Flatten PDF Instructions (Step 5)

Multiple problems accessing docketed PDFs have been reported where the PDFs are not printing or they are generating errors when opened from the docket. The issues stem from the document not being properly flattened (print to PDF) prior to uploading into CM/ECF. The entire PDF document must be flattened (see instructions below) PRIOR to filing it in CM/ECF.

To alleviate the problems with the PDFs, do not use Save or Save As from the File menu when saving a document to PDF. Instead, you must flatten (print to PDF) the PDF. This will ensure all parts of the PDF (i.e. fillable form fields, digital signatures) have been flattened and will help to avoid problems opening/printing PDFs from the docket. Flattening ensures that the document can be viewed on all devices, and prevents others from manipulating or editing the information.

The following instructions apply only to Adobe Acrobat Professional and Adobe Acrobat Standard.

 A filer who uses software other than Adobe Acrobat Professional or Standard to create a PDF must consult the software vendor for information on making the PDF text-searchable, combining the PDF with at least one other PDF, and appropriately paginating the PDF. 

Flatten Fillable PDF Forms

Please follow the process below to convert and flatten a court fillable PDF form PRIOR to filing it with the court.

1. Retrieve blank fillable PDF form from the court's website.
   NOTE: Do not reuse a form filled with data from a previous filing.
2. Complete the blank fields in the PDF.
3. Select File from the application menu bar.
4. Select Print.
5. Change your printer to Adobe PDF. Click Print.
6. A Save PDF File As box will appear on your screen. If necessary, change the location the PDF file will be saved to, name your file, then click Save.
7. You may now file the flattened PDF form in CM/ECF.

Flatten (Print to PDF) Instructions

If you have an existing PDF document that has not been flattened or you are unsure if it is flattened, please follow the procedure below to ensure it is flattened PRIOR to filing it with the court.

1. Ensure your document is complete. Open the document in Adobe Acrobat.
2. Select File from the application menu bar.
3. Select Print.
4. Change your printer to Adobe PDF. Click Print.
5. A Save PDF File As box will appear on your screen. If necessary, change the location the PDF file will be saved to, name your file, then click Save.
6. You may now file the flattened PDF document in CM/ECF.

NOTE: The PDF file size limit is 35 MB. If you attempt to upload a document that exceeds the file size limitation, your filing may be rejected.

NOTE: If you are using Nuance, it contains a flatten file feature which can be found by selecting Advanced Processing > Flatten File.