Frequently Asked Questions

What is FRCP 5.2(c) and why does it matter?

Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 5.2(c) restricts remote electronic access to documents in certain immigration-related cases, including habeas corpus petitions. While these documents remain public record accessible at courthouse terminals, this rule creates a significant barrier to timely public access for journalists, researchers, and advocates monitoring these cases.

Is it legal to republish these documents?

Yes. FRCP 5.2(c) restricts the method of access (remote vs. in-person), not the dissemination of otherwise public information. Once lawfully obtained from courthouse terminals, these public documents may be shared.

How do you ensure document authenticity?

All documents undergo review to verify they match docket information and court formatting standards. We also check for any inadvertently included sensitive personal identifiers, though FRCP 5.2 aims to prevent this at the filing stage.

What if a document contains sensitive information?

Our review process includes checking for sensitive personal identifiers. If found, we redact them before publication, following the same standards applied by courts and legal databases.

What do the document link colors mean?

• Green (Habeas): Document available directly from our site
• Blue (RECAP): Document available on CourtListener (as part of the RECAP archive)
• Yellow (PACER): Document link on PACER (may be inaccessible, or require payment)

Which cases do you include in the database?

Nature of suit code 463, "habeas corpus - alien detainee" cases are automatically tracked in our database. Selected cases of some other immigration-related suit types, such as 460, "deportation," are also included.

How often is the database updated?

We automatically check for new cases daily and update docket information regularly. Document availability depends on volunteer contributions and, in the case of judgements of the court (which remain available electronically), contributions to RECAP.

Can I download documents in bulk?

Individual document downloads are available through the website. For research requiring bulk access, please contact us at info@habeasdockets.org to discuss your needs.

What qualifications do I need to volunteer?

No legal background required. We provide information on what to request and clear instructions. You just need the ability to visit a federal courthouse periodically.

How much time does volunteering require?

Flexible. Some volunteers help monthly, others respond to urgent requests. A typical courthouse visit takes about an hour, and then there is the time needed to scan or mail the printed documents.

Are there any costs to volunteers?

Volunteers cover their own transportation to courthouses. Document printing at courthouse terminals will have a fee (typically $0.10 per page), which we reimburse. If you are not able to scan the printouts to PDF format, we ask that you cover postage costs if you are able to do so.