The filing requirements in the thirteen federal circuit courts are complex, and often confusing. In addition to the Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure, each circuit court operates under its own set of local rules—mandatory practice standards that periodically change, and sometimes conflict with the federal rules—and the various clerks’ offices often adhere to unwritten practices and preferences that are distinctive to each court.
Cockle Legal Briefs offers circuit court consultations (even on short notice). Here are some common questions we hear during these conversations:
- What is the correct font style and size for the text in the Brief and in the footnotes?
- What are the correct margins?
- Should the Brief be double-spaced?
- What is the maximum word count?
- What information should be included on the Cover?
- What are the required Sections?
- What, if anything, should be included in the Addendum?
- What should be included in the Appendix?
- What are the required Certificates?
- Does the court require ink on the page for signatures or is /s/ typed name enough?
- How many paper copies does the court require?
- How many service copies?
- When are the paper copies due in conjunction with electronic filing?
- Does the court give approval first?
- Should the Brief be printed single-sided or double-sided?
For answers to these questions or any additional questions that you might have, give us a call. Expert advice and consultation from our knowledgeable circuit court document analysts can help you avoid pitfalls. Cockle Legal Briefs has been producing top quality legal documents for over 90 years, and our staff of professionals—experienced in the unique practices of each circuit—can help you present a timely, rule-compliant, and impeccably prepared document. Depending on the options you choose, we can provide a cost estimate over the telephone and schedule a time for your documents to arrive.