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Upgrading PACER Accounts and Windows 10

Wednesday, February 3, 2016

PACER Update
As the federal courts prepare to implement the next generation of the Case Management/Electronic Case Filing system (NextGen CM/ECF), you may notice some changes on www.pacer.gov. These changes will include the opportunity to upgrade your PACER account, which will provide enhanced security for all users and easier access for those who file in federal courts. While the District of Nebraska has not yet set a date for implementing NextGen CM/ECF, you can begin to prepare now by upgrading your PACER account.

What has changed?
1) Usernames: You will choose the username (8 or more characters) for your upgraded PACER account. For security reasons, shared PACER accounts will no longer be permitted (see Firm Billing).
2) Security: Accounts now require more complex passwords and a more secure password reset process.
3) Firm Billing: Groups can pay for multiple PACER accounts in one bill. Firms will no longer be able to share a single PACER account. Each user must create an individual account and the office manager can use a PACER Administrative Account to manage billing for the individual accounts.

Why have these changes been made?
The implementation of NextGen CM/ECF and the need for upgraded PACER accounts came about for two reasons:
1) Users requested the ability to have one login for all access (PACER and e-filing). This will be implemented when the court moves to NextGen CM/ECF.
2) Security improvements were necessary to keep PACER in line with industry standards.

How do I upgrade my account?
Instructions for upgrading your PACER account or creating an individual account can be found on the PACER web site at:
Video: https://www.pacer.gov/ecfcbt/cso/CSO_PACER_Only/CSO_PACER-Only.htm
PDF: https://www.pacer.gov/ecfcbt/cso/CSO_PACER_Only/CSO_PACER-Only.pdf

For instructions on how to set up Firm Billing, also called a PACER Administrative Account, see the instructions below.
Video: https://www.pacer.gov/ecfcbt/cso/PAA_ELM_Final_V2/multiscreen.html PDF:https://www.pacer.gov/ecfcbt/cso/PAA_ELM_Final_V2/PAA_ELM_Final_V2_Trans...

Windows 10 and CM/ECF
We have received some reports of attorneys having difficulty accessing their "free look" from an e-mail after upgrading to Windows 10. There are some issues with the new Microsoft Edge browser that is included with Windows 10. If you are having difficulty using CM/ECF or accessing documents, we recommend changing your default browser to Internet Explorer 11. Please review this article from Microsoft on how to make this change. http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/internet-explorer/make-ie-default-bro...

Thank you,
United States District Court Clerk's Office