box, either corporate parent, or affiliate. The Entity checkbox is selected by default. Click Add corporate parent/affiliate, to add the entity, or Cancel corporate parent/affiliate, and return to the Debtor Information screen. If the business is not listed in the results returned, click Create new corporate parent/affiliate. On the Corporate parent / affiliate information screen, the name of the business to create is displayed. select the Type from the drop-down box, either corporate parent, or affiliate. The Entity checkbox is selected by default. Click Add corporate parent/affiliate, to add the entity, or Cancel corporate parent/affiliate, and return to the Debtor Information screen
Click Submit to add the debtor

STEP 4

If the debtor is not listed in the results returned in the Party search results, click Create new party
The Last name field is populated from the debtor search. Key information in the appropriate fields. Note that First name, SSN/ITIN (or Tax ID/EIN for a business), Address 1, City, State, Zip, and County fields are required fields, and the user may not proceed with completing
Follow instruction in STEP 3, for Party text, Alias and Corporate parent/affiliate addition
Click Submit to add the debtor

STEP 5

The Search for a petitioning creditor screen displays
Key the Last/Business name of the party
Click Search
If the petitioning creditor is listed in the results returned in the Party search results, click, to highlight. A pop-up window displays the party information for verification. If the party is not listed, proceed to STEP 6
After verification of the party, click Select name from list
Verify that all of the information is correct on the Petitioning Creditor Information screen. Information may be updated for this filing only
If there is additional information regarding the petitioning creditor that should be included on the docket, but is not part of the petitioning creditor’s name, key this in the Party text field (ex.: ” a wholly owned subsidiary of [name of corporation]”
If the user opening the case is the filing attorney for this party, select the checkbox. If not, click Attorney. Key the Last name of the attorney, and click Search. If the attorney is listed in the Attorney search results, click to highlight. A pop-up window displays the attorney information for verification. Click Select name from list. If the attorney not listed in the search results, click Create new attorney. Complete the Attorney Information screen and click Add attorney
If the petitioning creditor is/has been known by any other names within the past 8 years, click Alias. On the Alias Information screen, key information in the appropriate name and generation fields and select the alias Role from the drop-down box. The user may add up to five (5) aliases on this screen. After all aliases have been keyed, click Add aliases, and return to the Petitioning Creditor Information screen
If the petitioning creditor has a corporate parent or affiliate, click Corporate parent/affiliate to display the Search for a corporate parent / affiliate screen. Key the Business name and click Search. If the business is listed in the results returned in the Corporate parent/affiliate search results, click to highlight and click Select name from list. On the Corporate parent/affiliate information screen, select the Type from the drop-down box, either corporate parent, or affiliate. The Entity checkbox is selected by default. Click Add corporate parent/affiliate, to add the entity, or Cancel corporate parent/affiliate, and return to the Petitioning Creditor Information screen. If the business is not listed in the results returned, click Create new corporate parent/affiliate. On the Corporate parent / affiliate information screen, the name of the business to create is displayed. select the Type from the drop-down box, either corporate parent, or affiliate. The Entity checkbox is selected by default. Click Add corporate parent/affiliate, to add the entity, or Cancel corporate parent/affiliate, and return to the Petitioning Creditor Information screen
Click Submit to add the petitioning creditor, and return to the Search for a petitioning creditor screen, to add additional petitioning creditors
When all petitioning creditors have been added to the case, click End petitioning creditor selection

STEP 6

If the petitioning creditor is not listed in the results returned in the Party search results, click Create new party
The Last name field is populated from the petitioning creditor search. Key information in the appropriate fields. Note that First name, SSN/ITIN (or Tax ID/EIN for a business), Address 1, City, State, Zip, and County fields are required fields, and the user may not proceed with completing
Follow instruction in STEP 3, for Party text, Alias and Corporate parent/affiliate addition
Click Submit to add the petitioning creditor

STEP 7

The divisional office is assigned to the case, based on the county of the debtor. This is displayed on the screen and is not editable
Click Next

STEP 8

The Statistical information screen displays.
Select Prior filing within the last 8 years from the drop-down box, ‘yes’ or ‘no’
Select Fee status from the drop-down box, ‘paid’, ‘installment’ or ‘fee not paid’
Select Nature of debt from the drop-down box, ‘consumer’, ‘business’ or ‘other’
Select Asset notice from the drop-down box, ‘yes’ only for Ch. 13 or 11, and ‘no’ only for chapter 7
Select Estimated number of creditors from drop-down box
Select Estimated assets from drop-down box
Select Estimated debts from drop-down box
Select Type of debtor by clicking the radio button for individual, corporation, partnership or other
If the debtor is a business, select the Nature of business by clicking the appropriate radio button
Enter first 4 digits of the NAICS code
Click Next

STEP 9

Attach the Involuntary Petition, in PDF format. Click Browse, to search for the file, or key the pathname/filename of the document
Select ‘No’ or ‘Yes’ to Attachments to Document. If there are additional documents to attach, select ‘Yes’, and proceed to STEP 10
If “No”, click Next, and proceed to STEP 11

STEP 10

On the Select one or more attachments screen, in the Filename field, click Browse, to search for the file, or key the pathname/filename of the document
Select the type of PDF attachment. Click Category, to select from a predetermined type or key a Description of the type of document
Click Add to List
Repeat the instructions in STEP 10 until all attachments have been added to the list. If an attachment is made in error, highlight the file in the list, and click Remove from List
Click Next

STEP 11

The Fee information screen displays the current filing fee for the specific chapter of the bankruptcy case being filed. This is not editable by the user
Click Next
Click Next on a second screen

STEP 12

Verify the docket text for accuracy, on the Docket Text: Final Text screen
Click Next, to complete the filing. Clicking Next commits the transaction, and the user has no further opportunity to modify the submission

STEP 13

The Notice of Electronic Filing displays, providing confirmation to the user that the document/transaction has been committed to the CM/ECF system, and has been made a part of the court record

Batch Filings (Docketing the Same Event in Multiple Cases)

Batch Filings is used when a single entry/event must be docketed in multiple cases. Each case will have a separate document attached to the entry, but the event must be the same for all cases.

