Submitting documents to the court may seem straightforward, but even small mistakes can delay the progress of your case. Most courts have stringent rules about formatting, timelines, and documentation, and a simple oversight can lead to a rejection or request for corrections. Whether you are a law firm, a business, or someone filing on your own, there are ways to avoid unnecessary delays and keep your case moving forward. These are the mistakes to avoid:
Mistake #1: Using Outdated or Incorrect Forms
Courts update forms more often than many people realize. Using an outdated form that is pulled from an unofficial source is one of the most common reasons filings get rejected.
How to avoid it: Always download the newest forms directly from the court’s website – or leverage the services of a professional agency such as Reliant Court Services, which always has the most current versions available.
Mistake #2: Missing Signatures
A missing signature or skipped notarization can bring a filing to a quick stop. This is especially common when multiple parties are involved.
How to avoid it: Before submitting any documents, do a quick scan for all signature lines, initials, and notary sections. Make sure each one is filled out correctly.
Mistake #3: Wrong Filing Fees
Courts do not process filings without the correct fees. These fees can vary based on county, case type, and page count, so guessing rarely works.
How to avoid it: Double-check the fee schedule for the court. If you are unsure, a service provider such as Reliant Court Services can calculate the exact amount.
Mistake #4: Formatting Errors
Courts have specific requirements regarding margins, page numbers, captions, exhibit labeling, and file type. Something as small as incorrect spacing can delay a filing.
How to avoid it: Review the formatting rules for the court where you are filing. If submitting a document electronically, make sure convert it to a PDF to keep formatting stable. Another option is to utilize the services of Reliant Court Services, who will guide you through the submission process and the requirements thereof.
Mistake #5: Inaccurate Case Information
Submitting paperwork with the wrong docket number, misspelled party names, or incorrect captions can create confusion for clerks and cause processing delays.
How to avoid it: Compare your information against the most recent notice or order in the case. A quick review can prevent unnecessary back-and-forth.
Mistake #5: Filing in the Wrong Court
When cases involve multiple counties or divisions, it is surprisingly easy to submit a filing in the wrong location.
How to avoid it: Confirm the proper jurisdiction and division before sending documents. Local rules vary, so do not assume the process is the same everywhere. Reliant Court Services is intimately familiar with the court systems and will ensure that all papers are filed in the correct locations.
Mistake #6: Missing Deadlines
Courts take deadlines seriously. Late filings often require additional motions or rescheduling, which can push your case back significantly.
How to avoid it: Create reminders for each deadline and allot extra time for unexpected delays. Working with a partner such as Reliant Court Services will ensure documents are submitted on time in the proper format.
Professional Support Makes Filing Easier
Although legal filings can be complicated, Reliant Court Services is available to ensure your documents are filed accurately and on schedule. We provide a full range of litigation support services, including process serving, document retrieval, skip tracing, and much more. Whether you are a law firm, corporation, or individual, our team will handle the details of the filings so you can focus on your cases.
For fast, stress-free filings, call us at 1.631.567.3120 or complete our contact form.