What to add
You can begin with one PDF or add multiple PDFs in one batch. Useful records may include court papers, notices, signed orders, proofs, financial forms, attachments, and PDF copies of relevant communications.
Whenever possible, add the complete packet. A cover page without its attachments may explain less than the packet as a whole.
Before you upload
- Use the clearest, most complete PDF you have.
- Keep envelopes, receipts, confirmations, and proofs as separate sources when they support a separate event.
- Do not combine files from different cases into one PDF.
- Do not alter an original to make it look cleaner. Keep any annotated or redacted working copy separate.
What CourtAhead preserves
CourtAhead stores the exact uploaded PDF as an original source and records a SHA-256 fingerprint. The fingerprint helps identify exact duplicate content and detect a later change.
Uploading the exact same content again can create another record of how the file reached the case without making a second independent original. Reviews and details pulled from the file remain linked back to that file.
What upload does not prove
Adding a document proves only that the file was added to CourtAhead. It does not independently prove that the document was:
The file’s appearance is a source to review, not automatic verification of authenticity.
A separate portal record, transmission record, receipt, or other source may be needed.
Those are later legal states and need evidence for that exact state.
Case files can contain sensitive information about other people. Do not add material in violation of a protective order, confidentiality duty, privacy right, or account restriction.
Still need help?
Email a short description to support@courtahead.com. Include the email on your account, but do not email passwords, payment-card numbers, or highly sensitive case files.