STEP1

Click Bankruptcy from the menu bar (blue)
Click Batch Filings from the Bankruptcy Events menu

STEP 2

On the Case Number screen, key the case number for each case in which the event is to be docketed, in the individual Case Number or Numbers fields
Click Next

STEP 3

On the Available Events/Selected Events screen, select the event to be docketed, by clicking the event in the Available Events field. This places the event in the Selected Events field
Click Next

STEP 4

On the screen for attachment of documents, attach the PDF document to each case. Click Browse, to search for the file, or key the pathname/filename of the document. NOTE: Batch filing does not permit the inclusion of Attachments to Document
After all files are attached, click Next

STEP 5

The Docket Text: Modify as Appropriate screen displays. This screen allows the user to additional information regarding the filing
To add additional text, click in the text box and key any additional text to further describe the entry
Click Next

STEP 6

Verify the docket text for accuracy, on the Docket Text: Final Text screen
Click Next, to complete the filing. Clicking Next commits the transaction, and the user has no further opportunity to modify the submission

STEP 7

The Notice of Electronic Filing displays, providing confirmation to the user that the document/transaction has been committed to the CM/ECF system, and has been made a part of the court record

Case Upload

The Case Upload feature in CM/ECF was developed by the Southern District of California. It is designed for use by attorneys only, to upload information from files generated by Bankruptcy petition software. It eliminates the need to key the information into the ECF system as in Open a Voluntary BK Case. NOTE: the program is designed only to open a new voluntary bankruptcy case, not subsequently filed schedules, or other pleadings. Filing fees are charged for any duplicate cases created using this program. Also, Case Upload, including the opening of a case using 3rd party bankruptcy software, is not compatible with payment of filing fees in installments. If you wish to file in installments you must use Open a Bk Case. When you select “installment” on the statistical screen, the system will offer the first installment amount appropriate to that chapter for payment over the Internet. Subsequent fees will be tracked via deadlines set by order. You must pay subsequent fees through the event Payment of Installment Fee, which is located under the Bankruptcy> Miscellaneous menu.

STEP 1

Click Bankruptcy from the menu bar (blue)
Click Case Upload from the Bankruptcy Events menu, to display the Open New Bankruptcy Case screen

STEP 2

Attach the Case information file, in text (.txt) format. Click Browse, to search for the file, or key the pathname/filename of the document. This file contains all of the debtor and statistical information keyed into the bankruptcy petition software
Attach the Petition file, in PDF format. Click Browse, to search for the file, or key the pathname/filename of the document. This file contains the voluntary petition; it may be a full or minimum filing
Attach the Creditor matrix file, in text (.txt) format. Click Browse, to search for the file, or key the pathname/filename of the document. This file contains the name and address of the creditors of the debtor
If the case is a Chapter 13, attach the Chapter 13 Plan file, in PDF format. This file contains the plan and any special notice to creditor(s). This feature is optional during case filing
Attach the Certificate of Credit Counseling file, in PDF format. This file contains the debtor’s certification that the required credit counseling has been properly completed
Click Next

STEP 3

The Summary of Schedules screen displays, with applicable fields completed
Click Next

STEP 4

The Schedules and Official Forms 122A-1 (Chapter 7 case), 122B (Chapter 11 case) and 122C-1 (Chapter 13 case) screen displays, with applicable fields completed
Click Next

STEP 5

The Notice of Bankruptcy Case Filing for the filing of the voluntary petition, and the Notice of Electronic Filing for the Certificate of Credit Counseling, and the Chapter 13 Plan, if applicable, display, confirming the opening of the case, and the filing of the documents

Document Preparation

Only documents in portable document format (PDF) may be attached to docket entries and filed in the court’s electronic filing system. If a user attempts to attach and file a document in a format other than PDF, the error message, “The document you specified is not a valid PDF document. This system only accepts PDF formatted documents”, displays.To open and view a PDF document, using Adobe Acrobat:

Open the Adobe Acrobat application
Click File, on the menu bar, then click Open
Navigate to the location (directory) of the file to be viewed. Either double-click the file to be viewed; or single-click, to highlight, and click Open
In the open file, use the scroll bar, or the icons on the tool bar to navigate through multi-page documents
For other view options, click View on the menu bar, and select the option most appropriate for the document

For assistance in converting a document from a word processing format to PDF format, click here.For assistance with imaging/scanning a document using Adobe Acrobat, click the Help file on the menu bar in your Adobe Acrobat software. If using another PDF software, consult the Help file from that specific software developer. When scanning a document for filing, make note of the following scanner settings:

Mode – Black and White (greyscale and color create very large files, which can pose a problem in uploading to the system)
Resolution – 150 dpi (dots per inch) to no greater than 300 dpi (150 – 200 dpi is usually sufficient)
Paper Size – 8 1/2 x 11 inches (if the document is larger, photo-reduce before scanning)

NOTE: After scanning a document, verify that the document is complete and legible, prior to saving.

File a (Proof of) Claim

A proof of claim, pursuant to FRBP 3001(a), is a written statement setting forth a creditor’s claim. A proof of claim shall conform substantially to the appropriate Official Form. To file a proof of claim:

STEP 1

Click Bankruptcy from the menu bar (blue)
Click File Claims from the Bankruptcy Events menu, to display the Search for Creditor screen

STEP 2

Key the Case Number, on the Case Number screen
Key the Name of Creditor – leave the field blank for the system to display a list of all creditors in the selected case
Select the Type of Creditor – creditor type options are Creditor, Administrative, 20 Largest Unsecured Creditors, Common Creditor (do not select) and Creditor Committee. NOTE: creditors added during case opening are type, Creditor. The system defaults to All
Click Next

STEP 3

On the Select a Creditor for Claim screen, select a creditor from the drop-down box
If there is an exact creditor name and address match, click the creditor to select
Click Next, and proceed to STEP 5
If the creditor is listed, but with a different address, or the creditor is not listed, proceed to STEP 4

