Statewide E-Filing Makes Historic Debut

A seismic shift in how lawyers file civil court documents in Florida started off with fewer than usual filings in Hillsborough County and some other counties, but the lull is expected to be only temporary as lawyers become accustomed to electronically delivering civil case documents to courts.

"While some lawyers probably were unprepared, the vast majority was ready for the historic switch and welcomed it," Litigation and Dispute Resolution Partner Joseph Varner said. "What this does is conform practices in state courts with what it's been in federal court for years. It could not have come soon enough for us. It can save money for clients. When you think about all the cases pending, the savings are likely to be significant statewide."