How Do I File a Complaint in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania?
- 1). Draft a complaint. The complaint must include the names of the plaintiff and the defendant, the facts of the case, the alleged violations committed by the defendant and the relief requested by the plaintiff. In addition, the Eastern District of Pennsylvania requires additional documents at the time of filing the complaint including a civil cover sheet, two copies of the designation form and a case management track form. The courthouse clerk publishes a procedural handbook to answer any questions you may have about these additional forms.
- 2). File the complaint and supporting documentation either electronically or in person at the Clerk's Office. An attorney must file all documents in the Eastern District electronically using the Electronic Case Filing, or ECF, system. However, a litigant representing herself in a case without the assistance of an attorney can file the documents in person, in the Clerk's Office located inside one of the four courthouses. The Clerk's Office is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
- 3). Pay the filing fee. The filing fee for a complaint is $350 and must be paid at the time the complaint is filed. A plaintiff can pay the filing fee by credit card or personal check.
- 4). Provide the defendant with a copy of the complaint. A defendant must receive a copy of the complaint and all supporting documentation within 120 days of the filing of the complaint.
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