How to Track a Docket

Set up email alerts for case updates, choose frequency, and organize alerts using Matter numbers.

Summary

Learn how to set up automated email alerts for a specific case so you are notified immediately when new documents are filed.

Why This is Important

Manually checking a docket every day to see if an order has been issued is inefficient and risky. Tracking a docket ensures you never miss a deadline or a critical filing. Docket Alarm monitors the court system for you and delivers updates directly to your inbox.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Locate the Case First, find the case you want to monitor using the Search Bar. (See How to Search for a Case if you need help).

Step 2: Initiate Tracking

  1. Open the docket page for the case.

  2. Click the orange Track Docket button located at the top of the case header.

Click Track Docket to start configuring your alert.

Step 3: Configure Alert Settings A configuration menu will appear. Customize the following settings:

  • Frequency: Choose how often you want to be notified. (PACER fees may apply.)

    • Continuous / Real-time: (Best for active litigation).

    • Daily / Weekly: (Best for monitoring slow-moving cases).

  • Alert Sharing: Enter the email addresses of colleagues who should also receive these alerts. This keeps your whole team in sync.

  • Matter Number: Enter your internal client or matter number (e.g., 00123-ABC). This helps you organize alerts and bill costs back to the correct client later.

Step 4: Activate Click Start Tracking. You will now see a confirmation message, and the button will change to "Tracking."

Managing Your Alerts

You can view and edit all your active tracks in one place:

  1. Go to the Dashboard.

  2. Click My Case Alerts in the left sidebar.

  3. Here you can:

    • Pause/Resume alerts.

    • Edit recipients or frequency.

    • Delete alerts you no longer need.

Easily manage all your case alerts from one place—view, edit, pause, or delete them directly from your Dashboard.

Pro Tip: If you add your ECF Credentials to Docket Alarm, your alerts for federal cases become "Real-Time." This means you get the notification the instant it hits the PACER system, often faster than standard email service, and the documents are attached directly to the email.

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Need more help?

If you are not receiving alerts, check your spam folder or verify that your notification email address is correct in your User Settings.

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