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Style Conventions for Docket Text

ECF is designed to produce a consistent form of docket text. Most of the time you do not need to change docket text in any way when you are creating docket entries. If you must alter docket text to add meaning or clarification to the court record, use the preferred practices to enhance docket text contained in the Negative Notice Language, Contested Matter Text, Descriptions of Linked Documents and/or Multiple-Part Contested Matter Text sections of this guide.

1. Negative Notice Language

Users do not need to add objection language to motions filed in ECF. The system automatically sets a deadline for objections depending on the motion filed. The system allows you to change the objection date if you desire. The court has identified those motions which may be filed with negative language. The final docket text displays if an objection is due, and the deadline for objections. For these motions, a hearing will only be held if an objection is
filed. It is still necessary to add objection language to the imaged pleading you are filing if applicable.

2. Contested Matter Text

Docket text should reflect the style of a contested matter as much as practically possible. Sometimes the ECF event you use to docket a contested matter will display a text box for you to describe the pleading filed. There is more than enough room in the displayed text boxes to add any text you feel is necessary. Review the docket text before you accept the final docket entry.

3. Descriptions of Linked Documents

If a docket entry has been linked to another docket entry, the related document should be adequately described in docket text. When you docket an entry which references ("links to") another docket entry, the docket text automatically displays the description of the document that has been referenced.