Alabama county pilots electronic filings for civil cases

Madison County, Alabama, is pioneering a system that will eventually allow for electronic filing of all lawsuits and associated documents, according to an article in the Huntsville (Ala.) Times. The state project, currently in a pilot phase, is starting with civil suits; criminal suits will follow.

Currently, lawyers take paper copies of lawsuits and motions to the clerk's office. With the new system, lawyers to file court papers over the Internet through the Alacourt.com system. Attorneys will also be able to receive e-mail about court orders and the latest filings by opposing parties. Madison County also provides wireless access within the courthouse, so files can be accessed immediately, even during court.