STEP 4

Click Add Creditor, to display Creditor Processing, for the addition of the creditor
The current case number is displayed in the Case Number field.
Click Next
The Add Creditor(s) screen displays. If creditors have been previously added to the case, the warning, Case [xx-xxxxx] already contains creditors!, displays. To continue, key the creditor information in the Name and Address field. The creditor name may be 5 lines of 40 characters each. More than one creditor may be keyed, separating creditors with a blank line. Select the Creditor type from the drop-down box. Select the radio button Creditor committee. If the creditor(s) is/are an entity(ies), select the checkbox Entity
Click Next
The Total Creditors Entered screen displays, with the number of creditors entered. Verify that this is correct. Click Submit
The Creditor Receipt screen displays. The case number and total number of creditors added to the database are confirmed
Click File A Proof of Claim to return to the Search for Creditor screen, in File Claims
Click Next
On the Select a Creditor for Claim screen, select a creditor from the drop-down box
Click Next

STEP 5

If there are no claims filed for the selected creditor, a pop-up window displays, with the message, “No claims have been filed on behalf of creditor [name and address of creditor]. Is this the correct creditor?, Yes or No”. If “No”, the window closes and returns to the Select a Creditor for Claim screen, to select the correct creditor. If “Yes”, the Proof of Claim Information For [name and address of creditor] screen displays, to key claim information
If other claim(s) have been filed for the selected creditor, a pop-up window displays, with the message, “Claims filed on behalf of creditor [name and address of creditor] [number of claims filed]. Is this the correct creditor?, Yes or No”. If “No”, the window closes and returns to the Select a Creditor for Claim screen, to select the correct creditor. If “Yes”, the Proof of Claim Information For [name and address of creditor] screen displays, to key claim information

STEP 6

Key Amends Claim #, ONLY if the claim is amending a previously filed claim. DO NOT place a zero (0) in the Amends Claim # field. If the claim is an amended claim, the user may click on Find, to find the previously keyed claim., then click on the creditor name to populate the Amends Claim # field
Select Filed By from the drop down box. Options for filer are Debtor, Attorney, Creditor and Trustee
Key Amount Claimed; key the total amount of the claim, including secured, priority, unsecured and unknown amounts. Do not include the dollar sign ($).
If all or part of the claim is secured, key the amount in the Secured field
If all or part of the claim is priority, key the amount in the Priority field
Key any additional information you wish to include to describe the claim, in the Description and/or Remarks fields
If the claim is amending a previously filed claim, the amounts from the previously filed claim will populate the appropriate fields. Click Amend options, to clear the information displayed from the previous claim entry, and key the amended claim information
Click Next
NOTE: See Local Bankruptcy Rule 3004-1 (Filing of Claims by Debtor or Trustee) regarding Notice of Claim and Proof of Service.

STEP 7

Attach the Proof of Claim, in PDF format. Click Browse, to search for the file, or key the pathname/filename of the document
Select ‘No’ or ‘Yes’ to Attachments to Document. If there are additional documents to attach, select ‘Yes’, and proceed to STEP 8
If “No”, click Next, and proceed to STEP 9

STEP 8

On the Select one or more attachments screen, in the Filename field, click Browse, to search for the file, or key the pathname/filename of the document
Select the type of PDF attachment. Click Category, to select from a predetermined type or key a Description of the type of document
Click Add to List
Repeat the instructions in STEP 8 until all attachments have been added to the list. If an attachment is made in error, highlight the file in the list, and click Remove from List
Click Next

STEP 9

The Notice of Electronic Claims Filing displays, providing confirmation to the user that the document/transaction has been committed to the CM/ECF system, and has been made a part of the court record
The Notice of Electronic Claims Filing contains a link to File another claim, which when selected, takes the user to the Search for Creditor screen, in File Claims

File a Document – Answer/Response

STEP 1

Select Bankruptcy from the menu bar (blue)
Click Answer/Response from the Bankruptcy Events menu

STEP 2

If filing an objection, reply or response to an existing motion or application, click Reference an Existing Motion/Application
If filing a response to a pleading other than a motion or application (including , but not limited to, an answer/amended answer to a complaint, or a response to an objection), click Other Answers

STEP 3

Key the case number on Case Number screen.
Click Next

STEP 4

Select the party filing the motion, on the Select the Party screen. If the party is not listed, click Add/Create New Party and follow the instructions in Add Party in An Existing Bankruptcy or Adversary Proceeding.
NOTE: The attorney/party association is created in the case. The checkbox presented is selected by default to create the association. De-selecting the attorney/party association will result in the filing attorney NOT receiving Notices of Electronic Filing (NEF) for that party. If the filing is a joint filing, review the list carefully to ensure that only parties represented by the filing attorney are selected.
Click Next

STEP 5

If the system does not detect an association between the attorney and the party, a warning displays, stating, “The following attorney/party associations do not exist for this case. Please check which associations should be created for this case:”. The attorney must select the checkbox, “[Creditor Name][party type] represented by [Attorney Name] (aty)” and click Next, to be associated with the party and to receive notices of electronic filings (NEFs) in the specific case
Click Next

STEP 6

On the Available Events/Selected Events screen, select the appropriate motion or application, by clicking the event in the Available Events field. This places the event in the Selected Events field
Click Next

STEP 7

Attach the responsive document, in PDF format. Click Browse, to search for the file, or by key the pathname/filename of the document
Select ‘No’ or ‘Yes’ to Attachments to Document. If there are additional documents to attach, select ‘Yes’, and proceed to STEP 8
If “No”, click Next, and proceed to STEP 9

STEP 8

On the Select one or more attachments screen, in the Filename field, click Browse, to search for the file, or key the pathname/filename of the document
Select the type of PDF attachment. Click Category, to select from a predetermined type or key a Description of the type of document
Click Add to List
Repeat the instructions in STEP 7 until all attachments have been added to the list. If an attachment is made in error, highlight the file in the list, and click Remove from List
Click Next

