Electronic filing (e-filing) is the process of filing legal documents with courts and other government and nongovernment entities (arbitration administrators) electronically—often through a website—rather than mailing or delivering paper copies of the documents to be filed.
In South Dakota, electronic filing (e-filing) is an established method for submitting legal documents to courts. The state has implemented an electronic filing system that allows attorneys and, in some cases, self-represented litigants to file court documents online. This system is designed to increase efficiency, reduce paper use, and provide easier access to court records. The South Dakota Unified Judicial System provides an e-filing portal known as File & Serve, which is used for civil, criminal, and other case types in both circuit and appellate courts. Users must register for an account and typically pay a fee to file documents electronically. The rules and procedures for e-filing are outlined in the South Dakota e-filing rules and may vary depending on the specific court's local rules. It is important for users to be familiar with these rules to ensure that documents are filed correctly and in compliance with court requirements.