Mandatory e-filing expanding

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The mandatory pilot e-filing program will begin in the Surrogate’s Courts of Chautauqua, Erie and Monroe counties, effective March 1.

It will apply to all estate proceedings — probate, administration and related proceedings — filed on or after that date.

Chief Administrative Judge A. Gail Prudenti, who announced Jan. 4 that the program would be expanding, notes the enabling legislation permits opting-out of mandatory e-filing under certain circumstances.

For example, an attorney who certifies that he or she lacks the hardware, electronic connection or technical knowledge necessary to participate in e-filing can opt-out. The court may also exempt an attorney from participating for good cause shown.

Judge Prudenti said the necessary training for attorneys and their staff members will be provided by the court system prior to March 1. Initially, for Erie and Chautauqua counties, training will take place on Jan. 31. Attorneys and their staff members may attend either of two sessions, which are being provided free. Attorney-participants will receive 2 CLE credits.

Information on training is available on the NYSCEF website, www.nycourts.gov/efile, or by contacting the Resource Center at (646) 386-3033, or at [email protected].