Legal Definitions - file

A file is a record of a case or a collection of data stored on a computer. When you file something, you deposit a legal document with the clerk or record custodian to have it preserved and placed into the official record. Filing can also mean commencing a lawsuit.

Example 1: A lawyer's case file

When a lawyer takes on a case, they create a file to keep track of all the important information related to the case. This file includes things like evidence, witness statements, and legal documents.

Example 2: Computer files

When you save a document, picture, or video on your computer, it is stored as a file. These files can be organized into folders to make them easier to find and access.

Example 3: Filing a lawsuit

If someone wants to sue another person or company, they must file a lawsuit. This means they submit a legal document to the court to start the legal process.

These examples illustrate how a file can refer to both physical and digital records, and how filing can have different meanings depending on the context.