When the pleading does not conform to a Federal and/or Local Civil Rule it is considered deficient.

The Clerk's Office is required to check incoming documents and identify pleadings that do not conform to the Federal and/or Local Civil Rules. When deficiencies are found, the pleading is forwarded to the judge for directions on whether to file the pleading or return it.

Generally, if the deficient pleading is a motion, it is filed but not listed on the calendar, except at the express direction of the Court. A deficiency notice is sent to counsel and/or pro se litigant, directing the filer to correct the specified deficiencies in accordance with the Local Civil Rules.