Case Opening Training Tutorials

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Tutorials

Introduction

Chapter 1: Getting Started

Chapter 2: Entering Party Names

Chapter 3: Opening Your Civil Case

Chapter 3A: Opening Your Civil Case (cont.)

Chapter 4: Adding Parties

Chapter 4A: Adding Addl Attorneys

Chapter 5: Docketing the Lead Event

Chapter 5A: Complaint

Chapter 5B: Notice of Removal

Chapter 5C: Motion to Proceed IFP

Chapter 6: Emergency Matters

Chapter 7: Paying the Filing Fee

Chapter 8: Completing the Process

ALL Chapters

CASE OPENING RESOURCES

Attorney's Guide:  Opening a Civil Case

Appendix A: Civil Cover Sheet

Appendix B: How to Enter Party Names

Appendix C:  In Forma Pauperis (IFP) Application

and Written Consent

Appendix D: Civil Summons

Appendix E: Report on Filing of a Copyright

Appendix F: Report on Filing a Patent/Trademark

Appendix G: County Jurisdiction Information

Attorney Case Opening Checklist

Attorney Case Opening Newsletter

Frequently Asked Questions

Forms

• Civil Cover Sheet
• Application to Proceed In Forma Pauperis
• Written Consent
• Summons
• Report on Filing or Determination of an Action or Appeal Regarding a Copyright
• Report on Filing or Determination of an Action Regarding a Patent or Trademark

Filing Fee

• The filing fee for Complaints and Notices of Removal is $350. 
• The filing fee is paid during the case opening process through Pay.gov.

Register for Electronic Filing

Log-in

• Log-in to ECF to open a new civil case.

Forget your ECF password?

• Use Forgotten Password to reset it.

Tips for Filers

• Determining Local Jurisdiction:  Is it a Seattle or Tacoma case? For further information, see Local Civil Rule 5(e).

• Redacting Personal Information

Contact the Attorney Case Opening Help Desk

• E-mail your questions to newcases.seattle@wawd.uscourts.gov
• Call us at 206-370-8440, or toll free 866-323-9293.
• Help desk hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.