eFiling a Case - Would you want to use it if it were available?
Posted on Thu, Aug 04, 2011
eFiling a Case with the Court
Having a process server drive to the courthouse, find a parking space (often in short supply), go through security, and file a case is a good example of a serious technology "FAIL." Unfortunately in most jurisdictions, this approach is still the rule, rather than the exception.
Although many of the courts are embracing high-tech methods of serving the public, Electronic Filing is far from ubiquitous. In fact, even courts that allow electronic filing of subsequent documents often require that the initial filing be done in person.
You might wonder why we pay attention to this when our clients don't need our help with eFiling a case. Where Electronic Filing is permitted, they can do that themselves. But since we regularly send process servers to the courthouse if that's what's required, we also keep an eye on what's happening in this arena because greater use of eFiling could mean greater efficiencies for our clients – and for their clients.
The approach taken by the State of Texas is unusual in that they have made eFiling the standard. According to the official web site, in the State of Texas, "eFiling for Courts is the official electronic filing solution for the State of Texas. It’s a secure, cost-effective online system to file documents anytime, anywhere." They cite the benefits as follows:
-
Convenient - File 24/7 from any location with Internet access.
-
Flexible - Accepts standard document formats and special hardware or software isn’t required.
-
Real-time - Receive immediate confirmations and file-stamped copies upon acceptance.
-
Cost-effective - Often less expensive than producing and processing paper filings. Secure - Adheres to state and federal security regulations.
In fact, other than filing, and the physical act of knocking on a door and serving papers, almost every other aspect of the service of legal process is performed electronically.
Clients of Florida Litigation expect our systems to be sophisticated, our service to be extraordinary and our people capable of doing exactly what we say we'll do. And technology continues to be a big part of exceeding those expectations. If you haven't seen it previously, check out the recent press release about how we use technology to better serve our clients. Further announcements about upcoming technology opportunities will be forthcoming later this month.
What's the story for your firm? Would you prefer to be able to eFile? Do you consider your firm to be pro-active in its use of technology?
Leave a comment and let us know. Or follow the hashtag to connect at #LegalServicesAndTechnology on Twitter.