STEP 9

If Reference an Existing Motion/Application was selected in STEP 2, the Select the appropriate motion(s)/application(s) screen displays. Select the checkbox of the applicable motion(s)/application(s), and click Next
If Other Answers was selected in STEP 2, the Select the category to which your event relates displays. Select the category to which the event relates from the list box. The search may be limited by keying a Filed date range or a Document range. Click Next. Select the checkbox of the document to which the motion/application relates. Click Next

STEP 10

Verify the docket text, on the Docket Text: Modify as Appropriate
Add a prefix, if appropriate, from the prefix drop-down box. Select the appropriate modifier
Add additional text to the entry by keying text in the text box
Click Next

STEP 11

Verify the docket text, on the Docket Text: Final Text screen
Click Next, to complete the filing. Clicking Next commits the transaction, and the user has no further opportunity to modify the submission

STEP 12

The Notice of Electronic Filing displays, providing confirmation to the user that the document/transaction has been committed to the CM/ECF system, and has been made a part of the court record

File a Document – Application for Compensation

STEP 1

Select Bankruptcy from the menu bar (blue)
Click Motions/Applications from the Bankruptcy Events menu

STEP 2

Key the case number on Case Number screen.
Click Next

STEP 3

Select the party filing the motion, on the Select the Party screen. If the party/professional is not listed, click Add/Create New Party and follow the instructions in Add Party in An Existing Bankruptcy or Adversary Proceeding
NOTE: The attorney/party association is created in the case. The checkbox presented is selected by default to create the association. De-selecting the attorney/party association will result in the filing attorney NOT receiving Notices of Electronic Filing (NEF) for that party. If the filing is a joint filing, review the list carefully to ensure that only parties represented by the filing attorney are selected.
Click Next

STEP 4

On the Available Events/Selected Events screen, select the event, Compensation, by clicking the event in the Available Events field. This places the event in the Selected Events field
Click Next

STEP 5

Attach the application, in PDF format. Click Browse, to search for the file, or by key the pathname/filename of the document
Select ‘No’ or ‘Yes’ to Attachments to Document. If there are additional documents to attach, select ‘Yes’, and proceed to STEP 6
If “No”, click Next, and proceed to STEP 7

STEP 6

On the Select one or more attachments screen, in the Filename field, click Browse, to search for the file, or key the pathname/filename of the document
Select the type of PDF attachment. Click Category, to select from a predetermined type or key a Description of the type of document
Click Add to List
Repeat the instructions in STEP 7 until all attachments have been added to the list. If an attachment is made in error, highlight the file in the list, and click Remove from List
Click Next

STEP 7

Key the name of the person requesting the information in the field labeled “Enter Name of Person Requesting Compensation:”
Key the type of professional in the field labeled “Enter Type of Professional:”
Click Next

STEP 8

If the application does not refer to an existing event, leave the checkbox “Refer to existing event(s)?” unchecked, click Next and proceed to STEP 9. If the motion/application does refer to an existing event, select the checkbox “Refer to existing event(s)?”
Click Next
Select the category to which the event relates from the list box. The search may be limited by keying a Filed date range or a Document range
Click Next
Select the checkbox of the document to which the motion/application relates
Click Next

STEP 9

Key ‘n’ or ‘y’ to the question “Does your pdf document contain a notice of hearing? [y/n]“. If ‘n’, click Next, and proceed to STEP 10. If ‘y’, click Next, to schedule the hearing
Key the date, or click the calendar button, to select the Hearing Date, on the Hearing Information screen
Key the time, or click the clock, to select the Hearing Time, on the Hearing Information screen
Select the Location of the hearing from the drop-down box, on the Hearing Information screen
NOTE: The information must be keyed to schedule the hearing on the docket; the user may need to obtain prior approval for the date and time from the Courtroom Deputy
Click Next

STEP 10

Verify the docket text, on the Docket Text: Modify as Appropriate
Add a prefix, if appropriate, from the prefix drop-down box. Select the appropriate modifier
Add additional text to the entry by keying text in the text box
Click Next

STEP 11

Verify the docket text, on the Docket Text: Final Text screen
Click Next, to complete the filing. Clicking Next commits the transaction, and the user has no further opportunity to modify the submission

STEP 12

The Notice of Electronic Filing displays, providing confirmation to the user that the document/transaction has been committed to the CM/ECF system, and has been made a part of the court record

File a Document – Motion/Application

STEP 1

Select Bankruptcy from the menu bar (blue)
Click Motions/Applications from the Bankruptcy Events menu

STEP 2

Key the case number on Case Number screen.
Click Next

STEP 3

Select the party filing the motion, on the Select the Party screen. If the party is not listed, click Add/Create New Party and follow the instructions in Add Party in An Existing Bankruptcy or Adversary Proceeding
Click Next

STEP 4

The attorney/party association is created in the case. The checkbox presented is selected by default to create the association. De-selecting the attorney/party association will result in the filing attorney NOT receiving Notices of Electronic Filing (NEF) for that party. If the filing is a joint filing, review the list carefully to ensure that only parties represented by the filing attorney are selected.
Click Next

STEP 5

On the Available Events/Selected Events screen, select the appropriate motion or application, by clicking the event in the Available Events field. This places the event in the Selected Events field
Click Next

STEP 6

Attach the motion or application, in PDF format. Click Browse, to search for the file, or by key the pathname/filename of the document
Select ‘No’ or ‘Yes’ to Attachments to Document. If there are additional documents to attach, select ‘Yes’, and proceed to STEP 7
If “No”, click Next, and proceed to STEP 8

STEP 7

On the Select one or more attachments screen, in the Filename field, click Browse, to search for the file, or key the pathname/filename of the document
Select the type of PDF attachment. Click Category, to select from a predetermined type or key a Description of the type of document
Click Add to List
Repeat the instructions in STEP 7 until all attachments have been added to the list. If an attachment is made in error, highlight the file in the list, and click Remove from List
Click Next

