Introduction

The court urges all parties to obtain counsel.  If that is not possible, litigants may represent themselves before this court in most types of cases.  Unrepresented parties are referred to as pro se (‘prō say’) litigants.  However, pro se litigants may represent only themselves, not other people and not corporations or business entities.   

The court follows federal law with regard to the liberal interpretation of pro se filings.  On the other hand, the court enforces its rules and expects full compliance with all directives issued by the court.  The failure to comply with a court rule, federal law, or court directive may result in an appeal being dismissed or the imposition of a sanction.   

As a general matter, proceedings in this court are governed by the Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure.  These rules are different from the rules that apply in the federal district courts. 

Pro se litigants may submit case-related documents to the court by mail, in person, via the court’s electronic case filing system, or via the court’s website.

To use the court’s electronic case filing system, a pro se litigant must first file a motion requesting permission. If that motion is granted, the pro se litigant may file his or her documents directly in the case.

Leave of court is not required to submit documents via the court’s website. Documents submitted via the website are not immediately filed in the case. Upon receipt, court staff will process those documents in the same manner as documents delivered to the court by mail or in person.

To submit documents to the court via the website, use the Email Validation webform.  Please note that a valid email address is required.