San Francisco Superior Court Comprehensive eFiling Manager Implementation

In June 2024, the San Francisco Superior Court in California partnered with File & ServeXpress (FSX) to implement a comprehensive eFiling Manager (EFM) solution designed to streamline document workflows across complex judicial divisions. The goal: unify multi-vendor eFiling access into a single, efficient system—without disrupting existing systems or court processes.  

Challenges  

The Court faced several key challenges:  

• Fragmented eFiling workflows across multiple EFSPs, limiting access to critical case types like asbestos, complex litigation, probate, trust, and estate.  

• Legacy system compatibility requirements, with crucial reliance on existing systems.  

• Multiple third-party eFiling systems integrating into the courts case management system increasing system complexity and security risks.  

• Operational continuity demands, needing a seamless transition that preserved the user experience for both staff and filers.  

Our Approach  

FSX leveraged over 23 years of California court partnerships to deliver a configurable EFM, in a single-phase deployment. Key steps included:  

• Design and Integration: Built a unified platform that harmonizes filings from multiple court-approved EFSPs—Rapid Legal and One Legal and provided an EFSP certification program for EFSPs to be tested and certified prior to production implementation  

• System Compatibility: Ensured seamless operation with the court’s existing systems.  

• Minimal Disruption: Maintained existing workflows for eFiling users during transition.  

• Collaborative Deployment: Applied a phased yet expedited deployment methodology, actively incorporating input from court leadership throughout.  

This approach balanced innovation with respect for the Court’s technology foundation and users’ daily workflows. 

Results and Impact  

The EFM implementation delivered immediate and measurable returns:  

• Expanded eFiling Accessibility: Previously restricted case types, such as asbestos, complex litigation, and probate, are now electronically filed through all EFSPs, improving access and reducing manual handling.  

• Future-Ready Infrastructure: The upgraded technology foundation provides scalability and adaptability for future improvements, while integrating smoothly with legacy systems.  

Court leadership has expressed strong satisfaction. As the Court Executive Officer stated in the press release: “FSX has proven responsive to our requests and has been willing to work with us through a challenging statewide implementation.”  

About the Client  

The San Francisco Superior Court is one of California's largest trial courts, managing a vast array of case types including General Civil, Complex/Unlimited, Family, and Probate. While the court’s civil CMS and Integrated Justice Systems had long supported its operations The court's existing eFiling manager was complex and difficult to maintain. Legislative requirements now mandate a standardized eFiling approach across California's court system, requiring a compliant solution.  

Conclusion  

The successful deployment of FSX's EFM solution for the San Francisco Superior Court represents a significant technical achievement in court modernization. By unifying previously fragmented eFiling workflows and expanding electronic access to critical case types like asbestos and complex litigation, the implementation addresses the Court's core operational challenges while maintaining compatibility with existing systems.  

The implementation of the EFM allows multiple EFSPs to eFile into all available case types while maintaining security requirements and legal compliance. The foundation is now in place for enhanced efficiency and scalability in document management across all divisions.