STEP 8

If the motion/application does not refer to an existing event, leave the checkbox “Refer to existing event(s)?” unchecked, click Next and proceed to STEP 9. If the motion/application does refer to an existing event, select the checkbox “Refer to existing event(s)?”
Click Next
Select the category to which the event relates from the list box. The search may be limited by keying a Filed date range or a Document range
Click Next
Select the checkbox of the document to which the motion/application relates
Click Next

STEP 9

Key ‘n’ or ‘y’ to the question “Does your pdf document contain a notice of hearing? [y/n]“. If ‘n’, click Next, and proceed to STEP 10. If ‘y’, click Next, to schedule the hearing
Key the date, or click the calendar button, to select the Hearing Date, on the Hearing Information screen
Key the time, or click the clock, to select the Hearing Time, on the Hearing Information screen
Select the Location of the hearing from the drop-down box, on the Hearing Information screen
NOTE: The information must be keyed to schedule the hearing on the docket; the user may need to obtain prior approval for the date and time from the Courtroom Deputy
Click Next

STEP 10

Verify the docket text, on the Docket Text: Modify as Appropriate
Add a prefix, if appropriate, from the prefix drop-down box. Select the appropriate modifier
Add additional text to the entry by keying text in the text box
Click Next

STEP 11

Verify the docket text, on the Docket Text: Final Text screen
Click Next, to complete the filing. Clicking Next commits the transaction, and the user has no further opportunity to modify the submission

STEP 12

The Notice of Electronic Filing displays, providing confirmation to the user that the document/transaction has been committed to the CM/ECF system, and has been made a part of the court record

File a Document – Notice of Hearing

STEP 1

Select Bankruptcy from the menu bar (blue)
Click Notices from the Bankruptcy Events menu
NOTE: The Notice of Hearing event is also available in the following categories: Claim Actions, Trustee/U.S. Trustee, and Adversary > Notices

STEP 2

Key the case number on Case Number screen.
Click Next

STEP 3

Select the party filing the notice of hearing, on the Select the Party screen. If the party is not listed, click Add/Create New Party and follow the instructions in Add Party in An Existing Bankruptcy or Adversary Proceeding
Click Next

STEP 4

The attorney/party association is created in the case. The checkbox presented is selected by default to create the association. De-selecting the attorney/party association will result in the filing attorney NOT receiving Notices of Electronic Filing (NEF) for that party. If the filing is a joint filing, review the list carefully to ensure that only parties represented by the filing attorney are selected.
Click Next

STEP 5

On the Available Events/Selected Events screen, select the appropriate notice of hearing, by clicking the event in the Available Events field. This places the event in the Selected Events field
Click Next

STEP 6

Attach the notice of hearing, in PDF format. Click Browse, to search for the file, or by key the pathname/filename of the document
Select ‘No’ or ‘Yes’ to Attachments to Document. If there are additional documents to attach, select ‘Yes’, and proceed to STEP 7
If “No”, click Next, and proceed to STEP 8

STEP 7

On the Select one or more attachments screen, in the Filename field, click Browse, to search for the file, or key the pathname/filename of the document
Select the type of PDF attachment. Click Category, to select from a predetermined type or key a Description of the type of document
Click Add to List
Repeat the instructions in STEP 7 until all attachments have been added to the list. If an attachment is made in error, highlight the file in the list, and click Remove from List
Click Next

STEP 8

Select the checkbox of the document to which the notice of hearing relates
Click Next

STEP 9

Certain notice events contain functionality to schedule a hearing within the docketing process. In those events, the Hearing Information screen displays (i.e. Notice of Hearing, Amended Notice of Hearing, Notice of Continued Hearing, Notice of Motion and Notice of Hearing, Notice of Rescheduled Hearing).
Key the date, or click the calendar button, to select the Hearing Date, on the Hearing Information screen
Key the time, or click the clock, to select the Hearing Time, on the Hearing Information screen
Select the Location of the hearing from the drop-down box, on the Hearing Information screen
NOTE: The information must be keyed to schedule the hearing on the docket; the user may need to obtain prior approval for the date and time from the Courtroom Deputy
Click Next

STEP 10

The Terminate Deadlines screen displays. If there are no deadlines to terminate, the message “Note: There are no deadlines to terminate.” displays. Click Next, and proceed to STEP 11
If there are deadlines to terminate, select the checkbox of the appropriate deadline to terminate. If all deadlines are to be terminated, click Terminate all. The type of deadline, and the date of the hearing are displayed. The Date terminated defaults to the current date
Click Next

STEP 11

Verify the docket text, on the Docket Text: Modify as Appropriate
Add a prefix, if appropriate, from the prefix drop-down box. Select the appropriate modifier
Add additional text to the entry by keying text in the text box
Click Next

STEP 12

Verify the docket text, on the Docket Text: Final Text screen
Click Next, to complete the filing. Clicking Next commits the transaction, and the user has no further opportunity to modify the submission

STEP 13

The Notice of Electronic Filing displays, providing confirmation to the user that the document/transaction has been committed to the CM/ECF system, and has been made a part of the court record

Notice of Electronic Filing (Receipt of Filing)

A Notice of Electronic Filing provides confirmation to the user that the document/transaction has been committed to the CM/ECF system, and has been made a part of the court record. The notice displays for each transaction, after the Next button has been selected on the Docket Text: Final Text screen.

The Notice of Electronic Filing displays the following information:

Filer of the document
Date and Time of the filing
Case Name
Case Number
Document Number

In addition, information is provided regarding the document(s) associated with the transaction:

Document description
Original filename of the document
Electronic document Stamp

Each notice provides:

Name and e-mail address, together with the name of the party on whose behalf the document was filed, for attorneys who will be notified electronically of the filing
Name and address of parties who will not be electronically notified of the filing

Users are advised to keep a copy of each Notice of Electronic Filing. To print a copy of the NEF, click File at the top of the browser screen and select Print.

If a user attempts to access the Docket Sheet, through the Case Number link, or, the document, through the Document Number link, he/she is provided with the PACER login screen, to key the appropriate login and password.

