San Francisco County eFiling Services

San Francisco County, California requires court documents to be filed electronically through approved Electronic Filing Service Providers (EFSPs). eFiling provides a fast, secure, and efficient way for attorneys and self-represented individuals to submit legal documents online without visiting the courthouse.

Does San Francisco County Superior Court Offer eFiling?

Yes. The San Francisco Superior Court has required mandatory electronic filing since 2014 for most case types.


eFiling is required for most civil, family law, and probate cases, including initial filings and subsequent documents in general civil matters.

However:

  • Self-represented individuals are not required to eFile, but are encouraged to do so
  • Some case types (such as small claims or certain initial filings) may still require paper submission


Benefits of eFiling in San Francisco County

Using eFiling provides several key advantages:

  • Submit documents online 24/7, including evenings and weekends
  • Avoid in-person courthouse visits and reduce paperwork
  • Receive electronic confirmations and filing status updates
  • Improve accuracy and reduce rejected filings
  • Faster delivery and processing by the court


How to eFile in San Francisco County

Getting started with eFiling is simple:

  1. Register with an approved Electronic Filing Service Provider (EFSP)
  2. Upload your documents in properly formatted, text-searchable PDF format
  3. Enter case details and select the correct filing type
  4. Pay court filing fees and EFSP service fees electronically
  5. Submit your documents directly to the San Francisco Superior Court

All filings must go through an EFSP, as the court no longer accepts filings through its own portal.


Important eFiling Information

  • eFiling is mandatory for most general civil cases and many other case types
  • Initial filings are required for most civil cases, with limited exceptions (e.g., small claims, certain petitions)
  • Documents submitted between 12:00 a.m. and 11:59 PM are considered filed the same court day if accepted
  • Filings are only official once accepted by the court after review
  • Certain documents must still be filed in paper form, including:
  • Writs, subpoenas, and bonds
  • Some initial filings in specific case types
  • Courtesy copies may be required for documents needing judicial review
  • Documents must follow strict formatting and signature rules, or they may be rejected
  • Common rejection issues include:
  • Incorrect document titles/descriptions
  • Improper signatures (especially under penalty of perjury)


If you need assistance with San Francisco County eFiling, our team can help ensure your documents are properly prepared, compliant with court rules, and accepted without delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is eFiling mandatory in San Francisco County?

    Yes, eFiling is mandatory for most civil cases, except for specific case types like small claims, unlawful detainers, and probate.

  • Which case types are eligible for eFiling in San Francisco County?

    eFiling is available for civil, complex civil litigation, and probate cases. Some family law and criminal filings must still be submitted in person.

  • How do I start eFiling a new case in San Francisco County?

    You must use an approved Electronic Filing Service Provider (EFSP) to submit new case filings. Ensure all required documents are uploaded properly.

  • What file format should be used for eFiled documents?

    All documents must be submitted in a text-searchable PDF format per the court’s requirements.

  • What happens if I eFile a document with an error?

    If the document has not yet been processed, you may be able to withdraw and resubmit it. If already processed, an amended filing may be required.

  • Are there any size limitations for eFiled documents?

    Yes, the court may have a maximum file size limit per submission. Large documents should be broken into separate files and labeled accordingly.

  • Can I submit exhibits via eFiling?

    Yes, exhibits can be eFiled but must be properly labeled and formatted to comply with court rules.

  • How do I submit a filing that requires a hearing date?

    Some filings allow you to request a hearing date through the eFiling system, but others may require separate scheduling with the court.

  • Does eFiling automatically serve the other party?

    No, eFiling does not automatically serve opposing parties. You must complete service separately or use an EFSP that offers eService.

  • What happens if my eFiling is rejected?

    You will receive an email notification with the reason for rejection. You must correct the issue and resubmit your filing.

  • Can I eFile documents that require a judge’s signature?

    Yes, but proposed orders should be submitted separately, and some documents may require submission in an editable Word format.

  • How long does it take for the court to process an eFiling?

    Processing times vary based on court workload, but most filings are reviewed within one to three business days.

  • Can I eFile confidential or sealed documents?

    Yes, but they must follow the court’s procedures for sealed filings and may require a motion for approval.

  • Do I need to keep the original signed documents after eFiling?

    Yes. In San Francisco County, California, you must keep the original signed documents after eFiling in case the court requests them.

  • Who should I contact if I have issues with eFiling?

    For technical issues, contact your EFSP. For case-specific questions, reach out to the San Francisco County Superior Court clerk’s office.