State Court Fax Filing Guide
We compiled a state-by-state overview of which courts still accept fax filing, which have moved to mandatory e-filing, and what rules you need to follow. This guide is for attorneys, paralegals, and self-represented litigants who need to file court documents by fax.
State-by-State Overview
Court fax filing rules change frequently as states adopt e-filing. This overview covers major states. Always verify current rules with the specific court where you are filing.
States That Generally Accept Fax Filing
California
Many California Superior Courts accept fax filing for civil motions, ex parte applications, and certain family law documents. Rules vary by county: Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego counties each have their own local rules. Check your county's local rules or call the clerk's office.
Texas
Texas allows fax filing in most courts under Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 21. Documents must be received by midnight on the filing deadline. A confirmation page serves as proof of filing. The fax filing fee is the same as in-person filing.
Florida
Florida courts transitioned to mandatory e-filing through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal, but some circuit courts still accept fax filing for emergency motions and certain pro se filings. Contact the clerk of court in your circuit to confirm.
New York
New York allows fax filing in certain courts under 22 NYCRR 202.5-a, but NYSCEF (electronic filing) is now mandatory in many courts. Fax filing may still be available for emergency orders to show cause and time-sensitive motions. Check with the specific court.
Illinois
Illinois Supreme Court Rule 9 permits fax filing in civil cases. The original must be filed within 5 days of the fax transmission. The clerk stamps the fax date as the official filing date. A fax filing cover sheet is required.
States with Limited or Restricted Fax Filing
Pennsylvania
Most Pennsylvania courts have moved to PACFile (electronic filing). Fax filing is generally not accepted except in emergencies or by specific court order. Contact the prothonotary's office for your county.
Ohio
Ohio courts vary widely. Some municipal and common pleas courts accept fax filing; others require electronic filing through the court's chosen e-filing platform. Local rules govern; there is no statewide fax filing rule.
Georgia
Georgia transitioned to mandatory e-filing in most courts. Fax filing may be available for emergency filings or in courts that have not yet implemented e-filing. Check with the clerk of the specific court.
Michigan
Michigan Court Rule 2.406 permits fax filing in limited circumstances. Most courts prefer or require electronic filing through Michigan's MiFILE system. Emergency filings may still be faxable with court permission.
States That Have Largely Moved to E-Filing
Colorado
Colorado mandates electronic filing through ICCES (Integrated Colorado Courts E-Filing System) for most case types. Fax filing is generally not available except for self-represented litigants who may request an exemption.
Arizona
Arizona courts use AZTurboCourt for e-filing. Fax filing is not available in most courts. Self-represented litigants can file in person or by mail as alternatives.
Washington
Washington courts use various e-filing systems depending on the county. King County and most superior courts no longer accept fax filings. Check your county's local rules.
This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Court rules change frequently. Always verify the current filing rules with the clerk of the specific court where you need to file. Last reviewed: March 2026.
Documents Commonly Fax-Filed with Courts
In courts that accept fax filing, these are the most common document types attorneys and litigants submit.
Civil motions and responses (in courts that accept fax filing)
Ex parte applications and emergency orders to show cause
Stipulations and proposed orders signed by all parties
Proof of service and certificates of service
Attorney appearance and withdrawal forms
Subpoenas and notices of deposition in some jurisdictions
Tips for Fax Filing with Courts
Practical advice for attorneys and litigants who need to fax-file court documents.
Always check the local rules of the specific court before faxing. Even within states that allow fax filing, individual courts may have opted out or have additional requirements.
Include a fax filing cover sheet with the case number, case caption, document title, number of pages, filing party, and attorney bar number. Many courts have their own required cover sheet form.
File before midnight on the deadline day. Most courts that accept fax filing use the transmission timestamp as the filing date, but only if the fax is received before the clerk's office processes it.
Follow up with the clerk's office the next business day to confirm your filing was received and docketed. Not all courts automatically docket fax-filed documents.
Some courts require you to mail or hand-deliver the original signed document within a set number of days (often 5) after fax filing. Check the rules. Failure to follow up with the original can result in your filing being stricken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about fax filing in state and federal courts.