Statistical Reporting Requirements Necessitating Procedure Change

The Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005, effective March 9 2007, amended title 28, United States Code, by adding a new §159, which requires the Director of the Administrative Office to compile certain statistical information.

The new statistical reporting requirements necessitated a change in the procedure for the docketing of multi-part motions (i.e., a single pleading, containing two or more motions/applications; an example of which is, “Motion for Relief from Stay or in the alternative, Motion for Adequate Protection”). Effective March 9, 2007, to properly capture the required data in a single pleading containing two or more motions/applications, the motion/application parts must be selected separately during the docketing of the pleading. This is accomplished by selecting the first motion/application, then depressing the <Ctrl> key and selecting each additional motion/application.

In the alternative, rather than filing and docketing a multi-part motion, motions/applications may be filed as separate pleadings, and docketed separately.

Transfer of a Claim

FRBP 3002(e) governs the transfer of a claim from one person or business to another. To file a transfer of a claim:

STEP 1

Click Bankruptcy from the menu bar (blue)
Click Claim Actions from the Bankruptcy Events menu. Attorneys who are limited participants must click Creditor Claimant Activity from the Bankruptcy Events menu

STEP 2

Key the Case Number, on the Case Number screen
Click Next

STEP 3

Select the party, on the Select the Party screen. If the party is not listed, click Add/Create New Party and follow the instructions in Add Party in An Existing Bankruptcy or Adversary Proceeding
Click Next

STEP 4

The attorney/party association is created in the case. The checkbox presented, is selected by default, to create the association. De-selecting the party association will result in the filing attorney NOT receiving Notices of Electronic Filing (NEF) for that party. If the filing is a joint filing, review the list carefully to ensure that only parties represented y the filing attorney are selected.
Click Next

STEP 5

On the Available Events/Selected Events screen, select Transfer of Claim, by clicking the event in the Available Events field. This places the event in the Selected Events field
Click Next

STEP 6

Attach the transfer document, in PDF format. Click Browse, to search for the file, or by key the pathname/filename of the document
Select ‘No’ or ‘Yes’ to Attachments to Document. If there are additional documents to attach, select ‘Yes’, and proceed to STEP 7
If “No”, click Next, and proceed to STEP 8

STEP 7

On the Select one or more attachments screen, in the Filename field, click Browse, to search for the file, or key the pathname/filename of the document
Select the type of PDF attachment. Click Category, to select from a predetermined type or key a Description of the type of document
Click Add to List
Repeat the instructions in STEP 7 until all attachments have been added to the list. If an attachment is made in error, highlight the file in the list, and click Remove from List
Click Next

STEP 8

A message displays directing the user to select the correct transfer type, on the next screen. Transfer types and descriptions are displayed on the screen, and are: 3001(e)1 – Other Than for Security Before Claim Filed; 3001(e)2 – Other Than for Security After Claim Filed; 3001(e)3 – For Security Before Claim Filed; 3001(e)4 – For Security After Claim Filed
Click Next

STEP 9

Select the Transfer type, by clicking the appropriate radio button
Search for transferee (the creditor to whom the claim is transferred), by keying the name of the creditor in the field, then clicking Search Creditors; or, by leaving the field blank and clicking Search Creditors. Using either method, if the creditor is listed, click to highlight and click Select. If the creditor is not listed, click Close, then click Add New Creditor. A pop-up window displays for the addition of the new creditor. When complete, click Submit, to add the creditor and return to the Transfer Information screen. The Transferee selected field is populated with the name and address of the transferee
Search for transferor (the creditor transferring the claim), by keying the name of the creditor in the field, then clicking Search Creditors, or, by leaving the field blank and clicking Search Creditors. Click to highlight the creditor and click Select. If the creditor selected has not filed a claim, a pop-up window displays the message, “Warning! This creditor has not filed a claim.” Click OK, to return to the Select creditor pop-up window, to select the creditor who has filed a claim. The transferor selected field is populated with the name and address of the transferor
There may be up multiple claims transferred to the same creditor. Repeat steps, if applicable, until all transferror information is keyed. If needed, click Transfer More Claims to add additional transferor information
Click Next
Click Next on the Fee screen, which displays the $25.00 filing fee for a transfer of claim
Click Next on a second screen

STEP 10

On the Claim Status screen, select the claim status of Transferred, for this claim
Click Next

STEP 11

Verify the docket text, on the Docket Text: Modify as Appropriate
Add a prefix, if appropriate, from the prefix drop-down box. Select the appropriate modifier
Add additional text to the entry by keying text in the text box
Click Next

STEP 12

Verify the docket text, on the Docket Text: Final Text screen
Click Next, to complete the filing. Clicking Next commits the transaction, and the user has no further opportunity to modify the submission

STEP 13

The Notice of Electronic Filing displays, providing confirmation to the user that the document/transaction has been committed to the CM/ECF system, and has been made a part of the court record

STEP 14

A statutory fee will be charged for the filing of a transfer of claim. This fee is due and payable at the time of filing. Pursuant to Local Bankruptcy Rule 1006-1, a registered CM/ECF user will be locked out of the Case Management/Electronic Case Files (CM/ECF) System if filing fees are not paid by the end of the calendar day.

