What is docketing?

Docketing is a process used in legal and administrative systems to keep track of cases and their relevant documents and activities. It involves creating a record of each case or matter, assigning a unique identification number or docket number to it, and tracking its progress through various stages of litigation or administrative proceedings.

Docketing serves several purposes, including:

1. Case Management: Docketing allows for the effective management of a large number of cases by providing a centralized system to organize and track case-related information. It helps ensure that cases move forward efficiently and deadlines are not missed.

2. Document Management: Docketing involves the recording and tracking of all documents and pleadings related to a particular case. This helps in maintaining a comprehensive and organized record of all filings, which can be easily accessed by the parties involved, court personnel, or relevant stakeholders.

3. Deadlines and Calendar Management: Dockets often include important dates and deadlines associated with a case, such as hearing dates, discovery deadlines, or filing deadlines. Docketing systems help ensure that these dates are accurately recorded and tracked, allowing parties to be aware of upcoming events or tasks and avoid any potential delays or non-compliance.

4. Court or Agency Reporting: Docketing systems enable courts or administrative agencies to generate reports and statistics about the caseload, disposition rates, or backlog of cases. These reports can assist in evaluating workload, resource allocation, and overall efficiency of the legal or administrative process.

Docketing can be manual or automated, depending on the complexity and volume of cases. In recent years, many courts and law firms have adopted electronic docketing systems, also known as electronic case filing (ECF), which streamline the entire process, offer convenience, improve accuracy, and promote transparency.

Overall, docketing plays a crucial role in managing and tracking cases, ensuring compliance with timelines and procedures, and facilitating the smooth functioning of the legal and administrative processes.