Does eFiling extend the filing deadline?
With eFiling, you can file 24x7 (Rule 4.3 Time Document is Filed) and receive your time stamp immediately after filing your document. There is no longer a requirement to present your document to the clerk before the courthouse doors close. You can now file until 11:59 p.m. and meet your deadline for a filing due that day. However, if you file after 5:00 p.m., service is deemed the next day. eFiling does not change statutory deadlines. For example, an answer deadline of 10 a.m. the Monday following the expiration of 20 days from the date of service. The document will still be due at 10:00 a.m. So, you must eFile by 9:59 a.m.

Is it okay to eFile a document without a signature?
Yes. Local rules (Rule 4.2 - Signature) have been established by the courts to accept your registered user-id and password as your electronic signature.

This electronic signature is accepted by the courts for your pleadings. In addition, you may use a digital signature, typographical signature or /s/ and typed signature such as:

/s/ John Smith
John Smith, DC BAR Number: 999999
Smith & Jones, LLC
100 Main Street
Houston, TX 77002
(713) 555-0000
john.smith@example.com

However, there are times when you are required by the court to submit a signature on an exhibit or attachment such as an affidavit. In this instance, you must scan the signed document and convert it to a .pdf or a Word file, then upload it as an exhibit with your filing. Local rules for eFiling are posted on our web site for your convenience.

What proof will I have that I eFiled my document?
You will receive an instant receipt when you "Submit" your filing that will present your time stamp and information about your filing, such as attorney of record, jurisdiction, party names, fees paid, and client matter number. We recommend that you print this page for your files.

After the clerk has confirmed your filing, you will also receive an electronic file stamped copy in .pdf format that you can retrieve as follows: Access CaseFileXpress with your user-id and password, click on "Review Status," select the trace number of the document, and click on your file name. A .pdf document will open with your file stamp in the upper right hand corner.

What proof will I receive when sending eService?
The filer and the attorney of record sending the service will receive an email with a .pdf document attached. The subject line of the email will state "Proof of Service for cause number…" A .pdf document attached to the email will provide "proof" of the service. Information contained in the document includes the jurisdiction, cause number, trace number, court assignment, case style, date and time of service, serving party, name of documents filed and method of service for each attorney.

How is process service done?
When eFiling a new petition, you will have the option in Step 4 (Parties) to request process service. After adding your parties to the case, you will see a drop down list for "citation delivery method." Select the appropriate method. The citation and copies for parties being served will be printed by the clerk and given to the appropriate private Process Service, constable, sheriff; be available for pick-up; or mailed according to your instructions.

When do I need to request copies from the clerk?
When you are requesting citation delivery with your new petition, please request a copy and a citation for each party being served.

The citation and copies for parties being served will be printed by the clerk and given to the appropriate private Process Service, constable, sheriff; be available for pick-up; or mailed according to your instructions.