Transfer of a Claim – Claims Agent

FRBP 3002(e) governs the transfer of a claim from one person or business to another. To file a transfer of a claim:

STEP 1

Click Bankruptcy from the menu bar (blue)
Click Claim Actions from the Bankruptcy Events menu. Attorneys who are limited participants must click Creditor Claimant Activity from the Bankruptcy Events menu

STEP 2

Key the Case Number, on the Case Number screen
Click Next

STEP 3

Select the party, on the Select the Party screen. If the party is not listed, click Add/Create New Party and follow the instructions in Add Party in An Existing Bankruptcy or Adversary Proceeding
Click Next

STEP 4

The attorney/party association is created in the case. The checkbox presented, is selected by default, to create the association. De-selecting the party association will result in the filing attorney NOT receiving Notices of Electronic Filing (NEF) for that party. If the filing is a joint filing, review the list carefully to ensure that only parties represented by the filing attorney are selected.
Click Next

STEP 5

On the Available Events/Selected Events screen, select Transfer of Claim - Claims Agent, by clicking the event in the Available Events field. This places the event in the Selected Events field
Click Next

STEP 6

Attach the transfer document, in PDF format. Click Browse, to search for the file, or by key the pathname/filename of the document
Select ‘No’ or ‘Yes’ to Attachments to Document. If there are additional documents to attach, select ‘Yes’, and proceed to STEP 7
If “No”, click Next, and proceed to STEP 8

STEP 7

On the Select one or more attachments screen, in the Filename field, click Browse, to search for the file, or key the pathname/filename of the document
Select the type of PDF attachment. Click Category, to select from a predetermined type or key a Description of the type of document
Click Add to List
Repeat the instructions in STEP 7 until all attachments have been added to the list. If an attachment is made in error, highlight the file in the list, and click Remove from List
Click Next

STEP 8

A message displays directing the user to select the correct transfer type, on the next screen. Transfer types and descriptions are displayed on the screen, and are: 3001(e)1 – Other Than for Security Before Claim Filed; 3001(e)2 – Other Than for Security After Claim Filed; 3001(e)3 – For Security Before Claim Filed; 3001(e)4 – For Security After Claim Filed
Click Next

STEP 9

Select the Transfer type, by clicking the appropriate radio button
Key the name of the creditor to whom the claim is transferred (transferee)
Key the name of the creditor transferring the claim (transferor)
Key the claim number and amount of the claim, if known. These fields may be left blank
There may be up multiple claims transferred to the same creditor. Repeat steps, if applicable, until all information is keyed
Click Next

STEP 10

Click Next on the Fee screen, which displays the $25.00 filing fee for a transfer of claim
Click Next, on a second screen
You will receive a display message that “Claim No. xxx: Claim does not exist.” This will not prevent the completion of the transfer entry
Click Next

STEP 11

Verify the docket text, on the Docket Text: Modify as Appropriate
Add a prefix, if appropriate, from the prefix drop-down box. Select the appropriate modifier
Add additional text to the entry by keying text in the text box
Click Next

STEP 12

Verify the docket text, on the Docket Text: Final Text screen
Click Next, to complete the filing. Clicking Next commits the transaction, and the user has no further opportunity to modify the submission

STEP 13

The Notice of Electronic Filing displays, providing confirmation to the user that the document/transaction has been committed to the CM/ECF system, and has been made a part of the court record

STEP 14

A statutory fee will be charged for the filing of a transfer of claim. This fee is due and payable at the time of filing. Pursuant to Local Bankruptcy Rule 1006-1, a registered CM/ECF user will be locked out of the Case Management/Electronic Case Files (CM/ECF) System if filing fees are not paid by the end of the calendar day.

Trustee/US Trustee

The Trustee/US Trustee menu contains various documents which the trustee in a case or the U. S. Trustee, specifically, files with the court. These documents are usually reports, which are the result of §341 meetings of creditors, sales/auctions of property, final reports, etc. This link/menu option is in addition to the other links, which contain documents that the trustee may have occasion to file and not meant to replace all other links/menu options. An addition to the Trustee/US Trustee menu is the Trustee’s 341 Filings, to aid the trustee in the efficient resolution of his cases. This option is explained in greater detail in Trustee’s 341 Filings in this guide.

Events currently available in the Trustee/US Trustee menu are:

Amended Notice of Hearing
Amended UST Statement (10 day)
Appointment of Chapter 11 Trustee
Appointment of Examiner
Appointment of Ombudsman
Appointment of Trustee
Appointment of Unsecured Creditors Committee
Bond
Certification of Failure of Debtor(s) to Provide Tax Information and/or Payment Advices
Certification of Failure to Commence Payments
Certification of U.S. Trustee Pursuant to Local Rule 2003-1(B)
Certification to Court Under LBR 1017 – 1(D) of Failure to File Final Report
Chapter 7 Trustee’s Final Account (TDR)
Chapter 7 Trustee’s Final Report (TFR)
Chapter 7 Trustee’s Report of No Distribution – Ad Hoc Minimal Funds
Chapter 7 Trustee’s Report of No Distribution – Ad Hoc No Funds
Chapter 7 Trustee’s Report of No Distribution – No Funds
Chapter 7 Trustee’s Report of No Distribution – dismissed or converted, no funds
Chapter 7 Trustee’s Report of No Distribution – dismissed or converted, some funds collected
Chapter 7 Trustee’s Report of No Distribution – minimal funds collected
Decline Dismissal of Case Under 11 U.S.C. Section 521(i)(4)
Determine Final Cure and Payment Re: Rule 3002.1
Directive for Plan Payments
Directive for Termination of Plan Payments
Directive for Termination of Voluntary Payments by Debtor
Directive for Termination of Wage Deduction
Dismiss Case
Extend Time
Extend Time to File Motion to Dismiss
Extend Time to Object to Discharge
Final report of trustee/debtor in possession pursuant to LBR 1017-1(D)
Letter
Meeting of Creditors Adjourned
Motion and Notice to Allow Claims by Trustee
Motion and Notice to Modify Plan Payments
Motion for Entry of Order Confirming Plan, Notice of Motion and Notice of Hearing
Motion for Refund
Motion to Condition Rights of Debtor in Possession
Motion to Convert Case to Chapter 11 by Trustee/US Trustee
Motion to Convert Case to Chapter 12 by Trustee/US Trustee
Motion to Convert Case to Chapter 13 by Trustee/US Trustee
Motion to Convert Case to Chapter 7 by Trustee/US Trustee
Motion to Disgorge
Motion to Dismiss Case, Notice of Motion & Notice of Hearing
Motion to Examine under U.S.C. Section 329
Motion to Remove under U.S.C. Section 324
No Appointment of Unsecured Creditors’ Committee
Notice and Application of Trustee Intent to Settle Claim
Notice of Disbandment
Notice of Final Cure Mortgage Payment
Notice of Hearing
Notice of Mortgage Payment Change
Notice of Motion (if setting a hearing, do not use)
Notice of Objection
Notice of Postpetition Mortgage Fees, Expenses and Charges
Notice of Resignation of Standing Trustee and Appointment of Successor Standing Trustee (UST ONLY)
Notice of Trustee’s Final Report
Notice of Trustee’s Proposed Modification of Debtor’s Chapter 13 Plan
Objecting to Discharge under 11 U.S.C. Section 727(a)(8) or (a)(9), or 11 U.S.C. Section 1328(f)
Objection to Claim
Objection to Confirmation of Chapter 13 Plan, Notice of Objection to Confirmation of Plan and Notice
Objection to Debtors Claim of Exemptions
Re-Scheduled Meeting of Creditors
Re-Scheduled Meeting of Creditors – After Dismissal (U.S. Trustee)
Reassignment of Trustee
Report of Deposit of Unclaimed Funds/Small Dividends
Report of Disputed/Undisputed Trustee Election
Resignation of Trustee
Response to Notice of Final Cure Payment Rule
Selected for Audit
Show Cause
Statement of Inability to Determine Presumed Abuse by UST
Statement of No Presumed Abuse (Change from Original Notice) by UST
Statement of Presumed Abuse by UST
Status Hearing
Stop Entry of Discharge
Supersedeas Bond
Supplemental Statement of No Presumed Abuse by UST
Supplemental Statement of Presumed Abuse by UST
Trustee Certification of Non-Compliance with Local Bankruptcy Rule 4008-2(B)
Trustee Certification of Review of Claims
Trustee Chapter 11 Final Report and Account
Trustee Final Report and Account – Chapter 12
Trustee Final Report and Account – Chapter 13
Trustee Inventory
Trustee Report
Trustee Report of Completion of Plan Payments
Trustee Report of Sale
Trustee Request for Asset Notice
Trustee Request for Asset Notice (Prefix and Text Box Available)
Trustee/DIP Deferral of Certain Fees
UST Review of Trustee Final Account (TDR)
UST Review of Trustee Final Report (TFR)
UST Statement of Declination
United States Trustee Statement Motion to Dismiss Not Appropriate
Withdrawal

