Legal Update: Amended ECF Procedures For Original Signatures on Electronically Filed Documents

Under a recent amendment to the ECF Administrative Procedures, the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Maine will no longer require that ECF filers obtain original signatures on documents prior to filing. Effective March 23, 2021, counsel can file copies of signed documents so long as we obtain the original wet signature within 30 days of signing.

This is a welcome change that resolves a constant problem with documents that require very small windows between drafting and filing, such as Notices of Payment Change and Motions for Relief. Eaton Peabody’s representation on the Local Rules Committee was an important voice in relaying our clients’ concerns with the prior rule and effecting this amendment.

If you have any questions, or would like more information, please contact Eaton Peabody’s Bankruptcy & Creditor’s Rights Practice Group Chair, Shawn Doil at sdoil@eatonpeabody.com.