Instructions: Responses to Requests for Documents

This template provides guidance only. Using this template does not guarantee any result in your case.

Figure out the deadline to serve your responses. You have 33 days from the date the Requests for Documents were mailed to you.

Fill in the case information. Fill in all blanks on the first page.
Write your own Responses. Make a list of the documents that you have which have been requested. Attach the documents on you list; it is a good idea to put a cover page in front of each document(s) with the number of the Request to which you are responding.
Review, number the pages and sign. Read the entire document to make sure your Requests are clear and focused on this case. Count the number of pages. On each page, write in the page number and the total. Sign and date.

Prepare the Certificate of Service. Each document that you file must be “served” on each other party, usually by sending it in the mail. Follow the instructions on the Certificate of Service.
Mark your calendar. The serving party has to file any objections or motions regarding your responses before the close of Discovery.

Make copies. Once the documents are complete, make one copy for each party to the case.
Serve the Requests. Be sure the Requests and Certificate are served on each party. Do not send a copy to the Court.

Update your contact information. File a notice with the Clerk right away if your address, email, or phone number changes, or you may miss important deadlines, causing you to lose your case.
Check your mail. Be sure to check regularly for documents from the Court and opposing side.
A list of all of the documents that have been filed, and (usually) the documents themselves can be viewed online.

These are resources for understanding the laws and rules of the Court:

Handbook for Pro Se Litigants. The Handbook is a procedural guide for people who are representing themselves. It was prepared by the Court and is available at the Clerk’s Office or on the Court’s website at www.cand.uscourts.gov/prosehandbk.

Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. These Rules explain the procedures from filing through trial for all civil cases in the federal courts across the country, and are available at http://www.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/rules-of-civil-procedure.pdf.

Local Rules. The Local Rules follow the same numbering as the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, but generally provide more detail. They apply in this District only, and are available at http://www.nvd.uscourts.gov/localrules/civil.