Trustee/US Trustee – Trustee’s 341 Meeting

The Trustee’s 341 Filings program was developed for the Chapter 7 Trustee. It was designed to enable the trustee to record the outcome of all cases set for a 341 meeting on a specific date, and to aid the trustee in the efficient resolution of his cases.

STEP 1

Select Bankruptcy from the menu bar (blue)
Click Trustee’s 341 Meetings from the Bankruptcy Events menu

STEP 2

On the Trustee’s 341 Filing’s date screen, select the date of the 341 Meeting(s). Key the date in the Date field, or click the calendar icon and select from the pop-up calendar, to populate the Date field
Select the manner in which to sort the cases, from the Sort by drop-down box. Cases may be sorted by either Case Number or by Time of the 341 Meeting

STEP 3

The 341 Meetings scheduled for the selected date display.
Available outcomes are: No Action, Meeting Not Held, Meeting Held and Continue To
If No Action is selected, no docket entry is made
If Meeting Not Held is selected, the trustee is presented with an additional docket text window, and radio buttons to indicate whether the debtor appeared or was absent, or to include no text
If Meeting Held is selected, the trustee is presented with an additional docket text window, and radio buttons to indicate whether the debtor appeared or was absent, or to include no text
If Continue To is selected, the trustee is presented with Date, Time and Location fields, to record the date to which the meeting is continued, as well as an additional docket text window and radio buttons to indicate whether the debtor appeared or was absent, or to include no text
Upon completion, click Submit

STEP 4

The Notice of Electronic Filing displays, providing confirmation to the user that the transactions have been committed to the CM/ECF system, and have been made a part of the court record

Upload Creditor(s) to a Case

Creditors are added to a case through Bankruptcy Events, Creditor Maintenance. They made be added in one of two ways: Enter individual creditors, or Upload a creditor matrix file. A creditor matrix file must be in the format of a text file (.txt). PDF is not an acceptable file format for a creditor matrix.

To Upload a Creditor matrix file:

Click Bankruptcy from the Menu bar (blue)
Click Creditor Maintenance from the Bankruptcy Events menu, to display the Creditor Maintenance menu
Click Upload a creditor matrix file
Key the Case Number
Click Next
The Load Creditor Information screen displays. If creditors have been previously added to the case, the warning, Case [xx-xxxxx] already contains creditors!, displays. To continue, attach the matrix file, in text (.txt) format. Click Browse, to search for the file, or by key the pathname/filename of the document
Click Next
The Total Creditors Entered screen displays, with the number of creditors entered. Verify that this is correct. Click Submit
The Creditor Receipt screen displays. The case number and total number of creditors added to the database are confirmed
To upload additional matrices in other cases, click Return to Creditor Maintenance Menu and repeat the steps

To Enter individual creditors:

Click Bankruptcy from the Menu bar (blue)
Click Creditor Maintenance from the Bankruptcy Events menu, to display the Creditor Maintenance menu
Click Enter individual creditors
Key the Case Number
Click Next
The Add Creditor(s) screen displays. If creditors have been previously added to the case, the warning, Case [xx-xxxxx] already contains creditors!, displays. To continue, key the creditor information in the Name and Address field. The creditor name may be 5 lines of 40 characters each. More than one creditor may be keyed, separating creditors with a blank line. Select the Creditor type from the drop-down box. Select the radio button Creditor committee. If the creditor(s) is/are an entity(ies), select the checkbox Entity
Click Next
The Total Creditors Entered screen displays, with the number of creditors entered. Verify that this is correct. Click Submit
The Creditor Receipt screen displays. The case number and total number of creditors added to the database are confirmed
To enter additional creditors individually, to either the same case or to another case, click Return To Creditor Maintenance Menu and repeat the steps

United States Bankruptcy Court

Eastern District of Virginia

Honorable Frank J. Santoro, Chief Judge · William C. Redden, Clerk of Court

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