Proper PDF Document Preparation

For filing a PDF to the NextGen Case Management/Electronic Case Filing (CM/ECF) system, you should follow the steps below to ensure your document meets the criteria to be uploaded to the CM/ECF system when docketing.

CM/ECF PDF Guidelines:

1. NextGen CM/ECF PDF Requirements
   There are requirements for PDF files uploaded to CM/ECF-NextGen. These requirements must be followed or CM/ECF may reject your document.
2. PDF File Size
   It is important all users are aware of the file size limitations of CM/ECF. PDF File Size explains best practices for optimizing your PDF for a successful upload.
3. Making a PDF text-searchable (OCR)
   Optical Character Recognition (OCR) converts images of text into a machine-encoded, searchable text layer. This process happens at a deeper level than the final, visual layer. If you flatten a document before OCRing it, you will lose the ability to apply OCR, because a flattened file is essentially one solid image layer.
4. Remove JavasScipt from PDF
   Remove any embedded JavaScript actions from the PDF. This is a critical security measure and prevents rejection by the CM/ECF system.
5. Flatten PDF Instructions
   Flattening merges all layers of a PDF—including the searchable text layer created by OCR, fillable form fields, comments, and signatures—into a single, static image preventing anyone from manipulating or editing the information after it has been filed; ensuring the document can be viewed correctly on all devices and software platforms; and it removes interactive elements like form fields and scripts that can cause a filing to be rejected by the CM/ECF system.